Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions
Here you will find answers about selling to us, buying, payment, shipping, sourcing and advice. If your question is missing, just write to us.
Selling and valuation
How does selling a watch to you work?
Send us photos and details of your watch using the «Sell your watch» form. We look at everything personally and give you an assessment.
How quickly will I receive an offer?
You will receive your offer within 1 to 3 working days.
Does the assessment cost anything?
No. The assessment is free of charge and without obligation.
What determines the value of my watch?
The value depends on the brand, model, reference, year and condition, on what comes with the watch (box, papers, accessories, service records) and on the current market.
What influences the purchase price?
Increases or preserves value: a complete set with box and papers, a documented service, original parts, an unpolished case with sharp edges, and a sought-after reference.
Reduces value: heavy scratches or dents, improper or repeated polishing (softened edges), non-original or later altered parts (for example dial, bezel, strap or diamonds set afterwards), engravings, moisture or water damage, missing papers and an overdue service.
Normal signs of wear are not a problem.
Why is a purchase price lower than the market price?
A dealer bears the costs of inspection, preparation and insurance, as well as the risk of reselling the watch. The offer takes these points into account.
We are happy to explain how an offer comes about.
Do you also buy watches without box and papers?
Yes. A complete set usually achieves more, though.
Do you also buy watches that do not run or have not been serviced for a long time?
Yes. The condition is taken into account in the assessment.
Do you also buy entire collections and estates?
Yes, including entire collections and estates.
Buying from us
Are the watches checked before they are sold?
Yes. Every watch is checked for authenticity, condition and function before it is sold.
Is there a warranty?
Only a manufacturer's warranty that may still be running applies. Trinity Horology does not give a warranty of its own.
Can I return a watch?
No, there is no right of return. Please check the details and ask about anything that matters to you before you buy.
Can I order online?
No. We sell by enquiry, not through an online shop.
Payment, shipping and handover
When do I receive the money when selling?
Once we have received and checked the watch, we promptly transfer the amount to your bank account.
How do I pay when buying?
Usually by bank transfer. Cash on handover or an escrow service can be arranged by agreement.
How is the watch shipped?
We ship worldwide by express courier, fully insured. We state the cost in the offer before you buy.
Is a personal handover possible?
Yes, in eastern Switzerland and in Zurich. By arrangement, handover is also possible elsewhere in Switzerland, in the EU or worldwide.
Do you take watches in part exchange?
No, we do not offer part exchange.
Do you also sell watches on commission?
Commission is only possible on request.
Do you ask for payment by text message or phone?
No. We never ask for payment by text message or phone. Our official contact details are on the contact page.
Sourcing and consultation
How does a watch search work?
Tell us the brand, model, reference and your budget. We search for a suitable watch through our international network.
How will I know whether a suitable watch has been found?
We will get in touch as soon as we have found a suitable watch.
How does a consultation work?
Our advice is brand-independent, online by video call or in person by appointment. We do not offer investment advice.
Discretion and trust
How do you handle my enquiries and data?
We treat enquiries and data as confidential. Your details are only used to reply by email and are not stored in a database of the website. For selling enquiries with photos, the photos are kept in protected storage, without location data, and are deleted automatically after 30 days. Details are in the privacy policy.
Is Trinity Horology entered in the commercial register?
Yes. Trinity Horology is entered in the commercial register and is subject to VAT. You will find the numbers in the imprint.
Which brands do you deal in?
We deal in watches from renowned manufactures, including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, Omega, Tudor, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, Panerai and Breitling. Looking for another brand? Just ask.