WatchesDec 14, 2023
Chrono24 Names McKinsey Exec as New CEOWatchesApr 09, 2024
Chrono24 Debuts Pre-Owned Watch Authentication Program
The program, now live in Europe, will roll out to the U.S. this summer.
Watch marketplace Chrono24 has introduced a new authentication program for pre-owned watches.
Karlsruhe, Germany—Watch marketplace Chrono24 has launched a new authentication program for pre-owned timepieces, dubbed “Certified.”
Currently live in Europe, the program’s U.S. rollout is scheduled for early summer.
Shoppers can now browse a selection of certified authentic pre-owned watches on its website.
These watches are marked with a green “C” icon, signifying that a watch has either already been certified or that it can be certified as an add-on option.
Each certified watch will be accompanied by a digital certificate of authenticity.
The program is available for pre-owned watches priced over €1,000 ($1,085) from professional and private sellers.
The certification process includes an authenticity check of the watch, as well as its box and papers, performed by a certified watchmaker.
There are two ways in which a watch on the platform can be certified.
The primary way a watch can be certified is by an “experienced, vetted, and regularly audited watchmaker,” said the company, who is located near a vetted dealer and contracted by Chrono24. This is done prior to the listing and at no charge to the purchaser.
The second option is that a watch sold by a private seller can be certified by a watchmaker in a certification center, before it arrives to the purchaser.
The optional service costs €199 ($216) and includes insured postage, with a two to five business day turnaround time.
Related stories will be right here …
Currently live in Europe, the program’s U.S. rollout is scheduled for early summer.
Shoppers can now browse a selection of certified authentic pre-owned watches on its website.
These watches are marked with a green “C” icon, signifying that a watch has either already been certified or that it can be certified as an add-on option.
Each certified watch will be accompanied by a digital certificate of authenticity.
The program is available for pre-owned watches priced over €1,000 ($1,085) from professional and private sellers.
The certification process includes an authenticity check of the watch, as well as its box and papers, performed by a certified watchmaker.
There are two ways in which a watch on the platform can be certified.
The primary way a watch can be certified is by an “experienced, vetted, and regularly audited watchmaker,” said the company, who is located near a vetted dealer and contracted by Chrono24. This is done prior to the listing and at no charge to the purchaser.
The second option is that a watch sold by a private seller can be certified by a watchmaker in a certification center, before it arrives to the purchaser.
The optional service costs €199 ($216) and includes insured postage, with a two to five business day turnaround time.
The watchmakers check the watch against a comprehensive checklist, said Chrono24, and follow a standardized authentication process.
The inspection includes a theft check, where the serial number is checked against stolen watch databases.
A functionality check makes sure the complications, winding, chronograph, etc. are working properly, which does require opening the case back.
An authenticity check verifies that the watch matches Chrono24’s definition of authenticity, explained in detail on its website.
Watchmakers also ensure the box and papers, if included, match the reference.
If these checks are passed, a certificate of authenticity is created, which includes details about the condition of the watch and any aftermarket parts.
If there is a difference between the listing and the watch itself, Chrono24 will inform the purchaser so they can decide whether or not to make the purchase.
Chrono24 notes that watch purchases on its website, regardless of “Certified” status, are protected through its existing “Buyer Protection” program.
Watch listings on the platform are checked by internal watch experts as part of its “Authentication Protection” commitment.
The payment is held in escrow until the shopper confirms they are happy with the purchase, within 14 days if bought from a professional seller or seven days if bought from a private individual.
Shoppers have 14 days to make a return and receive their money back should a watch arrive not as the seller described.
More on Watches
The Latest
MajorsApr 23, 2025
Bulgari Doubles Size of Jewelry Factory in ItalyLocated in Valenza, the now 355,000-square-foot facility includes a new jewelry school that’s open to the public, Scuola Bulgari.
Events & AwardsApr 23, 2025
PDPaola Creative Director Wins FGI’s ‘Rising Star’ AwardPaola Sasplugas, co-founder of the Barcelona-based jewelry brand, received the Fine Jewelry Award.
AuctionsApr 23, 2025
Rare Custom Rolex Daytona Heads to AuctionA platinum Zenith-powered Daytona commissioned in the late ‘90s will headline Sotheby’s Important Watches sale in Geneva next month.
Brought to you by
Protect Your Customers and Your BusinessThe risk of laboratory-grown diamonds being falsely presented as natural diamonds presents a very significant danger to consumer trust.
