Luxury Watches Targeted by Thieves on the Côte d’Azur
Theft of luxury watches is rapidly growing into a serious issue in the Alpes-Maritimes region. In 2024, criminals stole watches valued at over €8 million in this area alone.
The modus operandi often involves careful surveillance, a swift and sometimes violent attack, followed by a quick escape on scooters into the hills. Both individuals on the street and specialist shops have been targeted.
Notable Incidents in Monaco
Monaco, previously protected by extensive CCTV coverage, has also faced significant thefts in 2024. Two high-profile robberies highlight this increasing threat:
- On 29 May, Monaco Watch Company suffered an armed robbery lasting six minutes, with watches worth more than €4 million stolen.
- On 12 November, The Watch Project storefront was raided quickly, resulting in the loss of four watches within minutes.
Thefts Beyond Shops
The danger extends beyond commercial venues:
- In April 2024, American tennis player Sebastian Korda had his €300,000 Richard Mille watch stolen in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin after being assaulted by two masked men.
- In August, a Nice student was caught trying to trade a fake Rolex for a genuine one worth €48,000 at the Hôtel de Paris. Arrested at Place du Casino, he received a four-month prison sentence.
"The same scenario is replaying with worrying regularity. Thieves conduct careful surveillance, a lightning-quick, sometimes violent strike, then a getaway by scooter into the hills."
These incidents underscore the escalating risk luxury watch owners face in the region.
Author’s summary: Luxury watch thefts on the Côte d’Azur surged in 2024, involving aggressive tactics and affecting individuals and stores alike, including major Monaco heists.