Sales & Shipping policy

1. What is your return policy?

At QualitySwiss we take pride in offering high-quality and often unique items. We always provide comprehensive descriptions and high-quality images to allow you to make informed decisions.

We are also available to answer all questions you may have prior to making your purchase.

Each item undergoes rigorous quality checks before shipping and is carefully packed to ensure you receive exactly what you ordered.

Our policy is one of no-returns; all sales are final. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to serving you.

2. Do you offer layaway?

Yes, we offer a layaway plan that allows you to reserve an item and pay for it over time through scheduled payments. Please contact alan@qualityswiss.net to inquire about arrangements.

3. Do you offer international shipping?

We ship to the following destinations. If your country is not listed, please contact us via email to inquire about special arrangements.

  • North America

USA, Canada, Mexico

  • Europe

Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan

Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria

Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia

Denmark

Estonia, England

Finland, France

Germany, Greece

Hungary, Holland

Iceland, Ireland, Italy

Kosovo,

Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg

Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro

Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway

Poland, Portugal

Romania

San Marino, Scotland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

Turkey

United Kingdom (UK)

Vatican City (Holy See)

  • Asia

China, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand

  • Middle East

Bahrain, Kuwait, Israel, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar

Shipping costs will vary based on the nature of the item, the carrier (e.g. postal service vs. courier), destination, weight and value (including insurance and any special packaging requirements, etc.).

4. How will you pack my order?

Since vintage and antique items are often delicate, we exclusively rely on double-wall corrugated boxes and/or double, respectively, triple boxing plus specialized cushioning and protective materials, choosing the most eco-friendly options possible.

5. How long is your order processing time?

Orders are typically processed within 3 business days after payment has been received/confirmed. Custom or personalized items may require additional processing time.

6. What are your shipping methods and delivery times?
  • Tracked postal shipping (only for items up to a value of CHF 1’000): Estimated delivery time 14 to 28 business days, depending on the destination]
  • Courier Shipping is mandatory for all items above CHF 1’000: Estimated delivery time 5 to 7 business days

Please note: Delivery times are estimates and may vary based on the shipping destination and external factors such as weather, holidays, carrier delays or customs processing.

7. How much does shipping cost?

We will always try to identify for you the safest shipping option at the best possible price.

Shipping costs from Switzerland vary according to several factors:

  • Shipping destination: costs vary depending on the delivery location
  • Shipment weight and dimensions: heavier or bulkier items may incur higher shipping fees.
  • Shipment value: Insurance is obligatory for items above a value of CHF 1’000.
  • Shipping method:
    Tracked postal shipping: For items up to a maximum value of CHF 1’000.-. (For some destinations only courier shipping can be provided).
  • Courier service: For very fragile items or items above CHF 1’000.-, we exclusively use courier services such as Aramex, FedEx, DHL, TNT or UPS.

Costs will always be individually calculated and communicated to you. They will be charged at cost in addition to the price of the item. As an indication you find here a link to the DHL rate guide (pages 23 to 26).

8. Do you offer insurance for shipping valuable items?

Yes, we highly recommend always purchasing shipping insurance. During checkout, you will have the option to add shipping insurance to your order for added peace of mind.

For items above CHF 1’000 insurance is mandatory. Insurance helps protect against potential damage or loss during transit.

9. Do I have to pay customs?

Depending on the country you live in and the type and value of your purchase your order may be subject to customs duties, taxes, or import fees at the time of its delivery to you. These charges are the responsibility of the recipient and are not included in the item or shipping cost. Please check with your local customs office for more information.

10. Is order tracking available?
  • Yes, all orders are sent with online tracking.
  • Once your order is shipped, you will receive a confirmation email with the tracking number and link to the online tracking site. You can track your order using the link.
11. Are there any shipping restrictions?
  • We do not ship to P.O. boxes or hotels
  • Some items may be restricted or prohibited from being shipped to certain destinations due to local laws and regulations. If your order contains such items, we will notify you and arrange for an alternative solution.
  • Please consult the destinations to which we ship and contact us if your country is not listed.
12. What if ever a package still gets damaged or lost during shipment?
  • If your order arrives damaged, please contact us within 48 hours of receiving the item. Provide photos of the damaged packaging and item(s) so we can activate the insurance you have contracted.
  • If beyond the estimated arrival date your order has not arrived, please contact us via email: alan@qualityswiss.net
  • If the tracking information shows that your order has been delivered but you have not received it, please contact us for assistance.
  • We will not be held responsible for items that are not deliverable due to errors in addresses communicated by you.
  • We will not be able to reimburse items that have been sent back to us by the post office or courier service due to them not being deliverable or not having been picked up within the set time frame. We are however willing to reship the package if you pay for the additionally incurred shipping costs.

Payment

1. What payment methods do you accept?

We accept various payment methods, including major credit cards, PayPal, and other secure payment options. You find more information during check-out.

