That authentication centre is a game changer for Ebay, authenticity was the main thing holding it back the buying experience due tot eh fear of being ripped off!

I love the idea of eBay's authentication process but it needs to be a global service, we have limited access to watches in New Zealand and I'd love to have the confidence to purchase internationally

I have purchased 16 watches off of eBay. All are in the affordable side so not eligible for eBay's authentication service. That being said, with the possible exception of one time, I have been very happy with the process and the products. I agree with all your points Adrian. It's all good advice. Photos are important. The only exception is if you are buying from a well established gray dealer like Jomashop or Ashford. And eBay are very conscientious of buyers. My only additional point is to read the description very well as good sellers will spend some time describing what you need to look for. Considering this is your second eBay purchase I think you are well on your way to being an expert! Cheers 🥂.

I've got a vintage santos and it is an amazing wear. You can wear it as a daily it will go with anything. Probably my favourite watch

I have bought a few watches off eBay. I have always done what you have explained. I did try and buy a Rolex Milgauss that then failed the authentication process for being in the condition as described. So I feel safe buying there with the authenticity guarantee. Though my BB Pro I had to buy extra links and screws for as they were past the point when they could be adjusted. Small amount V what I paid via retail.

Adrian, this video was very well put together!! The camera angles, the editing. Awesome work

Bought my IWC Mark 18 on bracelet through eBay and it is wonderful. Got the eBay guarantee and was able to get the IWC warranty too. Great service

Great video! One thing I'd add is to have a small budget for any repairs/servicing that you may have to do. eBay watch browsing is definitely part of the fun!

Thank you for doing another video on this Adrian, it was your ‘buying a Rolex submariner on eBay’ video that first got me into your channel! But I’ve never actually been able to find out in full transparency what the authenticators actually do. Even just down to whether they open the case back and inspect the movement etc.

Just dropping into say that this was the best production value I’ve seen in: “man speaking alone in a room about buying watches” Incredible set up Adrian!

Adrian, I remember you saying you (and I believe other influencers) were approached by eBay to become an official authenticator when the program first started, and were critical of that as you were not in anyway qualified to do that. What are your thoughts on the authentication program now? Is it actually worth the paper it is written on? What has changed?

@swiftusmaximus5651

7 ай бұрын

Ummm? You put in a bid or press the Buy Now icon?

@Crall-xb8he

7 ай бұрын

Good question. I’d like to know the answer to this.

@craiglawlor2749

7 ай бұрын

@@swiftusmaximus5651 buying and authenticating were two different things, the last time I checked the dictionary.

@J0NNY_B0Y

7 ай бұрын

Isn’t this a video explaining that?

@swiftusmaximus5651

7 ай бұрын

@@J0NNY_B0Y do you need one?

I managed to to grab a BB54 well below retail. Brand spanking new with all paper work. Will definitely be using the authentication process again.

Excellent timing on this video. I'm looking at picking up an Oris on Ebay. Cheers.

Two weeks ago a bought an omega Polaris on eBay for the grand total of £178 not working but in prefect condition. Well it arrived working fine. EBay can be great sometimes. Thanks for another great video Adrian 👍👍

Merry Christmas and I can't wait to see what will change for you and your channel now that you do not do AET, unfortunatly. Have a good end of the year and thanks for the content!

Great job, Adrian. You're gifted.

I’ve bought and sold through the authentication process and had no problems. As a seller be aware that you can take all the photos you want and describe the watch in great detail and get it authenticated but the buyer can still open a not as described case within 30 days. So effectively they can wear your watch for a month and then try to return it. As long as it passes back through the authentication process in the same condition there is nothing you can do. I was told this by the watch authentication customer service team. Bit shit eh!!!

@bjoernaltmann

7 ай бұрын

There is a red seal on the watch once it has passed authentication, which is not something anyone would wear. If they really did, it would also be noticeable.

@13Tyres

7 ай бұрын

Red seal means nothing. Buyer can still open a case if it’s removed. I was told this by eBay two days ago.

