How to Buy a Used Rolex

You can buy a Rolex watch used and it still retains its value as a status symbol, provided it's the real deal. Here are a few tips to make sure you get what you're paying for.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Educate yourself on the qualities of a used Rolex watch, the current values for a used Rolex per the various styles and the distinguishing marks of an original Rolex. Fake Rolex watches are everywhere, so know what you are buying before you buy it.
2. Check with a Rolex watch dealer. Many times these dealers carry selections of Rolex watches that have been traded in upgrade purchases. Know your price range before you shop, so you can determine if you are getting a good deal on the various models.
3. Shop online or Internet auction sites for used Rolex watches. Do not rush into a purchase on these sites without verifying that the Rolex is authentic. Study a photograph carefully and ask for the model number and serial number to have it checked out by a reputable jeweler before making the buy. If it is an older watch, ask for an official document of any repair work the Rolex company may have performed on the timepiece.
4. Ask to receive information. If buying from a Rolex dealer, get your certificate of authenticity and warranty information if it applies. If you are buying from an online site, ask for those items as well. If the seller cannot provide them, consider looking elsewhere for a purchase.
5. If the Rolex watch you are looking at shows any marking that state "made in China," then it is a fake. Rolex has never manufactured any parts of their watches in China.

Tips & Warnings

• If the price on the used Rolex seems too good to be true, than it probably is just that. Don't think you would be getting an original Rolex from those guys on the street corner.