eBay strengthens authentication for luxury watches
eBay is further building out its authentication services, adding another safeguarding measure for its luxury watch segment with the addition of a new database verification service.
From now on, every watch that goes through eBay's authentication services in the UK, US and Germany will be checked against the newly integrated Enquirus system, the world’s largest free database for lost and stolen watches.
This builds on the company's previous announcement in September 2025, when it rolled out its authenticity guarantee for pre-loved designer fashion in the UK.
With the integration of Enquirus, eBay aims to further reassure buyers and sellers that its high-value items are not only genuine, but also have a clear and legitimate history, especially as the market for pre-loved luxury watches continues to grow.
Enquirus connects law enforcement agencies, insurers, manufacturers, retailers, and owners to help tackle watch-related crime. Anyone who reports a watch as lost or stolen can register it in the central database free of charge, helping to build a comprehensive global record. The new service is in addition to watches being verified for authenticity and condition.
“Trust is the foundation of resale,” said Alexis Hoopes, VP Global Fashion at eBay. “At eBay, we’re investing in technology, services, and partnerships that raise the bar across high-value categories, creating a consistent standard of protection and making it easier for buyers and sellers to engage with total confidence.”
Since 2020, eBay has been authenticating more than 15 million items worldwide, including luxury watches, handbags, sneakers, jewellery and fashion. Depending on the category and price point of the item, the inspection is either complimentary or available as an optional service. For luxury watches, for example, authentication services for selected brands priced at £1,500 or more are complimentary.
In February, eBay announced that it was slashing 6% of its workforce in an effort to “reinvest” in its business, just one week after striking a deal to acquire the second-hand clothing app Depop.
