Author: Charlotte H

There’s real value in the pre-owned watch world like better prices, access to discontinued models, and the chance to own something with a bit of history behind it. But when you’re dropping serious cash on a single piece, it’s important to buy from someone you can actually trust.

Buying new is more straightforward. You just head to the brand’s site, find an authorized retailer, and you’re good to go. The pre-owned space isn’t quite that simple though.

You could be dealing with a private seller or a company that specializes in luxury watches, and not all of them are going to have the same policies and reputation.

You’ve got to know what to look out for. Things like certified authenticity, transparent service history, solid return policies – these all matter. So, to make the whole process a little easier, we’ve done the legwork for you. Here are the 7 best places to buy used watches online, all vetted and trusted, so you can shop with confidence.

The Benefits of Buying Watches Pre-Owned

There’s a lot to love about buying a watch pre-owned. One of the biggest advantages is the potential to save some money.

For many of us collectors, there’s a running list of dream watches we hope to own someday, and more often than not, the biggest barrier is the number staring back at us from our bank account. Pre-owned models often come in below retail, which can make that dream piece a reality sooner than expected.

It’s also where you’ll find the hard-to-get stuff. Limited editions, discontinued references, and cult-favorite models that sell out before you’ve even had a chance to think about them.

Sometimes, a release comes and goes in a flash and if you weren’t on the list or in the loop, you’re out of luck. That’s where the pre-owned market shines. It gives collectors a second shot at owning the pieces they thought had slipped through the cracks.

Similarly, exclusivity is a big part of the game. Some big name watchmakers like Rolex for example are not easy to find brand-new.

Try walking into a store and picking up a brand-new Submariner or Daytona off the shelf and you’ll often be met with a smile and a waiting list that can stretch two or three years.

And that’s if you even make it onto the list in the first place. That means that for a lot of collectors and first-time buyers, the pre-owned market is the only realistic choice.

There’s also something to be said for buying a watch that’s already lived a little. That slight patina on the case, the softened edges of the bezel, it all adds character. These watches have stories, and wearing one can feel more personal, more grounded than buying something factory fresh.

Finally, there’s value retention. A brand-new watch often takes a hit the second it leaves the boutique. Pre-owned, that depreciation has already happened. If you buy wisely, you’re less likely to lose value and in some cases, your piece might even appreciate over time.

The Best Places to Buy Used Watches

If you’re convinced that buying pre-owned is the way to go, the next big question is where to actually shop. With so many platforms out there, it can be tough to know who to trust. To save you the guesswork, we’ve pulled together our top picks of the best places to buy used watches.

1. Exquisite Timepieces

Exquisite Timepieces is a go-to spot for anyone serious about watches. Based in Naples, Florida, they’re an authorized retailer for over 60 luxury brands, and their pre-owned selection is just as impressive.

You’ll find everything from heavy hitters like Rolex, Omega, and IWC to high-end grails from Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin, all of which are carefully inspected and serviced before being listed for sale.

What makes them stand out is the range. Whether you’re after a sleek dress watch, something sportier or a rare limited edition you missed out on, there’s something for every style and budget.

Their attention to detail, reputation in the watch world, and transparent approach to selling pre-owned make them a trusted source for collectors and first-timers alike.

2. Chrono24

Chrono24 is one of the biggest and most trusted marketplaces for buying used watches online, and for good reason. It brings together thousands of professional dealers and private sellers from around the world under one digital roof.

They have a number of systems in place to give buyers the confidence to purchase. For starters, their Buyer Protection ensures your payment goes into a secure escrow account and only gets released to the seller once you’ve had 14 days to inspect your watch and make sure everything checks out.

Every watch listed also must meet Chrono24’s strict authenticity standards, and dealers have to go through a thorough verification process before they’re allowed to sell. That means photo ID, tax info, and business registration details are all on file.

You also get access to customer reviews, which makes it easier to buy with confidence. Even top-tier retailers like Exquisite Timepieces list inventory on Chrono24, which says a lot about the platform’s credibility in the pre-owned watch world.

