How Can You Know What Your Engagement Ring Is Worth?

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Engagement rings often represent an important moment in a couple’s life, and their sentimental value is priceless. However, knowing what your ring is worth can help you determine if you have the right amount of insurance coverage or whether you should upgrade your ring. It can also help you receive a fair value if the engagement’s been broken off and you want to sell the ring.

Whatever your reason, if you’re interested in knowing what exactly your engagement ring is worth, there are a few key factors to consider before taking it for an appraisal at Orange, CA’s No. 1 place to sell gold jewelry.

Metal Band

First and foremost, the metal your ring is made of will affect its worth. Platinum engagement rings usually cost more than white or yellow gold, and increasingly popular rose gold may also be more expensive than its counterparts.

Keep in mind that the price of each metal will change daily depending on the current market price for an ounce of that material (also called the spot price). When selling your engagement ring to a gold and jewelry buyer, you can expect to receive about 80-90 percent of the current spot price.

Center Stone

The center stone is, of course, the most important part of the ring and typically accounts for 75-95 percent of the ring’s total value. When assessing the worth of an engagement ring, the center diamond’s carat, clarity and color will all be taken into account. 

For example, a one-carat diamond with a color rating of F (the rarest color) and a clarity rating of IF (internally flawless) may be worth more than a diamond of the same size with lower color and clarity ratings. If your engagement ring has grading documentation attesting to its value, this will help increase the price of your engagement ring by eliminating some of the risk on the buyer’s part.

Accent Stones

Accent stones are also important to the overall value of the ring. Whether you have several small accent diamonds, a halo around the center stone or a unique design, the number and type of stones used in the ring will be taken into consideration.

Accent diamonds are typically priced by weight alone rather than judged on the four C’s typical of larger diamonds. This is because the larger stones are rarer and more usable. Smaller accent stones tend to be priced at 100-300 dollars per carat unless their quality is notably low.

Brand & Design

The brand and design of the ring are also important. If your ring is from a well-known designer such as Tiffany & Co., it will likely be worth more than something from a strip mall jewelry store. This is because the designer’s pieces are more highly coveted and have a heritage to them that is likely to help them retain their value over time.

If your ring has a unique or intricate design, especially if it’s custom-made, this could also add to its overall worth, even if it isn’t a well-known brand. These engagement ring designs are typically worth more when sold directly to a private party, however, rather than to a gold and jewelry buyer in your local area.

If you want to know the actual value of your diamond engagement ring, Watch & Wares can help. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, so we always strive to create an in-store experience that makes you comfortable and confident in your decision to sell diamond jewelry. We consistently offer the most competitive prices in the area, and our customer service speaks for itself. To schedule a free diamond jewelry appraisal or for any inquiries regarding sales, give us a call at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today. You can also stop by our Orange, CA location Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We look forward to working with you!

If You’re Selling Your Watch, Make Sure You Know These 5 Things First

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If you’re looking for the best place to sell your Rolex watch for cash, you’re not alone. Any Orange, CA resident searching for a good place to sell their designer watch will want to get the most money possible for their valuable items.

But how do you achieve this? There are several things you can do to increase the value of your Rolex watch and get the most money possible. From Rolex watch repair to monitoring the secondhand market, make sure you know these five things before selling your Rolex:

1. Your Readiness to Sell

Whether you bought your Rolex to mark a major life accomplishment or you were gifted it by a loved one, parting with your Rolex watch can be an emotional process. Before you begin the selling process, take time to consider whether or not you’re truly ready to part with the piece. 

You may have little emotional attachment to the watch, so it’s an easy decision; some people, however, need time to separate their love for the associated person or memory from their ownership of the watch. You may not be able to get the piece back if you have regrets, so make sure that you’re completely confident in your decision to sell before proceeding.

2. Authenticity

Of course, your Rolex’s authenticity will have a major impact on its value. If your watch is fake or counterfeit, its secondhand value will be next to nothing, and any reputable watch buyer will likely refuse to purchase it.

To verify authenticity before taking it for an appraisal, inspect the logo or other markers. If your watch is counterfeit, you may notice misspellings or incorrect fonts. Today’s counterfeits are incredibly sophisticated and close to the original in their design, so it’s best to take your Rolex in for Rolex watch repair or an appraisal to have a professional verify its authenticity.

3. Condition & Quality

Another significant factor in the value of your Rolex watch is its condition. The better shape that your watch is in, the more you’ll receive for it. This also extends to any Rolex watch repair that may have been performed. 

