WatchBox (The 1916 Company)

Bala Cynwyd, PA Est. 2017
4.2 (45 reviews)

Premium pre-owned watch platform headquartered near Philadelphia. Curates a global collection of high-end timepieces with showroom locations worldwide.

Patek Philippe Rolex Richard Mille F.P. Journe
4.2
45 reviews

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Customer Reviews (45)

Just picked up a Patek Philippe Nautilus 5712 from WatchBox and I couldn't be happier. Their Philadelphia showroom is beautiful and the staff treated me like family. The watch was in immaculate condition, exactly as described online. Their authentication process gave me total confidence in the purchase. This is my third buy from them and they keep raising the bar.

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Andrew P.

I visited the WatchBox location in Philadelphia while visiting my sister and was blown away by their collection. They had an F.P. Journe Souveraine that I'd been hunting for two years. The sales team was incredibly knowledgeable - they knew the history of the reference, the movement details, everything. The whole buying experience felt like visiting a museum where you get to take something home. Exceptional.

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Christine W.

I'm new to the watch collecting world and WatchBox made my first major purchase completely comfortable. I bought a Rolex Datejust 36 and their team patiently answered all my questions - even the basic ones that probably annoyed them. They explained authentication, service history, and what to look for in a pre-owned watch. The watch is beautiful and I felt confident throughout the process. Thank you, WatchBox!

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Patricia T.

WatchBox made buying my first Richard Mille completely stress-free. I was nervous about spending this much online but their team walked me through every step. The RM 11-03 arrived in perfect condition with all documentation. Their video concierge service is brilliant - I got to see the watch live before committing. These folks really understand the collector community.

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Jennifer L.

WatchBox made buying my dream watch a reality. I'd been looking for a specific Patek Philippe reference for my collection and they had it. Their video consultation service is outstanding - you can see the watch live, ask questions, and get a real feel for the piece before buying. The watch arrived in two days, authenticated and in gorgeous condition. These folks are the best in the business, period.

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Michelle K.

Bought my husband a Rolex GMT-Master II for his 50th birthday. The WatchBox team helped me pick the perfect reference and even arranged expedited shipping to make sure it arrived in time for the party. The watch was gorgeous and their presentation packaging made it feel like a truly special gift. My husband was speechless. Can't recommend WatchBox enough!

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Amy N.

I was looking for a specific Patek Philippe reference as a retirement gift to myself. WatchBox not only had it in stock but their team went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable with the purchase. They provided additional photos, a video walkthrough, and even connected me with their in-house watchmaker to discuss the movement. The watch arrived in perfect condition. Truly a world-class dealer.

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Catherine D.

I flew to Philadelphia specifically to visit WatchBox and see their Richard Mille collection in person. It was absolutely worth the trip. They had several RM models I'd never seen in the metal before. The showroom experience was outstanding - coffee, great conversation about watches, and zero pressure. Ended up with an RM 035 and couldn't be more pleased. These guys are the real deal.

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Christopher D.

Just wrapped up my fourth purchase from WatchBox - a Richard Mille RM 33. Each experience has been better than the last. Their Philadelphia team remembers me by name and knows my taste in watches. The curation of their inventory is exceptional - they only take in quality pieces. Authentication is bulletproof. I recommend WatchBox to every collector I know without hesitation.

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Anthony G.

Great experience buying a Rolex Daytona from WatchBox. The watch is authentic and in excellent condition. My only minor gripe is that the initial shipping estimate was 5 business days but it took 8. Not a huge deal, but when you're waiting for a Daytona, every day feels like an eternity. That said, I'd absolutely buy from them again. Their curation is top-notch.

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Michael S.

WatchBox exceeded all my expectations. I purchased a Patek Philippe World Time Chronograph and the entire process was seamless. Their online platform shows incredibly detailed photos and even video of the actual watch you're buying. The watch arrived authenticated, with a comprehensive condition report, and beautifully packaged. Their attention to detail is what sets them apart.

