Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about buying, selling, and working with Meridian Horology. If your question isn't answered below, please get in touch.
Authentication
Every watch we offer is inspected by an independent, certified horologist before listing. The inspection covers the movement (calibre, timing, condition), case (metal, engravings, serial placement), dial (originality, signature, lume), hands, crystal, crown, pushers, and bracelet. We cross-reference reference materials and, where appropriate, manufacturer records. A written authentication certificate is issued with every sale.
Yes. Every watch is listed with a detailed written condition report that includes an overall grade (scored out of 10), specific notes on the case, dial, crystal, bracelet, and movement, and high-resolution photographs taken under controlled lighting. We describe every imperfection honestly — our reputation depends on it.
If a watch has been polished or refinished, this will always be explicitly stated in the condition report and reflected in the pricing. We never present a polished watch as unpolished. For collectors who prioritise original surfaces, we clearly distinguish between polished and unpolished examples in every listing.
Buying
Yes — sourcing to order is one of our core services. We maintain an active network of private sellers and dealers across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Simply share your requirements: reference number, desired year, condition grade, documentation needs, and budget. There is no charge for searching, and we will only present watches that genuinely meet your criteria.
We offer video call inspections for any watch in our inventory, allowing prospective buyers to see the piece in real time before committing. In-person viewings can be arranged by appointment in London and, for certain transactions, in other European cities. Please enquire to discuss arrangements that suit you.
Our prices are set fairly and reflect the current market, the watch's condition, and the documentation included. We do not engage in aggressive negotiation, but we are always open to a direct and honest conversation. Please make your enquiry by email and we will respond candidly.
No. The price shown is the price you pay — there are no buyer's premiums, administrative fees, or hidden charges. Insured shipping is included at no additional cost for most destinations. Import duties and taxes, where applicable in your country, are the buyer's responsibility.
Selling
Yes. We offer two arrangements for sellers: direct purchase (we buy the watch from you outright) and consignment (we sell the watch on your behalf and take a commission). We handle watches from all the brands we carry. Contact us with details of your watch — brand, reference, year, condition, and documentation — and we will respond with an initial assessment.
Send us a brief description of the watch including the reference number, year, condition, and a note on what documentation you have. Photographs of the dial, case, caseback, and papers are helpful. We will provide an indicative valuation by return email. There is no charge and no obligation.
For direct purchases, payment is made by bank transfer on the same day we receive and inspect the watch. For consignment, payment is made within 2 business days of receipt of cleared funds from the buyer.
Shipping
We use specialist watch couriers — not standard postal services — with tamper-evident, fully insured packaging. All shipments are tracked from our hands to yours. Insurance covers the full declared value. We do not ship until payment has cleared.
Yes. We ship to most countries worldwide. Delivery typically takes 3–7 business days internationally, depending on destination and customs clearance. Import duties, VAT, and taxes where applicable in your country are the buyer's responsibility — we recommend checking local requirements before purchasing.
Yes — always, and at the full declared value. We do not under-declare. In the extremely unlikely event of loss or damage during transit, we work directly with the insurer and the courier on your behalf to ensure a full resolution.
Payment
We accept bank transfer (SWIFT and SEPA) and, for high-value transactions, third-party escrow. We do not accept credit card payments or cryptocurrency. Bank transfer is the standard for private watch transactions of this nature, and it provides a clear paper trail that protects both parties.
We do not currently offer instalment plans. For buyers wishing to use escrow — where payment is held securely by a regulated third party pending receipt of the watch — we are happy to facilitate this arrangement.
Returns
We offer a 14-day return assurance from the date of receipt. If a watch is not as described in our condition report and photographs, we will arrange a full refund including return shipping costs. We stand behind every watch we sell. Please note that watches must be returned in the same condition as received, with all original documentation.
In the event of shipping damage, contact us immediately — within 24 hours of delivery — with photographs of the watch and the packaging before anything is moved or discarded. We will manage the insurance claim and, once resolved, either replace the watch or issue a full refund depending on the circumstances.
Still have a question?
We are happy to discuss anything not covered here. Please get in touch directly.
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