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Where to Buy Pre-Owned Watches

27th May 2022

Rolex SeaDweller

Source: Portal Satova/Shutterstock.com

If you are looking for an affordable way to start collecting luxury watches, start by buying a pre-owned model. Pre-owned luxury models allow you to familiarize yourself with popular models and features without spending full price on a brand new item.

Choosing the right model for your collection is important when buying a luxury watch. It’s equally essential to know what to look for when purchasing a pre-owned piece and where to buy pre-owned watches so you know you’re getting a genuine piece.

Explore how to choose the right pre-owned Rolex model for your collection and how to choose a reliable retailer.

Shop Our Selection of Pre-Owned Rolex Watches

How to Choose the Right Pre-Owned Model

Choosing the right pre-owned luxury watch involves several factors, such as knowing your budget, aesthetic preferences, and goals for owning a luxury watch.

Know Your Budget

Your first step in choosing a pre-owned watch is to know your budget for the purchase. Although pre-owned Rolexes cost less than new models, they can still require a significant investment. The lowest pre-owned men’s Rolex from Luxury of Watches, the Rolex Men's Datejust P16013BRJ, costs $7,995.

Determine how much you can spend on your pre-owned watch to help streamline the purchasing process. You can sort your options by price to make choosing a piece within your budget easy.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day Date

Source: marino bocelli/shutterstock.com

Aesthetic preferences

Choosing the right pre-owned model involves knowing your aesthetic preferences. Do you prefer a striking look with lots of gemstones or diamonds, or do your preferences turn toward understated and classic?

The Rolex Datejust P116233MOPDFJ with a Two-Tone Fluted Bezel is an excellent choice if you enjoy diamonds and gemstones. The Rolex 41mm Datejust II Stainless Steel 116334LX works well for understated tastes.

Reasons to buy a luxury timepiece

Knowing your reasons for investing in a luxury timepiece can help you choose the right option. If you are looking for a pre-owned Rolex to start a long-term investment in watches, you might opt for a pre-owned Daytona. Daytonas can bring in 100 percent to 200 percent over MSRP, so they make a good investment.

If, however, you simply want to own a Rolex to show off your style, you can choose a Datejust two-tone model for your wrist.

Tips for Buying Pre-Owned Pieces

When you begin your search for the perfect pre-owned watch, you’ll want to consider the best starter watches for new luxury watch enthusiasts. Whether you are searching for a pre-owned women’s Rolex or men’s model, keep the following in mind:

  • A 35mm to 40mm Rolex fits most wrists
  • Choose a watch with a smaller dial for a subtle look
  • Higher complications typically equal higher price
  • Choose a bracelet material that works for your lifestyle
  • Diamond or jeweled bezels increase the cost of a piece
  • Explore different complications to discover what you like
  • Ensure you always buy from a reputable retailer

Find the Right Pre-Owned Luxury Watch for Your Wrist

Find a Reputable Pre-Owned Watch Retailer

It’s easy to fear being scammed when buying a pre-owned watch. When selecting a company for your purchase, knowing what to look for ensures your timepieces are authentic, not counterfeit. You also need to avoid bait-and-switch tactics when you receive a watch that doesn’t resemble the advertised model’s quality or look.

The following tips can help you avoid buyer’s remorse when visiting a jewelry store or shopping online for your pre-owned wristwatch.

Reputation

First, consider the company’s reputation. Are they highly regarded within the industry? It is a safe choice if jewelers or luxury watch retailers have heard of the company and have positive things to say about them.

Look for pre-owned watch retailers accredited by the Better Business Bureau and have been operating for an extended period. You can also search for independent reviews or customer testimonials online to learn about others’ experiences.

Return policy

Reputable retailers offer a return policy, though specific terms or conditions may be included. For example, retailers may request you contact them for a return authorization number first and often require any returns to be unused and in their original packaging. Pre-owned watch companies may offer a short return window and charge a restocking fee. Compare the return policies of different sellers when selecting where to shop.

Certificate of Authenticity

Ensure that the pre-owned Rolex seller provides you with a Certificate of Authenticity on your purchase. This certificate guarantees that your Rolex is genuine and includes your model’s unique serial number engraved during manufacturing. Luxury of Watches offers Certificates of Authenticity on all pre-owned Rolex purchases.

Collection of Luxury Rolex watches

Source: S-Studio/Shutterstock.com

Buy Your Pre-Owned Watch at Luxury of Watches

Luxury of Watches offers the selection, reputation, and protection you desire if you’re in the market for a pre-owned luxury watch. Our 25 years of experience as an online retailer of luxury watches ensures you’ll receive authentic pieces.

We service all our pre-owned watches, so your timepiece arrives in mint condition. Visit our online store for your next purchase.