3. Watchfinder

Watchfinder & Co. is another major player in the pre-owned watch market, and they have been since 2002. With thousands of timepieces from over 50 top-tier brands, including Rolex, Omega, and Cartier, they’ve built a reputation as one of the most trusted names in the business.

What really sets them apart is their in-house, manufacturer-accredited service centre, something you won’t find at most pre-owned retailers.

Every watch goes through a thorough inspection and servicing process before it hits their site, so you know you’re getting a piece that’s been properly looked after. They also offer a 14-day return window, which gives you time to try it on, assess it, and send it back if it’s not quite right.

4. eBay

With millions of listings and sellers from across the globe, eBay offers unmatched variety, especially when it comes to vintage finds and quirky, hard-to-source models you won’t see anywhere else. If you’re after something with real wear and character, eBay can be a goldmine.

That said, it takes a bit more work. Unlike curated platforms, you’re largely on your own to vet the listing and the seller.

Some watches now go through eBay’s authentication process, automatically for pieces over $2,000, and optionally for lower-priced ones, but that’s not always a guarantee everything will be smooth sailing.

You need to read listings closely, study photos, check seller ratings, and don’t hesitate to message the seller with questions. Personally, it’s not where I’d spend thousands, but if you’ve got an eye for detail and a bit of experience, eBay can be a great place to score something unique.

5. Bob’s Watches

Another well-reputed retailer for buying used watches is Bob’s Watches. With over 20 years of experience, they’ve built a trustworthy marketplace where you can shop for some of the most coveted brands in the industry, including Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe.

They’re known for their commitment to transparency, ensuring every watch listed on their site includes both the buy and sell prices, so you can make an informed purchase.

As you’d expect, each piece undergoes a thorough inspection by third-party experts, so you can shop with confidence knowing every watch is 100% authentic. Additionally, they offer a low-price guarantee, allowing you to compare prices and feel assured you’re getting great value for your investment.

6. Watches of Switzerland

If you’re in the market for a pre-owned luxury watch, Watches of Switzerland is definitely worth checking out. They’ve got an impressive selection of both vintage and modern timepieces from some of the best Swiss brands like Patek Philippe, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and OMEGA. Their stock is always changing, so you can expect fresh options regularly.

Many of their pre-owned pieces are reconditioned and serviced by the original brands, meaning you’re getting a timepiece that’s been professionally cared for and each one is brand-certified and comes with a warranty, so you’re covered if anything goes wrong.

7. The 1916 Company

Finally, the 1916 Company is a great option if you’re after something truly special in the pre-owned watch market. They carry a carefully curated selection of rare and collectible timepieces from some of the most prestigious brands in the world, including Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Omega.

One of the standout features of The 1916 Company is their partnership with the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned Program. This means that any Rolex you buy from them is fully authenticated, serviced by Rolex and comes with a 2-year international warranty. It’s a nice reassurance that you’re getting a genuine piece in excellent working condition.

Conclusion

Buying a pre-owned watch is a great way to snag a deal while adding something unique to your collection. Whether it’s a rare vintage find or a discontinued model, the pre-owned market opens up a whole new world of options.

And the best part is that there are plenty of trusted retailers out there, each with their own strengths, from transparency in pricing to offering warranties and expert authentication.

The key to buying used watches is doing your homework. Read reviews, check the seller’s reputation, and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to walk away. But when you do find the right piece, it gets very exciting. So take your time, explore your options and enjoy exploring the pre-owned watch world!

For some, watches are there to look good, playing a part to elevate an outfit or reveal some sort of status. But for others, watches need to have meaning, a purpose, to be durable, resilient and even in some cases help people do their jobs.

For instance, divers, pilots, race car drivers, and even astronauts often rely on specific watches to withstand extreme conditions and assist with crucial tasks. These are what we call tool watches.

We know that nowadays, you don’t necessarily need a dive watch to go swimming, and few pilots today require a mechanical chronograph to navigate the skies, but that doesn’t make these watches any less cool or important. Their rugged build, practical features, and rich history are what make them so sought after.

