The COVID-19 crisis has not dampened affluent Americans’ desire to travel, but it has affected the kinds of experiences they’re craving. How are brands satisfying HNWIs’ hunger for exclusive and extraordinary trips while also responding to growing expectations for sustainability and privacy?

Long used as a subtle (or sometimes overt) marker of one’s wealth, high-end watches remain popular status symbols among China’s young and newly wealthy. How are luxury brands appealing to a new generation of luxury buyers? And what exactly do they appreciate in a timepiece?

China's economic growth and a booming cohort of young high earners have put luxury watches in high demand. And while these items were once reserved for the ultra-rich, many aspirational shoppers are acquiring status items through pre-owned alternatives.

Having saved up throughout lockdown, people are seeking joy in high-price purchases, replacing far-flung holidays and fine dining with the purchase of a luxury timepiece. Retailer Watches of Switzerland has reported its sales are up, defying economic uncertainty.