Mechanical Watch Vs Quartz Which Holds Its Value Better Over Time

When it comes to investing in a timepiece, the decision between a mechanical and a quartz watch goes beyond accuracy or convenience. Many buyers, especially collectors and enthusiasts, are increasingly focused on long-term value retention. While both types serve their purpose well, they differ dramatically in how they age financially. Mechanical watches, particularly from prestigious brands, often appreciate or at least hold their worth, whereas most quartz models depreciate quickly after purchase. Understanding why this happens requires a look into craftsmanship, brand strategy, market demand, and horological culture.

The Core Difference: Craftsmanship and Complexity

Mechanical watches operate using a complex system of gears, springs, and escapements powered by a wound mainspring. These movements can contain hundreds of tiny components, meticulously assembled and adjusted by skilled watchmakers. The labor involved in designing, assembling, and finishing these movements is immense—often taking weeks or months for high-complication pieces.

In contrast, quartz watches use a battery-powered electronic oscillator regulated by a quartz crystal. This technology, introduced widely in the 1970s during the \"Quartz Crisis,\" offered superior accuracy at a fraction of the cost. However, the simplicity and mass-production nature of quartz movements make them less desirable as collectibles.

“Timelessness isn’t measured in seconds per day, but in generations. A mechanical watch carries soul; a quartz tells time efficiently—but rarely inspires.” — Antoine Morel, Independent Horologist

Tip: When evaluating investment potential, prioritize watches with in-house mechanical movements over generic quartz calibers.

Market Dynamics: Supply, Demand, and Scarcity

One of the primary drivers of value retention in mechanical watches is scarcity. Luxury brands like Patek Philippe, Rolex, and Audemars Piguet produce limited quantities each year. Some models are discontinued after short runs, creating instant demand among collectors. Pre-owned markets for iconic pieces such as the Rolex Submariner or Patek Nautilus often see prices exceed retail due to waiting lists and low availability.

Quartz watches, even those made by luxury houses, are typically produced in larger volumes and lack the same exclusivity. For example, while Rolex has manufactured millions of Oysterquartz models since the 1970s, they remain significantly undervalued compared to their mechanical counterparts. Only rare exceptions—such as vintage Jaeger LeCoultre Futurematics or certain Grand Seiko 9F quartz models—have seen modest appreciation.

Feature	Mechanical Watches	Quartz Watches
Production Volume	Low to moderate (hand-assembled)	High (mass-produced)
Repair Complexity	Specialized skills required	Often replaced rather than repaired
Average Depreciation (First Year)	15–30% (luxury segment)	40–60%
Potential for Appreciation	Yes, especially limited editions	Rare, mostly niche cases
Lifespan with Maintenance	Decades to centuries	10–20 years (battery/circuit wear)

Brand Strategy and Legacy Influence Value

Legacy plays a crucial role in determining which watches stand the test of time—both literally and financially. Brands that have maintained consistent reputations for mechanical excellence tend to command higher resale values. For instance, Omega’s Speedmaster Professional—the only watch qualified by NASA for spacewalks—is highly sought after in its mechanical form, despite having quartz variants.

Conversely, when luxury brands release quartz models, they’re often positioned as entry-level options. Even if the build quality is excellent, the perception remains that quartz lacks prestige. Exceptions exist: Cartier’s quartz Tank models from the 1980s occasionally fetch strong prices due to design significance, but they still lag behind vintage mechanical Tanks in collector circles.

Moreover, brand storytelling favors mechanical heritage. Advertisements highlight hand-finishing, COSC certification, and historical milestones—all tied to mechanical innovation. Quartz, though revolutionary in its era, is rarely romanticized in marketing narratives today.

Real Example: The Rolex Oysterquartz vs. Datejust

Consider two Rolex models from the same period: the Oysterquartz Day-Date (produced 1977–2001) and the perpetual mechanical Datejust. Both were premium offerings, yet their post-discontinuation trajectories diverged sharply.

The Oysterquartz was Rolex’s answer to the quartz revolution—an elegant, integrated-bracelet design with a thermocompensated movement. Despite being technically advanced and built to Rolex standards, it never achieved cult status. Today, mint-condition Oysterquartz models sell for $3,000–$6,000, barely above original retail.

In contrast, a vintage mechanical Datejust from the 1970s, especially with desirable dials or case materials, can command $10,000–$20,000 or more. Modern stainless steel Datejusts regularly resell above MSRP due to demand.

This disparity underscores a key truth: emotional resonance and craftsmanship matter more than technical precision when it comes to long-term value.

