How to Buy a Pre-Owned Watch Without Getting Burned

How to Buy a Pre-Owned Watch Without Getting Burned

Most people assume the risk is online. Scam websites, dodgy eBay sellers, that sort of thing. Actually, you're more likely to get burned buying in person. Cash in hand, someone you met on Facebook Marketplace, no platform protection. If it goes wrong, you've got nothing.

If you're new to this: buy on a platform. eBay, Chrono24, whatever. They're not perfect—Chrono24's customer service is genuinely awful, I once had a glitch that stopped me shipping a watch and it took them a week to respond while my customer had £3,000 sitting there—but at least there's protection. That matters more than saving a few quid going direct.

What to check first

The movement. 99 times out of 100, one look at the movement tells you if a watch is genuine. If a seller won't show it, ask yourself why.

Next: when was it last serviced? A service can cost £600 or more. If you're buying something that hasn't been serviced in years, factor that into the price. Ask for proof.

Red flags in listings

Low effort listings are a warning sign. Few photos, barely any description—if someone can't be bothered to present the watch properly, they won't be bothered with you either. The effort in the listing usually matches the effort you'll get as a customer.

Watch out for missing photos. If you can't see something clearly, assume they're hiding it.

And ignore buzzwords. "Vintage" is probably the most overused word in watches—just because something's old doesn't make it good. "Unworn" on a watch that clearly isn't. Straight up lies in listings are more common than you'd think.

Red flags in sellers

Dry, evasive, dodging questions—get away. If they're holding back answers before you've bought, imagine what they'll be like if something goes wrong.

How to know if the price is fair

Just search market value. This information is widely available now. But factor in everything—not just the watch. Does the dealer offer their own warranty? Box and papers? Extras?

Does paperwork matter?

It helps verify authenticity, but it can be faked. It's not a guarantee. Service history matters more on older watches—if it's relatively new I wouldn't stress about it.

If something goes wrong

On a platform: contact them. They'll sort it. Off a platform: contact the seller and demand a solution. If they won't help, contact the police.

The short version

Use a platform if you're new to this. Check the movement. Ask about service history. Avoid low-effort listings and evasive sellers. Search market value before you pay. Don't get seduced by buzzwords.