One doesn’t just purchase a watch to tell time or because they liked the look of it, let me tell you, there are so many facets to consider when buying a luxury timepiece.
For the novice watch buyer, arm yourself with some useful information in order to effectively navigate the watch buying process. And, for the long-time watch collector who is considering his next purchase, review some important questions to ask yourself that may help narrow down your selection. Buying a watch is a very personal decision and one that should not typically be done on impulse. With that being said, here are just a few things to consider before you buy:
1: How will you be wearing this watch?
Consider your lifestyle, wardrobe, the reason you’re seeking a new watch, and whether the watch captivates you. Are you looking for an everyday-wear watch? Or something to wear for formal occasions? Or maybe you need something for sport?
For those seeking an everyday watch, you might want to go with something in the chronograph category. For those seeking a more formal watch, something thin, simple and elegant will do the trick. For those seeking a sport watch, those are very versatile and can be worn day or night.
2:Do you have a set budget or price range in mind?
Are you thinking of spending between $5,000 to $20,000, which will open up your options significantly to mid-range luxury watches? Or, are you looking to be part of the watch collector elite with a high-end purchase of $20,000 and over? Whatever your budget range is, it’s a good idea to know that ahead of time. By having a budget in mind, the salesperson you work with can offer many different watches that are feasible alternatives within the same price range, opening up your possibilities.
3:Are you open to vintage or pre-loved timepieces? Or, do you want to only look at new watches?
Are you the type of person that won’t be satisfied with a purchase unless it is a 100% new, out-of-the-box model that no one else has ever worn before you? Or, as long as the timepiece is in “like-new” condition, has the same look since its conception, and comes from a reputable dealer, does the thought of owning the older model that is more in-line with your budget appeal more? Purchasing a pre-loved model is a great way to get the watch you want without the new price-tag. New or pre-loved, it will still be a beautiful work of art that can be appreciated by collectors and the public alike.
Coming from an authorized retailer, The Jewels of Beverly Hills stands behind each of our pre-loved models as authentic timepieces, many of which are in “like-new” condition coming with box and papers.
4:Automatic, manual wind or quartz?
What’s your preference on type of movement? Are you excited by the traditional mechanical experience of an automatic or manual wind movement made up of only mechanical parts like gears and springs? Or do you prefer to set the watch and not have to worry about it? While quartz watches are inherently more accurate and less expensive, most collectors and connoisseurs prefer manual or automatic.
These movements represent hundreds of years of refinement, expertise and craftsmanship. Plus, there is something romantic in having to wind your watch before wearing. This small movement allows you to disconnect slightly from such a technical world and admire the art of watch making.
5: What will it cost to get serviced?
Watches today are better than ever, and most experience a nice long life before needing to be repaired or serviced. Having said that, watches are still machines, and mechanical watches especially have very real service needs. Like all engines, watches need to be serviced, but thankfully not as often as your car. Quartz watches pretty much only need battery changes from time to time, but depending on the model there may be special service needs. Mechanical watches need a service each several years, which often just includes cleaning and oiling. Nevertheless, these visits to the watchmaker can be pricey. It is a good idea to know what a basic service for a watch might cost, and to see whether or not the retailer even knows.
But with all that being said, when searching for authentic pre-loved and new watches, take a look at our collection today to see just how many watches we have for you to choose from. We at The Jewels of Beverly Hills can provide you with our personal shopping service to help you source your dream watch as well as our consignment and upscale collateral loan abilities.
