Across the EU, the refund rules for second-hand watches depend on why the item is being returned.
You have a minimum 14-day cooling-off right to return any online purchase — including pre-owned items bought from a professional — for any reason.
If the watch is defective or different from the listing, you are protected by a legal guarantee of at least one year (sometimes two). This gives you the right to request a repair, exchange, or refund.
For purchases made in-store, refunds for simply changing your mind are not required by law, though many retailers offer them.
1. Change-of-mind returns (for online shopping)
- Withdrawal right: You can cancel and return your online order within 14 days, no reason required.
- Starting point: The 14 days start after you receive the item.
- Seller’s role: Sellers can extend but cannot shorten this period.
- In-store returns: Not legally required, but may be offered by some shops.
2. Faulty or not-as-described products
- Legal guarantee: Applies for at least one year to second-hand products bought from professionals.
- Customer rights: You can claim a repair, replacement, reduction, or refund.
- Seller preference: Sellers may try repair or replacement before refunding.
- After 6 months: The buyer might need to show that the issue existed upon delivery.
- Claim procedure: Always make your complaint in writing and follow the seller’s process.
3. Things to note
- Keep proof of purchase to confirm your claim.
- Rights apply only when buying from professional sellers, not private individuals.
- Always check the store’s own policy for extended conditions or timeframes.