A round silver Rolex analog watch.

Top Watches This Chicago Pawn Shop Wants to Buy From You


People have craved luxury watches ever since men in top hats had silver pocket watches dangling from their trousers. Pawn shops are no different, only we’ve expanded to allow the wide spectrum of what’s now on the market. We pay in cash so we can resell them, but we’ll also hold them as reliable loan collateral when you need to cover an urgent expense.

Why Are Some Popular Watches More Valuable?

Today’s luxury watches are high-end timepieces made with premium materials and superior craftsmanship. They are generally known for their precision and often feature advanced mechanical movements or other complex features. Their popular designs and brand prestige can also boost the amount of money people will pay for them. Despite the cool apps, your Apple watch probably won’t fetch the same amount.

So yes, they serve as status symbols and are also a good financial investment, which is why your local pawn shop will be particularly interested in yours.

Best Watches to Pawn in Chicago

Currently, our shop has its eye on a pretty wide range of luxury brand watches. Need quick cash? These high-end goods are some of the most appealing items that will come through our door.

Here’s our list of the top brands we look for at Fullerton Pawners on Chicago’s north side.

1. Rolex

Need quick cash to cover an urgent car repair? The Rolex is still synonymous with luxury and status. They’re one of the older brands, known for their robust, timeless designs like the Submariner and Daytona, as well as their exceptional craftsmanship.

2. Omega

Omega watches combine heritage with cutting-edge technology (see: James Bond’s titanium Seamaster Diver). If you’re in need of a short-term loan, bring yours in! Especially if it’s one of the more iconic models like the Speedmaster and Seamaster.

3. Cartier

If you’re temporarily struggling between paychecks, that Cartier watch that was a gift from an older relative could be the answer. It should be easy to pawn thanks to its beauty and luxury appeal.

4. Breitling

Another popular choice thanks to its aviation-inspired Swiss watch. You don’t need to be a pilot to love their technical precision and bold, functional designs.

5. TAG Heuer

The TAG Heuer is a little less known, but our customers appreciate the sporty designs and motorsport heritage, particularly the Carrera and Monaco lines.

6. Seiko

Seiko’s didn’t just make automatic watches accessible worldwide. Their high-end ones like the Grand Seiko could help you fund your next investment opportunity.

7. Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe is at the top when it comes to complex, quality watchmaking. That hand-finishing coupled with the brand’s heritage – especially pieces like the Nautilus and Calatrava – can get you a decent amount at our shop.

8. Audemars Piguet

Are you in possession of this luxury sports watch? Our client base loves the avant-garde aesthetics and high “horology” (that’s fancy talk for excellent timekeeping).

9. Vintage Watches

Bring in your vintage watch, too – bejeweled or not. If there’s a unique history or amazing patina and design, we want to check it out, and so do the collectors that come in here.

10. Panerai

Your handmade Panerai is beloved by more than Navy SEALs. Our style-conscious collectors are definitely into them.

Just be sure yours is legit. Read about lessons from pawn shop scammers.

Can You Sell Your Watch for Cash?

Like jewelry, watches have a timeless appeal. While what’s valuable is always evolving, the brands above (and others) have stood the test of time. As long as there is demand for it, then you can probably sell it for cash or leverage it in a pinch.

Get Your Watch Appraised at Fullerton Pawners in Chicago

If you’re interested in pawning a high-end watch, bring it in to Fullerton Pawners! Remember, we will examine it and want to verify that it is authentic.

Send us your questions online or call us at 773-637-9999 today!

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