7 Warning Signs of Scams When Buying Luxury Custom Watches on CustomMade

7 Warning Signs of Scams When Buying Luxury Custom Watches on CustomMade

CustomMade is a platform where artisans can showcase and sell unique creations. However, like any online marketplace, it is susceptible to fraudulent activities. When purchasing high-value items like luxury custom watches, it's crucial to be aware of potential scams to protect your investment. Here are seven critical red flags to watch out for in 2026.

1. Indefinite Production Delays

Be wary of sellers who provide vague or ever-changing timelines for watch production. While custom work can take time, an indefinite delay without clear communication or updates can be a sign that the seller is unable to deliver or is stringing buyers along. Legitimate sellers will provide a realistic production schedule and keep you informed of any progress or unavoidable setbacks.

2. Off-Platform Deposit Request

A significant red flag is a seller asking for a deposit or full payment outside of the CustomMade platform. This is often an attempt to avoid platform protections and dispute resolution mechanisms. Always ensure all transactions are conducted through the official payment gateway of CustomMade to maintain a secure record and recourse if issues arise.

3. Material Grade Downselling

Sellers might misrepresent the quality or grade of materials used in the watch, such as claiming solid gold when it's plated, or using lower-grade movements than advertised. Always scrutinize the material specifications and, if possible, look for detailed descriptions, certifications, or ask for proof of material authenticity. For high-value transactions, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for an extra layer of verification.

4. Fake CAD Rendering Bait

Be cautious if a seller's initial offerings are solely based on impressive, but potentially misleading, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) renderings. While renderings are common, a seller who avoids showing actual work-in-progress photos or finished examples of similar watches might be using these visuals to bait customers into a purchase they cannot fulfill accurately.

5. Sourced-from-China Resell

Be suspicious of sellers who are discreet about their sourcing, especially if their pricing seems too good to be true for a custom-made luxury item. Some may be reselling mass-produced watches from lower-cost manufacturing regions (like China) as if they were handcrafted custom pieces, often with inflated markups. Research the seller's history and previous work.

6. Counterfeit Documentation

While less common for truly custom pieces, some sellers might try to pass off counterfeit watches with fabricated authenticity papers. Be aware that even detailed documentation can be faked in 2026. If a watch seems suspiciously inexpensive for its supposed brand or pedigree, or if the documentation appears amateurish, it's a major red flag. Always cross-reference any provided documentation with known authentic sources.

7. Unsolicited Communication or Pressure

Be wary of sellers who are overly aggressive in their sales tactics, rush you into a decision, or try to move communication off-platform. Legitimate custom watchmakers will be patient and transparent. If a seller pressures you or insists on conducting business through private messaging apps, it's a strong indicator of potentially fraudulent intent.

Enhance Your Security with Safe Trade Services

For high-value P2P transactions like luxury custom watches, consider using Safe Trade Services. Our **Premium Plan** offers robust identity verification for both buyer and seller, ensuring a secure and trustworthy exchange. For less expensive custom pieces, our **Basic Plan** still provides essential identity verification to mitigate risks.