Finally more videos from you man! 🤘🏾

Seen it and asked a few questions about it. In the end I lost out (too you) it appears. I have the same model but mines a little fragile now. Looking forward to the review of this. If you need a service the ‘watch bloke’ aka Duncan Hewitt is you man. Superb workmanship and very reasonable indeed

You said it, buy what you like, not the trend. I purchased a Seiko vintage 1984 because I fell in love with it, I was only 4 when it came out and I wear it as my everyday watch.

@bolchert

7 ай бұрын

Which one? (:

Great vid, thanks! Happy Christmas!

Have to say, the content of this video is great. But mate, the editing is so simple yet slick and effective, love it.

For a paid sponsor video that was probably the best I’ve ever watched. Actually made me want to search on eBay for watches and gave me great tips to do it with as well. Christmas present for myself coming up i think. Cheers Adrian.

Great eBay commercial, Adrian! I think the switch from watch journalism to mainstream marketing will be a great move in the long run! You made some great watch content but sales/marketing is def your strong suit! Especially with AET, you’re poised to make the big bucks pushing products and selling ads! You’ll be missed in the watch space

@jdiazcobo

7 ай бұрын

Wow.

@blzbobski

2 ай бұрын

Have to agree. EBay is awful, full of fakes and scammers. I waisted my time reporting it. And now here’s Adrian promoting them. You can’t trust anybody anymore. Even the good guys will mis-sell you for a coin. Sad wish I had never seen this video. Now I’m sceptical of past posts. Car salesmen always come across as nice people,

I had one purchase through eBay's authentication, a Tudor BB58 gilt. They held it because it was apparently missing a document, which had myself and the seller puzzled because we both agreed the papers were all there. I authorized the authenticator to send me the watch, and it's been on my wrist more than just about any watch since. It has dings, it has a story, and I'll pass it on to my son one day.

great video very informative can't wait to see what you chose

OMG SO MUCH ADRIAN BARKER! As I live and breathe! 😱🎉 oh man. I spend a lot of time browsing watches on eBay! But I’ve never pulled the trigger! 🙈

@RabbitWatchShop

7 ай бұрын

Thirsty asf

@DanB3

7 ай бұрын

I recently tried buying a watch and then eBay suspended my account because I accessed it via VPN after the sale. Had to call eBay customer service to get my account back. The seller received notice my account had been suspended and had I not asked them to transfer my money back I almost may not have gotten it back. Short summary, be very careful when transacting money on eBay.

@mrpotatoooooo

7 ай бұрын

You’ll get your eBay sponsorship in no time!

@ditmerk

7 ай бұрын

Watch content creater credibility = zero

@TommyRibs

7 ай бұрын

LoL

Such a great content as usually!

Really helpful, especially after the About Effing Time Video and George's vintage watches.

i appreciated this. I wanted to send my Seamaster there but had no idea how it worked.

Well, I am not the only one that prefer watches with engraving. Great video!

Perfect video to follow the podcast 👍

Thank you for the tips. I have bought on Ebay previously and feel even more confident now. I too am after a 2 tone Santos as my ultimate dress watch, probably a medium. Been following you for a while and About Effing Time is one of my favourite KZread shows. Thanks again from Sydney, Australia

I purchased a vintage Rolex from eBay it went to the authentication Center then was shipped to me. I unpacked it, turned it over to undo the buckle, and the crystal fell off because it had been glued in place. eBay‘s authentication program is absolute worthless garbage I wouldn’t expect them to know the difference between a shoe and caviar.

@andreatamborini

6 ай бұрын

It is garbage indeed

As a military watch fan and a proud British lad. Would love to hear your opinion on the new “Zero West H2” happy new year Adrian

Love the style of this video 💪💪

I’ve bought a number of vintage watches from eBay Adrian. To date I haven’t had an issue. Obviously you mostly work from the photos! And yes I agree 100% on the sellers positive feedback. I also note the origin of country, as some are out of 3rd world countries, so authenticity of, in particular the internals can be dodgy. Just do your homework & don’t jump at the first one you see. All the best to you & yours for Christmas & New Year. 👍🏼🍻🇦🇺

Great video. Do you ever wish you’d gone with the adjustable height stand for the studio display? It’s pricey but looks pretty nice.

Never have, but thank you for this.

