Your Questions Answered
Transparent answers to help you sell with confidence
Category 1
Legitimacy & Trust
Is JHB Jewellers legitimate?
Yes. We've been SAPS-registered and legally operating since 1951 under South Africa's Second-Hand Goods Act. Our registration can be verified with SAPS Johannesburg Central. We also have 73 years of documented history and thousands of satisfied clients.
Are you SAPS-registered?
Absolutely. We're fully licensed under the Second-Hand Goods Act (Section 21). All transactions are documented and compliant.
How do I know you're not a pawn shop?
Unlike pawn shops that offer fixed low rates for quick cash loans, we're specialists in Swiss-made luxury watches and fine jewellery. We provide market-based valuations, not pawn shop percentages. We don't do loans—we buy outright at fair market value.
What makes you different from other dealers?
Three things: transparency (we show you comparable sales data), expertise (73 years specializing in prestige watches), and service (we come to you, no pressure tactics).
Can I see reviews from past clients?
Yes. Check our reviews and testimonials on our website. We have thousands of satisfied sellers across Johannesburg, Sandton, Pretoria, and beyond. We are more than happy to provide more.
Category 2
Pricing & Valuation
How do you determine the value of my watch or jewellery?
We base offers on recent sales data from the secondary market—what similar items actually sold for (not retail list prices). We look at auction results, dealer pricing platforms like Chrono24, condition assessments, and current demand. You'll see the comparables we reference.
Do you show me the comparables?
Yes. Transparency is core to our process. We'll show you recent comparable sales so you can verify the offer yourself. No "trust us" pricing.
What if I think your offer is too low?
That's completely fine. Our valuations are free with zero obligation. If you disagree with the offer, you're welcome to shop around, get second opinions, or simply keep your item. No pressure, ever.
Why is your offer lower than what I paid?
Luxury items depreciate immediately after purchase (like cars). We pay fair market value—what the item is worth today in the resale market, not what you originally paid at retail. Retail price includes dealer markup, warranties, and overhead.
Do you buy watches that aren't working?
Yes. Even non-running watches have value—gold, platinum, gemstones, brand heritage, and parts all matter. We'll factor in repair costs, but we absolutely buy them.
Do you pay more for items with original boxes and papers?
Yes. Documentation significantly increases value (often 10-30% more) because it proves authenticity and appeals to collectors.
Can I get a valuation just to know the value (without selling)?
Absolutely. Many clients use our free valuations to understand what they own, for insurance purposes, or to shop around. Zero obligation.
Category 3
Process & Timeline
How long does the valuation take?
Most clients receive their valuation within 24 hours of submitting photos and details via our form or WhatsApp.
How do I send you my watch?
You don't. For high-value items in Johannesburg/Sandton/Pretoria, we come to you. For distant sellers, we arrange insured Aramex courier pickup—you're covered every step.
What areas do you service?
We primarily serve Johannesburg, Sandton, Pretoria, Centurion, Fourways, and Rosebank. For clients outside these areas, we offer secure insured courier services nationwide.
How long does it take to set up?
You can get started in minutes. Most teams are fully set up and running the same day they sign up.
What if I change my mind?
No problem. You can decline our offer at any point with zero obligation. If you've already sent an item via courier and decline, we return it to you fully insured.
When do I get paid?
Payment is instant once the transaction is complete. We transfer funds via EFT on the spot (same day) after verifying the item.
What payment methods do you use?
Secure bank transfer (EFT) only. No cash, no cheques, no crypto. Every transaction is documented.
What photos do you need?
Full view of the item, close-up of brand name/hallmark, model/serial number (if visible), any damage or wear, and original box/papers if you have them. Good photos = faster, more accurate valuations.
Category 4
Safety & Security
Is it safe to send my watch via courier?
Yes. We use Aramex insured courier services. Your item is fully covered during transit. If anything happens (extremely rare), insurance covers full value.
How do I know I'll get paid?
We transfer funds via secure EFT with instant confirmation. You receive payment before we leave (in-person) or immediately after we receive and verify the item (courier).
Do you keep my watch if I decline your offer?
Absolutely not. If you decline, we return it to you immediately (in-person) or via insured courier (distant sellers). Zero risk.
What if I get robbed on the way to meet you?
You don't come to us—we come to you. We meet at your location (home, office, bank) to eliminate this risk entirely.
How do I know you won't scam me?
We're SAPS-registered, been in business since 1951, have thousands of verified testimonials, and provide transparent documentation for every transaction. Scamming someone would end our 73-year reputation instantly.
Category 5
Legal & Compliance
Why do you need my ID?
South Africa's Second-Hand Goods Act requires us to verify seller identity for all transactions. This protects both you and us from theft, fraud, and illegal activity.
Do you report to SAPS?
Yes. As required by law, we maintain records of all transactions and report to SAPS as part of our licensing compliance. This protects everyone from stolen goods.
What if I inherited the item?
As long as it's legally yours to sell, no problem. We document that it was a gift/inheritance in our records.
Do you offer discounts for startups or nonprofits?
As long as it's legally yours to sell, no problem. We document that it was a gift/inheritance in our records.
Category 6
What We Buy
Do I need original box and papers?
No, but they significantly increase value (often 10-30% more). We buy watches without documentation—we authenticate using serial numbers, hallmarks, and expert inspection.
What if my watch is broken or not running?
We still buy it. Broken watches have value—gold, platinum, parts, and brand heritage matter. We factor in repair costs but absolutely purchase non-running pieces.
Do you buy diamonds and gold jewellery?
Yes. We buy diamond rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, gold chains, antique jewellery, and designer brands (Cartier, Tiffany, etc.). Gold is valued by karat and weight; diamonds by the 4 Cs.
Do you buy vintage or antique pieces?
Absolutely. Vintage watches and antique jewellery are a specialty. We understand their unique value, rarity, and historical significance.
Category 7
Buying Pre-Owned
Do you sell watches?
Yes, through our partner platform [[BobShop.co.za](http://BobShop.co.za)]. All items are authenticated, refurbished if needed, and competitively priced.
Are your pre-owned watches authentic?
100%. Every watch is authenticated by our in-house experts with 73 years of experience. We guarantee authenticity.
Can I trade in my watch?
Yes. Submit your watch for valuation, and if you're buying from BobShop, we can apply your trade-in value toward your purchase.
Didn't Find Your Answer?
We're here to help. Reach out directly and we'll respond within 24 hours (usually much faster).
We respond during Mon-Sat during business hours
The fastest way to reach us. Send photos, ask questions, or start your valuation request.
Phone
Calls answered Mon-Sat during business hours
Prefer to talk? Call us during business hours. Same number as WhatsApp.
For valuations, use our Sell Your Watch form for faster service."
Send us a detailed message. We'll respond within 24 hours (usually faster).
