Are Watch Box and Papers Important?

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When purchasing a pre-owned watch, one of the most important factors, apart from price and authenticity, is the presence of the watch box and papers. That is, if the watch comes with its original box, certificates, and factory paperwork.

Most pre-owned watch retailers include this detail in their listings, a sign that it is of importance to many buyers – but why is that exactly?

Let’s dig deeper on why watch box and papers matter and when you should go ahead and buy the watch, even without it.

WHAT CONSTITUTES “BOX AND PAPERS”?

Accompaniments of a “full set” timepiece will vary depending on the brand, but the basic inclusions are as follows:

Box – most brands offer an outer box, a presentation box – usually lined with leather and may also include a travel case. Note that one can buy these replacement boxes from authorized dealers, with prices ranging from $250 to over a thousand.

Papers – again, depending on the brand, these may include any of the following: user manual, Certificate of Authenticity, Certificate of Origin, and warranty card.

For certain brands like Patek Philippe, you can also order archive papers of the watch after the sale. You can find out details such as its date of production and original date of sale.

The box and papers that come with Rolex and Patek Philippe timepieces.

Some additional items you may find when buying a “full set” pre-owned watch are the original purchase receipt and service history records.

While these items help confirm the provenance of the timepiece, they don’t necessarily guarantee that a watch is real or authentic. They are not legal documentation and are not required when selling a watch or transferring ownership.

Unworn Rolex timepieces include a Genuine Swiss chronometer hang tag.
Pictured: Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea Steel Mens Watch

What they do tell you is that the watch was cared for. Someone who keeps the original packaging of the watch, and any other accessories that came with the original purchase, is likely an owner who was detailed enough to keep the watch maintained and cleaned regularly.

DO WATCH BOX AND PAPERS MATTER?

There are several factors to consider when weighing the value of the box and papers in your purchase of a pre-owned timepiece.

Do you plan to sell the watch in the future?

When the time comes to sell your watch, the completeness of the package can add a premium to your timepiece. Depending on the brand and model, one can estimate that the watch can increase in selling price by at least $250 with the box and papers intact.

Moreover, boxes that accompany vintage and rare timepieces can even add much more value.

Vintage and older models are less likely to include their box and papers.
Pictured: Rolex Datejust Turnograph Red Hand and Steel Rose Gold Watch

If you are also planning to sell your watch directly to a buyer, having the watch box and papers intact can help you sell the watch quickly, as most buyers take it as a sign that the watch is authentic and in good condition.

If you are sure that you will keep the watch and not sell it in the future, then you may be able to get a better price on a watch that is “naked” or without the accouterments.

Are you buying a vintage watch?

One should also consider the age of the watch. Decades ago, people bought watches to pass them down to generations; and the pre-owned watch market was not around yet. Thus, the likelihood that the owner kept the box and paper work is very slim.

SHOULD I BUY A WATCH WITHOUT BOX AND PAPERS?

Having the watch’s box and papers is a plus, but it is not necessary – and it definitely shouldn’t stop you from buying a watch.

Don’t let the lack of box and papers stop you from buying a genuine timepiece.
Pictured: Patek Philippe Calatrava White Gold Hobnail Bezel Mens Watch

They do add value to a watch, and help confirm their authenticity and provenance, but they do not guarantee that a watch is authentic. Your best defense against buying a counterfeit luxury watch is to avoid purchasing it privately, and instead go to a reputable dealer.

In sum, a watch’s box and papers do not guarantee that a watch is authentic. They add value, but what matters is that the timepiece is authentic and in good condition.

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