An investment in a timepiece is one that keeps on giving. If treasured, these miniature machines will tick on for generations to come, often offering a solid return on investment. Interest in alternative investments such as watches, classic cars, art, rare whisky, and even handbags, has increased dramatically over the past few years.

Driven mainly by uncertain times and interest from younger collectors on the secondary market, these investment classes are not only about hedging your bets but also offer more meaningful engagement with tangible objects that bring joy in the hunt and ownership.

For most people, buying a watch or classic car is about finding something unusual with a dash of nostalgia that is an expression of their personality and lifestyle. And, if carefully considered, you may even find some return on your investment down the line. Apart from highly collectable top brands listed at off-the-charts prices, for people who are starting a collection the market is quite accommodating and there is something to suit everyone’s pocket on the primary and secondary markets. 

Join the online discussion with Wanted and Santam on March 25 at 6.30pm.
Join the online discussion with Wanted and Santam on March 25 at 6.30pm.
Image: Supplied

The second-hand boom has been spurred by young shoppers but also fuelled by the new breed of pre-owned luxury brand retailers such as WatchBox and Watchfinder & Co, which Swiss luxury group Richemont acquired in 2018, showing just how serious it is about controlling all aspects of the market. This purchase indicates how attractive this segment has become, but let’s hope they don’t ruin the thrill of the hunt.

On Thursday, March 25, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Wanted and Santam will delve into this intriguing world in an online event. Join watch columnist and Wanted founding editor Gary Cotterell, who will turn to the experts for their market insights and insider views, while re-evaluating your portfolios. 

A carefully considered classic car purchase could result in some return on your investment down the line.
A carefully considered classic car purchase could result in some return on your investment down the line.
Image: Supplied

Tune in for what promises to be a captivating and informative conversation with Peter Machlup, specialist in the secondary watch market, as well as an expert from Phillips auction house where we discuss market trends, the price tag of provenance, what makes certain watches more collectable than others, and the pitfalls and profits of luxury watches as an alternative investment.

Head of Santam segment solutions Karen Muuren will also join us to discuss bespoke insurance solutions that offer peace of mind to discerning investors while they’re out enjoying those newly acquired assets.

*Santam is an authorised financial services provider (licence number 3416)

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