We’ve always been intrigued by the lives that the uber-wealthy and elites live, and there’s no wonder why. They live a life of luxury that most of us can’t even fathom, but it’s still good mental exercise to try.
Whether it’s luxury automobiles, fine art, Rolex watches, expansive palatial estates, and exotic getaways, millionaires and billionaires have the financial resources to experience more in a day than many do in their entire lives. Some people balk at the idea of admiring the wealth of others, while most see it as motivation to achieve the same for themselves. Whether you like to read about the lives of wealthy people because they inspire you or it’s merely a curiosity for you, continue reading to see some of the most popular collectibles for the uber-wealthy.
Cars
For as long as they’ve been around, cars have been not only a mode of transportation but also a symbol of status. At first, you were considered rich if you merely owned an automobile, but as they became more popular, companies began going the extra mile to distance themselves from the competition. And then came luxury cars and roadsters.
Over time, cars have continued to push the bounds of luxury and performance, but it’s antique cars that hold the real value. For collectors of cars, there’s nothing quite like a drive down memory lane in whatever the sportiest and most stylish car of their teenage and young adult years was.
New cars may have all the bells and whistles, and there’s no comparing the athleticism of cars from now and decades ago, but new cars depreciate as soon as you drive them off the lot. That’s why wealthy collectors are much more interested in older, limited edition classics that have maintained their cult-like followings and can fetch them profits at car auctions.
Luxury Watches
James Bond is far more than simply a fictional superspy—he’s the epitome of the suave gentleman. One thing that James Bond would never be caught dead without was his Omega Seamaster timepiece.
Every James Bond actor, from Sean Connery to Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig, has donned the iconic timepiece, but that’s not the only reason for the adoration watch collectors have for the Omega Seamaster Watch Series. Aside from its sleek style, and Omega has a functionality worthy of a super-spy that makes it such a catch. An Omega is one of the few watches that look as good in stainless steel as it does in a gold bezel. It makes a great watch for collectors, and because it’s durable and appreciates value with time, it makes for a great second hand first watch as a family heirloom.
Rare Art
Wealthy people love to collect rare, fine art, and not just for its aesthetic appeal. Not only is art enlightening, but if you can find the right buyers, collecting art can also be lucrative. When you buy a piece of rare art along with a certificate of authenticity to go with it, you purchase more than something to display—it’s also an investment. There are silent auctions for fine art all over the United States, but you should do your due diligence before purchasing any piece.
Real Estate
There are few things more valuable on the earth than real estate. There are still estates in use today from centuries ago that are as heralded now as they were when they were built.
Some wealthy people buy real estate with the intent of turning a profit and building their own portfolio of investment properties. Others by properties in exclusive locations, like Martha’s Vineyard or the Hamptons, for vacation homes and estates to be passed down to future generations.
Precious Metals, Gems, and Jewelry
Diamonds, pearls, and gold are a few of the most precious and valuable minerals on the earth, not to mention the fact that they’re beautiful. For ages, precious metals and gems have been symbols of wealth and even royalty. Many collectors love gold, platinum, and other metals and stones, such as sapphire crystals, because of the intrinsic value they hold in case of economic collapse.
These are just a few items that the ultra-wealthy go about collecting, and that you can, too—for less than a billion dollars. Take a look at online live auctions for cares, check out modern models of a classic Omega timepiece, or buy a piece of fine jewelry. You’ll be feeling luxurious in real-time soon enough.