While it’s generally a good idea to have your watch repaired before selling to improve its condition, make sure that you use a reputable Rolex watch repair professional that will only use original Rolex parts. If a Rolex contains non-Rolex components, the watch is often considered inauthentic, even if the watch was originally purchased directly from Rolex.

It’s also a good idea to collect any and all paperwork associated with your watch. Any receipts, manuals, authenticity cards, packaging, warranty paperwork or other documentation will not only better inform your appraiser but will also increase the value of your secondhand Rolex. 

4. Market Demand

The price of your Rolex watch isn’t solely dictated by the watch itself; it can also depend on the market at the time of selling. For this reason, it’s always best to keep an eye on the market, if possible, and sell at peak times. If you don’t need to sell your watch for cash immediately, take some time to monitor the pre-owned Rolex market and analyze the selling price for secondhand Rolex watches of the same model as yours. 

It’s important to monitor Rolexes of the same or similar year and model because, while Rolexes are all generally valuable, specific models and collections can be worth far more than others. To ensure that you’re receiving the fairest value possible for your timepiece, it’s best to have an idea of what your Rolex is worth before seeking an appraisal. 

5. The Best Place to Sell Rolex Watches

Finally, the most important step before selling your Rolex watch is to find a trustworthy and reputable watch buyer in your area. When searching for places to sell gold jewelry and Rolex watches, look at third-party review sites and testimonials to verify their quality of work. 

You should also verify how long they’ve been in business, as well as whether they have proper licenses and certifications. You can also request a free appraisal for your Rolex watch. Any honest and trustworthy cash jewelry and loan shop will offer you a free, no-obligation appraisal for your watch itself or for Rolex watch repair.

At Watch & Wares, we consistently offer five-star customer service. This commitment to your satisfaction is reflected in our reputation online and in the local Orange County community. As a family-run business with 30 years of experience, we place transparency, integrity, and honesty at the forefront of everything we do. We want to ensure that every visit to Watch & Wares leaves you happy and confident in your selling decision. To find out more about our Rolex watch repair services or to receive a free Rolex watch estimate, give us a call at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today.

5 Jewelry Brands That Carry the Most Resale Value

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Jewelry is a significant investment for many Orange, CA residents – when you purchase a piece of fine jewelry, you want the peace of mind that it can be resold for a significant portion of its original retail price. While no one wants to have to worry about recouping money spent, if you find yourself needing to get cash for gold jewelry at a moment’s notice, these five luxury jewelry brands carry the highest resale value.

1. Cartier

Founded in 1847, Cartier is one of the most well-known names in fine jewelry. Since being founded by Louis-Francois Cartier in Paris almost 200 years ago, Cartier has become synonymous with luxury, being lauded by celebrities and royalty alike. In fact, England’s King Edward VII labeled Cartier as “the jeweler of kings and the king of jewelers.”

While many of Cartier’s pieces have a high resale value today, their most popular and in-demand styles of present-day include their Love bracelet, introduced in the 1970s, and their Just Un Clou collection. If you want a designer piece that looks infinitely timeless and will retain value for decades to come, Cartier is one of the safest and most attractive options in the world of fine jewelry.

2. Van Cleef & Arpels

Although timeless and beloved since its founding in 1906, Van Cleef & Arpels is having a renaissance, and those buying fine jewelry in 2023 would be wise to purchase a signature Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra style. Faithful to the first Alhambra jewel created in 1968, this style is both modern and on-trend while remaining classic for decades.

Further, online luxury consignment giant The Real Real found that Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry held its value the best of any other fine jewelry brand, retaining 74 percent of its original value on average with a 5 percent increase year over year. 

3. Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany & Co. is arguably the No. 1 most recognizable name in fine jewelry, and this has undeniably helped the brand remain in demand for almost two centuries. Founded in 1837, Tiffany & Co. is most famous for its diamond jewelry, especially engagement rings, and can even be recognized by its signature teal blue color, “Tiffany blue.”

Whether you’re an avid Audrey Hepburn fan or want to ensure that your engagement ring retains resale value, Tiffany & Co. is one of the most powerful forces in secondhand fine jewelry, thanks to its brand recognition.

4. David Yurman

If you’re seeking something more modern for your next jewelry piece, David Yurman is one of the youngest jewelry brands to carry a consistently high resale value. Founded in 1980, David Yurman is a name that is undeniably recognizable among modern consumers, and their signature cable bracelet quickly secured its place as a fine jewelry icon in less than 30 years.

Known for their unique, artisanal designs, David Yurman jewelry can fetch top prices among collectors and casual jewelry fans alike. While their highest secondhand sale prices don’t match the likes of Tiffany & Co. or Cartier, their average resale value is consistently among the top-ranked.

