The Breitling Watch Source Forums

"Buying the seller" is some good advice mentioned more than a few times on the site. I've looked for a thread dedicated to this subject, but couldn't find one. Each opportunity to purchase a pre-owned Breitling can be unique, so I appreciate that advice on the subject may be sorted in two categories, "general" and "specific".

I'd like to read the collective wisdom of members regarding their experiences.

Thanks!

First off, welcome to the forums!

If they are a veteran member with lots of posts, sales, etc. I don't really worry or ask for references (but I still do my homework as some accounts do get hacked). However, I have bought items from less frequent posters or newer members and have had both great and terrible experiences. I would recommend the following if you're interested in a watch being sold by a non-veteran member:

-Ask for clear photos of all aspects of the watch and a photo with a piece of paper w/ your name, an object, or have the watch set to a specific time/date.
-Ask for references and if he gives emails, make sure to confirm their usernames on the forums by PMing them (too easy to give fake references otherwise).
-Ask for proof that the serial number on the watch matches the warranty papers, hang tag, etc.
-Be sure to confirm that everything functions correctly and ask for specifics on how well the watch is keeping time (I've had watches claimed to keep great time but were off by nearly 30 seconds a day).
-Pay with paypal if at all possible, never send any form of a check or cash.
-When communicating, I always try to get a feel for the person with how they respond back in writing (or how they speak on the phone). The times I've been scammed, communication was shoddy and it felt like I was communicating with a high schooler.
-If you're still worried, request to open the package upon collection in front of the postal employee.
-It may sound stupid, but remind them to properly package and protect both the watch inside its box and the outer box as well. I've received watches literally thrown into a plastic bag before with no added protection.

I might have went a little overboard but have almost seen it all in regards to buying and selling watches. Best of luck with your search and make sure to do your homework first! Oh and the saying really is true, "If it is too good to be true, then it probably is."

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Current:
Breitling Chronomat Evolution

Feedback, feedback, feedback. Like here - viewforum.php?f=7

Every major watch forum has Feedback sections which can be searched by seller's username - watchuseek, timezone (their feedback is on watchnet.com and is called "good Guys").

Make sure the user's account hasn't been hacked. Always ask the seller to set the watch to some random time you select and take a pic with a piece of paper and the username and date. I have had many successful sales, it is my scarlet letter, but the majority of the time no feedback gets left even though the buyer is delighted. That is where references come in. Ask for them. Check out the seller - get all addresses - home and work - etc..and phone numbers. Google map the addresses. Call the work number. Do due diligence.

If it just doesn't "feel" right, never let the passion of the moment overcome your gut.

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SHARKMAN

Good advice so far.

I do what Sharkman does, on top of all the photo requests etc, I look for their real name on their email/forums, and then google their username and check their feedback on other forums (sometimes watch related, sometime not), and then google their name, and see what linkedin or other websites have to say. Amazing how much you can find out in only a few minutes! On my last purchase from a forum, I was able to have their address, photographs and work phone number available all within a few minutes of searching.

If somebody is buying an expensive item from me, I have no problem giving them the info they need. But again, some scammers try to get your details to pull of a reverse scam or maybe a burglary. So it goes both ways. Takman had some great points, but just make sure that the seller might also be vetting you. All too often a buyer tries to pull a fast one, and the seller is out of luck.

Ill usually ask for an ebay feedback, and then have them message me from ebay to verify that they have control of the account. Again, ask for a specific picture (time set to a certain time/date, name in pic etc.). It doesnt guarantee that you wont get burned, but at least it proves that the person that youre dealing with actually has the watch in hand.

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-RJ

For me it is all about communication. A clear and good answer from the seller to every question I ask (and mostly there are a lot of questions for the seller). For me it is important to see who is behind the watch. Info from Linkedin, a company profile or his telephonenumber are important for me. I have had some bad experience with some sellers in the past. my advice: always trust your heart.