Buying a Used Luxury Watch

Purchasing a used luxury watch can be a daunting task. Unless you're a certified luxury watch dealer or a seasoned watch collector, chances are you'll soon be overwhelmed by the seemingly multitude of items to consider. Never fear, we'll provide you with the information needed to look like a pro and make an investment in quality and elegance.

First of all, if you're on the fence about whether or not to buy a pre-owned luxury watch, remember this: quality luxury watch manufacturers Rolex, Breitling and Omega build watches to stand the test of time. They only get better with age.

But you wouldn't go to a used car lot and just point to the shiny red sports car in the showroom and tell the dealer to wrap it up, would you? Of course you wouldn't.

A pre-owned luxury timepiece can be a great bargain if you know what you are looking for and what to expect. However, it is still a significant investment and as with any investment, it requires plenty of research before laying down your hard earned money. Used doesn't mean lack of quality or value, though and by following these few tips you too can join the ranks of distinguished luxury watch owner.

First, research, research, research.

It's important to consider your reasons for investing in a luxury timepiece. Ask yourself what will the watch's primary purpose be?

What are your personal tastes? Will you be using it to track your training regimen before climbing Everest, or will it be supporting that classic, elegant look when you don your shawl-collar tuxedo? What kind of image, or statement do you want the watch to say? Every watch is unique and has its own peculiarities and style.

Make sure you pick one that fits your own.

Second, find a trustworthy dealer.

It's important to find a reputable dealer that you can develop a relationship with. One that will not only help you select the appropriate watch, but provide maintenance and upkeep over the years. You will definitely want to put your hands on the watch before making such an important investment, so don't risk buying a broken or even fake luxury watch through auction sites.

If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Third, test that the watch is working and 100% functional.

Ask the dealer to walk you through all of the functions of the watch, testing each one and making sure that it works properly. Make sure you hold it and get a feel for the watch, too. If you have any questions, doubts, or concerns be sure to raise them immediately with your dealer. A good dealer should me more than happy to help you.

Next, obtain proper documentation.

In most instances, your dealer should be able to provide the appropriate Documents of Authenticity for your watch. Modern fakes abound and can be very difficult to detect. This is why it is important to use a trusted dealer and to do your research.

The dealer not having papers isn't necessarily a deal breaker, but you should certainly use caution. Check to make sure there is a serial number and that the serial number on the watch matches the one on the invoice.

A serial number can be helpful sometimes in determining the authenticity of the watch.

Last, but certainly not least, make sure the watch is under warranty.

A reputable dealer should be able to provide a warranty of at least 12 months (and sometimes up to 5 years) for your new watch. It is also important that you properly and regularly maintain your watch, and your dealer should be able to help you with this.

You will definitely want to insure your watch, too, as you would any large investment like this.

Whether it's a vintage Rolex or a near-new Omega, buying a pre-owned luxury watch is a serious decision and investment, so do your homework. The right decision will provide you with a lifetime of elegance.