LUXURY WATCH BUYER’S GUIDE

When you buy a high-end luxury watch, treat it as an asset — in every sense of the word.

Essential Tips

  • Know the total cost of ownership: Beyond the price tag, budget for service, insurance, and accessories like winders.

  • Appraisal & insurance: Professionally appraise and insure your watch. Store receipts, warranty cards, manuals, and tags.

  • Proper storage: Use a waterproof, fireproof safe (climate-controlled if possible) with other high-value documents.

  • Service interval: Most mechanical watches need maintenance every 3–5 years. Set a reminder and plan ahead.

  • Automatic? Get a winder: It keeps the watch running and avoids damage from manual resets.

  • Use it regularly: Respect the movement, avoid long dormant periods, and wear it as intended.

Pro Tips

  • Avoid setting the date between 9PM and 3AM — the movement may be mid-cycle and prone to damage.

  • Keep away from magnets — wireless chargers, speakers, and laptops can affect timekeeping.

  • Track all services and strap changes to build a paper trail for resale.

  • Ask your seller for a walkthrough. A 5-minute demo can prevent costly mistakes.

  • Don’t let the power reserve run out. You’ll be stuck trying to reset the time or date incorrectly. That’s how damage starts.


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