Month: July 2026

Rolex’s secondary market is poised for a record-breaking surge, with predictions of reaching $10 billion by year’s end. In the first half of 2026, sales skyrocketed by 43.5% to $4.3 billion, significantly outpacing competitors like Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. The burgeoning appeal of pre-owned watches, particularly through Rolex’s Certified Pre-Owned program, which saw sales double to $385 million, underscores a notable shift in consumer preferences. Notably, the discontinuation of the popular Pepsi GMT Master II has catalyzed a buying frenzy, contributing to a remarkable 78% increase in sales for the model. As collector interest intensifies, the luxury watch market is clearly in a dynamic phase of growth and transformation.

Rolex is on the lookout for a Regional Manager to ensure its luxury standards are met across the southeastern UK. The field-based role involves regular visits to Official Retailers, focusing on brand representation and market insights. Candidates should possess extensive experience in luxury retail and excellent communication skills. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their CV to Rolex recruitment for this prestigious opportunity.

Laings has unveiled its latest showroom in Glasgow’s renowned Argyll Arcade, becoming the luxury jeweller’s fifth UK location. The opening introduces an innovative open workshop, allowing clients to watch skilled artisans at work while enjoying same-day engraving and select repair services. Designed to enhance personalized client experiences, the new space aims to deepen appreciation for craftsmanship, as customers engage directly with the artistic processes behind each unique piece.

Artificial intelligence consistently identifies Rolex as the primary luxury watch brand in response to general inquiries, underscoring its dominance in the sector. A recent study by analyst firm 5W reveals that while Rolex remains the go-to for basic questions, preferences shift towards Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet when discussing investment options. For those seeking value, Tudor and Grand Seiko stand out. As competition intensifies, maintaining a strong presence in specific AI queries will be crucial for brands aiming to stay relevant in the luxury market.

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has extended the submission deadline for the 2026 NAJ Awards to 6 August 2026, inviting both members and the wider jewellery trade to showcase their talents. The awards, themed around Great Ideas, People, and Businesses, span 15 categories celebrating excellence in the industry. The winners will be announced at a ceremony set for 8 October 2026 in Birmingham. For entry details, visit http://www.naj.co.uk/awards.

Recent analysis reveals a complex landscape in the luxury watch market, particularly for Patek Philippe, where prices have surged by 19% in the past year. However, significant disparities exist in value retention across different models. While sought-after Nautilus and Aquanaut watches maintain strong premiums, other collections like the Calatrava face steep discounts. In contrast, Rolex continues to uphold a robust secondary market presence, with about 76% of its models retaining or increasing value. As the market evolves, the varying performances of these prestigious brands underline changing consumer preferences and potential vulnerabilities in the luxury watch segment.

Interest in investing in precious metals, particularly bullion coins, is surging among grandparents looking to create a lasting legacy for their grandchildren. Recent figures reveal that inquiries targeting gold and silver for generational gifting have jumped from 9% to over 18% in just a month, reflecting a growing shift towards tangible assets. As the tax benefits of UK legal tender coins draw attention, many are opting for historic coins that offer both intrinsic value and tax efficiency. The ‘Living Legacy’ trend emphasizes a desire among older generations to witness the impact of their wealth transfer while providing meaningful gifts.

The pre-owned watch market is set for astonishing growth, with projections indicating it will surpass $85 billion by 2033. Once deemed inferior, vintage and second-hand timepieces are now regarded as valuable assets, particularly among younger buyers seeking luxury at accessible prices. This shift in perception highlights a burgeoning culture where the story behind each watch is celebrated, reflecting a broader trend of sustainability and craftsmanship in the luxury sector. As the lines blur between new and pre-owned markets, collectors find renewed joy in the pursuit of timepieces, prioritizing the search and personal connection over mere acquisition.

David Edwards, the esteemed Managing Director of Seiko UK, has passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy in the watch industry. Celebrated for his dynamic leadership and deep Welsh heritage, Edwards was instrumental in reinstating Seiko’s prominence in the UK market. His career spanned diverse roles in sales and marketing, with accolades including the WatchPro 2021 Executive Leadership Team of the Year award. Colleagues remember him as a passionate karaoke singer with a sharp intellect and a playful penchant for misplacing items. His commitment to customer satisfaction and team collaboration marked him as a distinguished figure, whose spirited decision-making style has left an indelible impact on the watch community.

Hermès has reported first-half 2026 revenues of €8.2 billion, marking a 6% increase year-on-year. Within its watch division, sales totaled €269 million, showing minimal change from €281 million in 2025. While the first quarter saw a 3.7% decline, the second quarter rebounded with a 4.4% increase, driven by popular collections like Cape Cod. The luxury brand’s commitment to watch production is underscored by an expansion of its Swiss facility, set to conclude by 2028, reflecting a strategic focus on enhancing its watchmaking capabilities amidst a competitive market.