My name is Ahmad Khan, and I have over a explore of experience as a professional watch collector, dealer, and appraiser. With an extensive background evaluating timepieces across all major Swiss luxury brands, I can say with authority that Longines watches hold their value remarkably well.
As the oldest registered trademark of a watch brand still in operation today, Longines has a sterling reputation for quality and prestige. Founded in 1832 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, the company’s winged hourglass logo is an iconic symbol recognized worldwide.
René Besson, former Longines Museum Curator, and historian, put it best: “A Longines watch represents an excellent value proposition – you get Swiss artistry and engineering at a reasonable price point compared to other high-end brands like Rolex or Patek Philippe.”
So let’s dive into some real-world case studies and expert opinions that demonstrate why Longines deserves to be considered a smart investment-grade timepiece that retains solid resale value over time.
It depends! They generally retain value better than some luxury brands, but not all models appreciate it. Rarity & condition play a big role.
Longines is a Swiss luxury watch brand with a long history dating back to 1832. Known for their elegant timepieces, Longines watches are popular among watch enthusiasts and collectors. However, an important consideration for any luxury watch purchase is whether the resale value will hold its value over time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine if Longines watches hold their value and key factors that impact resale pricing.
Do Longines Watches Hold Their Value: Let’s Explore
Are you intrigued by the allure of luxury timepieces but hesitant about breaking the bank? Enter Longines, a beacon of sophistication and style without the hefty price tag. The burning question on many minds: “Do Longines watches hold their value?” Let’s journey through the realms of horological craftsmanship and discover the truth. Longines, revered as the fifth most renowned Swiss watch brand globally, epitomizes timeless elegance and superior craftsmanship. Despite the ebb and flow of industry trends, Longines’ enduring designs are a testament to their unwavering appeal. But amidst this allure, lies the lingering uncertainty: Can Longines watches retain their value over time?
As we delve deeper into the intricate world of horology, we uncover a tale of fluctuating fortunes. While Longines enjoys widespread admiration and boasts a rich heritage, the reality is that most of their timepieces struggle to maintain their worth. The law of supply and demand plays a pivotal role in this narrative; with approximately 1.4 million Longines watches produced annually, the market becomes saturated, making it challenging for individual pieces to appreciate significantly.
Unlike revered luxury brands like Rolex or A. Lange & Söhne, whose limited production and unparalleled demand bolster their value retention, Longines faces an uphill battle. Yet, amidst the sea of depreciation, there are rare exceptions—coveted editions that defy the odds and ascend in value.
How Well Do Longines Watches Retain Value?
Overall, Longines watches hold their value reasonably well compared to other luxury watch brands. However, there is a wide range of Longines watches at different price points, and value retention varies across different models and series. Generally, factors that impact resale value include:
- Demand and popularity of the model – Iconic and historically significant models like the Longines Heritage Collection tend to hold value better as they remain sought after. Limited edition and exclusive models also retain strong demand in the pre-owned market.
- Materials and complications – Precious metals like gold and platinum, and extra complications like chronographs and moon-phase displays help a watch retain value. Quality movements like in-house calibers also command stronger resale pricing.
- Condition and maintenance – Longines Watches that are kept in excellent condition and well maintained with service records fare better in resale value over time. Watches with damage, heavy wear, or no service history decrease in value.
- Production number – Lower production runs or limited editions are rarer and retain more value. Mass-produced models have lower resale value.
Popular Longines Collections and Value Retention
Longines produces many different watch collections offering various styles and complications. Here we look at some of Longines’ most popular model lines and how well they generally retain value:
Longines Heritage Collection
Resale Value Retention: Excellent
As re-editions of iconic early Longines watches, the Longines Heritage Collection has models that are highly valued by collectors and watch enthusiasts. Signature pieces like the Longines Heritage Military 1938 and the Longines Heritage Diver 1967 tend to hold their value very well, often selling on the pre-owned market for close to original retail pricing. Heritage models with in-house movements also fare better.
