Trusted UK Dealers?

Lukwallace · Sep 23, 2021

Hi All,

I'm new here and I am starting my search for my first vintage Seamaster, with this being my first vintage watch I thought I'd save myself some piece and mind and purchase it through a dealer. Yes, I know that I will likely be paying a slight premium, however, I feel having the 'security' of buying through a dealer is a must for this first purchase.

Now I'm sure there may already be some very similar threads to this so please if were repeating ourselves, direct me to those threads.

So, my question is what dealers in the UK would people recommend?

These can be bricks and mortar or online based, so let hear peoples opinions.

SeaMSTR · Sep 23, 2021

L Lukwallace
Hi All,

I'm new here and I am starting my search for my first vintage Seamaster, with this being my first vintage watch I thought I'd save myself some piece and mind and purchase it through a dealer. Yes, I know that I will likely be paying a slight premium, however, I feel having the 'security' of buying through a dealer is a must for this first purchase.

Now I'm sure there may already be some very similar threads to this so please if were repeating ourselves, direct me to those threads.

So, my question is what dealers in the UK would people recommend?

These can be bricks and mortar or online based, so let hear peoples opinions.

Good morning, welcome to OF!

I have read threads on with recommendations for Kibble Watches (based in North London), but haven’t had any personal experience with them.

Spend some time browsing this forum. Decide what model you would like, and research it as much as you can, check out old for sale threads and posts about similar watches. Study lots of photos of the model you like.

This will put you in a strong position when you do eventually find a potential purchase- it will help you spot a good/ correct one, or one with a redial, wrong crown, etc etc.

Have a look at the thread ‘learn how to fish’, too.

Hope that helps!

jaegodylan · Sep 23, 2021

Honestly I would just keep an eye on the sales in the forum. Some great deals in good honest condition.

Otherwise Mr. Kibble is indeed good.

Spruce · Sep 23, 2021

Some dealers supply ‘wrist candy’ - older collectible that may be over polished displayed online using photos that have been digitally adjusted to enhance or diminish various aspects.

In these circumstances, it is important that if you’re buying online, you have the option to return it.

Most sellers will describe the watch as serviced. How good a service varies.

All online dealers price their watches at a high price. It’s important that you compare watches with advice previously given on OF, look at sold prices on EBay and check out sites like Chrono24 and others. Some watches will be overpriced but you’ll get a feel.

If you see a watch you’re interested in buying, post it here and get advice before you pull the trigger.

Dug · Sep 23, 2021

I was in a similar position myself not too long ago, kicking off what looks like being a long term interest in all things Omega.
Now the owner of two vintage pieces, a disappointing Seamaster bought on ebay and a beautiful piepan-dialed constellation bought from a OF member (thank you again @Christos71).
I'm not naive enough to believe that all on OFare 100% but I would feel far more confident buying here than from a dealer, with overheads and an often chunky profit margin, or rolling the dice on ebay.
As others have said, decide what you want, do your homework and be prepared to wait.

Trusted UK Dealers?

Lukwallace

SeaMSTR

jaegodylan

Spruce

Dug

Similar threads

Looking for a trusted watchmaker (France / Europe)

How to check if its a legit store/ Trusted Dealer? HK

I'm involved in a transaction dispute with a dealer

Good dealers for 30s-40s Omegas?

Shopping watch dealers on cruise ships (Regalia/Swiss Crown USA/Omega) - Quantum of the Seas, Australia 2025 with mini ship review

Real or fake- Aqua Terra 2503.33.00 -purchased from supposedly reputable online dealer