Your three options.
Grey market, explained.
Grey-market retailers sell new, genuine watches obtained outside a brand’s authorised network. Prices are often lower, but the manufacturer warranty may not apply; the retailer provides its own. For an affordable watch with a reliable movement, that trade-off can be very good value. For an expensive or complicated watch, the manufacturer warranty is worth more. Our reviews say clearly which kind of retailer each shop link goes to and what warranty it states.
Checks before you buy.
- Confirm the exact reference number matches the watch you researched.
- Read the warranty: who provides it, for how long, and what it covers.
- Read the return policy: the window, whether worn or sized watches qualify, and any restocking fee.
- Check shipping, duties and taxes for your country, so the delivered price holds no surprises.
- Pay by credit card or a payment method with buyer protection.
- For pre-owned, ask for clear photos of the caseback and serial, the box and papers, and any service records.
Using discount codes well.
A partner code can take a meaningful amount off, but apply it before you pay and check the order summary. Some codes exclude sale items or specific brands. How to use watch discount codes · Current Watch Ritual codes.
When it arrives.
- Inspect it before sizing or wearing it, so you keep your return options.
- Check it runs, the date changes and the crown works.
- Keep the box, papers and spare links; they matter for warranty and resale.
A few good questions.
Is it safe to buy a watch from a grey-market retailer?
Reputable grey-market retailers sell genuine watches. The trade-off is usually the warranty: you get the retailer’s instead of the manufacturer’s. Check the retailer’s terms and reviews.
Does the manufacturer warranty apply if I buy online?
If you buy from the brand or an authorised dealer, usually yes. From an independent retailer, often not; the retailer provides its own warranty.
Can I return a watch after wearing it?
Many sellers only accept unworn watches with all protective stickers and links. Read the return policy before sizing or wearing a new watch.
How we write guides: we explain watchmaking from manufacturer documentation and published standards, and say plainly where numbers vary by brand or movement. Our approach.