If you have an old watch that still works but that you don’t really use anymore, it might be a good idea to sell your watch for some handy pocket change. If you have a top brand watch, like a Rolex or a Patek Philippe, you might be able to get a substantial amount from the right San Diego jewelry buyer, especially if you prepare your watch for sale well. Here are a few tips to help you out.

Preparing your watch

Before you set out to sell your watch, make sure that it’s in top working condition. If it’s broken or seems to be off, take it to a watch repair shop to get it checked. If it uses batteries, get new ones. If the watchband looks obviously worn, it’s usually best to get a new watchband as well. The only time you want to leave the old watchband on, even if it’s worn, is when you’re trying to sell a collectible or antique watch, in which case the original band with the scratches and smudged paint would actually add value to the timepiece.

Also keep in mind that, if you’re looking to sell a Rolex, San Diego jewelry buyers will look to see that the watch has original Rolex parts. Replacement parts that did not come from the manufacturer will lower the price considerably. So if you have a Rolex or any other top brand watch that needs new parts before selling it, be sure to get original parts as replacements.

Pricing your watch

When you price your watch, don’t just guess and stick a price tag on it. Do some research first to see what the market price is for similar watches. Check price influencers such as the watch’s brand, material, format (digital or analog) and features. If you have an antique or collectible watch, the best thing to do is to take it to a professional appraiser to have its value checked before you go off to bargain with a jewelry shop or private buyer.

Presenting your watch

If you go to sell a watch to a San Diego jewelry buyer, you’ll get a much better deal if you bring it along in its original box with the original purchase papers. This is especially true of top brand name watches, as counterfeit brand name watches are a serious problem. If you don’t have the case, it’s good to bring it to the shop in another good-quality case or container.

If you’re planning to sell your watch online, be sure to take a lot of detailed pictures and provide a detailed description for the potential buyers.