With so many options out there, finding the best of the best can be tricky. That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up 12 of the absolute best tool watches for 2025 and we promise, these are watches we’ve tried and tested ourselves, so we know they don’t only look the part but can get the job done if duty calls.

What Exactly Is a Tool Watch?

So what is a tool watch, really? In simple terms, it’s a watch designed to do more than just tell time. It has a purpose. It was built to be used in real-world situations such as tracking dive times underwater, timing laps on a racetrack, or helping a pilot navigate across time zones.

Historically, tool watches emerged out of necessity. Early wristwatches, adapted from pocket watches, were created for military use so they were built tough to withstand battle.

As technology advanced and people pushed the boundaries of exploration, the need for specialized timepieces grew. That’s how we ended up with categories like dive watches, pilot watches, field watches, and racing chronographs. Each of these watches were engineered to serve a specific function.

Ultimately, a tool watch is all about durability, reliability, and functionality. They’re designed to survive tough conditions, whether it’s offering improved water resistance, shock-proof cases, highly legible dials, and features like rotating bezels, GMT hands, or even helium escape valves for serious divers.

Who Wears Tool Watches?

Know that if you already have a taste for tool watches but you aren’t exactly into deep-sea diving, piloting fighter jets, or timing laps in a Formula 1 car, then that’s okay. Us neither. You can still love a tool watch without needing to put its full set of functions to the test.

In fact, tool watches are some of the most popular out there, simply because there’s something undeniably cool about wearing a watch that could handle those extreme situations, should they ever come up.

Tool watches are built to be tough, functional, and versatile, and that’s exactly why people love them. You might simply be an outdoor enthusiast, a frequent traveller, or just someone who appreciates a well-engineered timepiece. Whatever your lifestyle, it’s hard for a tool watch not to fit effortlessly into daily life.

And let’s not forget, there’s an undeniable sense of confidence in wearing a watch with a purpose. They remind us of a time when watches were essential tools, not just accessories and even if we’re not using them for their original mission, we still love knowing that, if we had to, our watch could handle the challenge.

The 12 Best Tool Watches

With so many tool watches out there, finding the best of the best can feel overwhelming. So, to help, we’ve tried and tested the latest releases and even some golden oldies to bring you 12 of the absolute best tool watches for 2025.

Tudor Pelagos 39

The Tudor Pelagos 39 is everything you’d want in a modern tool watch, especially if you want something water resistant. Crafted from titanium, it measures 39mm wide, 11.8mm thick, and weighs just 107g on the bracelet.

Unlike its bigger 500 meter rated siblings, the Pelagos 39 offers a more compact, everyday-friendly design while still delivering serious dive watch credentials, including 200m of water resistance and Tudor’s T-Fit micro-adjust system for a perfect fit.

It combines the no-nonsense tool-watch DNA of the Pelagos with the versatility of the Black Bay Fifty-Eight, making it ideal for both adventure and daily wear.

The brushed ceramic bezel, matte black dial, and signature snowflake hands keep the design sharp and legible. It’s a tool watch that doesn’t feel like overkill yet still packs all the performance you’d expect from Tudor.

Price: $4,875

Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400

The Oris Aquis Date is proof that a dive watch can be both functional and stylish without strictly following vintage design cues. With its sleek integrated case, bold hour markers, and ceramic bezel, the Aquis stands out in a sea of traditional divers. But what really sets it apart is what’s inside, the Oris Calibre 400 series.

This movement is a personal favourite, offering an impressive five-day power reserve, high anti-magnetic resistance, and a 10-year recommended service interval. That’s serious longevity and reliability for a mechanical watch. Of course, if the in-house movement isn’t a must, Oris still offers excellent Sellita-powered versions that deliver great performance at a lower price.

Price: $3,500

Yema Speedgraf

Yema may not be the first name that comes to mind for racing watches, but its motorsport pedigree runs deep and it’s a watch many of my tool watch-loving friends have argued is one of the best in the motorsport genre. 

Worn by legends like Mario Andretti, the Speedgraf is a true vintage-inspired chronograph that delivers both history and style.