I've both bought and sold a watch through Ebay's Authentication Scheme, worked well for me both ways. They even had my back when the buyer of my watch tried to claim it was in a different condition than the photo's and force a refund. (It wasn't - unless it happened during the authentication process or shipping)

the 'creamy loom' loop reminded me of the film 'Hot Rod'! Nice one!

Great editing 👏 and congrats on the new watch!

Thanks for the fast paced and informative video. I've bought (and sold) a lot of watches off of both ebay and reddit, but only once from an AD. The vintage possibilities on ebay are truly endless.

Got my tag Monaco from eBay feed back is everything and it's pretty obvious when something from Japan looks too good lol

Cheers I’m on eBay looking now never thought of eBay 👍

Thanks. I have a couple grand to spend and can't decide what to buy. I will give EBay a shot. Thanks Adrian.

Why is this channel not at 500k subs?! Great content Adrian 👍🏻⌚️

@davidb9531

7 ай бұрын

Cos it’s an ad channel maybe?

I’ve bought and sold loads of sub £500 watches on eBay, as a hobby I guess. But this week I bought a £3000 Omega Aqua Terra, my first ever big watch purchase from eBay. Fantastic deal but I’d never have dropped that much on an eBay watch purchase without the authentication process, it’s a game changer. My new AT is currently with them being inspected, it adds a good 5 days to the buying journey but definitely worth it I think.

I really hope that your B&J Nato straps will be available to be shipped to Norway soon - they look so great Adrian🤩

@GerardBarkandJack

7 ай бұрын

Watch this space! It would be great to ship to Norway soon.

The information in this video is 10/10, but I made it about 3mins in before having to turn it off. The frequency of camera angle changes and jump cuts are headache inducing. I love the direction, but I would personally dial it back a bit next time.

@RobinHood-us7sg

7 ай бұрын

Yeah love Adrian’s content but agree its a bit too jumpy for my liking 👊🏻

I bought an unworn 3 year old Tudor P01 through the eBay authentication system. The watch was fully stickered and in perfect condition. £960 below current RRP with peace of mind. Can't fault the eBay authentication guarantee.

Nice informative video. Never thought of buying one on eBay. It always looked scamy to me :)

Very interesting video! 😊A bit sorry it’s sponsored by e-bay but I trust your judgment. Aah, the Speedmaster. Take your time in choosing that one. Especially a vintage one. Lots of differences.

Very good video, one thing I will say is that the authentication service is only eligible on watches purchased for £2000+ hopefully as the service gets bigger and bigger they will bring that eligibility price down

Love the video and its message / points you make. Little gripe though - those cuts were a bit fast for me, slightly disorienting. But maybe that’s just me 😅

I was really nervous during my first EBay watch purchase. I bought a Tudor BB GMT (Pepsi). Bought it, it was sent for authentication, then shipped to me. All of the paperwork, cards, everything included. Took less than two weeks total. Was a perfect transaction. Could not be happier 🎉

Some good shops on eBay as well for watches re secondhand

I bought a BB58 for £1900 on eBay recently via their authentication program (less than a year old too!). Really happy with it. Vintage is obviously more of a risk where I think you need to become knowledgable on what you’re after.

Authentication works! eBay called me because an Oris I purchased was listed as stainless steel, but it was actually a titanium case. I told them that I knew it was a titanium model and send it.

@SusquehannaValleyFirearmsLLC

7 ай бұрын

Nice. Sneaky upgrade.

I’ve just ordered an Omega GMT worldtimer on the rubber strap

I would also recommend that you review completed and sold auctions to gauge the market value of the watch.

Great video idea: “how to fall back in love with a watch” I bought my dream watch a while back an explorer 114270 was absolutely obsessed obviously for a while but now it’s just “my watch” the magic isn’t there most of the time anymore. How to get that feeling and magic back?

I bought several vintage watches on ebay for significant money. I was never too concerned as you generally can send them back, if they are not as advertised. I returned a Heuer Daytona that hardly ran (not disclosed by seller) and a 14k golden Rolex bubble-back which had a Frankensteined dial. No issues returning them and getting a full refund.

@bobbycalifornia7077

6 ай бұрын

How did you determine the dial was Frankenstein?

@heiner71

6 ай бұрын

@@bobbycalifornia7077 , it had been poorly re-lumed.

I hope it’s the speedy. I would absolutely love a speedy. I’m going to get one soon I know it. I have a submariner and a bb58 blue and I’ve had a speedmaster racing edition but I so badly want the OG speedy. Omega is my favorite brand.

Great video ! Gutted that AET is over but hopefully many more form this channel CAPTAIN BORING ALL THE WAY⌚️👍🏻

Any chance of a setup/office tour?

Hey Adrian. I don't know if you remember me. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! I complimented your video 3 years ago, and told you Peter Mckinnon would be proud. Take that video, and this video, and make it have a baby. Most importantly, have fun doing it. I know you are hard at work. Keep it up buddy, because we are cheering you on.

You pretty much hit all the important points. I'd reiterate 1) Shop the seller, check their ratings and see if their response is quick and answers what you want to know. Don't mean to harp on any one that doesn't have good English and grammar, but, potential communication issues should be noted if any problems should arise during the transaction and afterwards. 2) Ask any relevant questions, especially directly ask the seller if there is ANY damage or details about the watch that you should be aware of 3) If not enough photos or they are of poor quality, request new most recent ones to be taken and sent to you 4) Do your homework and cross reference as much as you can so you know exactly what to expect

I’ve heard from another prominent watch KZreadr that scammers have been getting around the “authenticity guaranteed” of eBay by checking off a box for “custom”, leading to a fake watch being listed with the “authenticity guarantee” badge on eBay -therefore misleading unsuspecting buyers. Any comments on this?

@kfkwAL7

7 ай бұрын

Yes that correct. If you list a watch as custom it will bypass the authentication check. It’s also the same for trainers which are equally as faked as watches.

@bobbycalifornia7077

6 ай бұрын

@@kfkwAL7Custom or restored, repainted etc?

Don't buy into the hierarchy of watches, says the man with only Rolex (and I love Adrian) 😂

@BarkandJack

7 ай бұрын

Rolex is nowhere near the top.

Hi Adrian, great video as always 👌🏻 can I ask what model that vintage Tag Heuer at 4:38 in the video is?

@GerardBarkandJack

7 ай бұрын

Not sure of the specific reference, but it's a Heuer Carrera Triple Calendar. Hope this helps!

Ive bought 3 watches through the verification process, all good and as described. My advice go and try on a version of what you're thinking of buying 1st, all the youtube reviews in the world are no substitute for actually handling the thing.

Excellent!

I’ve bought some watches less than $2K I think and nothing yet with the new authentication service. I’ve sold maybe a dozen and a half or more including 6 in the last year, some using the new service (U.S. $2K and up). It does add time and delays getting the money to the seller but it’s good for the buyer.

Do they open the case and authenticate the movement?

Too many cuts, camera angles and audio qualities for me. I find this video very confusing.

Ironic you brought up the Santos and Speedy back to back, as those are the two watches I'm aiming to get next year. In that order.

I bought a Pelagos on eBay when the authentication service was fairly new. The watch was advertised with box and no warranty card. When I got the watch it was in a generic jewelry stores watch box, not the original box. I immediately returned the watch with no issues. I was surprised that it made it past the authenticator since it was advertised with box. I guess a box is a box. It was relatively hassle free and the money was refunded quickly.

Great video Adrian and great tips! Just my feedback on the editing tho - far too choppy with too many angles back and forth. Made me feel a bit nauseous 😅 Prefer your old editing style with a bit more relaxed talking. But that’s just me.

Liked just so Adrian gets that bag

@BarkandJack

7 ай бұрын

Thanks buddy 🙌🏻

Hi Adrian, how is your vintage Omega Seamaster that you inherited from your Dad doing? I recently purchased a solid 14K yellow gold Seamaster De Ville, manufactured 1963 with a 560 movement, while in the US. A stunning watch, in excellent condition, with the original strap and buckle. Had it serviced in the UK by a master watchmaker, rather expensive, but I wasnt going to take any chances, not having a service history. I recall you being advised by Omega (a few years ago), not to bother servicing it. Not quite the best advice, having been advised by a number of reputable watchmakers to the contrary. Still enjoing your channel. Best Wishes

See I’d love the opposite of this. Like do a deep dive of selling watch and how to do it safely. I have watches that I’m kinda like I could part with this but selling it anywhere online seems sketch and a lot of the watchbox or watchfinder I know I’m not getting the most I could.

