Hey there, I'm from Spain and here we use to buy second hand watches as much as (or even more than) new watches. Do you buy second hand watches or only new ones?
Both new and second hand are great. There are a couple of advantages to second hand. First is the price is usually lower, and next is some models of watches are no longer produced new, so if you want a certain model the only option is used. How is the collecting market in Spain? Are you just starting to get interested in watches as a hobby?
Always new. Fortunately I have a small semblance of self-control (SWMBO would disagree) so I don't need too many watches.
Bought a used GO once and all I bought was someone else's headache. Never could get that watch to run properly and neither could the SC.
I lucked on an NOS Soviet era Pobeda in its original delivery box. You could tell it had never had a strap fitted. They delivered these watches sans strap. Accurate to 2 seconds per week in a 28 day test.
I think my G-Shock, which I wear for rough outdoor activities, is the only watch I currently own that I acquired new. My second newest watch is a 1999 Submariner, which I have recently realized some people now consider vintage. For me, it's my "modern" pre-owned watch that I wear when it rains.
All my watches have second hands. I generally buy pre-owned. New ones take a 30-60% hit, depending on brand/model.
Yes! In the last three years I bought 5 new Watches and over 90 vintage/used pieces. I like to hunt and learn about vintage Watches, on top they are often more affordable.