patrick_y
[PuristSPro Moderator]
28404
Use an escrow service or an intermediary...
Using an escrow service or someone both of you happen to know as an intermediary is always great. It's important that the escrow person or intermediary is familiar and knowledgeable about watches and is a fair person.
The escrow's job is to get the watch and get the money and deliver them to the correct recipient after the sale has been green lighted by both parties. Since the escrow will have both things at the same time, s/he must be fully trusted by both parties. Then s/he must inspect the watch and determine the condition of the watch. And advise the buyer whether or not the watch is genuine and in good condition. There are some things the escrow may not see even with generous time with the watch. For instance, the watch may have a calendar problem (not uncommon) where the date doesn't change properly at the end of 28, 29, or 30 day months (perpetual calendars and annual calendars) which is sometimes difficult to tell in a short observation period. So don't blame your escrow if the watch comes to you and has some unusual inconsistent problem that wasn't caught in observation. However, experienced watch people know what to check for most models.
The escrow is technically an "employee" of the buyer, and should thus have the buyer's interests in mind. But the escrow is not a power-broker who is necessarily pushing and negotiating on behalf of the buyer. S/he will not play good/bad cop with the seller. Lastly, an escrow should be willing to deliver the watch in person, as often times these things cannot be safely shipped.
Respectfully/professionally executing a face-to-face deal
Procedural question if I may... from a first time buyer who wants to carry out a successful purchase in the private sale of a pre-owned Patek. I'm aware that each seller may execute deals in a unique way, and when it's friends or trusted associates coordi...
You have to define the level of safety needed by you.
What is the amount you would wire or accept in cash? What is about references - buyer and seller? What is prefered by you, shipping with insurance or face-to-face deal? What are the documents, boxes ... you can expect in your case? ...? I did face to face...
Many thanks Oliver
Seems there are many ways to accomplish the same end, you've provided very useful and helpful information. Thank you for sharing your insight. And perhaps most helpful... when in doubt don't do the deal. And if I want to remove all uncertainty just buy fr...
advice
First and foremost the best way to buy a used recent/modern watch is from the original owner. Most of the time they will have cherished their watch as they never dreamed they would selling it when they bought it. You are likely to get a watch that has not...
Use an escrow service or an intermediary...
Using an escrow service or someone both of you happen to know as an intermediary is always great. It's important that the escrow person or intermediary is familiar and knowledgeable about watches and is a fair person. The escrow's job is to get the watch ...
