Every Market Has Its Traps—Watches Are No Different
Luxury watches can be powerful long-term investments—but the wrong purchase can lock up capital or leave you holding a worthless piece.
With 20+ years in the business, Adam Levinsohn outlines the biggest mistakes buyers are still making—and how to avoid them, with real examples from Bond Street Auctions.
Red Flag #1: No Proof of Authenticity
Whether you’re buying at auction, retail, or grey market—if the seller can’t provide:
• Movement photos
• XRF test results
• Serial number match
…walk away.
Red Flag #2: Polished Case Passed Off as Mint
Overpolished watches are often sold as “mint”—but soft lug edges and loss of factory finish can cost you 30% in resale.
“Mint doesn’t mean shiny. It means unaltered,” says Levinsohn.
Red Flag #3: Hype-Only Models
Any reference that’s trending on Instagram but lacks historical depth is a short-term play. By the time you buy it, the price curve may already be peaking.
Red Flag #4: Missing or Blurry Paperwork
Fakes often come with grainy warranty cards or mismatched serials. Levinsohn recommends:
• Always request close-up photos
• Compare to known authentic examples
• Check font, alignment, holograms, and barcodes
Red Flag #5: “Serviced by My Watch Guy”
Unless it’s been serviced by the brand or a certified specialist, that “rebuild” may devalue the piece
• Non-factory parts
• Incorrect gaskets or lube
• Damage during disassembly
Red Flag #6: Vague Condition Descriptions
Terms like “excellent overall” mean nothing without photos. Always insist on:
• Dial closeups
• Case edge shots
• Crystal scratches under light
Red Fl #7: Unrealistic Return Policies
No returns, no exchanges, “sold as-is” on a $20,000 item? Hard pass. Reliable auctions offer pre-auction previews and post-sale transparency.
FAQs
Should I only buy with box and papers?
They help, but condition and authenticity matter more.
How do I verify condition remotely?
Request macro photos, movement video, and a current timegrapher reading.
Is the grey market always bad?
No—but the risk is much higher. Stick to verified sellers or auction houses with reputations to lose.
Invest Like a Pro
Bond Street Auctions verifies every watch and flags every flaw—so you don’t have to gamble.
👉 Browse trusted listings at www.BondStreetAuctions.com
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