2026 State of Greubel Forsey
As we navigate the 2026 fiscal year, Greubel Forsey (GF) has completed its transition from a boutique workshop producing fewer than 100 pieces annually to a structured ultra-luxury powerhouse with a target output of 250 to 300 timepieces. Under the strategic direction established in the early 2020s, the brand has successfully pivoted toward the 'Convexe' aesthetic—a design language defined by ergonomic, curved cases and integrated profiles. This shift has broadened the brand's appeal, moving it away from the 'suit-and-tie' horology of the early 2010s toward a more versatile, sport-adjacent luxury.
In the current market, Greubel Forsey occupies a unique tier above 'standard' high horology (Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet) and alongside independent titans like F.P. Journe and Richard Mille. However, unlike Richard Mille, which relies heavily on brand hype and material science, Greubel Forsey remains anchored in hand-finishing that is arguably the finest in the world. In 2026, the brand's market position is defined by 'attainable exclusivity.' While prices remain astronomical, the increased production has stabilized the secondary market, making 2026 an opportune time for entry into the brand.
Current Production References (2026)
The 2026 catalog is dominated by the Convexe collection and the evolution of the Balancier series. Below are the headline references currently available through Authorized Dealers (ADs) and their corresponding secondary market performance.
- Balancier S2 (Ref. P00662): The bedrock of the current collection. Featuring the signature inclined balance wheel and a 46.5mm titanium case. MSRP: $245,000. Secondary Market: $215,000 - $225,000. The S2 has seen a slight softening on the secondary market due to higher production volumes, offering a rare 'discount' for those buying pre-owned.
- GMT Balancier Convexe (Ref. P00935): A technical marvel replacing the older GMT Sport. It features a rotating terrestrial globe and a second time zone display. MSRP: $435,000. Secondary Market: $410,000 - $425,000. This model holds value exceptionally well due to its complexity and the prestige of the GF GMT complication.
- Double Balancier Convexe (Ref. P00918): Utilizing two inclined balance wheels linked by a spherical differential. MSRP: $365,000. Secondary Market: $345,000. This reference is the 'purist's choice' in the current lineup, balancing visual animation with chronometric precision.
- Tourbillon 24 Secondes Architecture (Ref. P00880): A sculptural masterpiece with a fast-rotating tourbillon and a fully transparent case flank. MSRP: $525,000. Secondary Market: $540,000+. Due to the limited production of 11 pieces per year for specific iterations, this is one of the few modern GF references trading at a premium.
Allocation Politics
Acquiring a Greubel Forsey at MSRP in 2026 is no longer the 'invitation-only' ordeal it was a decade ago, but it remains highly calibrated. The brand has moved toward a tier-based allocation system. Entry-level models like the Balancier S2 are generally available to new clients with a 4-to-8 month waitlist, provided the client demonstrates a genuine interest in the brand’s horological philosophy.
However, for 'Art Pieces' or the 'Hand Made 1' series, the politics are more stringent. To access these, a client typically needs a 'spend history' of at least two prior purchases from an AD or the Manufacture. The brand actively discourages 'flipping'; clients who sell a high-complication piece within 24 months of purchase are often blacklisted from future limited editions. If you are a serious buyer with $300k+ to spend, the best strategy is to visit the Manufacture in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Direct engagement with the brand often bypasses the regional AD waitlists for mid-tier models.
AD vs Grey Market vs Auction
The choice of channel in 2026 depends entirely on your long-term goals as a collector. Authorized Dealers offer the benefit of the 'GF Experience,' including extended warranties and invitations to private events. Given that modern GF watches are highly complex, the factory-backed warranty is worth the 10-15% premium over grey market prices.
The Grey Market is currently the best place to source the Balancier S2 or the Double Balancier Convexe. You can often find 'unworn' examples for $20,000 to $30,000 below MSRP. However, caution is advised regarding service history. A full service for a Greubel Forsey can cost between $5,000 and $15,000 and take six months. Always verify the 'Certificate of Authenticity' and the 'Service Book.'
Auctions (Sotheby’s, Phillips, Christie’s) remain the primary venue for discontinued 'Invention Pieces' and early 'Double Tourbillon 30°' models. In 2026, we are seeing a resurgence in auction prices for early 2004-2010 era pieces, as collectors value the 'original' DNA of Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey’s early work.
Discontinued References Still Trading Strong
While the brand focuses on the Convexe future, several discontinued models have become 'blue-chip' assets in 2026:
- Double Tourbillon 30° Technique: Specifically the sapphire or gold versions. These were the watches that put GF on the map. They currently trade between $350,000 and $450,000 depending on the metal, often exceeding their original retail prices from 15 years ago.
- Invention Piece 1 (Ref. GF01): A landmark in horology. With only 11 pieces in each metal, these rarely appear. When they do, expect to pay $600,000+.
- Balancier Contemporain (Ref. P00551): The 39.6mm 'compact' GF. This model has become a cult favorite for its wearable size. Originally retailing for ~$210,000, it now commands $230,000+ on the secondary market due to the scarcity of smaller-diameter Greubel Forseys.
Best Value in 2026
For the calibrated buyer looking for the best 'horology-per-dollar' ratio, two references stand out in 2026:
- The Original Balancier S (Ref. P00590): As the market has moved toward the S2, the original Balancier S (with the more aggressive bridge design) has dipped in price. You can find these for approximately $185,000. It offers the exact same chronometric performance as the S2 for $60k less.
- Signature 1: This was GF's attempt at a 'simple' watch (relatively speaking). It lacks a tourbillon but features the most exquisite hand-finishing imaginable. In 2026, these trade for around $165,000. It is the most affordable way to own a piece of the Greubel Forsey finishing legend.
What's Coming Next
Looking toward 2027, our internal analysis suggests Greubel Forsey will move to shrink the Convexe architecture. The market is trending toward smaller diameters (38mm-40mm), and the current 43.5mm+ 'Convexe' cases are reaching their size ceiling. Expect a 'Petit Convexe' series in late 2026 or early 2027, likely featuring a new, more compact caliber.
Furthermore, rumors from La Chaux-de-Fonds suggest a successor to the Quantième Perpétuel à Équation is in development. The new model will likely integrate the Equation of Time complication into the Convexe case profile, with an estimated MSRP exceeding $850,000. For collectors, the play is to maintain a relationship with an AD now to ensure a spot on the 2027 allocation list for what will undoubtedly be the brand's next 'Grand Complication' milestone.