Perhaps you are one of those people ready to trade in your watch and get equipped for a new exciting purchase or investment opportunity.

But to make the best out of this situation, you’re going to want to be smart about when and how you cash in your model. And it’s not just about timing. Rather, there are multiple factors you ought to pause and consider before plunging into auction. To ensure you secure the best deal possible for you, it’s always wise to seek out an official evaluation of your watch from a trusted voice in the industry. Seeing as even the most fashionable calibres will no doubt invite considerable scrutiny from potential buyers, being equipped with a professional evaluation will make it far easier to defend your watch’s value on the second-hand market.

In the meantime, here are Panache’s top tips on seizing a speedy and successful sale.

Gather your documents

If you’re struggling to know where to start, then it’s exactly here. The perceived value of your watch is only made real when it can be verified with the appropriate documentation. In an ideal scenario, you will be able to present the watch’s receipt, its service history, and the original box you purchased it with. All of this solidifies your model’s authenticity and reassures potential buyers that you’re not swindling them with a fraudulent mock of a luxury timepiece. Being well-resourced with paperwork confirms you’re a credible source and deserving of a fair price.

Research your watch

Before you venture into the bargaining realm, it’s important to know as much about your specific timepiece as possible. The essential information you’ll need includes the model name, number, and serial number, which can be found on the initial paperwork although some calibres have their numbers engraved on the caseback.

That being said, it’s advisable to go further and research into your watch’s distinct features, the design’s original purpose (perhaps, for example, the watch was intended as a diving watch), and any other points of interest. Having an informed, authoritative voice brandishing the best qualities of your timepiece will see your sale swiftly completed.

Deciding on a platform

Many watch owners decide to advertise their goods on social media and online retail sites, such as eBay and Facebook Marketplace. Its greatest benefit is of course the convenience and the vast exposure it grants your timepiece.

However, if your watch is particularly valuable, it might be worth selling it at an auction. There, your potential earnings are unlimited, but neither is it completely without risk. Not to mention, auctions of this variety often only take place once or twice per year, so your window of opportunity is rather narrow.

With this in mind, it’s always worth inquiring about local companies that purchase pre-owned timepieces. These seasoned professionals offer a fair and legitimate process without the limited timeframe of auctions and without the insecurity of online negotiations.

Presentation is key

If you do decide to sell your watch on social media, it’s worth remembering how nothing quite puts you off from purchasing a product like a blurry, cluttered, off-centre photograph. The best thing you can do is to simply take your time setting up a clear and focused picture of your watch, ideally with a blank background. It allows your potential buyers to appreciate the beauty in the watch’s fine details and immediately gives your listing a more trustworthy, professional appearance.

Consult professionals in the industry

It's easy to be taken advantage of when dealing in the second-hand market with exclusive, luxury goods. Where nefarious parties might suspect you don’t know what your watch is truly worth, there’s the possibility of settling on an unfair price. This is why it’s always advisable to secure the assistance of experienced sellers. At Panache, we pride ourselves on our quality service which helps clients in numerous ways, two being:

Expert evaluation

With a wealth of experience in the luxury watch market, Panache can expertly assess the condition of your watch, its history, and its comparative rarity about other models currently in the trading orbit.

Industry insights

Everyday watch retailers like us here at Panache operate within the frenzy of the second-hand luxury watch market. We understand that the dizzying fluctuations of rising and falling interest in specific timepieces can be overwhelming to newcomers. But for us, this is just another day in the office as we always stay up to date with the latest market trends so we’re confident we’re never giving you out-of-date advice.

Sell your watch with Panache

For more information on how to sell your watch,

contact us today for a free, easy, no-obligation consultation about your watch’s potential. So sell your watch with Panache for an impressive and competitive price.