Step-by-Step Guide: Evaluating Long-Term Watch Value

Whether you're buying new or browsing pre-owned listings, follow this process to assess a watch’s potential to hold or increase in value:

1. Determine the movement type: Is it mechanical (automatic or manual-wind), or quartz? Prioritize mechanical unless the quartz model is exceptionally rare.
2. Research production numbers: Limited runs or discontinued models are more likely to appreciate.
3. Check brand reputation in horology: Focus on brands known for mechanical mastery (e.g., Patek, Vacheron, Lange).
4. Assess service history and authenticity: Original papers, boxes, and documented servicing enhance value.
5. Monitor secondary market trends: Use platforms like Chrono24, WatchCharts, or Hodinkee to track price evolution.
6. Evaluate aesthetic longevity: Timeless designs outperform trendy ones over decades.

Tip: Avoid modifying your watch (e.g., aftermarket dials or straps) if preserving value is your goal. OEM condition is king.

When Quartz Can Be a Smart Investment

While mechanical watches dominate the collector market, there are notable exceptions where quartz models have proven resilient—or even profitable—over time.

• Grand Seiko 9F Series: Known for extreme precision, longevity, and beautiful finishing, select 9F models (especially limited editions) have seen steady demand.
• Breitling SuperQuartz™: Thermocompensated movements with COSC certification offer high accuracy and durability. Some vintage Aerospace models are gaining traction.
• Early High-End Quartz: Pieces like the 1970s Piaget Polo Electro or the Bulova Precisionist can attract niche collectors.

However, these remain outliers. To profit from quartz collecting, one must possess deep knowledge of micro-trends and be willing to wait years for appreciation.

Expert Insight: Why Collectors Favor Mechanics

“A mechanical watch is not just a tool—it’s a sculpture in motion. You wind it, feel its heartbeat, hear its tick. That connection fosters attachment, and attachment drives desire. Desire drives value.” — Clara Nguyen, Curator at the Geneva Watch Museum

This sentiment echoes across auction houses and private collections. At Phillips’ “Winning Time” sales, nearly every lot exceeding $1 million features a mechanical movement. Even modern independents like F.P. Journe or Kari Voutilainen focus exclusively on mechanics, reinforcing the hierarchy within fine watchmaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do any quartz watches appreciate in value?

Very few do. Notable examples include certain Grand Seiko 9F models, vintage Jaeger LeCoultre Futurematics, and rare Breitling Aerospace variants. Appreciation is slow and unpredictable, unlike the more established mechanical collector market.

Is a quartz watch a bad purchase if I want longevity?

Not necessarily. Quartz watches are reliable, accurate, and low-maintenance for daily wear. However, they are poor candidates for financial investment. If your goal is practicality and convenience, quartz excels. For legacy and equity building, mechanics win.

Can servicing extend a quartz watch’s lifespan enough to preserve value?

Servicing helps maintain functionality—replacing seals, cleaning circuits, and updating batteries—but won’t boost resale value significantly. Unlike mechanical watches, where a full service enhances desirability, quartz repairs are seen as routine maintenance rather than value-adds.

Checklist: Choosing a Watch That Holds Value

• ✅ Opt for mechanical movement (manual or automatic)
• ✅ Choose a reputable brand with strong secondary market presence
• ✅ Prefer stainless steel over gold-plated or base metals
• ✅ Look for timeless design (e.g., simple dials, classic proportions)
• ✅ Ensure authenticity documentation (papers, box, warranty card)
• ✅ Avoid heavily branded dials or pop-culture collaborations unless historically significant
• ✅ Consider limited editions or anniversary models

Conclusion: Invest in Legacy, Not Just Accuracy

Quartz watches changed the world with unmatched precision and affordability. But when it comes to holding—or growing—in value over time, mechanical watches remain the undisputed leaders. Their blend of artistry, engineering, and emotional appeal creates enduring demand that transcends generations. While quartz may win the battle of accuracy, mechanical timepieces win the war for legacy.

If you're purchasing a watch as a functional accessory, quartz offers excellent performance with minimal upkeep. But if you seek an heirloom, a symbol of personal achievement, or a tangible asset that might grow in worth, a well-chosen mechanical watch is the clear choice. From the rhythm of its sweep second hand to the pride of owning a miniature masterpiece, a mechanical watch offers something no circuit board ever can: soul.

💬 What’s your experience with watch investments? Share your thoughts on mechanical vs. quartz value trends—we’d love to hear your perspective.