When it comes to luxury watches, timing isn’t just about telling the hour—it’s also about knowing when to sell. Whether you’re looking to upgrade, release capital, or simply move on from a piece, one question often arises: should you sell your watch before its warranty expires?
Selling your watch at the right moment could make all the difference in what you walk away with. Let’s explore why the warranty window might be more valuable than you think—and what you should do about it.
Find out how warranty status could affect your watch’s value, your options, and the smartest way to sell.
Why the Warranty Matters When Selling a Watch
A warranty is more than just a piece of paper. It’s a signal of authenticity, quality, and peace of mind for potential buyers. Here’s why it matters:
- Confidence in the condition: A valid manufacturer’s warranty reassures buyers that any defects will be handled—usually for free.
- Proof of authenticity: Luxury brands like Rolex, Omega, and Audemars Piguet include warranty cards that confirm your watch is genuine.
- Added value: Buyers are often willing to pay more for a watch that still has time left on its warranty.
- Faster sale: Watches under warranty tend to sell more quickly due to the lower perceived risk.
In short, selling while your watch is still covered could give you an edge in the resale market.
The Sweet Spot: When Is the Best Time to Sell?
Timing your sale just right can help maximise value. But when is that?
Consider Selling Within the First 2-3 Years
Most luxury watches come with a warranty of 2 to 5 years, depending on the brand. For example:
- Rolex offers a 5-year international warranty
- Omega provides up to 5 years
- Cartier gives 2 years, extendable in some cases
Selling within the first half of the warranty period—say, the first 2 or 3 years—is often ideal. At this stage, your watch still feels modern, and any buyer will benefit from a meaningful chunk of the warranty. That makes your listing more attractive—and potentially more profitable.
Does a Warranty Always Impact Resale Value?
Not always, but often.
Some vintage buyers aren’t too fussed about warranties. They’re more focused on heritage, condition, and rarity. But for modern luxury watches, warranty absolutely boosts buyer confidence.
Here’s where the value really shows:
- Private sales: Buyers often request proof of warranty to avoid fakes or dodgy repairs.
- Watch buyers or dealers: Many professional buyers factor warranty status into their offer.
So, while a warranty isn’t everything, it’s definitely a tiebreaker—especially in a competitive market.
What If Your Warranty Has Nearly Run Out?
If your warranty has only a few months left, you still have a selling advantage—but not for long.
Tips If You’re Close to Expiry
- Act quickly: Sell before the warranty runs out completely. Even a few months left is better than nothing.
- Get a free valuation: Some companies offer quick valuations to help you understand your watch’s current worth.
- Highlight the warranty in listings: Mentioning the remaining warranty can help your watch stand out online or during valuation appointments.
Waiting too long might mean you miss the window to get a premium offer.
What If Your Watch Is Out of Warranty?
Don’t panic. Plenty of watches still sell well without warranty coverage—especially from prestigious brands like Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Richard Mille. But keep in mind:
- You may receive slightly lower offers
- Buyers might be more cautious or ask more questions
- You may need a recent service record or inspection
If your watch is no longer under warranty, a professional inspection can provide peace of mind for the buyer—and potentially help you negotiate a better price.
Advantages of Selling Before Warranty Expiry
Why Selling Pre-Warranty Expiry Could Work in Your Favour
- Higher value: Buyers often pay more when a watch includes warranty protection.
- Faster sale: Less buyer hesitation means a smoother transaction.
- More buyer trust: Warranties boost confidence that the watch is genuine and well cared for.
- Lower costs: If any last-minute servicing is needed, it might still be covered.
You’ll be seen as a trustworthy seller—and that always helps.
Where Should You Sell?
Selling to a reputable buyer is just as important as when you sell. A well-established buyer like The Watch Exchange offers:
- Same-day payment
- Expert inspections
- Free valuations
- Fair, no-pressure offers
We’ll also give you the option to place your watch in a competitive online auction, where over 150 verified traders across the UK could bid on it.
If you’re thinking about selling, it’s worth finding out what your watch is worth while it still has warranty value.
Timing Could Make You More Money
Selling a luxury watch isn’t just about the brand or condition—it’s about knowing when to act.
If your watch is still under warranty, or close to its end date, now might be the perfect time to sell. Buyers get more peace of mind, and you stand to gain a stronger offer. Waiting too long could mean leaving money on the table.
Get a professional valuation today to see what your watch is worth—before the warranty clock runs out.
