re: OT Watch experts: Used watch buying tips

I ran the sales corner on Watchuseek for many many years. Here is something I wrote back in 2009 and it should help you:

How to AVOID SCAMS

AS A BUYER
· Ask for clear pictures with a specific time or object included.
· Ask for the sellers address. Check www.anywho.com to find out if they live where they say they live.
· Get their home phone number. Use www.anywho.com and do a reverse lookup to see if the phone is registered in their name.
· Call them and talk to them about the watch.
· Don’t get too excited if you see a great watch at a ridiculously cheap price. It may be a scam.
· Be vigilant with new members.
· I recommend paying with PayPal using a credit card. It provides an extra layer of protection. NEVER use "gift"
· Only use bank wire or certified check if you completely trust the seller. Even then, it is a risk.
· Be specific about which shipping method will be used and ask for the tracking number.
· Don’t ask for the seller to do anything illegal (i.e. reduce value for customs reasons)
· Google the member’s username and real name online. See what comes up.
· Pay for insurance on every watch.
· New sellers should comply with all reasonable requests from you (pictures, phone call, etc). If they don’t, walk away. If you don’t feel comfortable about something, walk away.

AS A SELLER
· Ask for references.
· Check those references. They will give you their best references. Make an inquiry post asking about them.
· If they give you their EBay username as a reference, contact them through the EBay system and ask them if they are the same person.
· Check the forums to see what prior deals have looked like for your buyer.
· Google the username and email address of the buyer. See what comes up.
· Accept whatever payment you are comfortable with
· Know all shipping rules if you are shipping internationally.
· Ask the buyer for their home phone number and call and talk to them. Use www.anywho.com and do a reverse lookup to see if the phone is registered in their name.
· Check www.anywho.com to find out if they live where they say they live.
· Don’t reduce the value on an international shipment. It may cause you problems at some point. It also may cost you money.
· Ship the item using a method that allows for insurance, tracking and signature delivery confirmation.
· Be vigilant with new users.
· If you ever feel uncomfortable, walk away.