5. Harry Winston

Harry Winston founded his eponymous brand in 1920 and opened his first boutique in New York in 1932. Harry Winston is often referred to as “the ultimate jeweler” or “the king of diamonds,” indicative of the brand’s high value on the secondhand market. 

The first jeweler to loan out their pieces to an actress for the Academy Awards, Harry Winston is synonymous with Hollywood glamour and luxury. Known for unique gemstones, stunning diamonds, and meticulously detailed designs, Harry Winston estate jewelry is timeless and highly coveted, especially if it’s from an old Hollywood time period.

If you’re an Orange, CA resident with estate jewelry from one of these valuable fine jewelry brands and you’re looking for the best place to sell gold jewelry for cash, bring your estate jewelry into Watch & Wares today. Our friendly and knowledgeable team members are always happy to assist you with whatever jewelry services you need, including estate jewelry appraisal. We have served the Orange County area for more than 30 years, so you can always trust us to consistently offer fair and competitive values in a comfortable setting with exceptional customer service. To schedule an appraisal for your estate jewelry or to inquire about jewelry lending, give us a call at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today. We look forward to working with you!

How Is the Value of Your Rolex Watch Determined?

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The value of Rolex watches varies drastically, with secondhand pieces going for as little as $2,000, while the most expensive secondhand Rolex ever sold was $17.8 million. With such a wide range, how much can you expect to receive for your Rolex watch if you decide to part with it?

Generally, if you’re seeking to sell your Rolex Watch for cash, the value of your timepiece will be determined by four key factors: authenticity and inclusion of original parts, quality and condition, the desirability of that particular watch or model, and the current market value for Rolex watches overall.

Authenticity

One of the most significant factors in a Rolex’s value is, of course, its authenticity. When it comes to Rolex watches, this doesn’t just refer to whether or not Rolex manufactured the original watch. Rather, it means that the watch is entirely made of authentic Rolex components.

Over time, your luxury watch will inevitably need repair, and some parts may need to be replaced. If the Rolex watch repair is performed improperly or by a shoddy workman, they may replace an original Rolex part with a non-Rolex component, rendering the timepieces inauthentic in the eyes of collectors. 

Whenever you invest in Rolex watch repair, ensure that the replacement parts are authentic Rolex components. Ideally, these parts should be circa-correct, meaning that the replacement pieces are from the same period as the original manufacturing date of the timepiece. Sometimes, a circa-correct piece is unavailable; in this case, a more modern Rolex component will be used if it is compatible. While circa-correct vintage Rolex watches are most valuable, a Rolex watch with modern Rolex components is still authentic even if it isn’t circa-correct.

Condition

You may be tempted to leave your Rolex watch unmaintained or unrepaired for fear of losing its original parts and decreasing its value. However, condition plays an important role in a Rolex’s secondhand price, so you should still take the time to care for and maintain the timepiece.

If your Rolex watch is looking worse for wear, take it to a trusted Rolex watch repair specialist for assessment. They can determine what needs to be cleaned, what needs to be repaired, and what should be left as-is for maximum resale value. They’ll also be able to perform any repairs properly using authentic Rolex parts.

Model Desirability

As with all luxury goods, the desirability and, therefore, the secondhand value of an item will depend on its accessibility. Sometimes this can mean rarity, while other times, it means a well-maintained classic style. 

When it comes to Rolex, sports watches such as the Submarine and the Cosmograph Daytona are desirable and classic models that can be consistently sold for the purchase price or higher. More contemporary, colorful, or customized Rolex watches, on the other hand, are more likely to depreciate as trends change. However, if your Rolex has a rare feature or was previously owned by a noteworthy individual, this can drive its value up significantly.

Current Market Value

Just as with all secondhand goods, the overall performance of the secondary market will be a factor in how much your Rolex watch is worth. If you want the most money possible for your timepiece, keep an eye on the secondhand luxury market and wait for prices to peak before selling.

Luckily, Rolex watches generally always have a high resale value because of the constant demand. Since demand far exceeds supply at nearly all times of the year and for years on end, there are often multi-year waiting lists for popular models, which drives up secondary prices. This is especially true for in-demand models like the Rolex Daytona, so if you have a popular Rolex model in your possession, it may be worth nearly double its original retail value.

If you have a luxury Rolex watch that you’d like to sell for same-day cash, Watch & Wares is the premier choice in Southern California. At Watch & Wares, we’re proud to offer some of the most competitive rates in the Orange, CA area for residents seeking to sell luxury items. We have a staff of expert appraisers and certified gemologists who will ensure that you’re receiving the fairest value possible for your luxury goods every time. 

