congratulations to JM on the recent acquisition. Yes, I have seen the photos, and he has landed a killer Monaco!! [JM -- I will be happy to post the photos, on your instruction.]

I will leave it to other experts [in the newspapers and on TV] to comment on the "mega" trends that are supporting the market for collectibles, and mechanical watches in particular. Interest rates; currencies; economic activity; new money / old money / oil money / real estate money; etc.

within the world of vintage watches, I believe that the Monaco is supported by the following factors, among many others:

• unique look, that many view as 1970's era "cool"

• association with Steve McQueen, an icon of the era [check the price trend on "McQueen" Rolexes, and you will see the same pattern]

• current support from TAG-Heuer, as they market their current line of Monacos, and continue to develop this line of watches.

• mechanically robust movement, with excellent reliability and a good availibility of parts (when needed)

• scarcity of the good ones / survivors, as many of these seem to have been worn hard, and beaten up, over the years.

• . . . and did I mention the unique look, 1970's era "cool" {about which see below)!!