Luxury Watch Market 2026: Trotters Jewellers’ Expert Predictions

As we look ahead to 2026, the luxury watch market shows clear signs of stability, renewed confidence and a growing appreciation for timeless design. At Trotters Jewellers, we see this shift reflected in what clients are requesting, how they are building collections and the way they assess value.

Drawing on more than three decades of industry experience, this report explores the key trends shaping the watch market in 2026 and what they mean for collectors, buyers and long-term investors.

A More Considered Market

Collectors are prioritising thoughtful, long-term choices over fast trends.

The market has moved into a more balanced phase, with buyers taking time to research and understand the watches they choose. Instead of following short-lived hype, clients are selecting pieces that feel personal, practical and rooted in strong design principles.

This shift represents a return to the foundations of watch collecting. Craftsmanship, history and wearability matter more than ever, and buyers are increasingly turning to trusted pre-owned specialists for guidance and availability.

Global Market Growth in 2026

Steady and sustainable growth is expected, supported by confidence and clarity.

While financial predictions vary, one theme remains consistent. The luxury watch market is on track for stable growth through 2026. From our perspective at Trotters, this reflects greater maturity across the industry and a more informed buyer base.

Clients are focusing on established icons, reliable movements and watches that maintain relevance across generations. Pre-owned remains central to this shift, as it provides both choice and immediate access to sought-after models. Demand is likely to be led by three factors: lasting appeal of classic references, rising interest in vintage inspired proportions and a growing number of collectors who value the ability to compare multiple generations of the same watch side by side.

Regional Trends and Collecting Patterns

Different markets are shaping demand, but the themes remain consistent worldwide.

In the UK, buyers continue to favour pieces that balance daily wear with long-term value, such as the Rolex Datejust, GMT-Master II and modern Cartier designs. The emphasis is on versatility and timeless appeal.

Globally, yellow gold is returning to prominence and mid-size watches are becoming a preferred choice for many collectors. Interest from female buyers is also increasing, shifting the focus toward models that combine elegance with practicality. These regional differences feed back into the broader market, creating a landscape where quality and authenticity carry more weight than novelty.

The Strength of the Pre-Owned Market

Pre-owned remains one of the most resilient and in-demand sectors.

The pre-owned market continues to grow in importance, with many clients now choosing it as their first destination rather than an alternative to retail. Availability, variety and immediate purchase options make it a natural starting point for collectors.

At Trotters, we have seen a strong preference for pre-owned watches that come with full authentication, clear condition reports and verified service history. Buyers value transparency and expect a level of expertise that goes beyond surface detail.

Price stability is another key factor. After previous fluctuations, values for core references have settled into predictable patterns, giving collectors greater confidence in both purchase and resale decisions.

Shifts in Consumer Preference

Classic proportions, integrated bracelets and considered collections lead the way.

Buyer preferences are evolving. Many clients prefer fewer but higher quality pieces, focusing on watches that stand the test of time both mechanically and stylistically.

Key themes for 2026 include a move toward mid-size cases, renewed interest in comfortable bracelet designs and an appreciation for vintage inspired aesthetics. These preferences are influencing brand releases and shaping the secondary market alike.

Demand for women’s luxury watches continues to grow, particularly for models such as the Cartier Ballon Bleu, Santos and Rolex Lady Datejust. This creates a more diverse and inclusive market environment.

Broader Influences on the 2026 Market

Economic shifts and brand strategies are reinforcing the value of timeless design.

The wider luxury sector is expected to regain momentum in 2026, supported by consumer appetite for products with emotional and lasting value. Collectors are more knowledgeable than ever and want clarity on authenticity, servicing and long-term care.

Brands are also contributing to this shift, focusing on designs that feel refined, timeless and wearable rather than experimental. This supports the continued strength of the pre-owned market, where earlier versions of these watches are available immediately and often with greater variety.

What This Means for Collectors in 2026

A stable market creates opportunities for confident, well informed collecting.

For collectors, 2026 is a year of opportunity. A more predictable market makes it easier to identify pieces with long-term appeal. Confidence is returning to classic models with proven demand, strong heritage and balanced design.

Whether you are choosing a watch for daily wear or adding to a long-term portfolio, the emphasis remains on personal enjoyment, authenticity and craftsmanship.

Trotters Key Takeaways for 2026

Here’s a quick summary of what collectors should keep in mind.

• The market is more stable and more considered than in recent years
• Classic designs from Rolex and Cartier continue to lead demand
• Pre-owned remains the most accessible and varied route into collecting
• Mid-size watches and precious metals are rising in popularity
• Female collectors are shaping broader market trends
• Confidence in long-term value is strengthening across key models
• Trusted dealers are more important than ever for authentication and guidance

Why Choose Trotters in 2026

As a trusted name in luxury watches for more than 30 years, Trotters Jewellers offers clients a secure and informed way to navigate the 2026 market. Every watch is authenticated, serviced and backed by a 12 month warranty, ensuring quality and peace of mind.

Our team provides tailored advice based on decades of experience, whether you are buying your first luxury watch or expanding a well established collection. Visit our Liverpool Street boutique or explore our curated selection of pre-owned watches online to discover models that combine craftsmanship, rarity and enduring appeal.

About the Author

Written by the Trotters Jewellers team, specialists in luxury watches and certified diamond jewellery since 1991, based in the City of London.