With its 39mm bicompax layout, domed crystal, and classic tachymeter and telemeter scales, the Speedgraf is the definition of a heritage racing watch.

The Seiko NE86 automatic movement ensures reliability, while its rally strap reinforces its motorsport DNA. Yema describes it as a “competitively priced neo-vintage chronograph,” but honestly, I think that undersells just how well it captures the spirit of classic racing timepieces.

Price: $1,499

Longines Spirit Zulu Time GMT

For those that love a tool watch built for the cockpit, you can’t go far wrong with the Longines Spirit Zulu Time GMT. It’s the perfect blend of classic pilot watch aesthetics and modern functionality. If I had to pick one model, it would be the 39mm titanium reference, as it’s compact, travel-friendly and wonderfully lightweight on the wrist.

Key features include the bidirectional bezel with a black ceramic insert and 24-hour scale, and a matte black dial accented with gold-tone numerals, hands, and a red GMT hand for easy readability. Inside, the COSC-certified L844.4 movement offers 72 hours of power reserve and independent hour-hand adjustment which is essential for frequent travelers.

Price: $4,275

Sinn 104

The Sinn 104 is a favorite among collectors, often serving as an entry point into high-end tool watches. Introduced in 2013, it blends the brand’s signature functionality with an understated yet rugged design. At 41mm wide and just under 12mm thick, the case features Sinn’s signature brutalist lugs, a screw-down crown with guards, and a bidirectional 60-click bezel designed for precision timing.

It feels like both a pilot’s watch and a diver’s watch with a water-resistant rating of 200 meters. Plus, it’s powered by the Sellita SW220-1 automatic movement so although German made, it boasts a Swiss movement with a reliable day-date complication and 41-hour power reserve.

For me, the best feature of the Sinn 104 though is the dial. It’s pure, uncluttered, highly legible and built for purpose which is exactly what you want in a great tool watch.

Price: $1,690

Rolex Submariner

Arguably the best well-known tool watch of all time, the Rolex Submariner has set the standard for dive watches since its 1953 debut. Worn by everyone from professional divers to James Bond, its legendary status is well earned.

Today’s Submariner measures 41mm wide and features Rolex’s signature Oystersteel case with 300 meters of water resistance. Its unidirectional ceramic bezel offers one of the best actions in the industry, while the Chromalight luminescence ensures visibility in the darkest depths.

The in-house caliber 3235 provides a 70-hour power reserve and Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer accuracy of +/- 2 seconds per day. The issue here is getting your hands on once, since availability and affordability can be an issue.

Price: $9,100

Hamilton Khaki Field

The Hamilton Khaki Field is one of the best affordable Swiss-made tool watches in existence in my opinion. It’s a tough-as-nails field watch that comes in a range of case sizes, case metals, and movement types for every wearer and budget. However, if I had to pick just one, I’d go with the Hamilton Khaki Field Titanium Mechanical.

This collection comes in both 38mm and 42mm case sizes, with options for a bare titanium finish or a stealthy black PVD coating. The titanium construction keeps it incredibly lightweight and corrosion-resistant while offering a solid 100m water resistance thanks to its screw-down case back.

Dial colors range from classic black and grey to rich blue and green, depending on the case finish, but every time, legibility is top-notch with Swiss Super-LumiNova on the numerals and hands. Plus, the H-10 automatic movement offers a staggering 80-hour power reserve which is practically unheard of at this price point.

RRP: $995

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional

We can’t do a run-down of the best tool watches without mentioning the legendary Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch. The Speedmaster is epic in biblical proportions, a first in so many categories, most notably as the first watch worn on the Moon.

It has stayed remarkably true to its original form since the 1960s, offering no ceramic bezels, only manual winding movements and no over-the-top luxury embellishments. There’s even the option to choose Hesalite over sapphire crystal to keep it as close to the original as possible.

The steel case measures to a very wearable 42mm wide with a thickness of 13.2mm, making it slimmer and more refined than previous generations. One of the biggest updates to the modern Moonwatch is the bracelet, but it works on all sorts of straps for a different look every time.

