Used Watches on eBay: What to Check Before You Buy
Used watch listings differ a lot in what documents and parts come with them. This hub lists what to ask for and compare before you buy.
- eBay Refurbished (Certified, Excellent, Very Good) on eBay Refurbished under eBay’s Refurbished program for approved sellers. Check eBay’s current terms and the listing for warranty and returns.As an eBay Partner, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
- Used on eBay Pre-owned; the seller describes the condition. Returns and warranty are whatever the listing states.
- Open Box (listed by eBay as “New other”) on eBay Unused or opened-box item. It is not an eBay Refurbished item.
Each button opens an eBay search for “used watch” (Buy It Now only; remove that filter on eBay to see auctions). Listings change daily; we show no prices here. Seller descriptions are the seller’s own statements.
What to check in a watches listing
- Reference and serial number location
Omega says serial numbers are engraved on the case back or a lug (inside the caseback on vintage) and appear on the warranty card with the reference; Seiko says the caliber code is on the case back. Ask for clear photos of the case back, lugs and dial, and of the warranty card if present.
Source: Seiko
- eBay Authenticity Guarantee eligibility
eBay's page states which watch listings are eligible (smart watches, parts and accessories are not), and that authenticated vintage watches may contain non-original replacement parts if the manufacturer no longer makes them.
Source: eBay
- Activation Lock (Apple Watch)
Apple: before buying, make sure the previous owner removed Activation Lock by unpairing and entering their Apple Account password. Ask: 'Has the watch been unpaired from your iPhone?'
Source: Apple Support
- Service history (Omega)
Omega recommends a complete service every 5 to 8 years at an authorised service centre and states a 24-month warranty on each service intervention. Ask: 'When was the last full service, by whom? Is there an invoice?'
Source: Omega
These are general points, not an inspection of any listing. The seller’s description is the seller’s statement; we have not verified it.
Skip used if
- The listing does not disclose the movement condition, power reserve, or service history.
- The listing does not identify the strap size, clasp condition, included links, or adjustment tools.
Used, Open Box or Refurbished?
- Used
- Open Box (New other)
- eBay Refurbished – Certified
- eBay Refurbished – Excellent
- eBay Refurbished – Very Good
- eBay Refurbished – Good
- Seller refurbished
- For parts or not working
eBay uses defined condition labels, and they are not interchangeable. An ordinary “Open Box” (listed by eBay as “New other”) is not a “Certified” anything; a seller’s own repair is not an eBay Refurbished item. Check the condition value and any warranty on the listing itself.
How we researched this page
General buying points compiled from manufacturer and eBay documentation and common listing practice. Model-specific facts will be cited per guide. Not based on testing the items. See How We Evaluate.