I’ve had some pretty great margins on Reddit from both buying and selling. Many of you have reached out to me for guidance on how to use the platform, so I decided to make a guide with a few tips I’ve found helpful as well.
Guide to Using r/WatchExchange
- Understanding r/WatchExchange
r/WatchExchange is a subreddit dedicated to the exchange of watches and related accessories. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or trade watches, this is a hub where enthusiasts gather.
All responsibilities for buying and selling on /r/watchexchange lie with the buyer and seller. Mods are there to ensure everything runs smoothly but can offer little help if something goes wrong.
- Getting Started with Reddit
First and foremost, you will need a Reddit account with positive karma that is at least 30 days old to post something for sale on WatchExchange.
Positive karma is easy to achieve as leaving a comment anywhere will net you +1 karma. Upvotes or downvotes from others contribute to your karma score.
To check your karma, click on your profile logo in the top right corner of the Reddit app.
While waiting for your 30 days, or just as a general best practice, it would be wise to make a purchase on Reddit.
Not only can you find great deals, but completing a transaction will help build your reputation through flair, which tracks positive transactions on WatchExchange.
- Reading the Rules
Before diving into any transactions, make sure to read the subreddit’s rules.
These are essential for ensuring smooth transactions and maintaining a positive community. The rules are typically listed in the sidebar or pinned at the top of the subreddit.
Noncompliant posts will be removed automatically, and circumventing the rules may result in a 7-day ban.
- Creating a Post
Once you’re ready to sell or trade, here’s how to get started:
- Selling/Trading: Click "Submit a new link" and use the link from the image hosting site. After posting the picture, make a top-level comment (not on the automod) with all sales info and a time-stamped photo. Make sure the timestamp includes your username and the current date.
- Title: Be clear and concise. Use the syntax: [WTS] (Brand) (Model) (Details). Options for tags include [WTS], [WTT], and [WTS/WTT]. For example, "[WTS] Omega Speedmaster - Mint Condition." Remember, your post will be removed if it doesn’t comply with this format.
- Description: Be thorough. Include condition, any accessories, notable flaws, and whether the price includes shipping.
- Pictures: High-quality photos from multiple angles are crucial. Posts must include a timestamp with your username and date handwritten on paper and placed under the watch.
- Price/Trade Offer: Set your price or trade terms clearly. State whether shipping is included and to which region. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, but set boundaries to avoid complications.
You can refer to my old tips about using tools like the WTA 2 Facebook group’s Watcher thread for more upvotes and comments on your posts. This can boost visibility, especially in the first hour of posting. Remember, reposting is allowed after 7 days, so keep that in mind.
- Buying a Watch
For buyers, thoroughly vet sellers before proceeding with any transaction. Look at their post history and feedback. Request references if something feels off, and don’t hesitate to ask the community for input. If a deal feels too good to be true, it probably is.
Once you commit to buying, follow through. Failing to complete a transaction can result in a ban or loss of flair.
- Transaction Feedback and Flair Updates
After completing a transaction, both the buyer and seller should leave a top-level comment on the original post. Use the following format:
- "/u/WatchExBot sold to me by /u/Username." Then add a positive comment like "watch delivered promptly and as advertised." The other party should reply with a confirmation, such as "Confirmed, thanks for an easy transaction." This process updates both parties' flair.
For sellers, remember to use the “Sold” flair once your watch is sold. Write [SOLD] in the comments, and the automod will update your flair.
- Engaging with the Community
Engage with others by commenting on posts and offering constructive feedback. Avoid negative comments or critiques on price, as this can lead to temporary or permanent bans.
Bumping is allowed to keep your post visible, but always follow subreddit rules regarding frequency to avoid spamming.
After a transaction, always leave feedback, as this builds your reputation and trust within the community.
- Staying Safe
Always verify the buyer or seller by checking their history and feedback. Be cautious of new accounts with little activity. If you're unsure, request references from past transactions.
Stay diligent and remember that you are sending money to a stranger on the internet.
Some Tips for Success on WatchExchange:
- Leverage the Watcher Post on WTA2: Use the watcher post on WTA 2 to upvote and comment on each other’s posts and share yours. The first hour of a Reddit post is crucial for gaining traction. The more upvotes you get early on, the higher up your post will appear, drawing more eyes. If clicking a link in the watcher group sends you to the app store, try opening the link in Safari first, then open it in the app.
- Repost After 7 Days: Posts drop in visibility after a few days, so if your item hasn’t sold, repost after 7 days to bring it back to the top of the feed.
- BCV Watches Do Well: In my experience, BCV watches (below current value) tend to perform best on Reddit. While I’ve had some market-based sales, most of my success comes from offering value-based deals.
- Stay Positive: Some people can be rude on Reddit, but staying positive will work in your favor. Redditors appreciate positivity and professionalism.
- Negotiations via Chat: Always negotiate via the "Chat" feature. It's good practice to comment "chat sent" before starting a conversation. Click their name and choose “Start Chat.”
- Do Your Due Diligence: Even if a user has completed a few transactions, it doesn’t always mean they are trustworthy. Always perform proper due diligence—remember, you’re sending money to a stranger on the internet.
- Search for Specific Models: Use the search bar in WatchExchange to find specific models or reference numbers. If you notice multiple posts or watches with reduced prices that have been sitting for a while, it might be a good opportunity to negotiate a deal.
- Updating Flair to “Sold”: Watch my video for step-by-step guidance on how to update your flair to “sold” and check your post's performance statistics.
By following these guidelines and tips, you can navigate r/WatchExchange effectively, buy and sell watches with confidence, and build a positive reputation in the community.
Always engage respectfully and stay safe by verifying all transactions carefully.