Investing in a watch is a process. Dedicated research, years of saving, and finally hunting for ‘the one’ sure takes time, nevermind the painful decision-making and fear of regret in one’s choice down the line.
For many, purchasing a timepiece is a one-off, lifelong decision. Perhaps some will be fortunate enough to garner a small collection over a number of years to be passed down through generations. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Founded in 2017, Helvetia is Australia’s first luxury watch rental service. The platform allows users to ‘borrow’ high-end timepieces for three months at a time, before switching the piece out for a different one — simultaneously keeping the wardrobe fresh and the costs down.
There are currently two subscription classes available on the platform. The Silver Collection is made up of watches to the value of $7,000. Brands in this category include Armand Nicolet, Baume & Mercier, Breitling, Raymond Weil, Meistersinger, Montblanc, Tag Heuer, Omega and Rolex, and a subscription of this level costs $99 a month.
The Gold Collection levels up to watches to the value of $13,000, and is made up of luxury brands like Rolex, Cartier, IWC, Grand Seiko, Piaget, Panerai, IWC, Hublot, Jaeger Le’Coultre, Girard Perregaux and Zenith. A subscription to this category naturally comes in a little steeper. At $299 a month, to be exact, plus a refundable $1,000 as a deposit.
Even more exciting, Helvetia reveals a new Platinum category is soon to drop on the site. While we can’t yet see pieces in the collection, we’re told to expect brands like Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, Breguet and Franck Muller.
For those looking to rent a timepiece for a special occasion, like a wedding, graduation or special event, Helvetia allows clients to take part in one-month rentals starting from $150.
And if you love the piece so much you simply must own it yourself, then the option to buy the rental is available with payment plans over 12-months, GQ Australia reports.
Browse Helvetia‘s collection now.