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Maria G.

Bought a Patek Philippe Nautilus 7118 for my wife's birthday. The WatchBox team was so helpful in guiding me to the right choice - they even sent me comparison photos between two similar references so I could decide. The watch arrived beautifully presented and in pristine condition. My wife was over the moon. WatchBox made me look like a hero. Thank you!

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Diana P.

Purchased a Rolex Datejust from WatchBox for my mother. The watch is lovely and authentic. The online shopping experience was smooth with great photos and description. I would have given 5 stars but the delivery required a signature and FedEx attempted delivery three times while I was at work. Wish they offered more flexible delivery options or the ability to hold at a FedEx location from the start.

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Karen L.

I sold my Patek Philippe to WatchBox and the experience was underwhelming. Their initial offer was competitive so I sent the watch in. Then they came back saying the service history was incomplete and knocked 15% off the offer. I had clearly stated in my original submission that the watch hadn't been serviced. Felt like they use attractive initial quotes to get your watch in the door and then negotiate down.

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Dennis K.

My husband and I visited the WatchBox showroom in Philly and it was an incredible experience. Their collection of Patek and Richard Mille is jaw-dropping. We ended up buying a Patek Annual Calendar and the team made the whole process enjoyable and educational. They clearly love what they do and it shows. The showroom itself is stunning - like a private watch museum. Highly recommend visiting in person if you can.

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Samantha K.

I bought an F.P. Journe Octa from WatchBox and I'm still pinching myself. Their team handled the transaction with incredible care - this was a significant purchase for me and they made me feel valued as a customer. The watch arrived via overnight FedEx, fully insured, in a beautiful presentation box. The condition report was thorough and accurate. WatchBox has earned a customer for life.

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Laura M.

Bought a Patek Philippe Nautilus from WatchBox as an investment piece. The watch is authentic, in great condition, and the price was fair for the current market. I appreciate their transparency about pricing. The only downside is that their inventory moves fast - I missed out on two other pieces before snagging this one. If you see something you want, don't hesitate. Overall great dealer.

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Nicole S.

As a serious collector with over 30 pieces, WatchBox is my go-to dealer for high-end acquisitions. Their curated selection of Patek Philippe and F.P. Journe is simply unmatched. Every watch I've bought from them has been meticulously authenticated and accurately described. The team clearly loves watches as much as their clients do. I wouldn't trust anyone else with a six-figure purchase.

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Richard T.

WatchBox has the most impressive selection of high-end watches I've ever seen in one place. I visited their Philadelphia showroom and they had everything from Patek to Richard Mille to F.P. Journe - all beautifully displayed. The staff is incredibly well-informed and passionate. I bought a Patek World Timer and the experience was wonderful from start to finish. Their reputation is well-deserved.

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Susan B.

WatchBox's trade-in program is fantastic. I traded my Rolex Submariner toward a Patek Philippe Aquanaut and got a very fair value on the trade. The whole process took about a week from start to finish. Their team in Philly handled everything seamlessly. The Aquanaut arrived in pristine condition with full authentication documentation. Great dealer, highly recommended.

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Thomas H.

Good experience with WatchBox overall. Purchased a Rolex Explorer II and it arrived exactly as described. The authentication paperwork was comprehensive. I'm docking one star because their website could be more user-friendly - filtering by specific references and searching within collections is a bit clunky. But the actual watch and transaction quality was excellent.

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Rachel B.

I've bought watches all over the world and WatchBox consistently delivers the best experience of any pre-owned dealer. Their authentication process is the most thorough I've encountered. Just picked up an F.P. Journe Chronometre Bleu and it came with a comprehensive condition report, movement timing results, and their own warranty. The level of detail gives you total confidence in the purchase.

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Mark T.

