Womens Luxury Watch Collecting
The world of luxury watches is evolving and women are part of that transformation. Womens luxury watches once seen as accessories or gifts, womens timepieces are now regarded as serious investments, heirlooms and personal statements. At Kettle Club have witnessed this shift first hand, with more female luxury watch collectors turning to brands such as Rolex and Cartier, for models that combine legacy with lasting value.
A Look Back at Historical Milestones
The journey began with pieces like the Rolex Lady Datejust which was introduced in 1957. This was no ordinary watch. It offered chronometer certified precision, self winding movement and Rolex iconic waterproof Oyster case which was all tailored to a woman’s wrist. It was the first of its kind, proving that smaller case sizes didn’t mean a compromise in quality.
Similarly Cartier’s Tank Française, released in 1996, modernised the classic Tank silhouette with a sleek bracelet design. Since then it has become a mainstay of women’s watch collections, favoured for its balance of clean lines and elegance.
Changing Preferences;
Fast forward to today and women are rewriting the rules. Many are moving past traditionally feminine styles and choosing bolder luxury watch models. Think larger case sizes, sport watches and pieces once thought of as being exclusively for men.
This shift is driven by a number of factors;
Greater financial independence, a booming pre owned market that offers access to discontinued and rare models as well as increased knowledge thanks to online communities and digital content. The rise in demand for midsize watches like 31mm to 36mm references reflects a new kind of versatility. Watches that wear well and leave a lasting impression.
Watches Worn by Women Who Inspire
The influence of iconic women can’t be overstated. Their choices have shaped trends & validated serious collecting:
• Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis often wore a gold Cartier Tank. A minimalist style statement that sold for over £300,000 at auction.
• Princess Diana frequently wore a yellow gold Cartier Tank Française. A symbol of elegance and resilience.
• Meghan Markle owns a Cartier Tank Française passed down from Diana and a Cartier Tank Solo she purchased to commemorate her career milestones.
• Victoria Beckham often wears a gold Rolex Daytona. Reflecting the rise in sport luxe among women.
• Rihanna has been seen pairing a gold Rolex Day Date with her signature layered jewellery style. She also wears various Cartier pieces.
• Elle Macpherson favours oversized watches like the Rolex Daytona and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Evidence that robust cases and sport references aren’t just for men.• Queen Elizabeth II wore a Jaeger LeCoultre Calibre 101 during her coronation and also owned rare Patek Philippe models.• Cate Blanchett, known for her timeless elegance, has long been an ambassador for IWC.
These women demonstrate a broader movement. Watches as expressions of power, taste and legacy.
Kettle Club’s Curated Selection for Women
Our inventory reflects this evolution offering both iconic and distinctive timepieces that suit a wide range of preferences:
• Rolex 279171 Datejust 28mm (2018) – £8,850
Stainless steel and Everose gold, featuring a white dial and fluted bezel. Compact & commanding.
• Rolex 77080 Oyster Perpetual 31mm (2002) – £5,000
Black dial, understated steel finish. Perfect for those who prefer minimalism.
• Cartier Tank Française 25mm (2013) – £2,950
A classic Roman numeral dial in a timeless, compact design.
• Cartier Santos Carrée 24mm (1995) – £3,750
A bold yet feminine square case that channels aviation heritage and elegance.
These pieces aren’t just accessories. They’re investments with character designed to be worn, appreciated and passed on.
Rolex and Cartier: Trusted by Generations
Rolex has always created women’s watches that deliver on precision and quality. The Lady Datejust is still one of the most admired timepieces among female collectors combining elegance with the calibre 2236 movement. Meanwhile the Oyster Perpetual 31mm continues to grow in popularity thanks to its clean design and durable construction.
Cartier, on the other hand, leans into heritage and design innovation. From the angular Santos to the iconic Tank. Cartier’s legacy is built on artistic refinement paired with horological craftsmanship. These are watches with history and soul.
What’s Driving the Trend?
Women are seeking models with historical relevance, limited production or distinctive dials.
Also pre owned and vintage models, particularly discontinued references, offer both emotional and financial value. More women are buying watches to mark promotions, graduations and anniversaries & timepieces are seen as keepsakes to pass down. Their stories embedded in every scratch, dial and crown
Women are not just buying watches. They’re building legacies. Luxury watches are no longer defined by gender but by character, quality and meaning.
At Kettle Club we’re proud to support this. Our specialists help select timepieces that reflect who you are, what you’ve achieved and what you want to pass on. Whether you’re beginning your collection or adding a milestone piece we’re here to guide the journey.
