Buying a second hand Rolex

[swiss_ops]

Anyone here who knows the info - or has bought a second hand Rolex, please answer below:

1. Is it important to get it serviced? e.g. get time accuracy checked etc?
2. How much does this cost approx (if it matters which watch, say an date just for example)
3. What does a service actually cover? cleaning, time check etc

Any other thoughts or suggestions to do when looking for or after buying a second hand Rolex.

Not bought one my self yet however looking to at some point, at the same time still deciding whether to go the extra and buy a brand new one.

[KenNethcole]

Plenty of us bought used so no worry. Most important thing is to buy the seller. Don't just look at the watch but also look into the seller's history/reputation. There are many trusted sellers on here so plenty of options for you.
As for your questions:
1. Servicing a watch will depend when it was last service and how well is it keeping time. Also how old the watch is. A watch that is used but say a year old won't need a service.
2. Usually a few hundreds.
3. What you listed and also replacement of worn parts and polishing of the watch if you want to. Some of this are extra cost but rsc/independents will give you a qoute before doing any work.

[Ckci]

I used to always buy new and liked my AD salesman Dominque. We actually have each other's cell numbers and he texted my last night about general chit chat but since finding this site I doubt I'll buy from him again because there are so many good sellers on here. After you find a watch you like through the search sections either Rolex or Non-Rolex go to the who's who buyers and sellers section and search the seller in the advanced portion under the search tab. If the seller has numerous glowing responses from people with hundreds to thousands of posts then I feel very good about buying from him (or her; I just haven't run into any female sellers.) I wouldn't send a watch in to get the timing checked. I have confirmed with sellers to have them test it before purchase a few times. I really like my watches to be accurate. I'm amazed at how accurate all of these watches are. They are within 2-3 secs per day. If I was going to do serious diving I might get the seals tested and of course I'd only dive with a watch that was meant for diving. Apart from that if there wasn't a problem I doubt I'd send one in for service. The service covers a lot. Typically it's my understanding the whole watch is taken apart and worn parts are replaced and everything that should be lubricated is. Others know better but I'd say about $400-700 for a Rolex and I think more for an AP. Lastly, unless you have lots of will power I'd guess if you hang out here much you'll get a serious bite from the "watch bug" and end up buying more than one very nice watch. Take your time and visit a lot of discussions. It will help you to make a better decision. Finally, post pictures of what you end up buying. Russell.
Had started my answer before above post so what Ken said.

[swiss_ops]

thank you for your inputs and I've already got that feeling I'm gonna end up with more than just 1 watch! haha.

[The Swish]

I bought a used Sub date (2002) 18 months ago, and it's just gone into the London RSC in St James's Square for a service.

The RSC will inspect your watch while you wait - if there are any issues with authenticity you will soon find out (they will check serial nos on the bracelet and the case). They will also be able to tell you if the watch has previously been serviced at an RSC.

You will receive a written estimate in 7-10 days. Current turnaround, should you choose to go ahead, is around six weeks.

Basic service cost and bracelet / case refurb is around £450 including VAT. The actual cost may be higher if essential parts not covered by the service need replacing. You will also be offered optional extras if there is cosmetic damage to other parts and you wish them to be replaced (bezel insert etc.)

You can choose to collect your watch once it's ready, or have it couriered to you at no additional cost.

Hope this helps.

[vman]

There is nothing wrong with buying used as long as you buy the seller and not the watch. A trusted seller will always make things right for you. With that in mind, I'd bring a pre-loved Rolex to a reputable watchmaker for authentication and appraisal for insurance purposes.