Traditionally seen with a black dial, the Omega Speedmaster was more recently released with a white display, and I think it looks absolutely incredible and suits its space exploration heritage perfectly.

Price: $6,600

Breitling Navitimer

The Breitling Navitimer is one of the most iconic pilot’s watches ever made, and for good reason. While many watches claim to be “tool watches,” few can match the actual functionality of the Navitimer.

Its most recognizable feature is its circular slide rule built into the rotating bezel that allows pilots to calculate airspeed, climb and descent rates, flight times, distances, and fuel consumption, all without the need for electronic instruments.

Over the years, the Navitimer collection has expanded to include a range of sizes and variations, making it more accessible while maintaining its tool-watch DNA. The contemporary lineup features cases in 41mm, 43mm, and 46mm with cases in stainless steel, solid 18k gold and two-toned options.

The dial variations have also expanded beyond the classic black or blue, with newer releases incorporating silver, green, and sunburst finishes. Most of the core models house the Breitling B01 automatic winding calibre which is COSC-certified and runs for 70 hours off the wrist.

RRP: $5,850

Casio G-SHOCK 6900 Series

Few watches embody toughness and reliability like the Casio G-SHOCK 6900. Introduced in 1995, this model quickly became a staple among military personnel, first responders, and streetwear enthusiasts.

Its Triple Graph display, round case, and signature front light button set it apart from other G-SHOCK models, giving it a distinctive yet highly functional design.

Two decades later, and the DW-6900 continues to impress with its high levels of shock resistance, 200m water resistance, and an EL backlight for nighttime visibility. It’s also been recently upgraded with solar charging, atomic timekeeping, and LED lighting for added functionality. Good news for those wanting a durable tool watch with a crazy low retail price, this one doesn’t even reach the $200 mark.

RRP: $170

IWC Pilot’s Timezoner Chronograph

If you’re a fan of aviation watches, you probably already know IWC and their expertise in aviation instruments dating all the way back to 1936. The brand’s collection is full of worthy contenders – the Mark XX almost made the cut for this list – but I couldn’t resist including the Timezoner Chronograph. It’s just too cool and practical with its world-time complication.

The centrepiece feature of this tool watch is this very complication, one that lets you change time zones with a simple twist. You just press down the rotating bezel, twist it to your destination time zone, and you’re set.

There’s no fiddling with pushers or buttons; it’s a one-and-done action that feels as satisfying as it sounds. And that epitomizes a great tool watch in my opinion. It also comes with a chronograph that has a flyback function, a 45mm stainless steel case, huge Arabic numerals, and those propeller-like hands for easy legibility.

RRP: $11,900

Seiko 5 Sports GMT

Seiko’s 5 Sports line has always been about making mechanical sports watches accessible, and the Seiko 5 Sports GMT is no exception, adding in a handy GMT complication.  Introduced in 2022, it’s a design that’s unmistakably Seiko with a robust stainless steel case, a recessed crown at 4 o’clock, and the familiar military-inspired vibe.

What really sets this model apart for me is the Hardlex crystal and the two-tone 24-hour bezel insert. Depending on how you look at it, the bezel shifts colors, adding a bit of fun to the watch while still staying practical.

And you also have the LumiBrite hands that glow brilliantly, ensuring legibility in any condition. With a 42.5mm case, 100m water resistance, and an automatic 4R movement with hacking seconds, it’s another tool watch with unbeatable value.

RRP: $475

Conclusion

Tool watches offer something unique for every taste and budget, and that’s what makes this genre so exciting. Whether you’re looking for a reliable, everyday timepiece or a high-performance model built to withstand extreme conditions, hopefully you now realise there really is a tool watch to fit every type of bill.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a solid, durable watch either, with brands like Seiko and Casio proving you can get great value without sacrificing quality. But equally, if you’ve got the budget, there are luxury options out there that truly deliver in both craftsmanship and functionality. The beauty of tool watches lies in their versatility so just know that no matter your needs or preferences, there’s a tool watch made with you in mind.