We also offer collateral loans that come with generous four-month loan terms and state-regulated interest rates. Whether you want to sell luxury items or inquire about jewelry lending, Watch & Wares is Orange County’s most trusted source. To schedule a Rolex appraisal appointment or receive a Rolex watch repair estimate, give us a call at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today.

4 Effective Ways To Take Care of Used Rolex Watches

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Owning a Rolex watch is a privilege, but it is also a responsibility. To make sure your used Rolex watch remains in excellent condition, there are some essential steps that you should take in order to care for your timepiece. With these four simple tips, you can keep your watch running smoothly for years to come and earn the most money possible when it’s time to sell your used Rolex watches.

Wear Your Rolex Watch Often

It may seem counterintuitive, but wearing your Rolex watch often is one of the best ways to keep it in good working order. By wearing it regularly, you can ensure that all of the internal components remain lubricated and don’t dry out. Rolex’s self-winding technology captures the subtle movements of your arm throughout the day and keeps the time running as long as you’re wearing it. If you take it off for more than a day, however, it may stop, and the time will need to be reset before wearing it again.

If you don’t wear your Rolex watch for more than a week, it is recommended to wind it manually. You can do this by turning the winding crown clockwise until you hear a click, which indicates that the mainspring is fully wound. You can also use a watch winder, which will keep your Rolex watch moving even when it isn’t on your wrist.

Only Clean Used Rolex Watches Occasionally

Like any other valuable luxury accessory, it’s important to keep your Rolex clean to extend its lifespan. However, you shouldn’t clean it too often, or you risk scratching and otherwise damaging your used Rolex watch.

To clean your watch, use a soft, lint-free cloth and a small amount of mild soap and water. Make sure you do not submerge your watch in water or use harsh cleaning products. If your watch has become dirty and the cloth is not enough to remove the dirt, you can use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub away residue. However, if the dirt is still not coming off, it is recommended to take your watch to a professional watchmaker. Additionally, if your Rolex watch doesn’t have an Oyster case and isn’t water resistant, avoid applying any liquid to your timepiece to clean it and, instead, take it to a watch repair professional.

Wind Your Rolex Watch When Needed

As mentioned above, most Rolex watches don’t need to be manually wound and will keep time as long as you’re wearing the timepiece. However, if you do find yourself needing to wind your used Rolex watch, don’t be afraid of doing so.

To wind your Rolex, simply unscrew the winding crown and rotate it clockwise until you hear a click. Once the mainspring is fully wound, you can set the time. When finished, make sure you screw the crown back down to the case to restore its water resistance and keep out any dirt or moisture.

Don’t Polish or Clean Used Rolex Watches Yourself

If your used Rolex watches are looking a little dull or lackluster after years of use, polishing them can help restore their original shine and vibrancy. However, Rolex watches can be easily scratched or damaged if not maintained properly. Never polish your used Rolex watches yourself; instead, take them to a professional watch repair store.

Watch repair professionals know how to properly polish used Rolex watches without over-polishing them and potentially damaging the timepiece’s components. When polishing a watch, you’re actually removing a thin layer of metal from the timepiece, and over-polishing the device can lead to long-term damage that can’t be repaired.

To ensure that your used Rolex watch remains in the best condition possible, follow the tips above, and when in doubt, always consult a watch repair professional such as Watch & Wares. We’ve been Orange County’s premier used Rolex watch repair specialist for more than 30 years, and we can bring all of your used Rolex watches back to life with our industry-leading professional watch repair services. 

We also offer free Rolex watch appraisal if you want to sell or loan your used Rolex watches for cash after cleaning them. To speak to one of our appraisal specialists and schedule an appointment, give us a call at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today. Whether your used Rolex watches are antique or contemporary, we’re the No. 1 jewelry and loan pawn shop for estate jewelry, fine watches and luxury accessories in Orange County, CA.

How To Clean Your Estate Jewelry for Maximum Resale Value

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Inheriting a loved one’s jewelry is often very meaningful, but sometimes the jewelry isn’t to your taste and would be better put to use being sold for cash. If you’re searching for the best places to sell gold jewelry in Orange, CA, then it’s important to know that cleaning your estate jewelry before you sell it can help you increase its price and earn you a higher appraisal value.

However, cleaning antique estate jewelry is a delicate process that requires patience and an eye for detail. Therefore, it’s important to understand what type of jewelry you have before you begin the cleaning process. Before you seek out the best place to sell gold jewelry for cash, take these steps to properly clean your antiques and increase the value of your estate jewelry.

