The 1916 Company (WatchBox)

WatchBox (now The 1916 Company after merging with Govberg, Radcliffe, and Hyde Park) is a global platform for buying, selling, and trading pre-owned luxury watches. Unlike a marketplace, they own their inventory. They provide instant quotes for sellers and have offices worldwide (US, Hong Kong, Singapore, Switzerland, Dubai) for in-person valuations.

The company is known for its high-production media content (YouTube reviews) and expertise in brands like F.P. Journe, Patek Philippe, and Rolex. It is a legitimate, high-end dealer offering a secure way to sell investment-grade timepieces quickly for cash.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do they buy watches directly?

Yes, WatchBox buys watches directly from you. You do not have to list it and wait for a buyer. They provide a guaranteed cash offer, and if you accept, they wire the money once the watch is inspected.

2. How fast is payment?

Payment is very fast, usually via Wire Transfer or Check within 24-48 hours of the watch passing inspection at their facility. This speed is a key advantage over consignment.

3. Can I trade my watch?

Yes, trading is a popular option. You can trade your watch for any item in their massive global inventory. They often offer a higher trade-in value compared to a cash buyout offer.

4. Is it safe to ship a Rolex?

Yes, WatchBox provides fully insured, prepaid shipping labels (often overnight via FedEx/UPS). Your watch is covered by their insurance policy from the moment it is scanned by the carrier.

5. Is it a marketplace?

No, unlike Chrono24, WatchBox is an inventory-based dealer. They buy the watch from you, refurbish it if necessary, and resell it with a warranty. You are dealing with a company, not a stranger.