Generally, iced out watches—timepieces heavily customized with aftermarket diamonds—tend to depreciate compared to their original, unmodified versions. While they make bold fashion statements, their resale value often declines for several key reasons.
Why Iced Out Watches Usually Lose Value
1. Aftermarket Customization Lowers Resale Appeal
When diamonds are added by third-party jewelers (rather than the original manufacturer), the watch’s integrity and authenticity come into question. Collectors and buyers often prefer untouched models, fearing modifications may affect functionality or durability.
2. Authenticity Concerns
Custom diamond settings can make buyers skeptical—was the watch damaged during customization? Are the diamonds high quality? These uncertainties drive demand toward factory-original pieces.
3. Niche Market & Subjective Style
Iced-out designs cater to a specific taste. What looks stunning to one buyer may seem excessive to another, shrinking the resale market and lowering prices.
4. High Upfront Cost ≠ High Resale Value
The price of aftermarket diamond work (often thousands extra) rarely translates to equal resale value. Buyers typically won’t pay a premium for non-factory modifications.
5. Trend Dependency
Fashion trends change. A watch that’s highly sought-after today may fall out of favor, leading to faster depreciation than classic, unaltered models.
Exceptions: When Iced Out Watches Hold Value
Not all diamond-covered watches lose value. Two key exceptions include:
- Factory-Set Diamonds: Luxury brands like Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Cartier sometimes produce watches with original diamond settings. These retain value better due to brand authenticity and quality assurance.
- Rare or Celebrity-Owned Customizations: If a watch is customized by a famous jeweler (e.g., Jacob & Co. or Icebox) or owned by a celebrity, it may hold or even appreciate in value due to exclusivity.
Conclusion: Should You Buy an Iced Out Watch?
If investment potential matters most, stick with original, unmodified luxury watches or factory-set diamond models. However, if you prioritize personal style and bold aesthetics, an iced-out watch can be a worthwhile purchase—just expect lower resale returns.
References:
- Love Luxury
- Renee De Paris Jewelry
- Rolex Forums Discussion
- Harper’s Bazaar
