Want to invest in a pre-owned Rolex? Feel confident in your purchase with our five best tips for buying a used Rolex.
A Rolex is the universal symbol of success. If you’re considering purchasing a new or pre-owned Rolex, then you already know what a superior product it is.
A Rolex watch is the essence of perfection in both engineering and design, and one that likely will become a part of your legacy. They’re often handed down from generation to generation, and the values just keep climbing.
We know a thing or two about the watch resell business after selling new and used luxury watches for decades.
Our rotating inventory may include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Tag Heuer, Cartier, and Audemars Audemars Piguet. But pre-owned Rolexes are one of our most popular items.
There are two kinds of pre-owned Rolex buyers, the collector and the smart shopper. Whether you are looking for the vintage collector watch or interested in a deal on a newer model, these top 5 tips on purchasing a pre-owned Rolex will serve you well.
Top 5 Tips from a Jeweler for Buying a Pre-Owned Rolex
1. Consider the Dealer’s Reputation
This is perhaps the best and most important piece of advice we can give: Know “who” you are purchasing your Rolex from.
A dealer’s reputation is the first thing you should research and is the best way to protect yourself from a bad investment.
Just as you research the Rolex model you are interested in, the same time should be spent in learning about the dealer and their history. Here are some questions to consider:
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they deal in luxury watches?
- Will they be around to help service your watch?
Most dealers expect that you will ask these questions, if they hesitate in replying, run!
2. Ask About Last Servicing Date
When you are purchasing a pre-owned Rolex, ask when the last time the Rolex was serviced. If the dealer cannot answer that question, consider another dealer.
A Rolex requires servicing every four years, on average. This is to ensure the mechanics of the watch are oiled and running properly.
During servicing each mechanism is inspected, oiled, (and if needed) repaired. Failure to properly service your Rolex could damage the performance and the overall value of the watch. Learn more about Rolex servicing here.
3. Buy With the Original Box and Papers For Highest ROI
When purchasing a pre-owned Rolex, the original box and papers will increase the value of a pre-owned Rolex by 20%.
When you purchase a Rolex watch, the box it comes in is almost as important as the watch itself. To hold true to the Rolex name, each box is designed beautifully and made with the finest material.
These boxes are in such high demand that purchasing a used box (no watch) could cost you 100.00+.
If you are looking for the highest return on your investment, the original box and papers is a must. On the other hand, if you are looking for an even more discounted Rolex, purchasing a pre-owned Rolex with no box or papers could save you a pretty penny.
4. Verify that the Pre-Owned Rolex has its Original Parts
It is important to verify with the dealer that all the parts used on the Rolex are authentic. As a rule of thumb, you never want to be purchase a Rolex with non-authorized parts. This should be a deal breaker.
To save money some Rolex owners will have their Rolex serviced by a non-authorized Rolex service center. This could result in non-Rolex parts being used in repairs. It’s also common for individuals to customize their Rolex with diamond faces or new bezels. The dealer should be knowledgeable about these and should inform you accordingly.
5. Always Get an Appraisal
To be sure you are getting exactly what you want, with no surprises, getting an appraisal on the pre-owned Rolex watch is a must.
An appraisal will list every detail about the watch (serial number, manufacture number, etc), including the retail replacement value. This is essential when having your Rolex insured.
Requesting that the dealer provide an appraisal is the only way to guarantee you are getting exactly what you pay for. Any dealer worth your business should supply you with one at the time of purchase for free.
f you are interested in purchasing your own pre-owned Rolex watch, give us a call or fill out our contact form. Similarly, check out our Facebook page for box openings and watch reviews by our in-house watch expert Sergio Nuncio! Keep us in mind for all of your holiday gifting needs.
