How Global Events Are Impacting Watch Prices in 2025

The luxury watch market has always responded to global trends — but in 2025, the landscape is more dynamic than ever. Collectors, retailers, and investors are feeling the effects of a wide range of factors: from inflation and geopolitical tensions to currency fluctuations and shifting demand in emerging markets.

Here’s how current global events are shaping watch prices and what buyers need to know.

1️⃣ Macroeconomic Uncertainty Is Driving Market Caution

Inflation has cooled in many regions compared to the post-COVID surge, but economic uncertainty still lingers. As interest rates remain relatively high in major economies, many collectors are becoming more selective with their purchases.

📉 Impact:
Some overvalued modern references (especially hype models) have seen slight corrections in resale value, while vintage pieces with rarity and historical significance have remained relatively stable.

2️⃣ Geopolitical Tensions Are Disrupting Supply and Demand

Conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East — along with trade tensions between major economies like the U.S. and China — are impacting production, distribution, and buying behavior.

• Certain watch components (like specific alloys and precision parts) are now harder to source

• Sanctions and import restrictions are limiting availability in certain regions

• Global luxury demand has partially shifted from Asia-Pacific to North America and the Middle East

🌍 Result:
Supply for key brands like Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe remains tight, keeping prices high for sought-after models, especially in markets with consistent demand like the U.S. and UAE.

3️⃣ Swiss Franc Strength Impacts Global Retail Pricing

The Swiss franc (CHF) has strengthened against both the euro and U.S. dollar, causing manufacturers to adjust MSRP upward to protect profit margins.

• Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe have all raised retail prices slightly in 2025

• These increases are more noticeable outside of Switzerland, particularly in North America and Asia

💵 Even if you’re buying on the secondary market, expect those increases to trickle down into resale prices — especially for unworn or full-set models.

4️⃣ Digital Resale Platforms Are Adding Transparency — and Pressure

The rise of platforms like Chrono24, WatchBox, and eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee has made it easier for buyers to track real-time pricing trends, which has brought more efficiency — and scrutiny — to the resale market.

🔎 Collectors are more informed than ever, leading to more competitive pricing and less tolerance for inflated premiums on non-rare pieces.

5️⃣ What This Means for Buyers and Investors

• Blue-chip models (Daytona, Nautilus, Royal Oak) remain resilient despite economic headwinds

• Mid-tier watches or newer references with less collector demand may soften in price short-term

• Now is a good time to buy if you're a long-term collector — prices on some models are more reasonable than they were during the peak of 2021–2022

📈 Tip: Focus on provenance, rarity, and condition — these factors will always hold value regardless of global volatility.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Global events in 2025 are making the luxury watch market more fluid — and more interesting — than ever. From geopolitics and currency shifts to economic policy and market sentiment, the landscape is evolving quickly. For collectors and investors, staying informed and working with trusted sources is key.

At Investment Watches, we help clients navigate these market shifts with expert insight and curated inventory. Whether you're buying for passion or profit, we’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions.