New forum member--how should I vet a seller in the classifieds here?

[surfnli]

Hey all,

First time poster. Looking to make a splash and add to my existing collection and thus far have found some watches I like in the classifieds here. Can someone more experienced than I please let me know what the "best practices" are with respect to vetting sellers from the forum? I already saw the "i love this guy" section--but I am not sure how much credibility you can ascribe to those...

Thanks in advance!

[sleddog]

The 'Who's who section', and by shear numbers of positive transactions should tell you all the info you need in regards to a trusted and top notch seller!

[mrbill2mrbill2]

Originally Posted by sleddog

The 'Who's who section', and by shear numbers of positive transactions should tell you all the info you need in regards to a trusted and top notch seller!

Exactly!

[perpetualman88]

just take a look its not hard to figure out who is top notch

[RolexWatcher]

Just check out the Who's who and just do search on the guy. I would find someone with NO issues from any TRF member.

[azguy]

Originally Posted by perpetualman88

just take a look its not hard to figure out who is top notch

Agreed...Very easy to determine in about 10 minutes of reading

[Lmbeauleap]

Yep, what they said.

Watch sales happen for a month or so. Read all the 'incomming' posts. Read the 'watch out' section. There are a lot of knowlegeable folks on here. Who do they buy from? The good sellers stick out like neon.

[surfnli]

Thanks guys!

How about best practices with respect to the actual transaction--specifically I'm thinking payment and shipping--what are the preferred routes? Anything else I should be aware of?

[azguy]

Originally Posted by surfnli

Thanks guys!

How about best practices with respect to the actual transaction--specifically I'm thinking payment and shipping--what are the preferred routes? Anything else I should be aware of?

The best sellers here will walk you though the whole process, you will not be the 1st newbie they have sold too...In general sellers prefer wire transfers as Paypal fees can add up.

You'll see the guys that move the most watches, they are not going to tarnish their rep with so much at stake...shop, buy and enjoy

[brian8121]

Be prepared to cover Paypal fees (+3%) if you go through that service.

Most (but not all) of the time, shipping and insurance within is included in the price assuming buyer/seller are both located in the US, and shipping method is usually expedited. Like most online transactions: Payment first, watch is then shipped.

I think the Who's Who session (or as you put it "I love this guy") is very reliable, but when in doubt look at who is giving feedback. And, if that's not enough data, any reputable sellers will be able to point you to several solid references if you ask.

Good luck and enjoy the process!

[TimeToGo]

Welcome to the forum!

[Lmbeauleap]

I wired and price included shipping. My GMT was delivered FedEx overnight and was safely on my wrist the next day.

So which model are you going after and why? I love to hear the back stories.

[Runnin' Rebel]

Feel free to PM me if you want