eBay Authentication- Sellers Beware (partially just a rant)

I just wanted to share another challenge to the eBay Authentication process that I experienced today. Truly more of a rant more than anything but figured I’d share some helpful insights in between my rant of the sub par authentication service eBay offers.

A few months ago, I had a very poor initial experience as a buyer where the authenticator noticeably scared the case back of an Omega Seamaster 300 ref.14755-61 SC. eBay did compensate me the full amount of the quote to repair the damage even though I wanted to keep it in the honest survivor condition it was offered. However the authenticator contested they caused any damage to which I had to provide significant photos evidence, but that’s for another discussion.

The reason for this post is to advise US based sellers that in addition to the authenticity verification, the authenticator is also subjectively stating if you described the watch to their interpretation of the condition categories, which is part of the authenticity report. Not that I was trying to hide anything but this was news to me, so I thought I’d spread the word.

I based my condition of the watch offered on a comparison of the watches on the market, assessing that my watch was in great to excellent condition comparatively. The authenticator differed to which eBay provided no report initially to me but just put the process on hold including the funds even though the watch was confirmed authentic. It’s not that I mind in theory that they do this but to state that the condition was not as described without any evidence was BS in my opinion. Upon being informed of the difference in opinion, the only steps forward options were to offer a partial refund or proceed with the amount as sold. In essence, can we reduce your margin even more on top of the exorbitant sellers fees we’ve already charged you. Not until I responded to the inspection report, and some 12 hours later, was I able to request eBay call me to clarify the reasoning as to why the authenticator provided such a report.

All in, just another good idea in theory but half-a**ed in practice that puts the onus on the seller and buyer to hopefully work together to sort out the consternation that eBay and its sub-par vendors cause.

Okay rant over, best of luck out there and cheers all.

No fan of Ebay’s Authentication Service since they initially rolled it out.

Weve all heard some horror stories, I hate to hear them and feel bad for those unfortunate enough to experience it.

I have had zero issues with the authentication "service" and do find a few positives. As a seller it does make it very difficult for a buyer to return as "not as described" which is usually the buyers remorse reason.

Maybe a helpful hint: Describe accurately and follow their rules, they have definitions of "excellent condition" and its based on a new watch, not other examples on the market currently. (and that is not a criticism of the OP, just a note to others reading) Its similar to trading cards; you may want to go down a level on your claim to speed it through authentication. I don't know anyone that will turn down a watch they like, with good description and pictures that show the condition well, based on the eBay condition classification by the seller. Most I list as "fair" condition which is always exceeded.

Last hint, the work-around: You can skip the authentication service.
When you are making your listing, in the "essential" section where you add brand, type, model, etc there is a option for "customized", if you change it to YES, eBay no longer offers authentication. I don't do this personally, I want it to go through for the return reason above, but Ive seen it done.

I'm aware of 1 widely documented counterfeit Aquadive 709-1 that Ebay Authentication certified as legit.

I think that any watch sale over $2,000 must go through the authenticators. The fee is built into your seller fee from eBay.

Under $2,000 and the service is optional, but only at the buyer’s request and they have to pay for it.
gatorcpa

My experience is similar to Dave’s above. I’ve bought and sold multiple watches via authentication, that I described accurately and never had an issue.

Equally, I’ve bought a couple where the authenticator sent me pictures of case wear that wasn’t visible in the pics. One I accepted anyway, one I declined and one I negotiated a reduced price with the seller.

So, I actually like it. As Dave says, making sure you’re accurate and thorough in descriptions when selling, ensuring all flaws are visible in pictures is key.

Great information. I have not yet bought or sold a watch on eBay. This info gives me some insight as to best practices moving forward.

Any other input from people with eBay buying and selling experience is greatly appreciated.