Day: 21 April 2026

Debates over the pricing of pre-owned Rolex watches have become a common topic in online forums, as buyers and sellers grapple with differing opinions on value. This ongoing discourse highlights the complexities of price discovery in the luxury watch market. The value of a watch is not merely a matter of condition and provenance, but also reflects the broader market dynamics influenced by auctions and collector trends. Savvy collectors navigate this landscape by understanding price variability and the factors underpinning each transaction, embracing the fluid nature of this vibrant marketplace as integral to successful collecting.

The Watches and Wonders 2026 event in Geneva has set new records, attracting nearly 60,000 unique visitors and featuring an unprecedented number of exhibiting brands. The event marked a significant shift towards engaging younger audiences, with strong attendance from both industry professionals and the public. Highlights included major product launches and a global reach of nearly one billion impressions across social media. The next edition is scheduled for spring 2027, promising to continue this momentum in the world of luxury watchmaking.

In a notable shift, Britain has emerged as the second-largest market for Swiss watch exports, with sales rising by 3.2% in March. This growth contrasts with an overall dip of 1% in export value, as the U.S. market—the largest—saw a slight decline of 1.6%. France’s positioning is bolstered by tax advantages linked to re-exports, while the Middle East has faced significant export losses amid regional conflicts, particularly impacting Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Asian markets show cautious signs of recovery, hinting at evolving dynamics in the global watch industry.

Georges Kern has been appointed CEO of the newly established House of Brands, overseeing an ambitious portfolio that includes iconic watchmakers Breitling, Universal Genève, and Gallet. With Jean-Marc Pontroué stepping in as CEO of Breitling, the group aims to amplify its presence across various market segments. Universal Genève has officially launched with competitive pricing, while Gallet targets the affordable luxury space through strategic partnerships. As the company evolves, executive leadership changes and potential brand expansions are set to shape the future of this luxury watch conglomerate.

The Q1 2026 Lab-Grown Diamond Wholesale Price List has been released, indicating a further 14%

How will Credere Consultancy offer support brands in navigating ethics, transparency and environmental performance? Credere