buying new vs used

[brandonb123]

hey guys, I am looking to buy a seamaster within the upcoming months (2220.80.00) and I am wondering if there are any advantages or disadvantages to buying used? The one I have seen is up for 1800$, 2 years waranty left, all boxes and paper and is at 95% condition. Or buy used where my dealer said that 3800$ is retail and that 20% off is the norm.

any advice?

thanks, Brandon

[ulackfocus]

Brandon, I'm going to copy this to the Omega forum for added exposure.

$1800 is a decent price for a mint example that's not very old like the one you are asking about. I've seen them sell for as little as $1300 depending on condition. Your AD was giving you correct info, although if you have a good relationship with him it's not unheard of to get a little better discount.

[Redhawk]

I usually buy used, but I've been getting frustrated lately. I have several offers and inquiries out to sellers that aren't responding

I know these people have been active on their respective sites, but they've ignored repeated PM's and e-mails from a serious buyer that has agreed to pay their asking price

[ulackfocus]

I know these people have been active on their respective sites, but they've ignored repeated PM's and e-mails from a serious buyer that has agreed to pay their asking price

Unfortunately, that's part of the hobby. Sometimes people change their mind at the last minute, or hesitate because of second thoughts. You may see "flaked" used to describe this situation. Just recently I thought I had a Top Time, but the seller disappeared off the face of the Earth after coming to an agreement on price. It wasn't the first time for this guy either. We had come to an agreement months ago on the very same watch and he vanished then as well. We did steps A through X; all that was left to be done was (Y) for me to pay and (Z) him to ship. Okay, he said something like "life got in the way", which I understand. But to do the same act twice? See ya!!! It's not like he has the only watch left on the planet. I hope he enjoys NOT spending my cash! NEXT!

[Redhawk]

Unfortunately, that's part of the hobby. Sometimes people change their mind at the last minute, or hesitate because of second thoughts. You may see "flaked" used to describe this situation. Just recently I thought I had a Top Time, but the seller disappeared off the face of the Earth after coming to an agreement on price. It wasn't the first time for this guy either. We had come to an agreement months ago on the very same watch and he vanished then as well. We did steps A through X; all that was left to be done was (Y) for me to pay and (Z) him to ship. Okay, he said something like "life got in the way", which I understand. But to do the same act twice? See ya!!! It's not like he has the only watch left on the planet. I hope he enjoys NOT spending my cash! NEXT!

I can understand changes of heart or receiving better offers, but I would at least appreciate the courtesy of a quick "sorry, sold" or "listing withdrawn" PM. Sheesh. At least that would get me off their back! I am pretty persistent when I see something I want, but not pushy. That's how I snagged my wife anyway!

Sidenote: if anyone wants to sell their Tissot PRC200 or Hamilton Frogman, let me know!!:D

[jas32]

I prefer buying used as long as I get the watch I really want. Cannot beat the savings compared to buying brand new. It just takes a lot of patience and a certain amount of luck.

Buying used includes a certain amount of risk (depending on who's the seller) since there are just too many great looking fake watches out there.

If I'm chasing a particular watch and I do not get it, I console myself by saying "its not meant to be" and move on.

[Wombat]

I love buying both ways, depending on what it is I'm buying and why.

Fun watches and watches I like I will usually buy pre-owned, so as to not get hit buy higher costs of first ownership. Watches I love I will try and buy new. I just love new, shiny things that no-one else has worn!

But, if I step it up to the next level in cost, such as a Rolex or IWC, I will more than likely go pre-owned or else I will never be able to own one at all.

[mikefrmnj]

I don't/have not sold any of my collection so new is nice, provided the price difference is not obscene. With Rolex a pre owned is usually not too far from a new watch with a nice discount.