Rapidly Rising Material ‘Titanium’

Apple's recently released iPhone 15 PRO actively promotes its use of titanium. The lighter and stronger properties of titanium are appealing to consumers. However, It is no exaggeration to say that the titanium trend actually began in the watch market first.

iPhone 15 Pro Advertisement / © Apple

Why is Titanium Good?

Stronger than steel and lighter than steel. These two phrases explain the appeal of titanium. Stainless steel watches, Which are most in demand among watch enthusiasts, Are strong and resistant to corrosion, But titanium is even more robust and lighter.

Titanium © Cynfm

Titanium has long been recognized for its durability, To the extent that it is essential in the aerospace industry. The number of users who actually wear and evaluate titanium tool watches as having more advantages than stainless steel watches is increasing.

How Light Is It?

Wearing a steel watch that weighs about 150g on average (a typical Submariner Date model is about 159g) every day is like carrying a smartphone on your wrist all day, Causing considerable fatigue. So what about titanium watches?

The steel model of Omega's bestseller Seamaster Diver 300M weighs 194g, While the “007 No Time To Die Edition” made of titanium weighs 93g, A full 101g lighter. For titanium watches, It is actually more difficult to find models that exceed 150g.

Diver 300M 210.90.42.20.01.001

42mm, Brown, 007 Edition

Diver 300M 210.30.42.20.01.001

42mm, Black

Also, Unlike shiny gold materials, The matte texture and stealthy appearance are considered positive factors in the watch industry. Some consumers even feel that stainless steel watches can be too flashy, And they appreciate the deep color and clean finishing of titanium.

Rolex Joins In
The Impact of Titanium

Rolex, Which always takes a different path from others, Found titanium alloy to be an irresistible business idea. It has been over ten years since its subsidiary brand Tudor confirmed the potential of titanium with the release of the Pelagos in 2012.

Pelagos FXD M25717N-0001 released in September 2023
© Berrysjewellers

In November 2022, Rolex introduced its first titanium watch, The Deepsea Challenge Ref. 126067, Featuring Grade 5 ‘RLX Titanium’, Without any prior announcement. Soon after, At Watches and Wonders 2023, The Yacht-Master 42 Ref. 226627 made of titanium was unveiled. Although this Yacht-Master has not yet been released in the domestic market, It immediately became a hot topic among watch enthusiasts and received a very favorable response in the resale market.

Deep Sea 126660

44mm, Black, Oyster

Deep Sea 136660

44mm, Black, Oyster

Yacht-Master 42 226627

42mm, Intense black, Oyster

Unlike the flashy Yacht-Masters, The matte look of Ref. 226627 stands out
© Rolex

Currently, Pre-owned titanium Yacht-Masters are trading at an average of $52, 000 (about 70 million KRW), Which is about a 290% premium over the retail price of 18.01 million KRW. This price and premium are similar to the peak price of the ‘Cerachrom’ Ref. 116510LN in 2022, And enthusiasts are watching closely to see if this high premium, Reminiscent of the watch resale market boom, Will continue until the end of the year.

It Is Now Harder to Find Brands
Without Titanium Watches

Even before Rolex, Many brands were already actively using titanium as a material.

Watches made with titanium material
© IWC, Longines, Hublot, Breitling

IWC, Omega, Longines, Hublot, Zenith—these popular watch brands have experience working with titanium, So you can easily find titanium watches just by searching their catalogs. High-end brands such as Richard Mille, F.P. Journe, And MB & F embraced titanium early on. Titanium models from mid-range brands like Tissot, Hamilton, And Mido have now become steady sellers. Titanium is more expensive than steel, But it offers reasonable prices.

The first titanium wristwatch, Citizen X8 Titanium Chronometer
© Monochrome

For reference, The first titanium wristwatch was created in 1970 by none other than Citizen, A mid-range brand famous for its Eco-Drive.

2023 Is the Year of Titanium

From a manufacturer’s perspective, The greatest advantage of titanium alloy is that the raw material cost is lower than gold, So as long as you have the technology, It is a field you can challenge. For this reason, Even independent watchmakers are now introducing titanium watches. Titanium watches have proven their practicality and are establishing themselves as a key material that surpasses trends in the luxury market, Where ‘gimmicks’ are increasing daily.