FAQ | Roam Timepieces
Roam Timepieces
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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about our process.

The Businessthe WatchesSourcing a WatchPaymentShippingReturns, Buybacks, and Trade-InsRisk, Protection, and Guarantees

About The Business

Who is Roam Timepieces?+

Roam Timepieces is a luxury watch sales and sourcing business focused on making high-value watch purchases simpler, more structured, and more predictable.

We sell available inventory and source specific watches for clients through a clear, process-driven approach.

Where are you located?+

Roam Timepieces is based in Harrisonburg, Virginia and works with clients across the contiguous United States (lower 48) through fully insured shipping.

Are you a dealer, broker, or marketplace?+

Roam Timepieces currently operates as a dealer, not a marketplace or listing platform. You are always transacting directly with Roam, whether you are purchasing from available inventory or having a watch sourced on your behalf.

Over time, Roam intends to expand into a more robust, easy-to-use marketplace experience where clients can browse and purchase watches directly through the website. For now, this focused dealer model allows us to keep the process controlled, personal, and professionally managed.

How long have you been in business?+

Roam Timepieces is a focused, owner-operated business built intentionally around a clear process and service model. While the business itself is purpose-built and streamlined, the experience behind it comes from years of involvement in the watch world and in managing high-trust, high-responsibility work.

Are you a registered business?+

Yes. Roam Timepieces operates as a properly registered business and conducts transactions professionally and transparently.

Who will I be working with directly?+

You will be working directly with the owner, Andrew Spencer. Roam is not a platform or call center. Every client works with the person responsible for the transaction from start to finish.

Is this a one-person operation or a company?+

Roam Timepieces is an owner-operated business. That means your transaction is not passed between departments or representatives. The same person who answers your questions is the person responsible for sourcing, coordinating, and completing the deal.

How can I verify you’re legitimate?+

The simplest way is to speak directly with us. Roam operates transparently, communicates clearly, and is happy to walk through the process, policies, and structure before any commitment is made. We also offer optional third-party escrow for clients who want additional peace of mind.

About the Watches

Are the watches new or pre-owned?+

Roam Timepieces primarily works with pre-owned and unworn luxury watches. Availability depends on the specific watch and what is currently in stock or being sourced.

Are all watches authentic?+

Yes. Every watch sold through Roam Timepieces is authentic. Authenticity is a non-negotiable requirement, and watches are sourced only through trusted channels and inspected before being delivered to the client.

Do the watches come with box and papers?+

Some watches include original box and papers, and some do not. Availability of box and papers depends on the specific piece and will always be clearly communicated before any purchase is finalized.

What condition are the watches in?+

Condition varies by watch and will be clearly disclosed before purchase. Some pieces are unworn, some are lightly worn, and others may show normal signs of careful use.

You will always know exactly what condition a watch is in before moving forward.

How do you verify authenticity?+

All watches are sourced through trusted channels and are inspected before being sold or delivered. When additional third-party verification is desired, clients can also choose to use Benison escrow for third-party authentication and added peace of mind.

Do you inspect watches before selling them?+

Yes. All sourced watches are inspected after they arrive and before any final payment is collected. This ensures everything is verified and in order before the transaction is completed and the watch is shipped to you.

Do you service watches?+

Roam Timepieces does not operate as a service or repair center. If a watch requires servicing or if you would like a service arranged, we can help coordinate that through trusted third-party providers.

Do you guarantee authenticity?+

Yes. Roam Timepieces stands behind the authenticity of every watch it sells.

Can I get detailed photos or videos before buying?+

Yes. Whenever possible, we can provide detailed photos or videos of a specific watch before you move forward, especially for in-stock pieces or sourced watches that have already arrived.

Can I request a specific condition or configuration?+

Yes. When sourcing a watch, you can specify preferences such as condition, configuration, box and papers, and other details. We will always tell you what is available and what trade-offs may exist based on the market.

About Sourcing a Watch

Can you source a specific model for me?+

Yes. Sourcing specific watches is a core part of what Roam Timepieces does. You can tell us exactly what you're looking for, and we'll work to find the best available option that fits your requirements.

What information do you need from me?+

We'll typically ask for details such as your budget, brand, model, preferred configuration, and any condition or box-and-papers preferences you may have. If you're not sure about all the details, we can help talk through the options.

How long does sourcing usually take?+

Most popular models are sourced in about one week. If we are unable to source your watch within two weeks, your deposit is fully refunded.

What if you can’t find the watch?+

If we're unable to source your watch within the two-week window, your deposit is refunded in full. We don't keep your money tied up indefinitely.

Do I need to put down a deposit?+

Yes. A 20% deposit is required to begin the sourcing process. This allows us to secure opportunities and begin working on your behalf.

Is the deposit refundable?+

Yes. If we are unable to source your watch within two weeks, your deposit is refunded.

How do you choose where to source from?+

We source through a network of trusted dealers, private sellers, and industry contacts. Every opportunity is evaluated carefully before moving forward.

How do I know you’re not overpaying?+

Roam operates in the open market and evaluates pricing based on current market conditions and availability. We aim to find strong, fair-market options that meet your requirements, not inflated or speculative listings.

Do you negotiate on my behalf?+

Yes. When possible, we handle negotiation and coordination as part of the sourcing process.

What happens when the watch arrives?+

When the watch arrives, it is inspected before any remaining balance is collected. Once everything is confirmed, final payment is completed and the watch is shipped to you fully insured.

About Payment

What payment methods do you accept?+

Roam Timepieces primarily accepts wire transfers and Zelle.

In some cases, we may also accept Venmo or PayPal (Goods & Services), with any associated fees covered by the buyer.