How to Clean Antique Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry is a classic choice for antique estate jewelry. While gold jewelry is durable, it can still get tarnished over time. The only gold that will not tarnish is pure 24-carat gold, which is rare to find in contemporary and estate jewelry pieces.

The good news is that if you have worn and tarnished gold jewelry, it’s extremely easy to clean and restore to a gleaming finish. Begin by placing your estate jewelry in a strainer and run warm water over the item. After you’ve rinsed the jewelry and dislodged any stubborn dirt, use a soft bristle toothbrush to gently scrub away residue and imperfections.

If you have stubborn stains that aren’t removed during this process, add a drop of mild dish soap to a clean cloth and gently rub your estate jewelry with it. Let the detergent sit for a few minutes, then gently brush it with the toothbrush once more. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any soap residue, and buff it with a dry cloth for a like-new finish.

How to Clean Antique Silver Jewelry

Another popular choice for antique estate jewelry, silver is prone to tarnishing and needs to be regularly cleaned to keep it looking its best. Depending on how worn your silver estate jewelry is, there are several steps you can take to polish the pieces and restore their original luster before you visit places to sell jewelry for cash.

If your silver estate jewelry is dull or only slightly discolored, you can clean it in a matter of minutes using a mixture of water and mild dishwashing soap. Dip a soft microfiber cloth into a soap mixture and run it along your silver estate jewelry to remove any residue or discoloration. Once the item has been cleaned to your satisfaction, rinse the jewelry using cool water and dry it with a clean cloth.

If your silver estate jewelry is heavily tarnished, you’ll need to create a baking soda paste. Mix one part water and three parts baking soda, and apply a small dab of the paste to your estate jewelry with a clean cloth. Work the paste into any discolored areas with a cloth or soft toothbrush. Each time the paste turns gray, rinse the jewelry with cool water and begin the process again until the paste stops turning gray or until you’re satisfied with the look of your silver estate jewelry. Buff with a clean, soft cloth to finish.

How to Clean Antique Diamond Jewelry

If your diamonds look dull and flat, it’s easy to restore their sparkle with a mixture of club soda and mild dishwashing soap. Just make sure that all of your diamond settings are secure before you begin to avoid losing any precious stones.

Once you’ve verified that all of your diamonds are securely in place, fill a small bowl with club soda and add a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Mix the solution thoroughly, and submerge your diamond estate jewelry into the bowl inside of a small strainer. Allow your jewelry to soak for up to 10 minutes, and swirl it around occasionally to dislodge any stubborn dirt. You can also scrub it gently with a soft toothbrush to help further dislodge any grime or residue. Once you’re happy with its finish, run the strainer underneath cool water to rinse your estate jewelry, and buff it with a dry cloth.

Cleaning antique estate jewelry is a delicate process, and gold, silver and diamond jewelry require different cleaning methods to achieve the best result. If you have estate jewelry that’s seen better days, trusting your restoration to a professional jewelry repair store will ensure that you get the best results possible with no risk of further damage to your beloved estate jewelry. 

Here at Watch & Wares, our team of trained professionals has been performing watch, estate jewelry, and handbag repair services for decades. We understand luxury, and we always strive to provide the best service in the Orange, CA area. Our master jeweler has over 40 years of industry experience and is the jeweler that other local jewelers go to for answers. 

We’re also known as the best place to sell gold jewelry for cash in Orange, CA and the surrounding area. Since 1992, we’ve been the premier source for estate jewelry buying, selling and collateral loans. We’re confident you won’t find anyone better to restore your luxury goods, especially at our competitive price point. To receive a free estimate on one of our luxury repair services, give us a call at (714) 633-2030 or contact us via our online form today.

5 Reasons To Finally Let Go of Your Luxury Pre-Owned Designer Handbags

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Designer handbags, like any other part of your wardrobe, are an inherently personal purchase that reflects who you are, what you’re feeling or what you’re going through in life when you purchase them. Some people impulsively purchase bags, while others buy them for special occasions and big accomplishments.

Whatever your bag-buying philosophy, there’ll likely come a time when you have to make the choice of whether or not to sell your luxury pre-owned designer handbag. Whether you’ve fallen out of love with the style or simply need some extra money, there are many reasons to let go of your luxury bags — especially when that pre-owned designer handbag could be worth thousands.

Although it can be difficult to part with such significant investments, here are five clear signs that it’s time to let go of your pre-owned designer handbags.

