Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about buying, selling, and servicing luxury timepieces with WatchGuys.
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Buying a Watch
Sizing, shipping, returns, and authenticity of every piece we sell.
What are your product sizing details?
Bracelet length. All men's watches ship to fit the average wrist (7 1/4" to 7 1/2"). Women's watches ship to fit 6 1/4" to 6 1/2".
Additional links are available upon purchase. Just let your specialist know your wrist measurement at checkout.
What are your shipping details?
We strive to ensure an above-standard shopping experience. We proudly offer overnight shipping for all US orders. Packages are shipped Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).
For your absolute security, all deliveries strictly require a direct adult signature from an authorized receiver, providing you with complete peace of mind.
For full details, see our Shipping Policy.
What is your return policy?
We want you to be completely satisfied with your acquisition. We offer a straightforward 3-calendar day refund policy if the item is faulty, mechanically compromised, or varies in any way from our precise description.
Full details are in our Return Policy.
Are all watches 100% authentic?
Yes. Every pre-owned watch is 100% certified authentic, inspected and verified in-house by our Swiss-trained expert watchmakers with over 30 years of industry experience. We examine the case, dial, movement, bracelet, serial number, and all interior and exterior parts to confirm every component is genuine.
Learn more on our Authenticity Guarantee page.
Is the watch covered by a warranty?
Yes, you can shop with absolute confidence. This timepiece is backed by a 2-year limited warranty provided directly by WatchGuys.
Beyond our lifetime authenticity guarantee, our in-house master watchmakers perform rigorous timekeeping and pressure testing on every watch prior to shipment to ensure optimal factory performance.
Additionally, the original manufacturer warranty may still be active; please see the product description for specific details.
Full coverage details are on our Warranty Policy page.
What is the WatchGuys Buyer Protection program?
Our Buyer Protection program covers your purchase from checkout to delivery. If a watch arrives and does not match the listing description, or arrives with any issues, you are covered for a full refund. It's our way of guaranteeing a risk-free buying experience on every order.
Combined with our in-house authentication, 2-year warranty, and overnight insured shipping, you get the same confidence you'd expect when buying new, on every pre-owned watch we sell.
See full terms on our Buyer Protection page.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept multiple payment methods to fit your preference:
- Bank wire transfer (preferred, lowest price)
- Credit and debit cards
- Cryptocurrency (final sale, non-refundable)
The price displayed on each product page is the bank wire price. A 3% processing fee applies automatically at checkout for credit cards, debit cards, and other online merchant processors.
See our Payment Policy for complete details.
Why do I need to verify my credit card purchase?
To protect against fraud and maintain a secure transaction environment, all credit card orders require completion of a Credit Card Purchase Verification Form, sent automatically via DocuSign immediately after your order is placed.
You will also be asked to provide a valid government-issued photo ID, a redacted copy of your credit card statement, and confirmation of billing and shipping details. Your order will not ship until verification is complete. This applies to every credit card purchase, regardless of order amount.
Do you charge sales tax?
Sales tax is calculated at checkout based on your shipping destination in accordance with applicable state and local tax laws. All list prices on watchguys.com are shown exclusive of sales tax.
Can I use a discount code or gift card?
Discount codes, coupons, and gift cards are subject to a few rules:
- A minimum purchase of $3,000 is required to apply a discount code, unless otherwise stated.
- Codes cannot be stacked, combined, or applied to items already on sale, sale events, or negotiated prices.
- WatchGuys reserves the right to refuse, invalidate, or cancel any code, gift card, or promotional offer.
Selling a Watch
Free offers, valuations, and how to turn your timepiece into cash, fast.
Is there a charge to get an offer?
No. Getting an offer is always free of charge. Submit one watch or several. Our offers are valid for 24 hours only due to pre-owned Rolex market fluctuation.
Call (213) 302-4400 or submit our online request form and a team member will call you back with an offer.
What if I'm unhappy with the offer?
No worries. You're under no obligation to sell. Your watch is returned via 2-day FedEx, fully insured, at zero cost to you. Our offers reflect current market values for pre-owned watches.
How is the buy price determined?
We value your Rolex based on four main factors:
- Model and reference number
- Overall condition
- Material (steel, gold, two-tone, etc.)
- Current resale popularity and demand
Past sales of comparable pieces are also considered. For collector or vintage pieces, we check auction prices worldwide. WatchGuys pays more because we can.
How fast will I get paid?
We issue same-day payment the day your watch arrives. Choose between:
- Wire transfer directly to your bank
- Company check, mailed same day
How do I submit my item?
Two fast options:
- Request a FREE quote using our online request form. A specialist will call you back the same day.
- Call (213) 302-4400 and we'll give you a quote over the phone.
Can I sell my Rolex without box or papers?
Yes. We understand original packaging and paperwork can be misplaced over the years. We'll buy your Rolex without box or papers with full confidence, and you can still expect the best price, especially for watches in good condition.
Having the warranty card, box, and sales receipts on hand may increase your offer, but it is never a requirement.
How much does the watch mailing kit cost?
Requesting a mailing kit is always free. We cover the cost of shipping and insurance. No fees, commissions, or hidden costs. If you're not happy with our offer, we'll gladly return your watch at no charge.
Do you buy other luxury items?
Yes. We're a leading buyer of high-end watches including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier, Panerai, and Omega. We also purchase designer jewelry from Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, and other luxury houses.
What do I need to sell my Rolex?
As much information as you can provide. Helpful items include:
- Model and reference number
- Warranty card and sales receipts
- Original box and documentation
- High-quality photos of the watch
That said, these items are never a requirement. You can sell in full confidence and still count on our best price when the watch is in good condition.
