Buying Apple Watch On Craigslist May 2026

When you turn the watch on, it should immediately show a screen asking you to bring an iPhone near it to start setup. If it asks for a passcode or shows a clock face, it’s still locked to the seller.

You should actually try to pair the watch to your iPhone right then and there. It takes about 5-10 minutes, but it’s the only 100% guarantee that the watch isn't stolen or locked.

Avoid sellers who insist on shipping or paying via Zelle/CashApp before you see the item. Stick to cash in a public place. 4. Safety First buying apple watch on craigslist

Ask the seller to go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health and send a screenshot of the Maximum Capacity. Anything below 80% will likely need a battery replacement soon. 2. The Inspection (During the Meetup)

Meet somewhere with an outlet or bring a portable power bank to ensure the watch actually accepts a charge. 3. Red Flags to Watch For When you turn the watch on, it should

Look for deep scratches on the glass (which can affect water resistance) and check the "Digital Crown" (the side dial) to ensure it rotates smoothly and clicks.

If the seller refuses to provide the serial number for a coverage check on Apple’s website, walk away. It takes about 5-10 minutes, but it’s the

Ask for a photo of the back of the watch. It lists the series (e.g., Series 9), case size (e.g., 45mm), and material (e.g., Aluminum vs. Stainless Steel).