Independent watch retailers and warranties, explained

An independent watch retailer sells genuine watches bought outside a brand's official distribution network. The watches are real. What differs is the route they took to reach you.

What it means for your warranty

Authorised dealers stamp the brand's warranty card. Independent retailers can't, so the manufacturer's card on imported stock is unstamped. That doesn't make a watch fake. It does mean you shouldn't assume the brand's UK warranty applies.

That's why good independent retailers offer their own warranty. At ABA, every watch comes with the 12-month ABA Warranty, on top of your statutory rights.

How to buy from an independent retailer with confidence

• They should say plainly that they're not an authorised dealer.
• They should tell you where the watch was sourced.
• They should state their own warranty and returns policy.
• Reviews from real buyers help. Ours sit at 4.8 from 134 verified reviews.

ABA is upfront on all four. Read more on our How We Source page.