1. You no longer wear it

One of the biggest reasons why someone may choose to sell their pre-owned designer handbags is because they aren’t wearing them anymore. Perhaps the bag doesn’t suit your current lifestyle, or perhaps you’ve fallen out of love with the design. Whatever the reason, an unused handbag is one that should be let go of.

Identify the bags in your collection that have been neglected, and make a point of using them. If you don’t enjoy the experience of using them, or if you fail to use them altogether within a specific timeframe, it’s time for those bags to go to a new home. Clearing your closet of bags you no longer use will also generate closet space and funds for new handbags that you’ll enjoy more.

2. It’s outdated

Some designer bags are timeless and classic closet staples that can be used over the course of decades without ever looking out-of-date. Other bags, however, are clear-trend pieces, and wearing them even five years after purchasing can instantly make your outfit look dated.

If you have any trendy styles in your wardrobe, it may be best to let them go. This can apply to bags that are currently out-of-date, as well as bags that are on-trend now but that will look dated in 5-10 years’ time. 

If you sell your trendy bags during the height of their trend, you can make much more money than if you wait until the trend has died out and the bag is out of style. Because of this, you should think carefully about whether or not now is the best time to part with your trendy pre-owned designer handbag.

3. It’s taking up space

Decluttering your closet can clear your mind and create new space for a new season of beautiful things. You likely spring clean your clothes and shoes, but what about your pre-owned designer handbags?

Go through your bag collection seasonally and consider which bags are valuable to you and which are taking up more space than they’re worth. If you’re not getting use out of large bags, you may find that the extra real estate and the cash from the sale are worth more to you than the bag itself.

4. You’re too scared to wear it

Do you have a lambskin bag that you’re terrified of scratching or a white purse that’s screaming for color transfer? Many bag collectors have one or two handbags in their collection that they’re scared of wearing for fear of damaging the item, so we get it.

However, if you’re not using the bag, it’s definitely time to let it go. Selling luxury pre-owned designer handbags that you’re too scared to use will not only allow those bags to go to people who will use them, but it’ll also turn the dust-collecting handbag into thousands of dollars you can spend elsewhere.

5. You want more money in the bank

One of the biggest benefits of purchasing designer handbags over cheap handbags is that they retain their value over time. That Chanel Classic Flap you bought for $4,400 in 2012 is now worth $8,800 in 2022 — and potentially even more, depending on the desirability of the color.

While not all bags increase so drastically in value, virtually all pre-owned designer handbags will retain some value and be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars even years later. If you need some extra cash for the holiday season, have a home renovation on the horizon, or simply want the money for a newer, more exciting designer handbag, selling your pre-owned luxury handbag will help you add more cash to your wallet.

For more than 30 years, Watch & Wares has been known as the best place to sell gold and jewelry in Orange, CA, but it’s also the best place to buy and sell pre-owned designer handbags. Watch & Wares Couture specializes in appraising, buying, selling and repairing all of the premier designer brands, including Chanel, Hermès, Louis Vuitton and more. To find out more about our handbag spa services or schedule an appraisal for your luxury pre-owned designer handbag, give us a call at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today. We look forward to assisting you in any way we can.

3 Factors That Affect the Price of Gold When Selling Gold Jewelry

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Former Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke once famously said, “Nobody really understands gold prices, and I don’t really understand them either.” Gold is notorious for its constantly-fluctuating prices, and it can be difficult to comprehend the complicated logistics of pricing gold.

With that said, there are several key factors that any Orange, CA resident can look out for to help them understand the current value of gold. Armed with this knowledge, you can maximize the value of your item when deciding it’s time to sell your gold jewelry.

1. The economy

The price of gold is tied to economic data such as interest rates, so staying up-to-date with the current state of the economy can help you form an idea of how valuable gold is at that time.

When the U.S. economy is strong, gold prices tend to drop. As borrowing increases and interest rates go up, gold becomes a less popular investment, and, as a result, its price tends to drop. Conversely, when there’s negative economic news — think rising unemployment or a decreased GDP — gold prices tend to rise.

If you’re looking for places to sell gold jewelry so you can turn it into cash, it’s best to wait until a period of poor economic data. Waiting for a quarter in which the GDP has decreased or unemployment has risen will help you get the most money possible for your fine jewelry pieces.

2. The U.S. dollar

The price of gold and the value of the U.S. dollar have had a tight relationship for almost 50 years. This is because global markets measure the value of silver and gold according to the U.S. dollar.

The stronger the U.S. dollar is, the lower the price of gold will be. When the U.S. economy is weaker and the value of the dollar goes down, the price of gold will generally increase. This is because citizens tend to hold their money in the form of gold rather than a weakened currency.

