Luxury Watch Theft Surge 2026 Raises Alarm Among Global Collectors
The Luxury Watch Theft Surge 2026 has become a growing concern for collectors and investors worldwide. According to a new report by The Watch Register, more than 10,000 luxury watches were reported stolen or lost globally in 2025 — translating to nearly one high-end timepiece disappearing every hour.
What was once considered a symbol of status has now evolved into a serious investment category. But as the value of luxury watches rises, so does the risk.
₹4.5 Lakh Crore Market Attracts Criminal Networks
The global luxury watch market is now valued at approximately ₹4.5 lakh crore. Over the past decade, more than 1.13 lakh stolen or robbed watches have been logged in global databases, with an estimated combined value of ₹20,800 crore. The average price of a stolen watch stands at ₹14 lakh.
Experts say the real figures may be even higher.
“Only about half of the victims report theft to authorities,” a senior analyst at The Watch Register noted. “Many owners fail to record their serial numbers, making recovery extremely difficult.”
In 2025 alone, around 1,400 missing watches were successfully traced and recovered — a notable achievement, but only a fraction of the actual thefts.
London Emerges as Global Hotspot
More than half of the UK’s high-end watch theft cases were reported in London. Between January 2022 and July 2025, over 5,180 luxury watches were stolen in the British capital.
Security analysts describe luxury watches as “moving assets” — compact, high-value items that are easy to conceal and resell in secondary markets or online platforms.
Rolex and Richard Mille Most Targeted
The data reveals that 51% of stolen watches in 2025 were from Rolex, making it the most targeted brand globally. In the vintage segment too, Rolex dominates with a 44% share.
Meanwhile, Richard Mille watches, known for their ultra-premium pricing, topped the list of most expensive stolen timepieces. In 2024, all top 10 stolen watches were Richard Mille models, with an average value of ₹3.23 crore.
One high-profile theft in Canberra, Australia, involving a limited-edition watch worth ₹54 crore, shocked the luxury market and highlighted how organized gangs are targeting private residences.
Why Luxury Watches Are Prime Targets
Experts cite several reasons behind the Luxury Watch Theft Surge 2026:
Rapid price appreciation of premium watches
Growing recognition of watches as alternative investment assets
Easy resale through online marketplaces
Lack of proper documentation by owners
Reports indicate:
17% of owners do not keep serial number records
8% are unsure whether their watch details are documented
This gap significantly reduces recovery chances after theft.
What Collectors Must Do Now
Industry experts recommend immediate steps:
Register watches with global tracking databases
Maintain secure digital and physical records of serial numbers
Avoid public display in high-risk areas
Invest in specialized insurance coverage
With luxury watches now treated as financial assets, security measures must match their rising value.
The Luxury Watch Theft Surge 2026 reflects a broader shift in how high-end timepieces are perceived — not just as accessories, but as portable wealth. As brands like Rolex and Richard Mille continue to dominate resale markets, criminal networks are evolving their tactics.
For collectors and investors, vigilance is no longer optional — it is essential.
