Guides
Condition
Pre-loved pieces have lived a little, and that is part of their appeal. What matters is knowing exactly how much. Every listing at Encore Luxe carries a condition grade, but the grade is only a summary. Beneath it, we describe the corners, handles, edges, interior, hardware, dial, crystal or stones in plain language, and we photograph anything you should see.
Our grades at a glance
- New: unused, often with original packaging. No signs of wear.
- Excellent: carried or worn very little. Only the faintest signs of use, visible on close inspection.
- Very good: gently used with light, honest wear, such as softened corners, light hardware scratches or a relaxed shape. Nothing that affects use.
- Good: visible wear consistent with regular use, clearly described and photographed. Fully functional.
Read the full guide: how we grade condition.
Why we describe more than a grade
Two bags graded "Very good" can differ: one might have perfect corners and a scratched clasp, the other the reverse. That is why every listing adds specific notes. For watches we note case and bracelet wear, the condition of the dial and hands, and when the piece was last serviced if we know. For jewellery we note surface wear, the security of stones and any resizing.
What we will always tell you
We tell you about any repair, replacement part, refinishing or re-colouring we are aware of. We note any odour, any stain, any change in shape. If something is missing that would normally be included, such as a strap, a lock, keys or links, we say so.
The aim is simple: the piece you receive should be the piece you expected.
Questions we’re often asked
- What condition grades does Encore Luxe use?
We use four grades, New, Excellent, Very good and Good, and every listing adds specific notes on any signs of wear so the grade is never the whole story.
- Do you photograph signs of wear?
Yes. Where a piece shows wear, such as a mark on a corner or light scratches on hardware, we photograph it and describe it in the listing.
- Are pieces cleaned before they are listed?
Pieces are gently cleaned where appropriate. We do not repaint, re-dye or refinish pieces without saying so clearly in the listing.