What is a watch waiting list and how can I join one?

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5 minute read

Updated 10th June 2025

In the world of luxury timepieces, exclusivity is an art form, and nothing epitomises this more than the elusive watch waiting list. For high-net-worth collectors and horology enthusiasts, these lists have become a hallmark of desire, prestige, and, of course, exclusivity.

Why watch waiting lists exist

Luxury watch manufacturers have perfected a delicate balance of supply and demand that have transformed waiting lists from a challenge, into a powerful marketing tool. Brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet have turned limited production into the art of brand positioning.

The economics of limited production

Consider the Submariner. There is nothing stopping Rolex, the maker of this luxury model, from producing an additional 200,000 of these watches – but the economics simply don’t make sense.

Building an entirely new factory would, of course, be a huge investment, but, more importantly, Rolex have managed to wield the power of limited production to their advantage, heightening the feel of exclusivity while allowing them to maintain the exceptionally high standards of their craft.

Maintaining exclusivity

Watch waiting lists are more than just a queue – they also serve as a carefully curated selection process. Luxury brands use waiting lists and a higher price point to not only reflect the time and materials used, but also to control their brand image, ensuring their watches are only purchased by clients who will further enhance their prestige.

By limiting access, brands like Patek Philippe and Rolex ensure that only the most dedicated and affluent collectors make it through the intangible ‘selection process’.

Craftmanship cannot be rushed…

…but that’s not to say that these waiting lists are simply sales tactics. They are also a reflection of the intricate skill required to create these timepieces.

Each luxury watch represents hundreds of hours of meticulous craftsmanship from highly skilled artisans with years of specialised training, as well as the precise engineering it takes to create such a fine piece.

Other factors influencing wait times

In the world of luxury watches, not all waiting lists are created equal. There are several factors that will impact how long you’ll wait for your dream timepiece, including the popularity of the model, the stock that authorised dealers have available and the availability of the materials and dial combinations.

How to join a waiting list

The top luxury watch brands with waiting lists currently include:

Joining a waiting list seems simple, in theory. You just need to get in touch with an authorised dealer, retailor or boutique, and ask.

But it doesn’t end there. Whether you even make the list will heavily depend on you as a buyer and your relationship with the dealer, and even then, you should expect long wait times.

How long is the Patek Philippe waitlist?

Those most likely to get on the waiting list will already have an existing, strong relationship in place with their authorised Patek Phillipe dealer and will have demonstrated a genuine passion for the brand. It helps if you have an existing buying history with the dealer. You may consider entering into a waitlist for different dealers, although be aware that they might not consider you if you don’t already have a relationship.

If you do make the list, you then need to practice patience. Those on the waiting list should be prepared to wait between 5-10 years for their dream watch, although the times can vary significantly based on the factors previously listed.

How long is the Rolex Submariner waitlist?

Getting on the Rolex waiting list isn’t difficult, but it does not operate on a ‘first come, first served’ basis but rather an ‘intent of interest’ basis.

The wait list for some of the most popular submariner models vary between three months and three years. Some other models, like the Daytona, are available to VIP customers only. To register your interest, you typically should visit a registered dealer in person.

The world’s longest waiting lists

So, what are the most sought-after watches in the world? Some of the most prestigious models with the highest wait times include:

Patek Philippe Nautilus: Up to 10 years
Rolex Daytona: 3-5 years
Richard Mille: Varies, but often multiple years

Protecting your investment

A watch waiting list is more than a queue – it’s an invitation into the exclusive world of horological excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or an aspiring enthusiast, understanding these lists is key to navigating the luxury watch market.

At Stanhope, we understand that these aren’t just watches: they’re investments, artworks, and treasured possessions. Our bespoke luxury watch insurance provides comprehensive coverage tailored for high-net-worth individuals.

Our specialist policies offer agreed value protection, worldwide coverage, protection against theft, damage, and loss and specialised repair and replacement options.

Why insure with Stanhope?

We don’t just provide insurance; we provide peace of mind for collectors who understand the true value of their timepieces.

Contact Stanhope today to discuss specialist luxury watch insurance that matches your collection’s unique value and prestige.

Q&A with Simon Lazarus, Head of PR and Content at Chrono Hunter

Do you have any tips for anyone wanting to join a waitlist?

When it comes to big brands, it is paramount that you build relationships with an authorised dealer. Look the part, show passion for the brand and demonstrate that ultimately wanting to invest in a piece from that specific brand.

You may have to invest in other timepieces from the brand to even get on the waitlist, especially for in demand watches, like a Rolex Daytona.

Have the patience of a horological saint. Some coveted Rolex watches have waitlists up to 2-3 years, while Patek Philippe are even longer, reaching up to 8 years on some novelties.

However, due to price increases and the years to wait, you may end up paying similar money at the end of your waiting time and could have had the watch on your wrist much sooner, especially if you sourced it from a reputable pre-owned platform like ours.

Can I bypass or get on top of the waitlist?

Unfortunately, there are no sure-fire ways to beat the waitlist. However, some brands may look more favourably on those who spend a considerable amount with them, (think £250,000+).

Many require interested individuals to purchase additional items such as jewellery before even being considered or added to a waitlist.