If you have gold jewelry you plan to part with, don’t visit the best place to sell gold jewelry until the U.S. dollar is experiencing a weaker exchange rate. This will allow you to maximize the value of your gold jewelry.

3. Supply and demand

Like any commodity, gold follows the basic law of supply and demand: when supply is low and demand is high, an item’s value increases. When the demand for gold jewelry increases and the supply becomes more limited, the price of gold automatically rises in response.

Almost 50 percent of the world’s gold production is used in jewelry, so the values of these two items are very closely linked. If you have gold jewelry that you want to sell, wait for a time when gold prices are higher and the demand for gold jewelry is increased to receive the best value for your items. Jewelry-gifting holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day are often the most opportune time to sell gold jewelry.

Whether you want to wait for the best time to sell gold jewelry or you need to sell jewelry for cash ASAP, Watch & Wares can help you get cash fast for your estate jewelry and luxury accessories. We’ve been the best place to sell gold jewelry in Orange, CA for more than 30 years, so residents know that when they visit Watch & Wares, they’re receiving a fair and competitive appraisal value that directly reflects market prices. To find out more about our gold jewelry buying and selling services or to receive a free jewelry appraisal, call us at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today.

4 Ways to Boost Your Pre-Owned Designer Handbag’s Resale Value

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Whether you bought your pre-owned luxury handbag for a season or for a lifetime, you may find yourself in need of extra cash or simply tired of your same old handbag styles. If that’s the case, you can sell your valuable luxury accessories for cash and make a significant percentage of the purchase price back. Some people even buy handbags as an investment because they know that they can sell them later and make all of their money back and then some.

However, not all handbags retain their full value on the secondhand market. If you want to sell your pre-owned designer handbags for as much as possible, try these four ways to boost your pre-owned luxury handbag’s resale value.

1. Do Your Research Before Buying

The best way to preserve resale value after buying your bag is to research the best investment pieces before you buy your bag. While you should buy a style you love, you should also do research into the resale value of that bag and how much other styles sell for on the pre-owned market.

Visit resellers of pre-owned luxury handbags online and search for the same brand, style, size, material and color as the bag you’re interested in. You may find that the style goes for more than the retail value on the secondhand market, or you may find that it goes for a fraction of its original price. Even if you buy a bag with a low resale value, at least you’ll have accurate expectations and make an informed purchasing decision.

2. Invest in Rare Pieces

If you want to ensure that your bag purchases have the best chance possible of preserving their value, look for limited edition items from historied luxury brands. Stick to designer brands that have been around for decades, or even centuries, like Louis Vuitton, Chanel or Hermès. Chanel and Hermès bags in particular tend to only increase in value over time. More contemporary or lesser-known brands like Fendi, Versace and Miu Miu tend to sell for less on the secondhand market, especially if they don’t have a consistent signature bag style like the Chanel Classic Flap or Hermès Birkin.

When looking for rare items, collect styles that are made in exclusive quantities, in collaboration with well-known artists or made with exotic materials. The more difficult to find a pre-owned luxury handbag is, the more a collector will be willing to pay for it. While some limited edition pieces may be lost to time, many will become in demand and give you a great ROI.

3. Protect and Maintain Your Bag’s Condition

Like any expensive luxury accessory, pre-owned designer handbags should be properly stored and maintained to preserve their condition. If your bag becomes discolored, misshapen, or odorous, it could significantly reduce its resale value.

Protect your handbag in storage by always storing it inside a dust bag. You should also keep it in a temperature-controlled environment that isn’t too hot and humid or dry. Too much moisture could lead to mold or mildew growth, while extremely dry environments could lead to leather cracking or peeling.

If you have a light-colored handbag, avoid wearing it with jeans or other dark colors, as you could transfer the denim color onto the back of your bag as you walk. Your bags also shouldn’t be left in direct sunlight for too long, or the leather could discolor and lighten over time.

If you already have some minor wear and tear to your pre-owned luxury handbags, you can usually have them repaired or restored at a handbag spa. At the Watch & Wares handbag spa, we perform professional handbag cleaning, handbag moisturization, stain protection treatment, edgewear restoration, color touch-up services, odor and mold removal, and more for a range of designer styles.

4. Sell at the Right Time

An important factor in pre-owned designer handbags’ resale value is time. If you don’t need to sell right away, study the market and wait for the best time to sell your bag in order to get the most money possible.

