Explore the boom in India’s luxury watch market, driven by rising incomes and shifting tastes. Discover how millennials and affluent buyers view luxury watches as investment assets. Learn about the dynamics of watch investment, where patience is key for appreciation. Find out why the enjoyment of these timepieces often goes beyond just financial returns, making them a status symbol and a personal passion.
The luxury watch market in India is thriving due to rising incomes, with millennials and Gen Z viewing them as symbols of status and exclusivity.
The abolishment of customs duties on Swiss watches through a new trade agreement will enhance accessibility and drive demand in the luxury segment.
Deep dives
Luxury Watches as Status Symbols and Investment Assets
The luxury watch market in India is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising incomes and changing consumer behaviors among millennials and Gen Z. For younger consumers, luxury watches symbolize fun, status, and exclusivity, while high net worth individuals view them as valuable investment assets. A report from Nightfrank highlights that luxury watches have emerged as the top investment choice for super-rich Indians, surpassing traditional collectibles like art. With 78% of Indian consumers planning to purchase a watch in the coming year, the market's potential as both a trend and an investment opportunity is clear.
The Trade and Economics Partnership Agreement between India and Switzerland is poised to dramatically impact the luxury watch market by reducing customs duties on Swiss watches to zero over the next seven years. This has made luxury watches more accessible, further stimulating demand among Indian consumers who prioritize brand image over price. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of brand, rarity, and trends in determining the value of luxury watches, citing that some iconic models can appreciate significantly over time. However, it warns that investing in luxury watches requires patience and awareness of market trends, as the value can fluctuate, and short-term gains may not always be substantial.