Question 1

Are your watches authentic?

Accepted Answer

Every watch we sell has been personally hand-sourced and individually inspected. We never sell fakes, replicas, or watches we have any doubts about. With over 611 five-star reviews on Vinted and a track record built on honest dealing, our reputation depends entirely on the authenticity and accuracy of every listing. If you have questions about a specific piece, just ask. We are always happy to provide additional information or photographs.

Question 2

Are the watches in working order?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every watch is tested before dispatch to confirm it is functioning correctly. Quartz watches are fitted with a fresh battery. Mechanical and automatic watches are wound and checked to confirm they are running. Vintage mechanical movements may gain or lose one to two minutes per day, which is entirely normal for their age and not a fault. Any known issues are always stated clearly in the listing description. We do not list watches with undisclosed problems.

Question 3

How do you grade condition?

Accepted Answer

We grade honestly, which means a watch described as 'good' will have visible signs of wear, such as scratches to the case or light marks to the bracelet, all photographed and described accurately. We use a scale from Fair through to Mint/Unworn. We never use condition grades to flatter a piece. Full details of our grading system are on our authentication page.

Question 4

Do you have a physical shop?

Accepted Answer

We are an online-only business, based in London. There is no physical shop and we do not offer viewings or collections. However, every listing includes a full set of photographs taken in natural light, covering the dial, case, movement (where visible), and any areas of wear. If you would like additional photos of a specific area before purchasing, just message us. We are happy to help.

Question 5

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay via our secure Stripe checkout. All transactions are encrypted and processed securely. We do not store card details.

Question 6

How long does delivery take?

Accepted Answer

UK orders ship free and fully tracked via Royal Mail, typically arriving one to two working days after dispatch. Orders over £300 are sent Special Delivery Guaranteed: insured to full value and guaranteed next working day once dispatched. We dispatch within one to two business days of cleared payment. International orders typically arrive in five to ten business days depending on destination, and are tracked, signed for and fully insured. Customs processing can add to that.

Question 7

Do I pay customs charges or import taxes?

Accepted Answer

UK buyers never pay import charges on domestic orders. US buyers never pay import charges either: we pay US import duties at the time of posting, so there is nothing to pay on delivery. Australian orders under AU$1,000, New Zealand orders under NZ$1,000 and Singapore orders under S$400 attract no import charges at the border, and Hong Kong charges no duty or tax on watches at all. Orders to the EU, Canada and the rest of the world are sent DAP (Delivered At Place): shipping is free and fully insured, and import duties and taxes, where applicable, are set by and payable to your country's customs authority on delivery. As a guide, EU buyers typically pay import VAT at their country's standard rate plus a small handling fee.

Question 8

What is your returns policy?

Accepted Answer

We offer a 14-day returns window from the date of delivery. If the watch is not right for you, contact us within 14 days and we will arrange the return. The watch must be returned unworn and in the same condition as sent. If the item is not as described, we cover all return postage costs and refund in full. Full details are on our returns policy page.

Question 9

How do I wind a mechanical watch?

Accepted Answer

Hold the crown (the small knob on the side of the case) between your thumb and forefinger and turn clockwise approximately 20 to 30 full turns until you feel light resistance, then stop there and do not force it. To set the time, gently pull the crown out one position and turn it to the correct time, then push it back in. For automatic watches, wearing the watch daily is usually sufficient to keep it running; manual-wind watches should be wound each morning.

Question 10

Can I resize a bracelet or change the strap?

Accepted Answer

Most metal bracelets can be resized by a local jeweller or watchmaker for a small fee. Strap changes are straightforward on most watches, and we are happy to advise on compatible strap widths before you buy. Contact us via WhatsApp on +44 7720 390772 if you have questions about a specific piece.

Question 11

Are the watches serviced?

Accepted Answer

Watches are cleaned and tested before dispatch. Unless a full service is specifically mentioned in the listing, we do not service every piece. Many vintage watches run beautifully without intervention, and unnecessary servicing can diminish originality. Vintage patina and original finishing are preserved intentionally. If a watch needs service work, this is reflected honestly in the condition grade and price.

Question 12

Can I reserve a watch?

Accepted Answer

We do not offer reservations. It is first come, first served to keep things fair. If you would like more information or additional photographs before deciding, please contact us first and we will do everything we can to help you make a confident decision.

Question 13

I have more questions. How do I get in touch?

Accepted Answer

You can reach us via the contact form at londonwatchmarket.co.uk/contact, or by WhatsApp on +44 7720 390772. We aim to respond within one business day, usually much sooner.

Frequently asked
questions.

Didn't find your answer? We're happy to help directly.

Frequently askedquestions.

Didn't find your answer? We're happy to help directly.

Frequently asked
questions.