If you’re a true watch lover, you probably already know that the best prices for luxury timepieces are often found on the secondary market.
And when it comes to China’s pre-owned luxury watch market, these five brands are absolutely not to be missed.
Due to differences in consumer preferences and aesthetics, these brands often appear undervalued in China, creating a unique "value dip" in pricing. If you’re looking to buy one of these watches, China’s market offers opportunities you shouldn’t overlook.
1. Vacheron Constantin
— The easiest top-tier dress watch to “buy low” in 2025
Vacheron Constantin is one of the oldest watchmakers in the world, with history and craftsmanship rivaling Patek Philippe. But in China, its brand recognition is weaker compared to Rolex and Audemars Piguet, leading to steep discounts on the second-hand market — with some models dropping below 50% of retail.
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Recommended models: Overseas, Traditionnelle, Patrimony
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Pre-owned market trend: You can find watches worth ¥100,000+ for as little as ¥50,000
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Best for: Low-key collectors who appreciate quality and craftsmanship
Bottom line: Buying Vacheron Constantin second-hand in China is like finding buried treasure.
2. A. Lange & Söhne
— German precision with underrated value in China
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Keywords: Lange SAXONIA / pre-owned Lange / Lange worth it?
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Why buy in China: Niche brand, low supply, high long-term value
Lange is considered almost mythical in high-end watchmaking, and in Europe or the U.S., it’s nearly impossible to get popular models at retail. In China, however, its lower recognition and unique style mean prices don’t reflect the brand’s true value on the second-hand market.
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Recommended models: SAXONIA Small Seconds, 1815 Chronograph
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Market trend: Retail starts around ¥200,000, second-hand deals often near ¥100,000
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Collector value: Under-the-radar now, long-term potential is huge
Bottom line: The deeper you dive into watch collecting, the more you’ll respect Lange.
3. Audemars Piguet
— Hidden gems beyond the Royal Oak
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Keywords: AP second-hand pricing / Royal Oak market / underrated AP models
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Why buy in China: Royal Oak is expensive and scarce; other models are undervalued
The Royal Oak is legendary — and nearly impossible to find at retail. But beyond that famous line, AP has many lesser-known models that are highly undervalued in China, especially non-standard sizes, materials, and limited editions.
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Recommended models: Royal Oak Offshore, classic round models
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Market trend: High quality, brand prestige, with major room for price negotiation
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Best for: Buyers who want AP quality without paying the “hype tax”
Bottom line: There’s more to Audemars Piguet than the Royal Oak — and the rest is a collector’s goldmine in China.
4. Patek Philippe
— Legendary brand, but dress watches are cheaper in China than abroad
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Keywords: Patek Philippe pre-owned / PP price drop / buying second-hand Patek
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Why buy in China: Dress models are less recognized, pricing is softer
Patek Philippe sits at the very top of luxury watchmaking, but not all Patek watches are equal in hype. Outside the Nautilus and Aquanaut lines, many of its dress watches are much more affordable in China than in Japan, Europe, or the U.S.
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Recommended models: Calatrava, annual calendars, complicated references
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Market trend: Classic Calatrava models often drop below 70% of retail
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Collector value: Still the king of long-term investment watches
Bottom line: Want a classic Patek? China’s pre-owned market is the place to buy smart.
5. Hublot
— High retail, low resale; the cool collector’s bargain
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Keywords: Hublot Big Bang pre-owned / Hublot price crash / Hublot worth buying?
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Why buy in China: Flashy designs, high retail pricing, deep second-hand discounts
Hublot is known for bold designs and cutting-edge materials. Celebrities and athletes love it. But in China, its flamboyant style and high MSRP mean second-hand prices often drop by 50% or more, making it a bargain for those who love modern, sporty watches.
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Recommended models: Big Bang, Classic Fusion
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Market trend: Retail at ¥200,000, pre-owned deals from ¥40,000–¥80,000
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Best for: Trendsetters who want style and presence without breaking the bank
Bottom line: For the price of a mid-range watch, you can own a Hublot that screams luxury.
Summary: Why Buy These 5 Brands in China?
| Brand | Recommended Models | China Pre-Owned Market Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Vacheron Constantin | Overseas, Patrimony | Huge discounts, classic dress watch style |
| A. Lange & Söhne | SAXONIA, 1815 | Undervalued in China, high horology credentials |
| Audemars Piguet | Offshore, limited editions | Hidden value outside Royal Oak |
| Patek Philippe | Calatrava, complications | Lower prices than overseas for dress models |
| Hublot | Big Bang, Classic Fusion | Sharp resale drop = big savings |
Final Thoughts
In the world of fine watches, knowing where to buy can be just as important as what to buy. These five brands represent top-tier craftsmanship and prestige, but for various reasons, they’re far more affordable on the second-hand market in China than elsewhere in the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or buying your first high-end timepiece, China’s luxury resale market might just be your smartest move yet.