Dr. N.
The used watch, today, is no longer considered a fallback or a poor choice. The increase in the overall quality of the watch-object, its maintainability and the possibility of bringing it back to the conditions in which it was new mean that buy a used watch is now a habit. This is especially true for big brands: for example, a used Rolex watch, if well maintained and polished, it can hardly be considered a second choice compared to a New Rolex watch.
But what do we owe controllare when we purchase a used watch?
Let's find out together in this one safe buying guide used watches!
Box and guarantee
A used watch with original box and guarantee is certainly to be preferred over a used watch without these accessories. It is true that the price of a used watch without a guarantee is lower, but the reason is very precise: a watch without its guarantee could have been stolen or otherwise have an illicit origin, exposing those who buy it to the risk of being removed from their hands. valuable purchase in case the rightful owner manages to trace it.
THEused watch will therefore have to have a warranty: Make sure before purchasing that the serial numbers shown on the watch match those of the original warranty. If something is wrong or if the warranty doesn't look original to you, stop and ask the seller if he's willing to consult an expert to check that everything is in order. If he refuses, it is better to avoid the purchase.
The outside of the watch: bracelet and case
If theused watch It comes with a strap, don't worry too much about the condition of the latter: it is a consumable item, which is normally replaced once a year if you always wear the watch on your wrist. In some particularly prestigious watches it can happen that the original straps are still wrapped, as the previous owner used an unbranded strap to wear their watch: this is certainly an advantage if you intend to resell the watch yourself, and it probably can slightly raise the price of a used watch.
If thewatch usedor is it equipped with a bracelet, you need to check that there are all the links with which the watch left the factory. Any links removed from the bracelet to adjust it should be kept in the original packaging: if the watch is of value, it is advisable to wrap them in a bit of transparent film - the common cellophane is fine - to prevent them from crawling and placing the watch on top of it when it comes. placed in the box.
The used watch bracelet it must be in good condition. It often happens to see gods "elongated" vintage Rolex Jubilee bracelets for decades of use: this phenomenon is caused by the traction on the wrist of the bracelet that causes the links to loosen. In these cases, an intervention costing a few hundred euros must be taken into account for the restoration of the bracelet to its original conditions at a specialized watchmaker who has the necessary welding equipment. Keep this in mind when deciding whether the price of the used watch is congruous.
If the bracelet folds to the side like this, it needs a "refresh" ...
The watch case used it must not be too thin from polishing. A precious metal case, perhaps of an elegant watch, is usually not very thick: a deep scratch removed with too "incisive" polishing may have left a thickness less than normal. Here, too, we recommend that you contact a watchmaker experienced in polishing to check the condition of your watch if necessary. On the other hand, if the watch is scratched and you want to polish it before wearing it, take the cost of the surgery into account in the price you are willing to pay.
The inside of the watch: waterproof and movement
If you are dealing with a sports watch, for example a Rolex Submariner used, it is important that the water resistance has been checked. It is a quick check, which requires little time and which the watchmaker can perform with non-invasive methods. If the seal is compromised, it is advisable to have it restored by a watchmaker with replacement of the gaskets and new waterproofing test. If it is not possible to restore, avoid buying the watch, or buy it knowing that you will not be able to take it in the water, and that it will not be easy to resell: therefore ask for a strong discount.
We now come to the heart ofclock: the mechanical movement. It is important that the movement has been serviced by a professional watchmaker, who will give the guarantee on his intervention. If the watch has not been serviced in the past two or three years, it is best to ask for the servicing to be carried out by a trusted watchmaker. If you don't know who to contact, we advise you to search here for the Chronosect certified professional laboratory near you.
Last tip: avoid DIY
Used luxury watches are serious business. It is important to contact trusted professionals, such as i Chronosect certified traders. Choosing to buy on generic ecommerce sites involves a risk that is not worth the modest savings, especially on valuable used watches. Chronosect it is the ideal place to look for your neighbor used luxury watch: take advantage of it and make yourself a Christmas present in all serenity!