MajorsApr 23, 2025
David Yurman’s New Campaign Stars Carmelo Anthony, Jaylen BrownThe basketball stars wear men’s jewelry from the “Curb Chain” collection.
Weekly QuizApr 18, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
MajorsApr 22, 2025
Zales’ Rebrand Takes Playful Approach to Fine JewelryThe Signet Jewelers-owned retailer wants to encourage younger shoppers to wear fine jewelry every day, not just on special occasions.
AuctionsApr 22, 2025
Christie’s to Auction JAR Jewelry CollectionThe 21 pieces, all from a private collector, will be offered at its Magnificent Jewels auction next month.
ColumnistsApr 22, 2025
The PR Adviser: Building Buzz Through Word of MouthLilian Raji answers a question from a reader who is looking to grow her jewelry business but has a limited marketing budget.
GradingApr 22, 2025
Avi Levy Is GCAL By Sarine’s New Chief Growth OfficerGCAL by Sarine created the new role to sharpen the company’s focus on strategic partnerships and scalable expansion.
IndependentsApr 22, 2025
Brinker’s Jewelers Acquires Fellow IndependentThe Indiana jeweler has acquired Scottsdale Fine Jewelers in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Events & AwardsApr 21, 2025
An Exhibition Exploring the History of Cartier Is Now on Display“Cartier: Design, Craft, and Legacy” opened earlier this month at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
IndependentsApr 21, 2025
New York Jeweler to Close After 111 YearsVan Cott Jewelers in Vestal, New York, is hosting a going-out-of-business sale.
IndependentsApr 21, 2025
IJO Names New Director of Vendor Relations, Merchandise StrategyIndustry veteran Samantha Larson has held leadership roles at Borsheims, McTeigue & McClelland, Stuller, and Long’s Jewelers.
Events & AwardsApr 21, 2025
Jewelers of Louisiana, Mississippi Jewelers Association to Co-Host ConventionThe two organizations will hold the educational event together this fall in Mississippi.
Events & AwardsApr 18, 2025
Daymond John to Give Keynote at JCK Las VegasThe entrepreneur and “Shark Tank” star will share his top tips for success.
CollectionsApr 18, 2025
Piece of the Week: Dukachi’s ‘Easter Bread’ PendantThe Ukrainian brand’s new pendant is modeled after a traditional paska, a pastry often baked for Easter in Eastern European cultures.
IndependentsApr 18, 2025
Bremer Jewelry to Reveal Renovated StoreThe jeweler has announced a grand reopening for its recently remodeled location in Peoria, Illinois.
MajorsApr 18, 2025
Tiffany & Co. Employees Star in Mother’s Day CampaignThe “Strong Like Mom” campaign features moms who work at Tiffany & Co. and their children.
CollectionsApr 17, 2025
John Hardy, Athena Calderone Partner on Art Deco Decor-Inspired CollectionInterior designer Athena Calderone looked to decor from the 1920s and 1930s when crafting her first fine jewelry collection.
FinancialsApr 17, 2025
Movado Group to Increase Prices to Offset Tariffs ImpactDuring a call about its full-year results, CEO Efraim Grinberg discussed how the company is approaching the uncertainty surrounding tariffs.
Lab-GrownApr 17, 2025
NDC Launches Its Diamond Learning CenterThe free program provides educational content for jewelry salespeople and enthusiasts to learn or refresh their diamond knowledge.
Policies & IssuesApr 17, 2025
Jewelers of America Requests Tariffs Testimonials from MembersThe feedback will be used to prepare other jewelers for the challenges ahead, the organization said.
TechnologyApr 17, 2025
Technology Therapy Group Expands AI Training for Jewelry RetailersThe online sessions are designed to teach jewelers to use AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude to grow their business.
IndependentsApr 16, 2025
Catbird Expands to ChicagoThe opening marks the jewelry retailer’s first location in the Midwest.
CollectionsApr 16, 2025
Foundrae’s First Commitment Jewelry Collection Unites Through LoveThe “United in Love” collection offers tangible mementos of hearts entwined with traditional and non-traditional commitment heirlooms.
IndependentsApr 16, 2025
Indiana Jeweler to Host Black Jewelry Designer Pop-UpRobert Goodman Jewelers will hold a “Black Jewelry Designers and Makers” event on April 27.
