Luxury watches: avoid 6 pitfalls before buying
Before buying a luxury watch, you want to avoid pitfalls and gain clarity. The market moves fast, so do expectations, and your wrist deserves better than an improvised choice. So here’s a practical guide, designed to help you make the right decision.
Budget, value and real price
Start with a realistic budget, because the price of a luxury watch doesn’t tell the whole story. You need to think about the total cost over the long term. What’s more, some references require patience and method. So define your time horizon before you fall in love.
The retail price can vary from the market price, depending on demand. Sometimes, a wait in the store is better than an immediate premium. On the other hand, discounts are available on less sought-after
The cost of ownership includes insurance, maintenance and accessories. An overhaul can cost a few hundred euros, depending on its complexity. Also, check brands’ service policies and lead times. A luxury watch with the expected costs is reassuring over time.
“Buy slowly, inform yourself well, and never sacrifice peace of mind.”
New, used or vintage?
New offers warranty and clear history, but the price can be firm. Second-hand offers a better quality/price ratio. However, condition and transparency become priorities. A well-documented luxury watch facilitates future resale.
Vintage seduces with charm, with more uncertainty. Ask for the condition of the pieces, the level of polishing and clear photos. Also, whenever possible, ask for boxes and papers. A luxury watch with a complete file gains credibility.
- Check serial number and paperwork for consistency
- Request revision history with invoices
- Observe the case and edges with a magnifying glass
- Test power reserve and daily drift
- Check the firmness of the strap and end-links
Authenticity, warranty and service
Demand clear, verifiable proof of origin. A valid warranty card and consistent documentation are essential. In addition, a recent service quotation provides tangible security. On a luxury watch, traceability is often worth more than a discount.
A mechanical movement requires periodic overhaul, often between 5 and 10 years. Seals and tightness must be tested after each opening. Please allow several weeks for a complete service. Planning prevents frustration and protects precision.
Counterfeits are on the increase, but overall consistency remains your ally. Inspect the dial, typography and engravings methodically. On the other hand, beware of “too good a deal”. A luxury watch authenticated by a recognized workshop reduces the risk.
Materials, movements and sizes
Steel offers sturdiness and discretion for everyday use. Gold and platinum gain in presence, but are more distinctive. Titanium brings lightness and prolonged comfort. Choose the size that suits your wrist, not the trend.
Quartz, manual or automatic, each caliber has its own logic. Quartz is practical, but less lively for some. The manual creates a ritual, while the automatic balances autonomy and pleasure. And a well-tuned luxury watch is a pleasure to wear every day.
Daily use, maintenance and insurance
Your life dictates the watch, not the other way around. Sport, meetings, travel, adapt your choice to the terrain. Beware of shocks, magnetic fields and chemicals. A luxury watch can handle real life better if you think ahead.
For swimming, aim for at least 100 m watertightness and a recent inspection. Replace gaskets as soon as the service indicates. Also, alternate bracelets with the seasons to preserve the leather. As a result, you’ll prolong the shine without stress.
Insure valuable items with invoices and photos. A discreet safe and a customary rotation limit exposure. From now on, keep the reference and serial number separate from the home. That way, your luxury watch remains a pleasure, not a source of worry.
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