Young adults who want a fine timepiece don't have to dig too deep into their pockets. Many well-known labels have simple pieces that would be perfect for a young person in style and price. 'First and foremost, regardless of brand or appreciation value, when choosing a watch the most important thing is that you really like it,' says Carson Chan from auction house Bonhams. Joyce Fong from Georg Jensen says. 'For younger adults, don't buy watches according to seasonal trends. Pick a refined and unfussy piece that goes beyond trends.'
Jack Ho, from Elegant Watch and Jewellery, finds that young men often favour watches with mechanical movements. 'It's generally acceptable to wear a sporty watch with chronograph functions for formal and casual occasions. Sporty watches with big faces [42mm diameter or more] are a good option for young men.' He lists Tag Heuer's New Aquaracer style (HK$12,400) as a popular choice.
For young women, he suggests watches with a leather strap. 'A classic watch with a leather strap is a must-have for any occasion' He recommends Cartier's Tank Solo (HK$14,050) or Ronde Solo (HK$14,700) styles that come with black leather straps. Young ladies can also purchase a range of different coloured leather straps to suit their style.
Other recommendations are Georg Jensen's Hanning Koppel chronograph watch (HK$12,000) with a white face and black leather strap for young men and the Georg Jensen silver bangle watch (HK$14,800) for ladies. If your budget is a little bigger, then brands such as Rolex have entry-level pieces such as the Air King automatic watch for men and women (starting from HK$25,000).
Chan advises young adults to do their research and consider buying well-maintained vintage pieces for style and appreciation value. 'I suggest the Omega Speedmaster as its design hasn't changed much since its launch in the 1960s.'
He says the watch is still in production and is easily serviced. A vintage, standard issue Speedmaster should cost about HK$15,000, depending on the condition of the piece. He also suggests the IWC Yacht Club (which is no longer being produced) as another good option. It should cost between HK$8,000 to HK$12,000.