Highly popular classic bags like the Chanel Classic Flap or Hermès Birkin consistently increase in price over time, so the longer you can wait to sell, the better. With trendy pieces like the Prada Re-Edition 2005, prices spike as the bag hits maximum popularity and then fall as the bag goes out of style. In this case, you’ll want to sell before the trend dies completely, while there’s still demand for the item. In some cases, trendy bags can come back into style, such as with the Fendi Baguette or Chanel Diana. Trends tend to re-appear every 10-20 years, so if your bag is out of style now, it may come back into style in the future, and prices will once again rise as demand grows.

Whether you want to strike while the iron’s hot or take advantage of growing inflation, you can sell your pre-owned luxury handbags for incredible value at Watch & Wares. We offer some of the most competitive rates in the area for all premium designer names, and we can even restore your bag to its original glory with our handbag spa services.

For more than 30 years, Watch & Wares has been known as the best place to sell gold jewelry for cash in Orange, CA, but it’s also the best place to buy and sell pre-owned designer handbags. To find out more about our handbag spa services or schedule an appraisal for your pre-owned designer handbags, give us a call at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today. We look forward to assisting you in any way we can.

5 Things To Look Out for During Your Jewelry Appraisal

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Selling gold jewelry for the first time can be an intimidating experience. From the initial appraisal to parting with the item, it can be an emotional journey — especially in the case of vintage estate jewelry — and you may be wary of the process if it’s one you’re unfamiliar with.

With something so valuable, you want to be sure that you’re receiving a fair value and not being duped. However, if you have limited knowledge of your item’s worth, it can be difficult to have complete trust and peace of mind that this is the case. To better equip yourself for selling your gold jewelry for cash, keep in mind these five things during your expert jewelry appraisal.

1. A complete description of the item

Your appraisal should, first the foremost, clearly describe the piece of jewelry in great detail. It’s not enough to say “vintage estate jewelry” or “gold ring with diamonds.” The description should make it undeniable to the reader that the jewelry piece they’re reading about is the one in their hand.

In fact, if you have an insufficient description in your official appraisal, some insurance companies may not accept the appraisal as valid. Make sure that the type of jewelry, brand, size, color and any other unique identifiers are included. The more detailed your description is, the better.

2. Photographs of the estate jewelry

Photographs aren’t always part of an appraisal, but they’re best to have if possible. Photographs can help easily identify the exact piece of jewelry in case it’s lost, stolen or accompanying an incomplete description.

Take photographs of the jewelry yourself at home before bringing it in, and take photos of it as it’s being appraised as proof of the item’s presence. Photos can also be especially helpful in the case of a collateral jewelry loan, so you can ensure that you receive your jewelry back in the exact same condition that it was given in.

3. The value of the gold jewelry

The most important part of your jewelry appraisal, and the part you’re likely most interested in, is the value of your item. This is a crucial aspect of any jewelry appraisal, as it will dictate how much you can sell your jewelry for or how much you can claim on an insurance filing.

The value should reflect the current market value, taking into account any wear and tear. Keep in mind that if you’re selling your vintage estate jewelry to a gold jewelry and loan shop, they’ll need to make a small profit when re-selling the item and will likely offer you less than the current market value.

4. The addition of sales tax

Not many appraisers include sales tax in their appraisal of your item, but it happens from time to time. Some estate jewelry owners, especially when receiving an appraisal for tax or insurance purposes, will want the sales tax included to more accurately reflect the final value. 

However, if you’re planning to sell your gold jewelry, the sales tax won’t be relevant and, therefore, likely won’t be included in your appraisal value. To ensure which value you’re receiving, verify with your appraiser whether sales tax is included in their assessment of the jewelry’s value.

5. Fully disclosed treatment information

According to FTC guidelines, any treatment done to a gemstone needs to be disclosed to the consumer. If you’re having your fine jewelry appraised, fully disclose any repairs or treatments to the appraiser so they can include them in the final appraisal document. 

While processes such as cutting and polishing don’t need to be disclosed, mention any other treatments such as heating, bleaching, dyeing, fracture filling or surface coating. If you’re in doubt as to what should or should not be mentioned, disclose all repair processes to the appraiser, and they can determine which are relevant to your appraisal value.

If you’re ready to sell your vintage estate jewelry and looking for the best place to sell gold jewelry for cash, look no further than Watch & Wares. At Watch & Wares, we consistently offer five-star customer service, which is reflected in our reputation online and in the local Orange County community. 

As a family-run business with 30 years of experience, we place transparency, integrity and honesty at the forefront of everything we do. We want to ensure that every visit to Watch & Wares leaves you happy and confident in your selling decision. To find out more about our estate jewelry buying and selling services or receive a free jewelry appraisal, call us at (714) 633-2030 or fill out our online contact form today.