Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Watch: What You Need to Know
What is a certified pre-owned watch?
A pre-owned watch is just that, a watch that has been pre-owned by someone or multiple people. A ‘certified’ pre-owned watch means that it has been inspected by an experienced watchmaker to ensure authenticity. Certified pre-owned watches are generally covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, even if ownership changes throughout the piece’s lifetime.
Why do people buy certified pre-owned watches?
Sometimes models become discontinued. Or, the manufacturer only made a certain number of pieces and a watch becomes hard to find. Buying pre-owned is the perfect opportunity to obtain those models that have been discontinued or are hard to come by. Pre-owned watches are also a great option for someone who wants a luxury timepiece but doesn’t necessarily have the budget to buy brand new. Shop our selection of certified pre-owned watches, here.
What should I look for in a certified pre-owned watch?
Condition
Of course it may have some signs of minor wear and tear (watches are meant to be worn, after all!), but for the most part, a pre-owned watch should be in clean, like-new condition. If you are shopping from a trusted retailer, you shouldn’t have much to worry about. Dealers strive for a pristine pre-owned collection and won’t take a watch to sell unless it’s in like-new condition with minimal signs of wear.
Price
Certified pre-owned watches are generally marked down considerably from their original cost however, do your research to ensure you are getting a fair price.
Paperwork
Look for a watch that comes complete with the purchase paperwork, manuals and warranty cards. Not all will, but it’s a major perk if the timepiece comes in its original box or packaging.
Certificate of Authenticity
Always ask for a certificate proving a pre-owned watches’ authenticity. If the seller can’t provide this document, it’s best to reevaluate.
Service History
Inquire about the last time the watch was serviced. Servicing certain watches can be pricey so if the timepiece has not been serviced in a long time or ever, be sure to tack that additional fee onto the price of the watch when determining the overall cost.
Are you in the market for a new timepiece? Check out Feldmar’s great selection of certified pre-owned watches.
