Flipping Isn’t Dead—It’s Just Evolved
The wild profits of 2021–2022 may be gone, but flipping luxury watches is still a viable business model in 2024—if you know what you’re doing.
Auctioneer and market analyst Adam Levinsohn shares smart flipping strategies based on real-world auction performance and market timing data from Bond Street Auctions.
Step 1: Understand the “Auction Spread”
This is the margin between what a watch sells for at auction and what it can resell for on the open market. Savvy flippers target pieces with:
• Undervalued estimates
• Strong collector interest
• Rising market comps
“If you’re buying watches with weak marketing and strong bones—you’ll win,” Levinsohn says.
Step 2: Buy on the Dip, Sell on the Hype
2024 has been the year of the micro-cycle. Levinsohn highlights examples:
• F.P. Journe Bleu dropped to $125K in Feb, hit $155K by May
• Rolex Hulk dipped 8% in March, rebounded 12% by April
Buy during auction lulls. Sell ahead of major global watch events (Geneva, Watches & Wonders, Art Basel).
Step 3: Avoid These Common Flipping Mistakes
• Buying fake or “frankenwatches”
• Ignoring condition details (overpolish, loose links, service dials)
• Underestimating seller fees and buyer premiums
• Misreading hype as demand
Watches That Flip Well in 2024
Model Flip Potential Why
Rolex GMT “Batman” High Still hard to find at retail
Cartier Crash Extreme Surrealist hype + rarity
Omega Speedmaster Snoopy Moderate Cult following
Tudor Black Bay 58 Low–Moderate Low cost, quick resale
Patek 3940J High Perpetual compounding value
Where to Sell for Maximum Profit
• Private collector network: Highest margin, slowest
• Online platforms: Fast, but risky without vetting
• Auctions (like Bond Street): Best for rare pieces with provenance and comps
“If it’s rare or complicated, auctions bring more eyes—and more money,” Levinsohn adds.
FAQs
Is flipping watches illegal?
No—but brand boutiques may blacklist flippers. Auctions and private resales are fair game.
How much can you profit from flipping?
Typically 10–30%, though rare pieces can do much more.
Is flipping still worth it in 2024?
Yes—if you’re strategic, know your comps, and don’t fall for hype.
Want to Start Flipping Smarter?
Monitor Bond Street’s live auction results and catalog alerts to catch watches before the market moves.
👉 Sign up at www.BondStreetAuctions.com
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