Do your research is absolute priority - so many frankins out there. I’ve learnt the hard way over the years…

My tip would be: don't be afraid to buy from sellers in Japan. Most sellers try to be very clear about the condition of vintage watches, and the actual condition is usually better than it sounds like it would be. They package watches carefully, and shipment is surprisingly rapid. Obviously, there are always exceptions, and you still need to follow all of Adrian's tips, but I've been very happy with my purchases. One caveat: if the watch is on a bracelet, make sure to doublecheck the length of the bracelet.

Adrian don't go all Nico on us. Too much flicking between camera angles it was distracting.

EBay or chrono24 Adrian? I have a greater sense of security with chrono24 but that could be historical Been very tempted with eBay but not pulled the trigger on anything

Nice! EBay bargains will dry up for awhile after this vid 😅

Great video! there's some deals to be had on eBay that some are afraid to buy.

I bought a Quartz, a Black dial Auto and a green dial Auto PRX from Ebay to try and decide which I would prefer, being decidedly underwhelmed I put all three back on sale on Ebay only to be informed by a friend that the green dial auto was a fake😱 I had bought through Paypal and once informed they contacted Ebay ,who on receipt of the watch refunded me through Paypal. I also had two vintage Zenith Port royals( one quartz ,one Auto) go AWOL in the post from Spain again refunded by Paypal. If you are considering a lower end watch or a vintage watch Paypal is well worth considering.

What model is that tag?

FYI - the ebay authentication is only applicable on purchases of £1500 or more - not on amounts less than this. Thanks!

@TheWatchDoggg

7 ай бұрын

I live in the US and you can pay an extra $80 to have it authenticated

Ebay authentications is not all rosy. Had 2 bad experiences first I sent a spotless GS which in the process of authentication they scratched a lug and the buyer then sent it back as he wanted spotless example, 2nd I purchased a unused sd43 from a trusted dealer and ebay authenticators managed to scratch the caseback...I sent the watch back as I wanted a spotless example. That worked in my favour...usually its the seller that gets screwed over.

@nick5176

7 ай бұрын

Completely agree, the authenticators damaged a SMP300 I purchased in January. I ended up keeping it as I felt it was unfair on the seller to return it.

My collection includes some Eaglemoss military homage watches.

Not sure this new editing style with so much, imo, unnecessary cuts, zooms & animations fits your personal brand Adrian! You’ve put forward a very easygoing & balanced take on luxury and watches so far and the excessive camera movement is more suited to people who deliver high energy hot takes. If we look at MKBHD’s slow zooms, I think that works well to add emphasis when you’re talking without making it feel like I’m watching a TikTok video that’s desperately trying to hold onto my attention.

Make a video on the 14060 Rolex !!!!!!

Great video as always. With eBay authentication I have read they can take the case back of the watch to properly authenticate. In doing so voiding the manufacturers warranty in some instances. Is this correct? Also like George Bamford said on the podcast. You need to be very careful with vintage watches that it has all the original parts and not a frankinwatch, made up from bits and pieces of other watches.

@kfkwAL7

7 ай бұрын

They state A vintage watch is eligible for the Authenticity Guarantee service, if all eligibility criteria are met. Vintage watches which are verified as authentic by the independent authenticator may contain commonly replaced aftermarket parts, such as the strap, bracelet, crystal, spring bars, or screws.

I think you missed one thing for your budget. You should make sure to have money set aside for the watch to be serviced not? Odds are its going to need some work like the seals being replaced at the very least won't it?

I've used rhe EAG and bought a Tudor. I'm pretty sure it's not a brilliant fake that passed Stoll! I'd use again. Very good. Only problem is, anything under £1500 doesn't qualify for the service

Other YT channels have also noted that eBay Auth. does not open up the watch to authenticate the movement, so that is another aspect to consider. Have watchmaker or AD nearby to check out the watch. I's not all simple and shiny like Adrian is making it out be.

I am very critical with that ebay service, and it also lacks of transparency. I heard many bad stories about it. Actually if you sell a watch would you like that service to open it? Also if you buy a vintage and they open it and the old rubber ring particles fall into the clockwork…..