What a watch holds ranges widely from model to model. Stainless sports references from the major leading makers regularly change hands above retail, luxurychronospieces.com though precious metal dress watches commonly lose value. Box, papers and condition drive the spread between two identical models.
Second hand luxury watches delivers an opportunity to references which remain unavailable at retail. Authentication remains the central concern. Serial and reference numbers must correspond to the documentation. A service record influences value and reliability.
Fine mechanical timepieces require regular maintenance in order to maintain accuracy. Recommended periods differ according to the maker, typically around every five to seven years. A full service includes stripping, cleaning and re-oiling. Postponing maintenance leads to expensive repairs.
Complete sets contribute a definite premium to a pre-owned watch. Original papers confirms when and where it was sold and assists authenticity. An unpapered example need not mean automatically suspect, but the absence attracts reduced value.