I’m looking at a Speedmaster Broad Arrow on eBay (yes, I know there’s probably better places to purchase from...).

Everything seems to check out on the watch, except the seller won’t share the serial number.

Would this be a red flag for you?

Appreciate everyone’s input.

 

Will they at least give you the first four digits or so and block out the rest?

 

Seems odd does he have a reason?

 

At least for me, transparency is everything; buying or selling. I'd pass.

 

Yes, it's a read flag. What is the reason he gives? Quite often sellers will say they don't want to open the watch. If the seller has a long eBay history selling expensive items with close to 100% feedback, takes returns and the price is a good deal, you can take a chance on it. Have your watchmaker open it and if there is a problem, you can return it. You're only risking the shipping cost.

However, if this is not a top seller, this could be a scam. The seller might not even have the watch.

 

The serial number is pretty fundamental, especially when purchasing a desirable watch. Seller doesn't share the serial number. Seller misses the sale. Simple as that.

 

Should be visible on the caseback pix if it's on the listing

 

I didn't realize the serial was right on the outside of the case-back on these. In that case, it's pretty crazy not to show it.

 

It’s normal not to show it in the add because scammers can use it, but if you request it through PM as a legit buyer then they should.

 

Thank you everyone for your inputs. The seller never gave a reason, nor did I ask for one. Other sellers have given me pictures of the SN from both the cards as well as lug + movement. Others did the same showing the last few digits from each place marked.

Looking for into the seller, he only has 2 transactions, so yes, I’ll pass.

Thank you everyone!

 

I've experienced this behavior. I don't expect to be given the full serial but the first 4/5 should be shared.

Like others have suggested if the watch looks worth the potential hassle there is some protection - but personally I walked away. I felt it wasn't worth the agro.

 

Looking closer at one of the sellers’ pictures, the SN is clearly visible and legible. Is there an online place that can verify a #?

 

Plenty more pebbles on the Beach…stroll down the shore, and look afresh

 

This.

 

Good advise. And, I’m in zero hurry.

 

And...I just want to thank everyone again for their input, very helpful to slow down and not rush the search process.

 

Ask for new shot of the back of the watch with a piece of paper with the date on it to verify the watch.

More worried not in hand at this point. Some people are wierd about serial numbers and license plates thinking you can steal your first born with that.

 

Not steal my first born, yes place a fraudulent sale

 

i agree. or, you could send private query to check on serial number. better be on the "buyer's beware" mode.

 

I think asking for the approximate range of the SN is not unreasonable and sellers should oblige