The market for the best pre-owned luxury watches has never been bigger, and scoring one just got even more tempting: Rolex just announced it will certify pre-owned “Rollies” for the first time ever.
That means, among other things, that pre-owned watches more than three years old will now come with a two-year international warranty, and they’ll also complete with a certified pre-owned seal from Rolex.
Within the program, Rolex makes it possible for consumers to purchase pre-owned watches that the label itself has certified as authentic. Aiming to preserve and maintain its existing products, the brand will guarantee timepieces that are at least three years old with the exacting quality criteria, which all Rolex products must adhere to. Once authenticated, the company’s secondhand products will receive a two-year international guarantee that will remain valid from the date of their resale within the Rolex network.
Bob’s Watches CEO and Founder Paul Altieri sees it as complimentary nod to the booming enthusiasm for vintage timepieces.
“I think overall it’s a positive validation for the secondary market for pre-owned Rolex watches,” Altieri said.
Official dealers will display a signature Rolex Certified Pre-Owned plaque, and each product will hold a Rolex Certified Pre-Owned seal that confirms its status as an authenticated, secondhand watch. Additionally, retailers will mail an official guarantee card at the time of purchase, confirming the watch’s authenticity.
“Rolex watches – new or second-hand – should only be bought from Official Rolex Retailers, who are authorized to sell and care for Rolex watches,” the company said in a statement.