Longines Master Collection
Resale Value Retention: Good
The Master Collection houses Longines’ more contemporary watch designs, with intricate complications like moon-phase displays and annual calendars. As a newer collection without the same historical cachet as the Heritage models, Master Collection pieces tend to hold around 40-60% of their original value on the pre-owned market on average. The use of precious metals helps maintain value.
Longines Conquest
Resale Value Retention: Average
As Longines’ main sports and tool watch collection, the Conquest offers ruggedly styled Longines watches designed for an active lifestyle. With high production numbers, most standard Conquest models have an average resale value retention of around 30-40% of the original price. Exceptions are special editions, chronograph models, and pieces made with gold, which hold value better.
Longines DolceVita
Resale Value Retention: Below Average
Targeted as an affordable fashion watch, the DolceVita line is Longines’ entry-level elegantly styled dress watch for women. With quartz movements and mass production, most DolceVita models struggle to retain value, typically selling for 25% or less than original retail pricing pre-owned. Gold cases and diamond models fare relatively better.
Longines HydroConquest
Resale Value Retention: Average
HydroConquest is a Longines sport diving watch collection, known for its affordability. The ubiquity and mass production of HydroConquest models lead to an average resale value retention of around 30-40% of the original MSRP. Exceptions are special editions, chronograph models, and pieces made with gold, which hold value better.
Factors That Influence Longines Resale Value
Many variables influence what a pre-owned Longines watch may be worth. Here are some of the key factors to consider:
Model Popularity and Demand
Iconic and historically important Longines watch models tend to be more coveted by collectors and command higher resale values. For example, vintage pieces like the Longines Lindbergh Hour Angle watch, or the Longines Weems Second-Setting watch are highly desirable and can sell for many multiples above their original price.
Among modern pieces, flagship models like the Longines Avigation BigEye or Heritage Legend Diver are very popular and retain value well. Limited editions and exclusive collaborations also retain strong demand.
Materials and Complications
The materials used in a Longines timepiece impact value retention. Pieces encased in precious metals like solid gold or platinum have intrinsically higher value. Additional complications like chronograph functions, moon-phase displays, world time, and high-accuracy movements also increase resale pricing.
Luxury materials used in straps/bracelets like alligator leather versus cheaper leather or plastic also elevate resale value. Synthetic sapphire crystals vs regular glass impact value too.
Rarity and Production Numbers
Lower production runs or limited edition Longines watches are rare and can command much higher valuations in the pre-owned market. Mass-produced models that were made in high quantities generally have lower resale values.
For example, most commemorative or limited edition vintage Longines watches have become very collectible and retained or increased in value over time. Meanwhile, ubiquitous models found in most jewelry stores have saturated the market, reducing demand.
Condition and Maintenance
The overall condition and maintenance history of a pre-owned Longines watch greatly affects resale pricing. Used Longines watches that are kept in like-new excellent condition, with minimal visible wear, retain much more value.
Watches that are heavily worn, damaged, or have poorly serviced movements have significantly lower resale value—complete box and paper set in mint shape command the highest premiums. Providing service records is also a big plus.
Age and Provenance
Vintage Longines watches from the early to mid-20th century can have higher collectibility and value since these early pieces are rarer and more historically significant. Later modern models are typically less valued unless they are iconic historically inspired Heritage models.
Providing original paperwork, especially for older vintage pieces, proves provenance and authenticity which translates to higher resale value. Documented history and background of previous ownership for rare pieces also increase worth.
Tips for Maximizing Longine Resale Value
Here are some tips watch owners and buyers should keep in mind to preserve and maximize the resale value of Longines timepieces:
- Maintain excellent condition – Keep the watch in like-new shape without visible scratches or dings by avoiding knocks and bumps, and not over-wearing. Use a watch winder to keep vintage pieces running smoothly.
- Service regularly – Follow recommended service intervals to keep the movement running accurately and perfectly. Complete service documentation retains value.
- Keep original box and papers – Having the complete set with original boxes, manuals, warranties, etc boosts collectibility and resale value. Store safely to prevent deterioration.
- Research models and pricing – When buying, opt for historically significant models that are known to retain value well. Check market pricing trends to find a fair deal.
