Chrono24 has become one of the world’s most popular online marketplaces for buying and selling luxury watches. From Rolex and Omega to Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet, Chrono24 connects buyers and sellers across the globe, offering access to an enormous inventory and competitive pricing. However, despite its reputation and buyer protection features, many users still make avoidable mistakes that can cost them time, money, or peace of mind.



Whether you are a first-time buyer or an experienced collector, understanding these common pitfalls can help you use Chrono24 more safely and effectively. Below are six mistakes you should avoid to ensure a smooth and successful experience.



Not Researching the Seller Properly



One of the biggest mistakes users make on Chrono24 is assuming that all sellers are equally trustworthy. While the platform hosts many reputable professional dealers, it also allows private sellers, and not all of them offer the same level of reliability.



Before making a purchase, always check the seller’s profile carefully. Look at their ratings, number of completed transactions, and customer reviews. A seller with a long history of positive feedback is generally safer than someone with little or no track record. If the seller is a professional dealer, confirm that they are verified and have a physical business address listed.



Failing to research the seller can lead to issues such as delayed shipping, misrepresented watches, or difficulties with refunds. On Chrono24, a few minutes of due diligence can prevent major headaches later.



Ignoring the Importance of Full Watch Documentation



Another common mistake is buying a watch without paying attention to its documentation. Many buyers focus only on the price and appearance, overlooking whether the watch includes its original box, papers, warranty card, and service history.



On Chrono24, watches listed as “full set” often carry higher value and are easier to resell in the future. Missing papers do not necessarily mean the watch is fake, but they can reduce resale value and make authenticity harder to verify. For collectors, documentation is especially important for limited editions or vintage models.



Always read the listing description carefully and ask the seller questions if anything is unclear. If documentation matters to you, never assume it is included unless it is clearly stated.



Falling for Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True



Chrono24 is known for competitive pricing, but extremely low prices should raise immediate red flags. One of the most common mistakes buyers make is rushing into a deal because it looks like a bargain, without asking why the price is so low.



Unrealistically cheap listings may indicate counterfeit watches, stolen items, or sellers attempting to move problematic inventory quickly. While Chrono24 has buyer protection, resolving disputes can be time-consuming and stressful.



To avoid this mistake, compare prices across multiple listings for the same model. If one listing is significantly cheaper than the market average, investigate carefully and ask the seller detailed questions. Patience and price comparison are essential tools when shopping on Chrono24.



Not Understanding Buyer Protection and Payment Methods



Many users assume that simply buying through Chrono24 guarantees complete safety, but misunderstandings about payment methods and buyer protection are common. Chrono24’s Trusted Checkout system is designed to protect buyers by holding funds in escrow until the watch is received and approved.



Problems arise when buyers agree to pay outside the platform to “save fees” or speed up the transaction. This is a major mistake. Paying directly to a seller via bank transfer or other off-platform methods often voids Chrono24’s buyer protection and leaves you vulnerable to scams.



Always use Chrono24’s recommended payment options and read the buyer protection terms carefully. Understanding how escrow works, what is covered, and what is not can save you from costly errors.



Overlooking Import Taxes, Duties, and Shipping Costs



Chrono24 is a global marketplace, which means many watches are shipped internationally. One common mistake buyers make is focusing only on the listed price and forgetting about additional costs such as import taxes, customs duties, and shipping fees.



Depending on your country, these extra charges can significantly increase the final cost of your watch. In some cases, buyers are surprised by high customs bills after the watch arrives, turning what seemed like a good deal into an expensive purchase.



Before buying on Chrono24, ask the seller about shipping costs and research your local import regulations. Knowing the full landed cost upfront helps you make better purchasing decisions and avoid unpleasant surprises.



Failing to Communicate Clearly With the Seller



Clear communication is essential on Chrono24, yet many buyers and sellers underestimate its importance. Some users skip asking questions, assume details, or fail to confirm critical information before completing a transaction.



Before purchasing, communicate with the seller about the watch’s condition, servicing history, authenticity, return policy, and shipping timeline. If the listing photos are unclear, request additional images. If something feels vague or inconsistent, trust your instincts and seek clarification.



Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, disputes, and dissatisfaction even when the seller is honest. On Chrono24, proactive and polite communication helps ensure both parties are aligned and confident in the transaction.