Chrono24 Debuts Pre-Owned Watch Authentication Program
Watch marketplace Chrono24 has introduced a new authentication program for pre-owned watches.
"Karlsruhe, Germany—Watch marketplace Chrono24 has launched a new authentication program for pre-owned timepieces, dubbed “Certified.”
Currently live in Europe, the program’s U.S. rollout is scheduled for early summer.
Shoppers can now browse a selection of certified authentic pre-owned watches on its website.
These watches are marked with a green “C” icon, signifying that a watch has either already been certified or that it can be certified as an add-on option.
Each certified watch will be accompanied by a digital certificate of authenticity.
The program is available for pre-owned watches priced over €1,000 ($1,085) from professional and private sellers.
The certification process includes an authenticity check of the watch, as well as its box and papers, performed by a certified watchmaker.
There are two ways in which a watch on the platform can be certified.
The primary way a watch can be certified is by an “experienced, vetted, and regularly audited watchmaker,” said the company, who is located near a vetted dealer and contracted by Chrono24. This is done prior to the listing and at no charge to the purchaser.
The second option is that a watch sold by a private seller can be certified by a watchmaker in a certification center, before it arrives to the purchaser.
The optional service costs €199 ($216) and includes insured postage, with a two to five business day turnaround time.
The watchmakers check the watch against a comprehensive checklist, said Chrono24, and follow a standardized authentication process.
The inspection includes a theft check, where the serial number is checked against stolen watch databases.
A functionality check makes sure the complications, winding, chronograph, etc. are working properly, which does require opening the case back.
An authenticity check verifies that the watch matches Chrono24’s definition of authenticity, explained in detail on its website.
Watchmakers also ensure the box and papers, if included, match the reference.
If these checks are passed, a certificate of authenticity is created, which includes details about the condition of the watch and any aftermarket parts.
If there is a difference between the listing and the watch itself, Chrono24 will inform the purchaser so they can decide whether or not to make the purchase.
Chrono24 notes that watch purchases on its website, regardless of “Certified” status, are protected through its existing “Buyer Protection” program.
Watch listings on the platform are checked by internal watch experts as part of its “Authentication Protection” commitment.
The payment is held in escrow until the shopper confirms they are happy with the purchase, within ... "
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