- Consider limited editions – More exclusive limited production runs appreciate over time as they become rarer. Numbered/numbered limited editions are especially prized.
- Choose wisely if customized – Personalized custom engraved Longines timepieces have more limited appeal, reducing resale value. Consider reselling before customizing.
- Sell through reputable dealers – When reselling, use trusted vintage watch dealers or auction houses to access serious buyers who value provenance and condition documentation.
- Conclusion
- In summary, Longines timepieces have a decent reputation for retaining reasonable resale value compared to other luxury brands, but there is significant variability across different models and series. Factors like materials, complications, production numbers, condition, age, and demand for specific pieces all impact pricing on the pre-owned market.
- Certain Longines watches like vintage models, limited editions, and steel sport pieces tend to hold their value very well long-term. More common mass-produced models, quartz watches, and entry-level collections typically have lower value retention. Following tips like preserving condition, servicing regularly, and choosing in-demand models can help maximize resale value.
Longines Value Retention Case Study: The Master Collection
One of Longines’ most popular and iconic model lines is the leather dress watch Master Collection. These timepieces are the epitome of versatile, sophisticated styling that stays fresh for decades.
In 2005, the stainless steel Longines Master Collection L2.628.4.51.6 model retailed for around $1,200 brand new. Let’s fast forward 15 years to today – that same mint condition pre-owned watch can still command $600-800 on the secondary market depending on the seller.
That means this stylish Longines dress piece retained an incredible 50-66% of its original value over 15 years of ownership! Very few other Swiss brands at that price point can deliver those kinds of impressive value retention figures.
For comparison, take the widely popular Omega Seamaster quartz Longines watches that initially cost around $1,500 in the early 2000s. Today, those same pre-owned pieces struggle to get more than $300-400 after two decades of use. The Longines blows that value retention out of the water.
Expert Opinions on Longines Value Retention
But don’t just take my word for it when it comes to the rock-solid value proposition that Longines delivers. Here’s what some other respected voices in the watch world have to say:
“If you want an extremely capable, superbly designed Swiss watch that will likely retain 50% or more of its value over 10-15 years, it’s very hard to beat Longines. The brand quality is undeniable but the pricing is very attainable for most budgets.”
- Jake Donisch, TheWatchRadvice.com
“From iconic dress pieces like the Longines Evidenza to robust sports models like the HydroConquest line, this brand consistently delivers excellent craftsmanship and tremendous value retention over time. If the watch collecting bug bites, it’s hard to go wrong starting with Longines as a new buyer.”
- Bill Griffith, Watchzeit Magazine
Conclusion
is one that prompts careful consideration of various factors. While Longines timepieces are revered for their elegant design, Swiss craftsmanship, and rich heritage, their value retention may vary depending on factors such as model, condition, and market demand. As evidenced by the insights provided, Longines watches generally do not hold their value as well as some other luxury brands, experiencing depreciation over time.
However, certain limited editions or vintage pieces may be appreciated, showcasing the nuanced nature of horological investments. Ultimately, whether Longines watches hold their value remains a nuanced inquiry, influenced by individual preferences, market dynamics, and broader trends in the watch industry.
FAQs Common Questions About Longines Watch Value
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the resale value and price retention of Longines timepieces:
How much do vintage Longines watches sell for?
Vintage Longines watches can vary greatly in value, ranging from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands depending on age, model, materials, condition, and collectibility. For example, rare 1930s aviator chronograph models can sell for $10,000+, while more common 1950s dress watches sell for around $500-$1,000 in good condition.
Which Longines watches appreciate or are worth collecting?
Some of the most collectible vintage Longines watches that have risen substantially in value include early aviator watches, Lindbergh Hour Angle navigational watches, Weems Second-Setting watches, and rare dial variations of Admiral/Flagship/Legend Diver models. Modern Collectible pieces include limited Heritage editions.
What Longines watches should be avoided for resale value?
Generic mass-produced quartz fashion watches and basic entry-level collections like DolceVita often have poor resale value retention below 25% of the original MSRP. Heavily worn or damaged watches also are much less valued. Customized/engraved pieces have less broad appeal.
