Whether you're looking to sell, insure, or simply satisfy your curiosity, getting an accurate watch valuation in Sydney is easier than most people think. Here's everything you need to know about how watch valuations work and what affects the value of your timepiece.
Why Get Your Watch Valued?
There are three main reasons people get their watches valued:
- Insurance — if your watch isn't specifically listed on your home and contents policy, you may not be fully covered if it's lost, stolen or damaged. A professional valuation gives your insurer an accurate replacement value.
- Selling — knowing what your watch is worth before you sell means you don't leave money on the table. A valuation gives you confidence when negotiating.
- Estate and probate — watches can represent significant assets in an estate. A professional valuation ensures they're accurately accounted for.
What Affects the Value of a Watch?
Several factors determine what a watch is worth in the current market:
Brand and model — a Rolex Submariner will always be worth significantly more than a Rolex Datejust of the same age, simply due to demand. Reference number matters enormously within brands.
Condition — an unpolished watch in honest original condition is often worth more than a heavily polished example. Polishing removes the sharp lines from the case and lugs that collectors prize.
Box and papers — original box, warranty card and hang tags can add anywhere from $500 to $3,000+ to the value depending on the reference. The warranty card is particularly important as it confirms year of production.
Service history — a watch with documented service history, especially recent work, is more valuable than one with unknown service history.
Current market conditions — the luxury watch market moves. What a watch was worth in 2021 during the peak of the market frenzy may be different to what it's worth today. A good valuator understands current market pricing, not just historical data.
How Watch Valuations Work at The Watch Business
We provide professional watch valuations for insurance replacement purposes. Our valuations are based on current market conditions and are prepared by our licensed dealer with over eight years of experience in the Australian pre-owned watch market.
The process is simple and can be done entirely remotely. Just send us photos of your watch along with the model number, serial number, and any paperwork you have via WhatsApp or email. We assess the details, and if we need anything further we'll let you know. No need to come in — most valuations are handled quickly and efficiently without you leaving home.
How Much Does a Watch Valuation Cost?
Visit our Watch Valuation page at watchbiz.com.au/pages/watch-valuation for current pricing and to book an appointment.
Which Brands Do We Value?
We regularly value watches from all major Swiss manufacturers including Rolex, Omega, Cartier, IWC, Panerai, Breitling, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, Tudor, Vacheron Constantin, Jaeger-LeCoultre and many more.
Book a Watch Valuation in Sydney
Our office is at Level 9, Suite 7, 428 George Street, Sydney (Dymocks Building). All appointments are strictly by appointment only.
Contact Dmitri on 0423 778 091, email sales@watchbiz.com.au, or visit our Watch Valuation page to get started.