Buying a watch from analog/shift

Davidt · Nov 13, 2020

Dan S
Yes. Sometimes they will do some quick and dirty regulation because they know that a buyer will usually check timekeeping initially. With respect to a 6 month or 1-year warranty, they are generally just playing the odds that the watch will keep working that long and/or the buyer won't bother to return it. If the watch has a problem and the buyer holds them to the warranty, then they will repair/service it.

Yep.

Clearly playing the odds that “well we could service everything proactively and spend a lot of money, or we could not bother - save the cash, offer a warranty and simply service those that play up in the warranty period”.

JwRosenthal · Nov 13, 2020

I have purchased several used cars from factory dealer lots- I always insist on seeing the service paperwork done after intake. If they can’t provide it, I don’t buy it. It is the only reason I buy from a dealership and pay the premium. It would be the only reason I would buy a watch from a dealer- otherwise why pay the premium? The same or better watches always pop up private party eventually. Patience is a virtue.

fibonacci · Nov 13, 2020

JwRosenthal
why pay the premium? The same or better watches always pop up private party eventually.

Always is a little strong there, I think.

JwRosenthal · Nov 13, 2020

fibonacci
Always is a little strong there, I think.

Agreed- “most often” would be a better phrase. I get that some dealers have networks that yield incredibly rare watches and they qualify each watch to make sure you are getting exactly what you are paying for- you are paying for their expertise and curation- thus a premium is warranted if you don’t have the resources to find it yourself.
But as a “dealer”, I feel they have a responsibility to guarantee every product they sell, and having each watch not only inspected, but serviced by a professional watchmaker ensures that.
I, for one would be far more inclined to buy from a dealer if I knew the watch was good to go for the next 5-10 years without having to shell out another chunk of change. Otherwise they are just a middle-man.

Sidrox25 · Nov 13, 2020

JwRosenthal
Agreed- “most often” would be a better phrase. I get that some dealers have networks that yield incredibly rare watches and they qualify each watch to make sure you are getting exactly what you are paying for- you are paying for their expertise and curation- thus a premium is warranted if you don’t have the resources to find it yourself.
But as a “dealer”, I feel they have a responsibility to guarantee every product they sell, and having each watch not only inspected, but serviced by a professional watchmaker ensures that.
I, for one would be far more inclined to buy from a dealer if I knew the watch was good to go for the next 5-10 years without having to shell out another chunk of change. Otherwise they are just a middle-man.

Thats what my issues was originally. I decided not to purchase the item from Analog Shift. Mainly since I do feel I am being charged a premium and the watch does not appear to be serviced. I also asked how was it running and they stated at about +10 Spd. My follow up question is what would be considered a warranty issue? 20 Spd 70 Spd etc? I didn't get a clear answer.

As stated earlier I bought a watch from HQMilton 2.5 years ago and so far it is still running COSC (GMT master). That is how all their pieces are advertised and I would gladly pay a little more for that comfort and reliability.

Buying a watch from analog/shift

Davidt

JwRosenthal

fibonacci

JwRosenthal

Sidrox25

Similar threads

Need advice on buying a watch online

A simple guide to buying a watch on this forum

Buying a watch abroad from the UK

My - learning - experience buying a Speedmaster 145.012

Analog Shift Long ass write ups...

Great Experience buying from Analog Shift