If there is a piece of accessory that will never go out of style, it is timepieces, especially luxury ones. Now that it is easier to acquire one, any buyer must be extra cautious from dupes and fake pieces. Ordering a luxury watch in the comforts of your home is now accessible thanks to different websites. Several websites serve as a one-stop-shop for several brands of watches. Whether you are buying a brand new piece or a pre-owned one, here are some tips that you need to remember for a seamless transaction.
- Make sure the website is legitimate.
Going to the physical store is the best way to make sure that what you are buying is authentic. However, the internet has become a gold mine when it comes to rare and older pieces. If your goal is to buy a pre-owned timepiece, then make sure to go to a legitimate website. For example, www.watchshopping.com is a secure and transparent website that has several available collections. If you are thinking of buying Rolex watches online, this site is highly recommended.
Aside from Rolex, you will be able to score other luxury brands, such as Omega, Patek Philippe, and Grand Seiko, to name a few. All timepieces are sorted into different categories, so it is easier for buyers to browse through the catalog. You can even sort them according to type, price, sale, or if it is pre-owned. All pieces are insured when shipping, so both the store and buyer are protected. Aside from buying timepieces, you may also do some trade-ins and sell your wristwatch, depending on the brand and condition.
- Set a budget.
Rule of thumb: if the price is too good to be true, then walk away. Acquiring a luxury timepiece usually costs a few thousand dollars. Since you are buying it online, you also have to take note of the shipping fee, insurance costs, and taxes. Due to California law, www.watchshopping.com charges between 7.25% – 9.8% sales tax. If you live within the United States, the site offers free ground shipping.
For orders outside the US, the shipping fee rages around $79 – $99. Another thing that you should also keep in mind is the paperwork that comes along with the watch. For example, the certificate of authenticity and box. If you are planning to resell it in the future, having the paperwork and box will hold the value of the timepiece better. The site also offers different types of payment methods. You can pay in full via wire transfer, use a credit card, or pay it in monthly installments.
- Know what you are buying.
Having prior research before browsing through a catalog is going to make a big difference. Like any investment, knowing the value of a luxury wristwatch, including its history, heritage, movement, will always be to your advantage. Especially if you are looking to resell in the future, as several luxury pieces increase their value over time. When buying online, you have to ask the right questions, not just its price. For example, you can authenticate if all the parts of the wristwatch are its original parts (bezel, crown, clasp) or if it was replaced. Knowing the market value of the timepiece will make sure that you are not overpaying for it. If you have a specific piece in mind, double-check if there is a waiting list.
- Double-check the return policy
When buying a piece online, make sure the return and exchange policy. Again, it is better if you are transacting with an authorized reseller. www.watchshopping.com honors any return and exchange, given that the request must be done 14 days after the transaction is done. However, there will be times that an item will be non-refundable. For example, if the timepiece is on sale or if it is a special order. Like any other policy, make sure to return it in its original packaging, with its tags and labels attached. All pieces bought from the website are subjected to a warranty. For timepieces with manufacturer warranty, the period is valid from the date listed on the card. For pre-owned pieces, there will be a 1-year in-house warranty. The warranty will be considered void if you bring the timepiece to another party.
Start investing in timepieces without leaving your home!
As technology and e-commerce evolve, the way we buy things are also changing. It includes luxury timepieces. Keep all the tips listed in mind to minimize the risks when buying a wristwatch. But for your ease of mind, you can acquire your rare and pre-owned pieces through www.watchshopping.com. With its excellent customer service and transparent prices, your experience will surely be smooth. Pieces come and go fast, so do not miss out!