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The Watch Register Blog

Expert guides on buying pre-owned watches safely, recovering stolen timepieces, and protecting your collection.

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How to Check a Rolex Serial Number Before You Buy

Rolex is the most stolen luxury watch brand in the world. Here is exactly how to verify a serial number — and what to do if it comes back flagged.

14 Feb 2026Read

Industry Report·8 min read

Luxury Watch Theft in 2025: The Numbers You Need to Know

Our annual analysis of global watch theft trends, recovery rates, and which brands and cities are most targeted by thieves.

3 Feb 2026Read

Owner Advice·6 min read

My Watch Was Stolen — What Should I Do Right Now?

A step-by-step guide to the first 24 hours after a watch theft. The actions you take in the first few hours dramatically affect your chances of recovery.

21 Jan 2026Read

Buying Guide·7 min read

The Pre-Owned Luxury Watch Buying Checklist

Everything you should check before buying any second-hand timepiece — from box and papers to serial number verification and movement inspection.

9 Jan 2026Read

For Dealers·5 min read

Why Every Watch Dealer Should Run a Stolen Check Before Purchase

The legal exposure of unknowingly buying stolen goods is significant. We explain the risks — and the 30-second check that eliminates them.

18 Dec 2025Read

Buying Guide·6 min read

Patek Philippe Serial Numbers: A Complete Identification Guide

Where to find a Patek Philippe serial number, how to date your watch using it, and why verifying it matters before any purchase.

4 Dec 2025Read

For Professionals·5 min read

How Auction Houses Can Protect Themselves from Consigning Stolen Watches

High-value auction lots are an attractive target for criminals looking to launder stolen watches. Here is how leading houses are addressing the problem.

19 Nov 2025Read

Owner Advice·7 min read

Insuring Your Luxury Watch: What Your Policy May Not Cover

Most watch owners are underinsured — or insured in a way that makes recovery harder, not easier. What to look for before you take out cover.

5 Nov 2025Read

Recovery Story·4 min read

How an Omega Seamaster Stolen in 2023 Was Recovered in 2025

A real case study: an Omega Seamaster registered on StolenWatchCheck was flagged at a pawnbroker two years after theft — and returned to its owner.

22 Oct 2025Read

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