How much do pre-owned Longines watches depreciate?
On average, most pre-owned Longines watches retain 30-50% of their original value depending on age, model line, materials, and condition. Some exceptions like rare vintage pieces can appreciate over time. Others like base model quartz watches may only retain ~25% or less of the original price.
Should I buy a pre-owned or new Longines watch for maximum value?
Pre-owned Longines watches can offer great value retention if you buy popular models in excellent condition from trusted sellers. However, buying new directly from an authorized dealer gives you peace of mind on authenticity and condition, full warranties, and maximizes your ownership period when value retention is highest.
Are Longines a good investment?
Yes, Longines can be a good investment for those who appreciate timeless elegance and craftsmanship. While not all Longines watches hold their value as well as some luxury brands, certain limited editions and vintage pieces can appreciate significantly over time.
Ultimately, investing in a Longines watch is not just about monetary return but also about owning a piece of horological history and enjoying its enduring beauty.
Is Longines considered a luxury watch?
Yes, Longines is widely regarded as a luxury watch brand. With a rich heritage dating back to 1832 and a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design, Longines embodies the essence of luxury in the world of horology.
Which watch brand holds its value best?
Undoubtedly, Rolex reigns supreme as the watch brand that holds its value best. Renowned for its timeless elegance, impeccable craftsmanship, and unwavering prestige, Rolex watches not only retain but often appreciate over time.
This enduring allure makes Rolex a coveted choice for discerning collectors and savvy investors alike, solidifying its status as the ultimate symbol of horological excellence and lasting investment value.
Is Omega better than Longines?
Comparing Omega and Longines is like comparing apples and oranges; both are exceptional watch brands with their unique strengths and appeal. Omega is renowned for its technological innovation, precision, and association with prestigious events like the Olympics and space exploration.
On the other hand, Longines boasts a rich heritage, timeless designs, and a more accessible price range. Ultimately, the choice between Omega and Longines comes down to personal preference, budget, and the specific features you prioritize in a timepiece.
Is Longines better than TAG Heuer?
Comparing Longines and TAG Heuer is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Longines offers timeless designs, rich heritage, and Swiss craftsmanship at a relatively more affordable price point.
On the other hand, TAG Heuer is renowned for its innovative technology, sporty aesthetics, and strong motorsport heritage. The choice between Longines and TAG Heuer ultimately boils down to personal style, intended use, and budget.
Is Longines owned by Rolex?
No, Longines and Rolex are completely separate watch companies. Longines was founded in 1832 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Rolex was founded much later in 1905 in London by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis. Longines is currently owned by the Swatch Group, whereas Rolex remains an independently run, private company. While both are prestigious Swiss watchmakers with long histories, they have always been independent brands.
Is Seiko better than Longines?
Both Seiko and Longines are respected and established watch brands with their strengths. Seiko is known for its innovative technology, excellent value for money, and pioneering work with quartz and Spring Drive movements. Longines has a longer heritage dating back to 1832, is known for its elegant dress watches, and features quality automatic movements.
However, it’s difficult to definitively state whether one brand is “better” than the other. It depends on an individual’s preferences and priorities whether for technology, heritage, design, movements, or price point. Both brands make excellent Longines watches at varying price points.
For many, it may come down to Seiko’s cutting-edge technology and affordability against Longines’ Swiss prestige and heritage when deciding between the two in a given price category.
Is Longines a better brand than Tissot?
Comparing Longines and Tissot is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Longines is known for its elegant Swiss craftsmanship and heritage, while Tissot offers a wide range of stylish and affordable timepieces with Swiss quality. Ultimately, the choice between Longines and Tissot comes down to personal style, budget, and the specific features you prioritize in a watch.
What celebrity wears Longines?
One prominent celebrity known for wearing Longines watches is Simon Baker, best known for his role as Patrick Jane in the television series “The Mentalist.” His association with Longines as a brand ambassador has contributed to the visibility and popularity of Longine’s timepieces among fans and enthusiasts alike.
