Collecting certain types of items often stem from a personal interest or passion, and even an investment opportunity. While some of the items will probably lose their market worth in the coming years, there will be collectibles that will continue to earn value. Below are just five examples.

 

Rare Wines

 

According to wine connoisseurs, wine tastes best when aged well. With hundreds of types to choose from, it takes a developed palate, as well as a keen eye for trends, to determine which bottles are considered a collectible item. Accumulating rare wines has surpassed classic cars as a passion investment, according to the Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index. This shows how wine connoisseurs are on the right track when espousing the benefits of wine appreciation.

 

Limoges Boxes

 

The famous porcelain trinket boxes were first produced in Limoges, France in the 1700s. To ensure quality control, they are produced in limited quantities. Each box comes with a custom design that has been specially chosen by master artists and individually provided with a certificate of authenticity. This is to ensure that customers are getting an authentic hand-painted work or art. This tradition of quality goes back to 1764 when Louis XVI launched a proclamation authorizing the issuance of a “royal label of quality” to the local artisans producing the boxes. European royals were known for collecting these small, intricate statement pieces. Today, the porcelain trinkets can be purchased through authorized dealers.

 

Vintage Jewelry

 

The value of antique or heirloom jewelry increases over the years, especially when a piece has historical value, was commissioned as a work of art, or is embellished with real gems. Of course, in the world of jewelry collectibles, pieces from brand names, such as Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpel, are more in demand.

 

Fountain Pens

 

Quality-crafted vintage fountain pens command attention from collectors of fine writing instruments. At a time when devices have ushered in a new way of communicating thoughts and ideas, fountain pens evoke a certain nostalgic touch. For modern-day collectors, Montblanc, Visconti, Grayson Tighe and Parker are just some of the well-known brand names of fountain pens. One of the most popular models that has gained a following in recent years is the Montblanc Meisterstück No. 149, which was seen in the hands of presidents and the rich and famous.

 

Brand Watches

 

Well-preserved vintage watches rank high among collectibles that will always hold their value. Over the years, the market has been dominated by well-known brands that have historically produced quality timepieces, such as Patek Philippe and Rolex. One of the most expensive collectible timepieces sold is a 1944 stainless steel Patek Philippe wristwatch, which fetched an impressive $2.26 million during auction. In addition, an 1814 Breguet & Fils chronograph sold for $4.7 million in 2012.

 

While collectible vintage watches have withstood the test of time, modern technology has also enabled fake artists to create counterfeit vintage timepieces that look like the real thing. Thus, collectors always look for certificates of authenticity to vouch for the brand name and quality.