Dealer Steven Rostovsky on Why Classic, Simple Watches Are Trending and the New Brand He Took on
In a recent discussion, Steven Rostovsky, a dealer specializing in rare watches, reflects on the impact of tariffs and currency fluctuations on the watch market. Despite the challenges posed by a 39 percent tariff on Swiss imports, Rostovsky adapted by reducing imports and focusing on domestic sales, resulting in a surprisingly strong market performance in 2025. He highlights a resurgence in interest for classic, simple watches, moving away from the previously popular complex designs, as collectors seek beautifully crafted pieces with understated elegance. Rostovsky notes that the luxury watch landscape is changing, with U.S. prices now expected to be approximately 6 percent higher than global averages due to the weakened dollar and tariff implications. He anticipates that buyers will increasingly gravitate towards independent brands, which offer limited production of unique timepieces, thus driving demand for classic designs from the 1990s and early 2000s. This shift signifies a broader trend where collectors prioritize quality and craftsmanship over mere brand prestige.
