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Play it cool, pay less: Negotiation tips for buying luxury watches

How to haggle like a pro and save thousands on your next luxury watch

By
Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar
Patek Philippe

The art of the deal is just that — an art! Purchasing a luxury watch is more than merely owning a nice timepiece; they are solid investments that are statements and, for many, family heirlooms. For most people, purchasing a luxury watch at the full retail price isn’t typically in the cards. If you have a preference for high-end brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, or Omega, the ability to negotiate with a trusted watch dealer can save you thousands of dollars and increase the value of your collection. So, if you want to get the best watch of your life, then you’re going to have to learn how to fine-tune your negotiation game. 

The most crucial element to negotiation is a well-executed strategy involving thorough research, patience, and a bit of luck. Understanding the current market to know when to buy and when to walk away is another important step in gaining access to watches that are in demand and difficult to acquire. It is possible to play it cool, pay less, and incorporate negotiation tips for buying luxury watches that speak to your personal aesthetics and budget.  We uncover the ins and outs of negotiation, how to play your hand, when to fold, and ultimately impress the person on the other side of the bargaining table. 

Negotiations matter

Axia watch
Axia Time

Buying a premium watch can often seem like a chess match that will test your boundaries as you attempt to wheel and deal to reach the bottom line. No matter the high-end brand you prefer, knowing the ins and outs of negotiation can not only save you headaches but a pretty penny. The following rules will ensure you navigate the process to precision. 

Knowledge will pay huge dividends

Carl F. Bucherer x Hodinkee limited edition watch
Hodinkee

Before you go into any store, do your research to stay ahead of the game. Be sure to always be aware of the retail price versus the market price of the watch(es) you have your eye on. Check legitimate forums and trusted sites to get a better understanding of the current marketplace for the models you are interested in. Is the model you really want realistic to attain? Find out the number of limited editions available worldwide to get a rough estimate. Be prepared to go one step further with proof in hand at the dealership you visit as certifiable proof to leverage the bargaining process. 

The psychological angle of negotiating

H. Moser Cie. at Geneva watch day 2022
H. Moser & Cie.

Professional bargainers can spot desperation from a mile away, making it all the more important to walk into the dealership cool, calm, and collected. Negotiations don’t have to be cutthroat — be polite yet steadfast in what you will or will not accept. Be mindful of the fine tightwalk between confidence and cockiness and proceed accordingly. Let the dealer speak first before countering with your own offer, and show intent on purchasing on the day you actually visit to prove how serious you are about a new timepiece. 

Knowing when to strike

A row of four luxury watches.
Watchfinder & Co. / Watchfinder & Co.

Timing can be everything when it comes to negotiation and the end of the month or quarter is a great time to hit up a dealership as many have sales quotas attached. That translates into possibly better prices for you as they look to unload newer models. Another alternative to consider is visiting stores when traffic is lower. If there is more time to focus on you, then you have more time to potentially negotiate a better price. 

Be prepared to walk away

Rolex GMT Master II on a hand in front of a wood grain background.
Colin Hui / Shutterstock

If no deal seems likely no matter how hard you bargain back and forth, then be ready to exit the store and look elsewhere. Before you leave, however, exchange contact information with the dealer, as they may be more inclined to call you back with a counteroffer if your first impression was stellar. They may even offer up free straps or warranties to sweeten the deal. 

Maximizing the deal

A silver luxury watch
Mat Brown / Pexels

Before the deal has been settled, there are still other ways to negotiate up. Try requesting free servicing or accessories if they are in stock. Requesting a longer warranty is another great way to ensure the life of your latest watch. Know that the best deals go to customers who frequent the same dealership and build rapport. If you are recognized as one of them, you are more inclined to get the best deals on rarer models and VIP pricing to maintain customer loyalty. 

Play the game, win fabulous prizes

Now that you have these guidelines, you should have the confidence to walk into any dealership and secure a great deal. You’ve done your research, so do not be afraid to trust the process and go in with the mindset to win. The perfect timepiece awaits you and now you have all the tools necessary to claim it. Remember that for every dollar you save on the purchase can be used for that next great watch to add to your collection.

Triston Brewer
Triston Brewer
Triston Brewer is a journalist, creative director, fashionisto, and jetsetting digital bon vivant. Brace yourself!
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