True wealth isn’t only about income or net worth. It’s also about where you store value. Certain luxury assets that hold value can provide both enjoyment and financial resilience.
To see why the wealthy often turn to tangible assets, let’s explore the categories that consistently retain or even grow in worth.
1. Watches That Appreciate in Value
Luxury watches aren’t just status symbols. Certain models are recognized as watches that appreciate. Rolex, for instance, remains a standout. A steel Rolex Daytona often resells above retail, proving the strength of Rolex resale value.
Other brands like Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet also see demand at auctions. Timeless designs with limited runs tend to perform best.
2. Classic Cars as Investments
Collectors view classic cars as investments, especially rare models from Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Porsche. Values can fluctuate, but cars with racing history or celebrity ownership often command premiums. While the market can be volatile, iconic models like the Porsche 911 Carrera RS continue to attract strong bids.
3. Fine Art Investment Pieces
Some masterpieces remain among the oldest fine art investment pieces for wealthy families. Works by blue-chip artists like Picasso or Basquiat have not only retained value but often soared. The Arte-Blue-Chip Index even shows art can boost portfolio returns while lowering risk exposure.
Rarity, provenance, and cultural significance drive appreciation. For new investors, focusing on emerging artists with growing recognition can offer access at more attainable prices.
4. Designer Handbags
Not all handbags hold value, but some have become financial assets. The Birkin bag investment story is legendary, with Hermès bags doubling in value over a decade. Chanel’s classic flap bag and Louis Vuitton’s Speedy also maintain strong resale markets. Condition and color play a major role, with neutral tones and limited editions performing best.
5. Fine Jewelry and Diamonds
Diamonds as assets aren’t new, but rare stones with unique color or clarity often command significant premiums. Collectible jewelry from Cartier or Tiffany also retains appeal.
As with other luxury goods, craftsmanship, rarity, and brand prestige determine whether a piece appreciates. Investors often look for items with certification to ensure authenticity and protect resale value.
6. Rare Wine
Fine wine can also be a tangible asset diversification tool. Limited vintages from Bordeaux or Burgundy estates often appreciate with age, provided proper storage conditions are met. Platforms like Liv-ex track wine prices, showing that rare bottles sometimes outperform equities in certain markets.
7. High-End Real Estate
While not always considered a “luxury good,” high-end property is among the best luxury investments for wealth preservation. Prime real estate in global cities like London, New York, or Singapore tends to hold value even during downturns. Beyond financial returns, these properties offer lifestyle benefits and legacy potential.
See Real Estate Investing in a High-Interest Rate World for a more in-depth look.
8. Rare Collectibles
Niche categories like vintage guitars, first-edition books, and sports memorabilia have surged in popularity. These are speculative, but when aligned with cultural milestones, they become part of valuable assets.
9. Alternative Luxury Assets
Certain categories, such as limited-edition sneakers, collectible watches outside of mainstream brands, or luxury timepieces tied to cultural icons, fall into this realm. While riskier, they reflect shifts in taste. Buyers want pieces that matter both financially and socially.
Check out Luxury Spending in the Age of Conscious Consumerism to understand these investment choices.
10. Tangible Assets for Legacy
At the highest level, luxury assets serve a dual role. They bring personal enjoyment while also building a legacy. Families often pass on collections of jewelry, art, or cars. These assets symbolize values and taste, not just wealth. For affluent households, tangible goods represent both financial discipline and lifestyle expression.
The Value of Luxury Assets
From watches that appreciate to fine art pieces, these are the luxury assets that hold value in today’s world. They diversify portfolios, preserve wealth, and connect money to meaning. For families who view wealth as more than numbers, tangible assets bring peace of mind. and in many cases, impressive financial returns.
