Understanding Pre-owned Watch Conditions

When you're buying a luxury timepiece on the secondary market, condition matters. It affects how the watch looks on your wrist, what it's worth and how it holds its value. At The Watch Co Australia, every watch is authenticated twice, once by our in-house experts and once by an independent certified horologist. So you can trust that our condition grading is honest, consistent and clear.

We Never Polish Our Watches

Every watch we sell is offered exactly as it is, never polished. Polishing removes metal and softens the original lines, bevels and finishes of the case. That takes away from both a watch's character and its long-term value. What you see is the watch's true, original condition.

New Unworn

Exactly as it left the manufacturer. The watch has never been worn and comes with its original box and papers. This is the closest you'll get to buying from the boutique, often without the waitlist.

Like New

Worn only a handful of times, usually with protective stickers and shows no visible signs of wear. The bracelet may have been sized, but to the eye it looks new.

Mint

Carefully worn and beautifully kept. You might see hairline marks or faint marks on close inspection, but nothing that takes away from its presence on the wrist. A superb example that's ready to wear.

Excellent

Lightly worn, with some surface marks from normal use, usually on the clasp or bracelet. The case, dial and crystal are in great shape, and the watch runs perfectly.

Very Good

Shows moderate signs of regular wear, such as scratches on the case or bracelet. It's mechanically sound and authenticated, and it gives you real value for a piece built to be worn.

Good

A well-loved watch with visible wear that tells its story. The case or bracelet may have noticeable scratches, but the movement and function are fully verified. It's ideal for collectors who value character and price.

Warranty Peace of Mind

If a watch is still covered by its original manufacturer warranty, it comes with that warranty in full. Coverage runs from the date on the warranty card, for example 5 years from purchase for Rolex. If a watch's manufacturer warranty has ended, we cover it with our own 1-year warranty, so every piece we sell is protected. Read our full warranty.

Our Promise

Whatever the grade, every watch we sell is genuine, unpolished and working perfectly. If you'd like to see a piece in person, visit our Bondi Junction showroom or book a virtual appointment. We're always happy to talk watches.