As the past market updates will attest, the world economy has been in a period of turmoil, and whilst the most damaging events might now be behind us, there seems a distinct possibility that historically low base bank rates will be with us for at least another 2-3 years. I would suggest this means the current trend for vintage watch collecting (and indeed classic cars and the art) will continue for the foreseeable future, as many will choose not to leave to leave their money in the bank. I have also from time to time heard comments that watches might fall out of fashion, and become less collectible going forward. There is no sign that this is the case and I personally doubt this as the very best and most desired watches are now considered wearable "art". Additionally I occasionally hear comments that younger generations may not collect in the future, I see no valid reason this will be the case, like all generations they will be attracted to beautiful things, whatever they may be and collecting and investing. That you could tell the time on your phone also seems something of a red herring when debating if vintage watches will remain collectible, being able to see pictures on your phone hasn't had much impact on the market for paintings! The number of serious collectors (certainly on Heuer) appears to be increasing, and most of these will cite vintage Heuer' close ties with Formula 1 and motorsport in general. As we have said before If the market does show signs of cooling, or pausing for breath then Heuer is better placed than most, because the supply is so low, especially so on the most desirable pieces. Values for this guide remain mostly static with adjustments upwards on some models, representing a pause for breath during the slow summer season and no bad thing.

So what watches have been in demand over the past 6 months? Perhaps easier to start with what has not, and predictably it is the more common references or the average condition pieces which by and large have remained static. Monacos have remained reasonably flat, with the exception of metallic blue dailed 1133B Transitional models which have seen quite a sharp jump and minor increases on the std 1133B. At least five examples of the rare transitional reference changed hands in this period, compared to barely any in the prior year and most well over old guide values. If you can find a PVD Monaco in correct order, then buy it, many top collectors desire them but new discoveries are becoming rarer and rarer.

There is no doubt that most focus has been on the Autavia, which now seems to be vying with the Monaco as the most desired and collected Heuer model, it certainly offers the most diverse range in the Heuer product portfolio. Focus here has been quite wide, and the first execution "Big Subs" watches are heavily in demand, although there remains an imbalance of supply and demand. The other variant that has seen rises is the 1163GMT variant, with collectors continuing to see this reference as the most collectible of all the 70s/80s GMT models that Heuer offered to market. The "thin case" is certainly more wearable than the later "thick case" 11630 and 11063 references and it is worth noting that tropical chocolate brown models are fetching healthy premiums to standard black variants, mirroring other brands in this regard. The 1163V exotic Autavia, 73663 Bund, "Shaunatavia", the true 1163 "Orange Boys" and several other "grail" references would all be snapped up quickly if any became available. There have been many approaches to collectors on such watches but most have chosen to keep them, because they fear replacing a good one, might be too much of a long term commitment, especially in a rising market. It is interesting to note that the old favourites, 1163T Autavia "Siffert" and the Std production 1133B "McQueen" whilst still being desirable, have seen slightly less demand of late. It is true to say that many other references (like the ones mentioned 5-6 lines above) are now being viewed with equal importance in the eyes of the serious collector.

Of the other models, the 18CT gold Carrera 1158CHN with its direct ties to F1 and Ferrari, the Dato Carreras and the SN model are the standout pieces along with the Blue Silverstone, which continues to see a healthy premium over the Fume and Bordeaux variants. Mareographes of all ages have also been the focus of some attention, whether they be Carerra or Autavia based. It also goes without saying that anything with the magic words "Heuer Chronomatic" upon the dial is gold dust (see notes for PVD Monaco above)!

Going forward, I expect the market activity to pick up throughout the next 6