Why don’t you accept credit cards?+

Because of the size of these transactions and the nature of the luxury watch market, credit cards are not practical for most purchases due to fees, chargeback risk, and processing limitations.

Using bank-based payment methods allows transactions to be handled more cleanly and securely for both sides.

Is wiring money safe?+

Wire transfers are a standard payment method for high-value transactions across many industries. That said, if you prefer additional protection, Roam offers the option to use third-party escrow.

Can I use escrow?+

Yes. If you would like, we can use Benison escrow for third-party authentication and added peace of mind. This is completely optional and available for clients who want an extra layer of protection.

When do I pay in full?+

For in-stock watches, payment is completed before the watch is shipped.

For sourced watches, you place a 20% deposit to begin the search, and the remaining balance is paid after the watch arrives and is inspected.

When do I pay the remaining balance on a sourced watch?+

The remaining balance is paid after the watch has arrived and been inspected, and before it is shipped to you.

Are there any fees?+

There are no hidden fees. If a payment method like PayPal Goods & Services is used, any associated processing fees are covered by the buyer and will be discussed in advance.

Are there taxes?+

Sales tax requirements depend on your location and applicable laws. Any required taxes will be clearly communicated before a transaction is finalized.

Do you offer financing?+

No. Roam Timepieces does not offer financing or payment plans.

Can I split payments?+

For sourced watches, payments are split into a 20% deposit and a final balance after inspection. Other payment arrangements are not offered.

About Shipping

How is the watch shipped?+

All watches are shipped via FedEx using secure, high-value shipping methods appropriate for luxury watches.

Is shipping insured?+

Yes. Every shipment is fully insured through IFS (Independent Financial Services), a specialized insurer used for high-value items like luxury watches. Insurance coverage is in place from the moment the watch ships until it is delivered and signed for.

Which carrier do you use?+

We use FedEx for all shipments.

Do you require a signature on delivery?+

Yes. All shipments require signature confirmation to ensure the watch is delivered securely and directly to the recipient.

What happens if the package is lost or damaged?+

Because every shipment is insured through IFS, any loss or damage in transit is covered. Roam Timepieces handles the coordination with FedEx and the insurance provider so you are not left managing that process yourself.

How long does shipping usually take?+

Shipping times vary based on location and timing, but most watches are delivered within a few business days once shipped. Exact timing will always be discussed and confirmed before shipment.

Do you ship overnight?+

Shipping speed depends on the specific transaction and logistics, but fast and secure shipping options are typically used for high-value watches. Timing will be confirmed before your watch is sent.

Do you ship internationally?+

At this time, Roam Timepieces ships within the contiguous United States (the lower 48 states). If you are located outside the U.S., you can contact us to discuss possible options.

Can I pick up in person?+

In-person pickup may be possible in certain situations, but most transactions are completed using insured shipping. If you are local and interested in pickup, this can be discussed in advance.

About Returns, Buybacks, and Trade-Ins

What is your return policy?+

Roam Timepieces offers a 24-hour money-back guarantee as long as the watch is returned in the same condition it was sold in. This window is designed to give you time to inspect the watch and make sure everything is exactly as expected.

What if something is wrong with the watch?+

If the watch is not as described or an issue is discovered during the initial inspection period, the transaction can be reversed under the 24-hour return policy, provided the watch is in the same condition as when sold.

Do you offer buybacks?+

Yes. Roam Timepieces offers a buyback program for watches purchased through Roam.

How does the buyback program work?+

If you decide to sell a watch back to Roam, we will make an offer based on the current market value at that time and the condition of the watch.

Do you offer trade-ins or trade-ups?+

Yes. Roam Timepieces offers a trade-up program for clients who want to move into another watch.

How does the trade-up program work?+

If you would like to trade your watch toward another piece, we will build a custom quote for you based on current market value and the condition of your watch.

How soon can I sell or trade a watch back?+

There is no set window. Trade-up and buyback quotes are based on current market conditions and the condition of your watch.

Does the watch need to be in a certain condition?+

Yes. For any return, trade-up, or buyback, the watch must be in the same condition it was sold in or in good working order. Condition will always affect eligibility and value.

Do you offer warranties?+

Yes. Every Roam watch includes a one-year movement warranty. If you'd like more coverage, we can help arrange extended third-party warranty options, including full service, mechanical, or polish coverage.

About Risk, Protection, and Guarantees

What protections do I have as a buyer?+

Roam Timepieces is built around multiple layers of protection rather than a single promise. These include inspection before final payment on sourced watches, fully insured shipping, optional third-party escrow, and a 24-hour return window.

Do you inspect watches before final payment?+

Yes. For sourced watches, the watch is inspected before any remaining balance is collected. This ensures everything is verified and as expected before the transaction is finalized.

What is escrow and can I use it?+

Escrow is a third-party service that holds funds while a watch is authenticated and verified. Roam offers the option to use Benison escrow for clients who want an additional layer of protection and independent authentication.

What happens if something goes wrong in shipping?+

Because shipments are fully insured through IFS, any loss or damage in transit is covered. Roam handles the coordination with the carrier and insurer so you are not left managing the situation yourself.

What if the watch is not as described?+

You are protected by the 24-hour inspection and return window. If the watch is not as described and is returned in the same condition, the transaction can be reversed.

What if I’m uncomfortable wiring money?+

For clients who prefer additional protection, Benison escrow is available. This allows funds to be held and the watch to be independently authenticated before the transaction is completed.

Who is responsible if there is a problem?+

Roam Timepieces takes responsibility for managing the transaction and resolving issues that fall within the scope of the process, including shipping, insurance claims, and transaction coordination.

Still have a question?

Talk directly with Andrew.

Call 540-908-5989 →Email us →

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