Why was the watch quote created?

Simply because the Quoted Value of your watch could be found nowhere else. Unlike the car market, for example, where used-car transactions have been based on quoted vehicle values for the past 50 years, until now the evaluation of a watch for sale has always been debatable. Highly skilled specialists can estimate the value of a given model, but there is no accepted guide for the informed amateur to refer to.

How is the watch valued?

The Watch Quote™ is established with the aid of the main players of the second market (horology professionals and auctioneers) and our value is based on the latest registered sales.

Which watches can be valued?

All the most representative of the watchmaking craft, or sector, including great classics for collectors. The one restriction is The Watch Quote™ only applies to watches in full working order and excellent general condition, with the original presentation case and certificates. If the watch is not in good working order, you cannot assume its quoted value.

How often is The Watch Quote™ updated?

All of the values we quote are fully reviewed every six months, in January and July. Other changes may be made at any time on the basis of information received.

When is the right time to use The Watch Quote™?

If you want to know the value of a watch you own, or the right price for one you dream of aquiring.

How do you value an individual watch accurately depending on its condition?

The Personalized Valuer gives a realistic estimate of the value of a watch, depending on its condition, and whether or not it comes with the original accessories such as the packaging and deeds of ownership.

Remember the following guidelines to its condition when valuing a watch:

As new: Never been worn. No visible scratches, no trace of impact. Original bracelet and clasp as new.

Exceptions: none

Excellent condition: Worn rarely, all original parts, in perfect condition.

Acceptable: a very few, fine and tiny scratches, slight marking of original bracelet.

Good condition: Worn well, perfect working order; crystal, case and winding crown cleaned and serviced regularly, bracelet with original clasp in good condition.

Acceptable: Small, barely visible scratches on case or metal bracelet requiring very slight polishing,( or change if leather strap).

Average condition: Worn frequently, not well-maintained, not serviced during previous 5 years, service required, need to check if still water resistance, case requires complete polish, some work required on mechanism, leather strap replacement essential.

Acceptable: Numerous small-to-larger scratches visible, possible problem with mechanism, crystal scratched, poor anti-reflection finish, bracelet worn out.

How to use The Watch Quote™ during a transaction?

The Watch Quote™ applies indicative market guidelines to estimate the re-sale value of a watch.

As with a car, the final sum agreed for the transaction will vary according to the condition of the watch, its interest as a collectible item, how rare it is, what else is available on the market at the same time, and how soon the buyer and/or seller choose to reach an agreement. In the end, the agreed figure may be higher or lower than the market price, what matters most is both parties are satisfied.

What is “the trend”?

The Watch Quote™ trends are set twice-yearly. They indicate the market interest in a given model, based on objective, quantifiable criteria as well as more subjective reasoning, such as fashion phenomena. The trend is shown by an arrow pointing upwards, forwards or downwards. Theoretically, an upward trend suggests a potential price rise in the months ahead. Though fashion is often fickle, and such projections are therefore susceptible to change, the trend can be a useful indicator for individual sellers or buyers when making investment decisions.

What is your “favourite”?

Our favourite is The Watch Quote™ team’s personal point of view on a specific model.

The number of circles awarded, (from 1 to 5) are the subject of long and heated debate among our team as they are highly subjective, personal judgements. Criteria range from the graphic beauty of a watch face to the overall watch design, whether the model is in or out, the technology or complexity of its mechanism and – least rational of all – how we feel at the time.

How much does using The Watch Quote™ cost?

As a service to you, The Watch Quote™ is entirely free.