Every pre-owned watch we sell comes with a 12-month Cotswold Time Company warranty (starting from the day of purchase), in addition to any remaining manufacturer's warranty it may carry. If your watch stops working properly through no fault of your own during that period, we will repair it free of charge or refund if this is not practicable.
How it works
If your watch still has manufacturer's warranty remaining, it can be sent to an authorised repairer either directly or via us. If it is covered by our warranty only, we will carry out the repair ourselves.
Standard and limited warranties
Most watches we sell carry our full 12-month warranty. We expect them to perform within these tolerances, unless otherwise stated in the listing:
- Timekeeping: +/- 60 seconds per day
- Amplitude: >180 degrees
- Power reserve: 24 hours
Some watches, particularly antique and vintage pieces, are sold with a limited warranty (3 months) that reflects their age and the nature of pre-owned mechanical movements that are pre-1970. These carry the following tolerances:
- Timekeeping: +/- 120 seconds per day
- Amplitude: >180 degrees
- Power reserve: 18 hours
Occasionally we offer watches at the lower end of the market, primarily for their collectability rather than their timekeeping. These are listed without warranty, and this will be clearly noted.
What the warranty does not cover
Our warranty covers mechanical and manufacturing defects. It does not cover theft or loss, accidental damage, mishandling, normal wear and tear, or strap wear. Water damage is also excluded; vintage and pre-owned watches should not be worn in water or humid environments, as age and previous use can compromise water resistance even where it was originally present.
The warranty is void if the watch has been worked on by a third party after purchase, including servicing or mechanical intervention not carried out or authorised by us. Fitting aftermarket components will also void the warranty, and can compromise a watch's performance and water resistance.
Returning a watch under warranty
If your watch develops a fault, please get in touch and describe the issue as fully as you can. We will arrange the repair from there. Please note that warranty returns must be adequately insured at your own expense during transit.
Our warranty is in addition to your statutory rights.

