Why TIME Score Exists
Collectors loved our deep dives but asked for a single, crystal-clear metric that summarizes a watch’s collectability and long-term prospects. Our original WIPS framework worked, yet the acronym never quite sang. The revamped TIME Score, short for Timepiece Investment & Market Evaluation—keeps the same rigorous approach while feeling right at home in the world of horology.
The Seven Pillars in Plain English
Brand Heritage & Recognition looks at the maker’s history, reputation, and halo effect.
Rarity & Limited Production measures how many pieces were made and whether special variants exist.
Market Demand & Liquidity tracks real-world turnover—auction results, dealer wait-lists, and forum chatter.
Condition & Completeness weighs originality, service history, and the presence of box, papers, or coveted patina.
Historical / Collectible Significance captures cultural moments, milestone references, and famous wrists.
Technical Complexity & Innovation judges the movement architecture, complications, and material breakthroughs.
Long-Term Value Appreciation factors in five- to ten-year price curves and broader macro tailwinds.
Each pillar earns a score from 1 to 10, giving a maximum composite TIME Score of 70.
Interpreting the Numbers
• 07–30 → Considered low potential. Buy in this range only if the watch truly speaks to you on a personal level.
• 31–40 → Below-average to moderate upside. Enjoy it on the wrist, but don’t count on meaningful appreciation.
• 41–50 → Solid territory. A dependable daily wearer with room to climb if trends tilt your way.
• 51–60 → Strong candidate. History suggests favorable long-term appreciation and healthy market liquidity.
• 61–70 → Elite status. Think blue-chip, grail-level pieces sought by seasoned collectors worldwide.
A Quick Example
Consider the Omega Speedmaster ref. 145.022-69 “Pre-Moon.” Its NASA pedigree, cult-level collector demand, and iconic design drive a TIME score of 53, firmly in the “Strong Candidate” range. Translation: the watch should stay highly liquid on the secondary market and has convincing long-term upside so long as its originality and condition are preserved.
Putting TIME Score to Work
Use the headline number to decide whether to read our full review or move on. Compare pieces across brands; a Tudor that scores 55 sits in the same investment band as a H. Moser scoring 55, even if the price tags differ wildly. Apply the seven pillars to watches on your personal shortlist, gaps and red flags will surface instantly. We’ll update TIME Scores annually, helping you spot sleepers before they heat up.
Remember: a low score isn’t fatal if the watch makes your heart race, buy with eyes wide open.
Coming Soon on Timeless Pursuit
Expect weekly TIME Score spotlights on both grail-status icons and under-the-radar micro-brands, plus a Friday Market Pulse digest of auction results and secondary-market shifts. Have a reference you want graded? Nominate it in the comments and we’ll queue it up.