Watch Retailers Vs Watch Consultants

Ok people, this is a little bit off the beaten path for me to write about, but I feel that it is important. Of late, I've received a number of emails and inquiries about what exactly it is that a watch consultant does, and more importantly, why a watch consultant is relevant. I thought it might be best to address this in a post.

Whether you're a watch collector or just admire timepieces from a distance, it's quite crucial to know that you're buying from somebody reputable who has your best interest at heart otherwise you could get ripped off or worse: have buyer's remorse.

Having worked in retail operations over the years, I know first hand how limiting it can be because of the limited number of brands available at a particular retail location, and in turn, the stock of those brands. I know there is this amazing feeling you get when you can go in to a shop meet the person face to face who is selling you the product, and try it on a million times whether you buy the item or not, but let's be honest: a good salesperson in the retail watch industry is very hard to find, and the most incredible ones are so sought after they are unreachable most of the time and tend to get nabbed by the watch companies during store visits. Very rarely will a salesperson at a retail establishment have enough product knowledge to help you make the right decision because either they are complete knobs, they haven't been trained properly or sometimes it is more clear than not that they will just sell you anything to make their commission for that month, which is a horrible feeling if you are the client.

I feel the advantages to having a watch consultant are far greater. The watch consultant will first be able to identify what is the right watch for you privately with discretion, do all the research, make sure you get the best price (if that's possible) and make himself/herself available to you with any questions at your convenience. A top watch consultant will also make sure that you have access to any brand you desire because of strong established relationships he/she has cultivated so you don't have to run around halfway around the world on the hunt to get what you want. Even though it may cost you a little more it is worth it at the end, because you have the assurance that you are getting the right timepiece for you, and that you are happy not just for the here and now, but for a lifetime which is absolutely priceless!