How to safely buy luxury watches online

Published on: 08/11/2023

Luxury watches are a valuable investment, and it's important to be careful when buying them online to avoid scams and counterfeit products. Here are some tips on how to safely buy luxury watches online:

1. Do your research

Before you start shopping, it's important to do your research and learn about the different luxury watch brands and models available. This will help you make an informed decision about which watch is right for you and what a fair price is. You can read online reviews of different watch dealers and compare prices across different websites.

2. Buy from a reputable dealer

Only buy luxury watches from reputable dealers with a good track record. Avoid buying from unknown sellers or from websites that look suspicious. Some reputable online watch dealers include:

  • Crown & Caliber
  • DavidSW
  • Bob's Watches
  • WatchBox
  • Chrono24

3. Ask for authentication

When you're buying a luxury watch online, it's important to ask the seller for authentication. This means that the seller should be able to provide documentation that proves the watch is genuine. This documentation may include a warranty card, certificate of authenticity, or receipt from the manufacturer.

4. Inspect the watch carefully

Once you've received the watch, inspect it carefully to make sure it's authentic and in good condition. Look for any signs of wear and tear, and compare the watch to the photos and description provided by the seller. If you have any doubts about the authenticity of the watch, you can have it appraised by a professional watchmaker.

5. Use a secure payment method

When you're buying a luxury watch online, it's important to use a secure payment method. You can also use an escrow service such as Two-Hold to withhold any funds until an authentic product is delivered. This will protect you in case there are any problems with the purchase.

6. Insure the watch

Once you've purchased your luxury watch, it's a good idea to insure it. This will protect you in case the watch is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when buying luxury watches online:

  • Be wary of watches that are priced significantly below market value. This is often a sign that the watch is counterfeit.
  • Be careful about buying from private sellers, especially on websites like eBay and Gumtree. There are many scammers on these websites who sell counterfeit watches.
  • If you're not sure whether or not a watch is authentic, it's a good idea to have it appraised by a professional watchmaker.

By following these tips, you can safely buy luxury watches online and avoid scams and counterfeit products.