Shipping & Payment
Fully insured transit and flexible payout options, every transaction.
Do you provide shipping insurance?
Yes. Print our free FedEx shipping label and your item is fully insured for the full value of your quote. Need higher coverage? Call (213) 302-4400 and we'll arrange additional insurance before shipment.
When will I be paid?
We pay the same day your items arrive and the offer is confirmed. Choose bank wire, mailed company check, or overnight check.
Are my items safe to ship?
Safety is our top priority. Every package is fully insured the moment it's scanned at FedEx or UPS, all the way to our headquarters, and covered in both directions, even if returned.
Our mailing labels are also completely discreet. There is never any mention of "cash," "watches," or "jewelry." You'll receive a tracking number so you can follow your package every step of the way.
Do you have a storefront location?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome at our downtown Los Angeles showroom:
613 S. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90014
Monday to Friday | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST
Saturday | 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM PST
Closed Sunday
Trust & Security
How we protect every watch, every transaction, every time.
How safe is it to sell to WatchGuys?
We buy watches every day from customers across the United States using our safe and trusted mail-in service. All packages are fully insured and FedEx-tracked end to end.
Our storefront in downtown LA welcomes walk-ins, and our team is always reachable by phone, email, or chat.
Can I be sure my Rolex has not been tampered with?
Absolutely. Every watch and package received or prepared for shipment is kept under continuous video surveillance for your protection. Watches are never tampered with under our care.
Is your site secure?
WatchGuys is protected by 256-bit SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption to ensure your information always remains private. We never sell or distribute your personal information.
Policies & Protection
Pre-orders, warranty claims, returns, and the policies that protect every transaction.
How does the Pre-Order process work?
Pre-order items are not in stock and are sourced after your order is placed. They are listed as "available online only." Here's how it works:
- A 1% authorization hold is placed on your credit card to confirm your commitment. This is not a charge.
- Once we locate and confirm the watch, the hold is released and you'll be billed the full amount via bank wire transfer.
- A flat $200 shipping fee is added to your invoice, covering inbound and outbound shipping. This fee is non-refundable.
- Most pre-orders are fulfilled within 14 business days, depending on availability and market conditions.
- You'll have 24 hours to confirm and initiate payment once the final price is presented.
If you cancel after we've secured the watch, the deposit may be captured. Full terms on our Pre-Order Agreement page.
What is the Secure Now policy?
"Secure Now" items are similar to pre-orders but are typically located faster, often within 5 to 7 business days. Like pre-orders, they require a 1% authorization hold, full payment via bank wire transfer, and a flat $200 shipping fee.
You'll have 24 hours to confirm the final price and initiate payment once we've secured the watch. Full terms on our Secure Now Policy page.
What happens if my watch is lost or damaged in shipping?
Every shipment is insured by our shipping insurance provider. If a watch is lost or damaged in transit, our insurance team will investigate and you may be entitled to a full refund pending the outcome.
Insurance covers up to $50,000 by default, with higher coverage available on request before shipment.
How do I file a warranty claim?
Filing a warranty claim is simple:
- Contact us at (213) 302-4400 or email sales@watchguys.com to start your claim.
- Wait for written approval before mailing your watch. Watches sent without prior approval are not covered.
- Mail your watch to our Los Angeles headquarters, or drop it off at our downtown LA storefront.
- Our in-house watchmakers complete the repair and return the watch to you.
Service costs are covered. Shipping to and from our facility is the customer's responsibility. Full details on our Warranty Policy page.
What is NOT covered under the warranty?
The 2-year limited warranty covers mechanical defects only. The following are not covered:
- External damage from water, shocks, or mishandling (dents, scratches, broken or chipped crystals)
- Unauthorized third-party service, modifications, or repairs (these void the warranty)
- Quartz watches and vintage watches
- Normal wear and tear
- Watches purchased outside the United States
The warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original buyer.
How do I return a watch?
If your purchase qualifies for return (within 3 calendar days of receipt, no signs of wear, original packaging intact), here's how to start:
- Email sales@watchguys.com with the subject line "Order #xxxx: Request to Return," or call (213) 302-4400.
- A representative will issue you a prepaid and insured FedEx return shipping label.
- Once received at our HQ, the watch is inspected under video to confirm it matches the original condition.
- After approval, your refund is processed minus return shipping, insurance, and any payment processing fees.
Full terms on our Return Policy page.
Why does paying by bank wire save me money?
The price you see on every product page is the discounted bank wire price. Bank wires cost us less to process than credit cards or third-party processors, so we pass those savings on to you.
If you choose credit card, debit card, or another online merchant processor, a 3% processing fee is added at checkout. Pay by wire to lock in the lowest price.
Are cryptocurrency purchases refundable?
No. All purchases made using cryptocurrency are final sale and non-refundable. Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible by nature, and once payment is sent, we cannot modify, adjust, or reverse the transaction.
If you intend to pay with crypto, please review your purchase decision and wallet details carefully before completing payment.
Do you ship internationally?
At this time, WatchGuys ships only within the United States. We do not currently accept international purchases or ship to international addresses.
What are "Inquiry Only" products?
Some watches are listed as "Inquiry Only" and display an "INQUIRE NOW" button instead of a "BUY IT NOW" button. These products require direct contact with our team to complete the purchase.
Authenticity is still 100% guaranteed on every Inquiry Only product. However, all Inquiry Only sales are final and not eligible for return or exchange.
Talk to a WatchGuys specialist.
Our team is available Monday through Saturday to help with any question about buying, selling, or servicing luxury watches.
