The luxury watch hype has cooled. That may be good news for Ulysse Nardin
After years of speculation, premiums and waiting lists, a more discerning market may give distinctive independent watchmakers more room to stand out.
The luxury watch market hype has diminished, potentially benefiting independent watchmakers such as Ulysse Nardin. During the pandemic and its aftermath, buying a luxury watch seemed more akin to gambling on the stock market. Premiums for popular watches skyrocketed and waiting lists stretched for years. Speculation and crypto wealth fueled a frenzy in which some watches appreciated faster than blue-chip investments.
Once crypto fortunes dwindled and stimulus checks ceased, the market returned to normalcy. Collectors began purchasing watches for their intrinsic value rather than status symbols. Collectors are now increasingly discerning, valuing originality, craftsmanship, innovation, and design. Ulysse Nardin, an independent watchmaker, thrives in this evolving market.
The brand, which has maintained its independence since 2022, is known for its technical innovation and avant-garde designs. Its iconic model, the Freak, introduced a unique complication that challenged traditional horology conventions. Today's collectors are more discerning than ever, valuing individuality and authenticity over mass-produced, recognisable timepieces.
Written by urgent.news from Channel News Asia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
