Where do collections of objects such as wristwatches sit within estate plans? The author of this article – a regular commentator in these pages – speaks with an expert to find out.

Regular Family Wealth Report contributor and advisory board member, Matthew Erskine (main picture), a lawyer at his eponymous firm, Erskine & Erskine, writes about the fascinating, if niche, world of watch collecting. It is a variation on a theme that we have explored before in the collectibles area, such as fine art (see articles here and here). 

As ever, the usual editorial disclaimers apply to views of guest writers; we are grateful to Erskine for his incisive analysis and insight. Please get involved in these conversations. Email tom.burroughes@wealthbriefing.com and amanda.cheesley@clearviewpublishing.com

In 2025, the luxury watch market is continuing to flourish, with its global value anticipated to rise significantly, driven by iconic brands such as Rolex and Patek Philippe, alongside the ever-growing segment of smartwatches from tech giants like Apple and Samsung. The US market is expected to see notable growth, while the pre-owned luxury watch sector has stabilized post-volatility. Millennials and Gen Z are reshaping market trends, emphasizing digital engagement and innovation. Retro, vintage-inspired designs, gender-neutral styles, and bold aesthetics are increasingly popular.

Given the robust market and the multi-generational appeal of watch collecting, I engaged in a discussion with Edouard Caumon, the US country manager for Watchfinder & Co, to explore the complexities of this market, especially in relation to estate planning.

Caumon, who has an extensive background with esteemed watch brands like Cartier and the Richemont Group, explained Watchfinder's critical role in authenticating and refurbishing pre-owned timepieces. He highlighted that pre-owned watches provide enthusiasts access to a vast array of models, offering unique investment opportunities. A significant percentage of high-end brands, such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet, consistently resell for more than their original purchase price, underscoring their lasting value.

Our conversation revealed a growing interest in watch collecting among younger generations, particularly Gen Z, who increasingly perceive watches as viable investment options, sometimes even preferring them over traditional assets like gold or real estate. This trend highlights the need to consider watches as potential assets within estate planning.

When discussing common challenges collectors face, Caumon stressed the importance of authenticating and inspecting collections to avoid counterfeit parts, an essential step for maintaining value. He recounted a story of a collector who purchased a watch for $90,000 online, only to discover it had a counterfeit movement, rendering it essentially worthless.

Cultural differences also influence watch collecting practices. Caumon noted variations among American, Asian, and European collectors, each with distinct approaches to pre-owned goods and trading. American collectors often trade watches to acquire rarer pieces, while younger Asian collectors are increasingly open to pre-owned watches. European collectors typically pass down watches as family heirlooms. These cultural nuances necessitate tailored estate planning strategies to accommodate diverse preferences and market dynamics.

Accessorizing trends are further transforming the watch market, with smaller watches gaining popularity. Caumon shared examples of watches being incorporated into rings and cufflinks, reflecting a broader trend toward personalization in luxury items. These evolving trends add complexity to the valuation and planning processes for collectors wishing to include watches in their estates.

Our discussion emphasized the intricate balance between the financial and emotional value of watch collecting and its impact on estate planning. Watches hold significant financial and sentimental value and may prove to be strong investments in the coming years. Understanding their role in an estate is crucial. 

By acknowledging the importance of authenticity, cultural differences, and market trends, collectors can more effectively navigate the complexities of integrating watches into their estate planning strategies.