Purchased an F.P. Journe Line Sport from WatchBox. The watch is absolutely stunning and authentic - my watchmaker confirmed everything checks out. I'm giving 4 stars because the listing mentioned 'original box and papers' but the service booklet was missing. WatchBox offered to source one for me but it's been a month with no update. Still, the watch itself is perfect and the price was fair.

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Lisa R.

I sold my Richard Mille RM 010 to WatchBox and the process was incredibly smooth. Their offer was actually higher than what I was expecting based on market comps. They sent a prepaid fully insured shipping label and I had the funds wired to my account within 48 hours of them receiving the watch. Professional, fair, and fast. Exactly how a transaction should work at this level.

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Victoria C.

The watch I received was beautiful and authentic - a Patek Philippe Calatrava. But the customer service experience was a bit inconsistent. Sometimes they'd respond to my emails within an hour, other times it took three days. When you're spending this kind of money, you expect consistent communication. The product itself was flawless but the service could be more reliable.

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Jessica M.

WatchBox's collector community events are fantastic. I attended one in Philadelphia and met some incredible fellow enthusiasts. Bought a Patek Philippe Travel Time while there and got a small discount for attending the event. The team is genuinely passionate about watches and it comes through in everything they do. Their content on YouTube and Instagram is also top-tier. More than just a dealer - they're a community hub.

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Robert E.

Mixed feelings about WatchBox. Bought an AP Royal Oak that was listed as 'unworn condition.' When it arrived, there were faint swirl marks on the caseback that suggested someone had opened it. The watch is authentic and runs perfectly, but 'unworn' should mean exactly that. When I raised the issue, they offered a full return but couldn't explain the marks. Decided to keep it but the description accuracy needs improvement.

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Kevin H.

I've bought from many dealers but WatchBox consistently offers the best-curated selection of high-end watches anywhere. Their Patek Philippe inventory reads like a dream wish list. Just picked up a Grand Complications and the whole experience was white-glove from start to finish. Authentication paperwork was impeccable, shipping was overnight, and the watch exceeded my expectations.

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Daniel F.

I purchased an F.P. Journe Resonance from WatchBox. The watch is magnificent and authentic - had it checked by an independent watchmaker. The buying process was professional and the shipping was fast and secure. One star off because the included watch pouch had a small stain that wasn't mentioned, and I had to follow up twice about the digital copy of the authentication certificate. Minor issues overall.

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Frank W.

Solid experience buying a Rolex Submariner from WatchBox. The watch is genuine, in the condition described, and shipping was prompt. I'm giving 4 stars instead of 5 because I feel like their prices run about 5-8% higher than some competitors for similar pieces. You're paying for the brand and the authentication guarantee, which has value, but worth noting for price-sensitive buyers.

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Brian A.

I had a terrible experience trying to buy a Rolex from WatchBox. I placed the order and paid via wire transfer. Three days later they called to tell me the watch had been sold to someone else who paid first. How is that even possible? They should hold inventory once payment is initiated. Very unprofessional. They did refund my money quickly but the whole experience left a bad taste.

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Brandon W.

Really disappointed with WatchBox. I ordered a Rolex that was listed as 'in stock' on their website. Two days after placing the order and wiring the funds, they called to say the watch was actually on consignment and the owner decided not to sell. They refunded my money but this happened TWICE with different watches. How hard is it to keep your inventory accurate? Wasted two weeks of my time.

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Timothy N.

The trade-in process at WatchBox is excellent. I traded my Rolex Daytona toward a Patek Philippe Annual Calendar and the value they gave me on the Daytona was very fair. The whole exchange took about 10 days including shipping and authentication. The Patek is stunning and came with full box, papers, and WatchBox's own warranty. Their team in Philly made the whole thing effortless.

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George N.

I wanted to love WatchBox but my experience selling was frustrating. Submitted my Rolex for a quote and got a fair initial offer. Shipped it in and then waited almost two weeks for final authentication. They found a minor issue with the bezel insert and lowered the offer by $800. The original issue was visible in photos I had sent. Should have been caught upfront. Process felt slower than competitors.

