Luxury Watches Targeted by Thieves on the Côte d’Azur
The theft of luxury watches is increasingly problematic in the Alpes-Maritimes region. In 2024 alone, thieves made off with watches valued at over €8 million.
Modus Operandi of the Thieves
Criminals carefully observe their targets before launching rapid, sometimes violent attacks. Their escapes often involve scooters speeding away into the hills. Both pedestrians and specialized shops are targeted.
Rising Incidents in Monaco
Monaco, once protected by extensive CCTV coverage, has recently seen two notable robberies in 2024:
- On 29 May, Monaco Watch Company suffered a six-minute armed robbery with watches worth more than €4 million stolen.
- On 12 November, The Watch Project was hit by a swift raid, losing four watches within minutes.
Theft Beyond Retail Stores
The crimes also extend beyond shops. In April 2024, American tennis player Sebastian Korda was attacked in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and had his €300,000 Richard Mille watch stolen by two masked men.
In late August, a Nice student tried to exchange a fake Rolex for a genuine model valued at €48,000 at the Hôtel de Paris. He was caught at Place du Casino and sentenced to four months in prison.
“Monaco Watch Company was the victim of a spectacular six-minute armed robbery in which more than €4 million worth of watches were stolen.”
Author’s summary: Luxury watch thefts on the Côte d’Azur have surged sharply in 2024, with criminals using swift, violent methods to steal millions from shops and individuals alike.