With eBay Authenticity Guarantee, eBay builds on its commitment to trust and safety in the trade of high-value goods – since 2020, more than 15 million items have been authenticated worldwide. Now, eBay is taking the next step in protecting buyers and sellers: every watch that goes through its authentication service in the US, the UK and Germany will be checked against Enquirus, the world’s largest free database for lost and stolen watches.
Enhanced Protection Through Global Data Verification
As the market for pre-loved luxury watches continues to grow, so does the need for reassurance when buying or selling high-value items. Trust, transparency and protection are becoming increasingly important factors in the overall experience.
With the integration of Enquirus, eBay addresses this need directly by adding a new layer of data-driven protection to its authentication process. In addition to verifying authenticity and condition, every watch is now automatically checked against a global database of lost and stolen timepieces.
Enquirus, an industry leading platform, connects law enforcement agencies, insurers, manufacturers, retailers, and owners to help tackle watch related crime. Anyone who reports a watch as lost or stolen can register it in the central database free of charge, helping to build a comprehensive global record.
By embedding this database directly into the authentication process, eBay helps ensure that watches are not only genuine, but also have a clear and legitimate history – giving buyers greater reassurance and supporting a safer environment for sellers.
Trust is the foundation of resale. At eBay, we’re investing in technology, services and partnerships that raise the bar across high-value categories, creating a consistent standard of protection and making it easier for buyers and sellers to engage with total confidence.
– Alexis Hoopes, VP Global Fashion, eBay
We are delighted that eBay has chosen to work with Enquirus, reinforcing its position as a secure marketplace for pre-owned luxury watches. Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone in strengthening our collective ability to protect the integrity of the entire luxury sector . This is a testament to our shared vision for a safer marketplace, where trust and transparency prevail7
– Sarah Dixon, Project Director, Enquirus
How eBay Authenticity Guarantee for Luxury Watches Works
Authenticity Guarantee is eBay’s authentication service that adds an extra layer of trust across key categories such as luxury watches, handbags, sneakers, jewelry and fashion, helping buyers and sellers shop pre-loved, branded items with confidence. Depending on the category and item price, the inspection is either complimentary or available as an optional service.
For luxury watches, the service includes a comprehensive multi-point check carried out by independent experts—including partner Stoll & Co., in certain markets—verifying key details such as brand, model, movement, case material, strap type, and reference number. Beyond authenticity, each watch also undergoes a structured condition assessment evaluating wear, functionality and overall presentation. Where appropriate, watches are carefully prepared and cleaned by specialists to ensure they arrive in a condition that accurately reflects their provenance and value.
Only after successfully passing these checks is the watch shipped to the buyer. It arrives with an individual authentication card and QR-linked digital record, providing detailed information and creating a transparent, elevated delivery experience.
In the UK, eBay Authenticity Guarantee for luxury watches is available in the following price segments:
- Complimentary for luxury watches from selected brands priced at £1,500 or more
- Available as an optional service for luxury watches priced between £1,000 and £1,499 for a fee of £99 per watch