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Greg L.

Just completed my fifth purchase from WatchBox - a Richard Mille RM 67-02. Every single transaction has been flawless. What I love most about WatchBox is their collector-first approach. They understand what enthusiasts care about - provenance, condition, completeness of the set. Their team can talk movements and references all day long. A true gem in the Philadelphia area.

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Steven J.

Bought an F.P. Journe from WatchBox. The watch is great but I had issues with their return process. The bracelet clasp was slightly different from what was shown in the listing photos. When I called to discuss options, it took multiple transfers and about 45 minutes to reach someone who could help. They eventually offered a partial refund which I accepted, but the customer service runaround was annoying.

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Ryan P.

Terrible experience trying to sell my Patek Philippe to WatchBox. Their online quote tool gave me a great price so I sent the watch in. After 10 days of their 'authentication process,' they came back with an offer 20% lower than the initial quote, citing 'market conditions.' I asked for specifics and got a vague email about 'recent auction results.' Had them return my watch. Felt very deceptive.

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Jason C.

WatchBox is the gold standard for pre-owned luxury watches. Their Richard Mille inventory is insane - they had seven different RM models when I visited their Philly location. Ended up with an RM 50-03 and the whole experience felt like buying a new car from a premium dealership. The level of service, attention to detail, and product knowledge is unmatched. Worth every penny of their premium pricing.

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Matthew F.

I can't recommend WatchBox highly enough. From their incredible curated selection to their white-glove customer service, everything is top-tier. I recently purchased an F.P. Journe Octa Sport and the experience was perfect. The team in Philadelphia was knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely enthusiastic about the watch. Authentication was thorough, shipping was overnight, and the watch exceeded my expectations. A truly world-class operation.

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Paul D.

The F.P. Journe selection at WatchBox is second to none. I purchased a Chronometre Souverain and the experience was exceptional. Their team arranged a video consultation where they showed me the watch in detail, including the movement through a caseback camera. You don't get that kind of service from most dealers. The watch arrived perfectly packaged with all documentation. First-class operation.

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William B.

As someone who's been collecting for over 30 years, I can say WatchBox is one of the most trustworthy dealers in the business. Their authentication process is rigorous and they stand behind every watch they sell. I recently purchased a Patek Philippe Minute Repeater and the due diligence they performed gave me complete peace of mind. Their team in Pennsylvania are true professionals who understand haute horology.

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Charles R.

Bought a Richard Mille from WatchBox. The watch is 100% authentic and exactly as described, confirmed by my watchmaker. However, I felt the sales process was very rigid - no room for negotiation on price, no flexibility on payment terms. I understand they're a premium dealer but even high-end car dealerships have some flexibility. The product is great but the buying experience felt very transactional.

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Eric H.

I purchased a Rolex from WatchBox and while the watch itself is perfect and authentic, I felt the overall experience was a bit corporate and impersonal. With smaller dealers, you usually get more personal attention and flexibility on pricing. WatchBox operates like a well-oiled machine, which is efficient but feels a bit cold. Great if you want a smooth transaction, less great if you want a personal relationship.

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Helen S.

WatchBox has the best curated selection of F.P. Journe in the country, hands down. Every time I check their inventory, there's something incredible. Picked up a Tourbillon Souverain and the entire transaction was handled with the care and precision you'd expect for a watch of this magnitude. Their Philadelphia team is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about haute horology. Outstanding.

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Edward M.

WatchBox has become my trusted source for all things Patek Philippe. I've bought three pieces from them now - a Nautilus, a Calatrava, and most recently a Perpetual Calendar. Every watch has been exactly as described, beautifully presented, and fully authenticated. Their after-sales support is excellent too - they helped me source a replacement link screw for my Nautilus at no charge. Standup organization.

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James O.