Young professionals with high incomes but modest savings are treating luxury collections as long-term investments, even as many leave those assets uninsured.
The survey included 1,000 collectors who fit the “High Earner, Not Rich Yet” profile. This group, typically aged 20 to mid-40, earns between $300,000 and $750,000 annually. Over a third make more than $500,000 a year, though their net worth remains relatively low.
Collections as financial portfolios
Watches and jewelry top the list, with nearly two-thirds of respondents collecting them. Half focus on art and antiques, while wine and sports memorabilia attract 38% and 21%, respectively. About 43% of collections fall between $10,000 and $50,000 in value, and one in five exceed $50,000.
Most have been collecting for at least five years, often starting as children. Future value drives purchases for 47% of wine collectors and 59% of art buyers. Watch and jewelry enthusiasts are the most active, with 21% adding new items quarterly and 13% monthly.
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Laura Doyle, who leads valuables collections at the insurer behind the study, said these buyers are redefining collecting. “They aren’t simply buying things they love; they’re building portfolios with the same discipline as experienced investors.”
Insurance gaps leave assets exposed
Despite this approach, fewer than half of collectors insure their items. Only 47% have coverage, while 43% do not, and 10% are unsure. Among those without insurance, 46% assume their homeowners or renters policy already protects their collections. Another 38% say they haven’t gotten around to it, and 34% don’t believe their items are at risk.
Cost was rarely a concern, mentioned by just 14%.
Standard policies often cap payouts for valuables at low limits and include deductibles, leaving gaps for high-value items. Theft worries 45% of collectors, while 42% fear accidental damage or loss.
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Amy McNeece, who oversees digital consumer services at the insurer, noted that owning luxury items serves both personal and financial purposes. “They buy with an eye on future value, but many still overlook the protection needed to safeguard these investments.”
Digital habits, offline shopping
Most collectors engage with social media frequently. Large majorities use Instagram (85%), TikTok (80%), Twitter/X (70%), and Facebook (61%) at least six times a week. About 71% prefer digital transactions over in-person purchases.
Verification tasks, such as checking condition or provenance, are also handled online by 70%. Authentication and grading follow at 61%.
Yet when sourcing new items, 70% prefer in-person shopping. The discovery process retains a tactile appeal, even as transactions move online.
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