Why Watch Valuations Are Different
Valuing a luxury watch requires specialist knowledge that goes beyond standard jewellery appraisal. A qualified watch valuer must assess the movement (mechanical calibre, serial numbers, service history), the case and dial(originality, condition, patina), and the market context (brand positioning, production numbers, collector demand).
This is why watch valuations typically cost more than jewellery valuations — expect £100–£130 per watch. The expertise required justifies the premium.
Watch Valuations for Insurance
An insurance valuation for a watch states the replacement value — what it would cost to purchase an equivalent watch at current retail. For brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe, where secondary market prices often exceed retail, the valuation may need to reflect the true “new for old” cost of obtaining a comparable piece.
This distinction matters. A Rolex Daytona in yellow gold retailed for £36,100 in late 2024 but rose to £41,200 by early 2025 — a 14% increase. If your insurance valuation still reflects the 2024 price, you're under-insured by over £5,000.
Brand-Specific Considerations
Rolex
Rolex implemented substantial price increases at the start of 2025. Stainless steel models stayed relatively stable (1–3%), but solid gold and two-tone (Rolesor) models saw double-digit hikes driven by rising gold prices:
| Model | 2024 | 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daytona (Steel) | £13,200 | £13,600 | ~3% |
| Daytona (Yellow Gold) | £36,100 | £41,200 | ~14% |
| Submariner Date | £9,000 | £9,100 | ~1% |
| Day-Date 40 (Yellow Gold) | £35,200 | £37,600 | ~7% |
| Sky-Dweller (Everose) | £46,300 | £49,600 | ~7% |
If you own a Rolex in gold or Rolesor, your insurance valuation may already be outdated. We recommend updating your valuation annually for precious metal models.
Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe maintains its value through deliberate rarity and meticulously controlled production. Models like the Nautilus and Complications collections often trade at significant premiums on the secondary market — sometimes at multiples of the original retail price.
For insurance purposes, a Patek Philippe valuation must reflect the current market cost of obtaining a comparable piece, not the original list price. This is especially important for discontinued or limited-edition references.
Cartier, Omega & Other Brands
Every luxury brand has its own market dynamics. Cartier's Tank and Santos collections hold value well. Omega Speedmaster “Moonwatch” editions have a strong collector following. Vintage pieces from any brand can appreciate significantly if they have provenance, original boxes and papers, and a documented service history.
Watch Valuation Costs
Standard Watch
Includes movement inspection, serial number verification and market research.
High-Value / Rare
Complex vintage pieces, limited editions or watches with extensive provenance.
Collection Audit
Home or bank visit for multiple watches. Includes per-item fees plus callout charge.
What to Bring to a Watch Valuation
- The watch itself (fully wound if automatic)
- Original box and papers, if available
- Purchase receipt or previous valuations
- Service history documentation
- Any certificates of authenticity
Having complete documentation can significantly increase both the valuation figure and the ease of any future insurance claim.
How Often Should Watches Be Re-Valued?
For luxury watches, we recommend re-valuation every 2–3 years — more frequently than jewellery due to the volatility of the watch market. After major brand price announcements (like Rolex's annual adjustments), it's worth checking whether your coverage is still adequate.
As a rule: if the retail price of your watch has increased by more than 10% since your last valuation, update it.
Get Your Watch Valued
Connect with a specialist watch valuer who understands your brand.