Skip to main content

Five Tips for Shopping a Pre-Owned Watch

September 15th, 2025

Two wristwatches with leather straps displayed on a glass surface.

When it comes to exploring the world of pre-owned watches, our team at Davidson & Licht takes pride in guiding collectors and first-time buyers through this rewarding journey. Based in Walnut Creek, we specialize in luxury timepieces that combine prestige with lasting value. Shopping for a pre-owned watch requires trust, which is why our experts offer advice that ensures peace of mind with every purchase. By understanding key principles such as authenticity, appraisal, and investment value, you can shop confidently and select a watch that enhances your collection.

Shop with Authorized Dealers

The first and most crucial step in acquiring a pre-owned watch is to buy exclusively from authorized, reputable dealers. At Davidson & Licht, we maintain longstanding relationships with some of the most distinguished Swiss watchmakers in the world, which allows us to guarantee authenticity and detailed service history. Authorized dealers are uniquely equipped to provide documentation, warranties, and detailed provenance, ensuring you invest in a watch that retains value. By trusting established experts, you avoid the risk of counterfeit or misrepresented models and gain the assurance of purchasing a piece that will stand the test of time.

Close-up of a hand holding a luxury watch with a brown strap and visible internal gears.

Do Thorough Research

Equally important is researching the specific models you are considering. Each brand and series of luxury watches carries its own history, design language, and performance attributes that influence long-term value. By learning about details such as calibre, production year, and limited editions, you ensure that your selection is informed rather than impulsive. We recommend consulting reviews, brand archives, and resale data prior to making a final decision. An informed approach helps distinguish a truly valuable timepiece from one that may not meet your expectations.

Request Professional Appraisals

An often-overlooked step in shopping for pre-owned watches is securing a professional appraisal. An appraisal verifies not only the value of the watch but also its authenticity, condition, and potential for future appreciation. At Davidson & Licht, we employ certified experts who provide detailed evaluations backed by decades of experience in luxury timepieces. This process gives buyers confidence while also serving practical purposes such as insurance coverage. Whether acquiring a classic model or something more contemporary, appraisals safeguard your investment by ensuring that every aspect of the watch is documented and valued with precision.

A man in a grey suit fixes his tie, showcasing a brown leather wristwatch and a yellow gold wedding band

Invest with Value in Mind

Many of our clients view pre-owned watches more than accessories — they see them as assets. Choosing a model that maintains or increases in value over time requires attention to heritage, rarity, and condition. Brands such as Omega and Tudor are renowned for producing references that appeal to collectors across generations. Investing in watches with strong resale performance ensures your purchase remains both a luxury and a legacy. By considering long-term value, you enjoy the elegance of wearing your watch while making a secure investment.

A hand in a polka dot shirt selects a brown watch from a display case filled with various elegant watches.

Explore Pre-Owned Watches at Davidson & Licht

At Davidson & Licht, we proudly offer an extensive selection of pre-owned luxury watches, available at our Walnut Creek showroom in the East Bay Area of San Francisco. Beyond sales, our boutique provides trusted watch repairs performed by certified technicians, ensuring your timepiece receives expert care throughout its lifetime. Whether you are beginning your collection or adding another distinguished model, our knowledgeable team is here to guide your journey. Visit ourshowroom today, or contact us for personalized assistance. Discover why generations of clients rely on Davidson & Licht to find the perfect timepiece.