Short on time? "Collectible" means rare, historically important or no longer made, ideally all three. By that measure, the most collectible watch in our safe is the F.P. Journe Octa Calendrier from the Ruthenium Collection, one of 99 with a brass movement. Here are five and why they matter.
1. F.P. Journe Octa Calendrier Ruthenium
One of five models in Journe's early-2000s Ruthenium Collection, each made in 99 pieces, in platinum with one of the last brass Journe movements. Early, brass and limited: everything Journe collectors look for. See ours.
2. F.P. Journe Tourbillon Souverain
The Tourbillon Souverain was Journe's first production wristwatch, and the line he built the brand on. Ours is the later version with dead-beat seconds, in rose gold with a grey dial. Journe tourbillons have been among the strongest results at auction. See ours.
3. Patek Philippe 5110P World Time
Patek's first automatic world timer, made only from 2000 to 2006, and the platinum version with the blue guilloché centre is the one collectors chase. See ours.
4. Rolex Daytona Le Mans 126529LN
Launched in June 2023 for the Le Mans centenary and gone by April 2024. A unique movement, the calibre 4132, and a very short production run make it one of the most collectible modern Rolexes. See ours.
5. Rolex Submariner Date 116610LV "Hulk"
Green on green, made from 2010 to 2020 and then retired. Discontinued sports Rolexes have a habit of becoming modern classics, and the Hulk already is one. See ours.
Final Thoughts
We'd always say buy what you love first. But if you love one of these, you're also buying a piece of watchmaking history.