Frequently Asked Questions

Are all your watches authentic?

Yes. Every watch we sell is 100% authentic and carefully verified using professional authentication tools and industry expertise.

We are also an established seller on platforms such as eBay, Chrono24, and Bezel, which have their own authentication and buyer-protection processes. Our watches consistently meet these standards, and we have never encountered an authenticity issue.

When needed, we also work with a trusted professional watchmaker in Greenwich, CT to further confirm condition and authenticity.

Are your watches in stock and ready to ship?

Yes. Every watch shown in our current inventory is physically in stock and available for purchase in our showroom.

On rare occasions, an item may sell before our website updates, but we always confirm availability prior to completing any order.

Once payment has fully cleared, we ship promptly:

  • Bank wire: typically same-day shipping if funds clear before 4pm EST, otherwise next business day
  • Credit card: typically ships within 2 business days after payment clears

All shipments are fully insured.

Can I view a watch in person before purchasing?

Yes. If you are local to our private showroom — or planning a visit — you are welcome to view any watch we currently have available.

Appointments are required, and you can schedule a date and time that works best for you to ensure the watch you’re interested in is ready for viewing.

Do you ship watches worldwide?

Yes. We ship fully insured to clients worldwide.

For international shipments, please note that any import duties, taxes, or customs fees are the responsibility of the buyer and are determined by the destination country.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept payment via:

  • Bank wire (our preferred method)
  • Credit card — Visa, Mastercard, and American Express

For credit card payments, the buyer is responsible for covering the applicable transaction fee based on the card type used.

If you have questions about payment options, feel free to contact us for assistance.

What services do you provide?

The Watch Trader specializes in new and pre-owned luxury watches from leading Swiss brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Omega, and more.

Our services include:

  • Buying luxury watches
  • Selling curated inventory
  • Consignment services
  • Watch sourcing and trades

What is the best investment watch?

We’re often asked this question, and our advice is simple: buy a watch you genuinely enjoy wearing rather than relying on resale speculation.

While certain models from brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet have historically held value well, the watch market can fluctuate. If you’d like guidance on collectible or historically strong models, feel free to contact us for personalized advice.

How can I sell my watch online?

While you can list your watch independently on platforms like eBay or Chrono24, many sellers prefer working with a specialized dealer to maximize value and reduce risk.

At The Watch Trader, we offer professional buying and consignment services, leveraging our market knowledge, collector network, and multi-platform presence to help achieve the strongest possible result for your watch — without the hassle of managing the sale yourself.

What are the benefits of selling my watch on consignment?

Consignment allows you to benefit from our established buyer network, professional listings, and exposure across multiple selling platforms.

We handle photography, pricing strategy, inquiries, and transaction management while keeping you informed throughout the process. Our goal is to maximize your return while ensuring your watch remains secure and fully insured.

How long does it take to sell my watch on consignment?

Our standard consignment period is 90 days, though many watches sell within the first 1–2 months.

The timeline primarily depends on:

  • the seller’s target net price relative to the current market
  • the brand and model

Highly sought-after models (such as certain Rolex or Patek Philippe references) may sell quickly, while others can take longer depending on demand.

Can I trust The Watch Trader with my luxury watch?

Absolutely. Our business is built on transparency, security, and reputation.

All watches in our possession are fully insured, and our clients consistently recognize our professionalism through over 100 five-star Google reviews, along with excellent feedback on eBay and Chrono24. We take pride in providing a safe, straightforward experience for both buyers and sellers.

What if I have more questions?

We’re happy to help.

You can contact us at sales@thewatchtrader.com or schedule an appointment to visit our private showroom in Madison, CT for personalized assistance.

Brands We Specialize In

A. Lange & Sohne
Audemars Piguet
Breitling
Breguet
Cartier
Chopard
Girard-Perregaux
Hublot
IWC
Jaeger LeCoultre
Omega
Panerai
Patek Philippe
Richard Mille
Tag Heuer