Kevin O’Leary says Grand Seiko and Tudor beat Rolex for value

For a true entrepreneur, a timepiece is rarely about checking the hour; your phone handles that with greater precision. Instead, Kevin O'Leary views watch collecting as a way to memorialize significant career victories. Whether it is closing a first major deal or launching a nine-figure fund, these assets serve as physical anchors to professional growth. However, the cardinal rule of acquisition remains firm: never borrow capital to purchase a watch. True financial prudence dictates that luxury should only be the fruit of realized gains.

Entry-level precision with Tudor and Grand Seiko

While Rolex maintains forty percent of the market share and undeniable name recognition, O'Leary identifies superior value in alternative brands for those starting their journey. Tudor offers exceptional craftsmanship for under $5,000, providing the mechanical integrity of its sibling brand at a fraction of the cost. Meanwhile, Grand Seiko has emerged as a powerhouse of horology. Their movements often outperform Swiss counterparts, offering a level of finishing and technical sophistication that commands respect from seasoned collectors and savvy investors alike.

The three horsemen of executive presence

When a meeting requires the highest level of perceived success, O'Leary points to the "three horsemen": Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe. These brands transcend simple fashion; they are international signals of status. Yet, for the modern connoisseur, brands like F.P. Journe represent the "living Picasso" of the industry. These pieces are increasingly viewed as liquid art, often appreciating in value as the artisan's legacy becomes more exclusive.

Profit is the only sustainable mission

Transitioning from assets to operations, O'Leary remains a staunch advocate for clarity in business purpose. He warns against the