Because you can’t always afford to buy a new luxury watch such as Hamilton Ventura, the opportunity is a great alternative to save money and have fun with a beautiful model. Before embarking on this purchase, however, it is important to know some tips and basic rules.
Learn about the model in question
This part is the first thing to do if you want to buy a used watch. Choose the model you like, and then list all important information: operation, purchase price, brand, type of bracelet, movement, features, etc. This information will allow you to get to know your subject better with resellers and to be better “armed” against possible counterfeits, as there are many in the used watch market.
Once you have all the necessary information, the real search can begin.
The timepiece you will buy will usually be:
- Nine, that is, never worn.
- In very good condition, that is to say, little worn and perfectly maintained. It will eventually require a slight polishing and / or a bracelet change if it is leather.
- In average condition, that is to say, much worn, moderately or not at all maintained. It will then ask for a complete overhaul, a polishing of the box and the mechanism, a replacement of the bracelet, without forgetting the tightness to be redone.
Our advice
- Buy a watch that works, even if the mechanism requires some repairs. If it is broken or blocked, however, it is better to drop to turn to another model.
- After a certain amount, you can’t pay in cash. In this case, ask the dealer to pay by check. This will assure you its good faith and will serve as security in case of litigation.
- Make a specific point on the possible work to return the watch that you like in good condition: cleaning, overhaul, repolishing, changing the strap if it is leather, sealing, etc.
Buy from a particular
This solution will be better suited to people who are familiar with the watch industry. Prices are generally more interesting (no intermediaries) but you also have to be particularly vigilant and, therefore, know your subject. If you buy from an individual, it is essential to watch the watch in every detail (general appearance, needles, bracelet, cleanliness, etc.). If you are confident enough, you can open the case with a small knife or a watch opener to check the condition of the mechanism. On the other hand, if you have the slightest doubt or if the seller refuses, do not hesitate to take the timepiece to a professional.
Other imperative, the individual must provide the box and the original papers: invoice, certificate of repair operations if there were, certificate of sale with serial number, brand, model, etc. All these elements will allow you to authenticate the watch as well as its origin, but also to avoid counterfeits. This also proves that the seller is careful and relatively reliable.
In case of absence of an invoice, you will have to authenticate the model in an official shop. This authentication is all the more necessary when it comes to a watch of great value. In addition to the information on the watch, you will also need to note the dealer’s identity information (passport number, driver’s license or ID card, detailed contact information, proof of payment, amount and method of payment).
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