2. How can I be sure that my payment information is secure?

Your payment security is our top priority. We use industry-leading secure payment processing methods to protect your personal and financial information. Our shopping cart is SSL encrypted, and we work with trusted payment gateways that comply with PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) to ensure that your payment details are handled with the highest level of security.

Layaway

1. How does your layaway plan work?
  • Select the item you want to place on layaway.
  • Contact us to make a down-payment: A 25% initial payment is required to hold the item.
  • Agree on payments: You will agree to make regular payments over a specified period, usually weekly or monthly.
  • Receive your item: Once the full agreed amount has been paid, we ship the item to you.
2. Is there a fee to use layaway?
Our layaway plan does not have a service fee.
3. How long do i have to pay off my layaway?
The layaway period typically ranges from 30 to 120 days, depending on the item and its value. You will be informed of the exact time frame when you set up your plan.
4. Can I modify or cancel my layaway plan?

Yes, you can modify (or cancel) your layaway plan at any time. You can also decide to pay it off faster. 

For cancellations a 20% cancellation fee will apply.

5. What happens to the payments I've made if I cancel a layaway plan?
If you decide to cancel your layaway plan, a 20% cancellation fee will be deducted from the total amount paid. The remaining balance will be refunded to you unless you prefer to have it applied as store credit. We aim to provide flexibility, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs.
6. What happens if I miss a payment?

If you know in advance that you will miss a single payment, contact us to agree to your next scheduled payment.

If you miss a payment without informing us, your layaway plan may be subject to cancellation. You could lose the item and may receive a refund minus the applicable cancellation fee.

7. Can I pay off my layaway early?

Absolutely! If you choose to pay off your layaway early, we will ship you your item as soon as the final payment has been received.

8. Are all items eligible for layaway?
Not all items are eligible for layaway. Typically, higher-priced items qualify, but availability can vary. Please check with us for eligible items.

Items on offer

1. Is there a way for me to stay informed about new arrivals?

To stay informed about newly added items, you can subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

2. Can I request a specific item?

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you are looking for a specific item. We might be able to accommodate you.

3. How old does an item have to be to be considered vintage or antique?

Vintage items are typically defined as being at least 20 years old, while antiques are generally considered to be 100 years or older. However, definitions can vary among different vendors.

4. What factors determine the value of a vintage item?

The value of a vintage item is influenced by its age, rarity, condition, maker, and market demand. Just being old does not guarantee high value; the item's desirability and condition are crucial. Minor damage may reduce the value of more common items, while rare pieces may retain more value despite imperfections.

5. Are the items you are selling unique or desirable?

QualitySwiss offers many unique items that have a place in history. Find out more by carefully reading the description and historic background.

Help & support

We are here to help! You can reach out to us via email at  alan@qualityswiss.net or gabriela@qualityswiss.net or by filling out the contact form on our website. We strive to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours. Whether you have questions about an item, need help with an order, or require additional information, we are ready to assist you.

Sustainability & Data protection

1. What are your business practices regarding environmental and ethical considerations?
We are committed to ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly practices. Our vintage items are carefully sourced from reputable suppliers who adhere to ethical standards. We also use eco-friendly packaging materials whenever possible to minimize our environmental impact. By choosing vintage, you are also contributing to sustainability and the preservation of history.
2. How will you handle my personal information when I decide to buy something in your store?

We are not just passionate about vintage items – we are also committed to modern data protection standards. Please refer to our Privacy notice to find out more.

Shopping information

1. What types of vintage items do you sell?
We specialize in vintage wrist watches, fountain pens, jewellery and art objects. For details on each item, please consult the description and historic background information.
2. How do you determine the pricing of your vintage items?
Pricing is based on several factors, including the item's age, rarity, condition, and market demand. We conduct thorough research to ensure our prices are competitive while reflecting the quality and uniqueness of each piece.
3. Are the items authentic vintage?

Yes, all items in our store are guaranteed to be authentic vintage or antique. We carefully curate our collection and verify the authenticity of each piece before listing it for sale.

4. How do you assess and describe the condition of your vintage items?

We take great care in evaluating the condition of each vintage or antique item we sell. We use specific grading criteria to describe the condition of watches, pens, jewelry, and other items. Our grading scale typically includes terms such as "Mint," "Excellent," "Good," and "Fair." Each item listing includes a detailed description of its condition, noting any imperfections or signs of wear to ensure transparency and help you make an informed purchase. Additionally, all items feature detailed and comprehensive images.

5. Are items restocked after they are sold?

Most of our vintage items are ‘few-of-a-kind’ or even ‘one-of-a-kind’ and cannot be restocked once sold. This is part of the unique appeal of shopping for vintage and antique treasures. If you are interested in a particular item, we encourage you to purchase it before it is gone. However, if you are looking for something specific, feel free to contact us—we may be able to help you find a similar item through our network of vintage suppliers

Care tips

How should I care for my vintage watch?

Vintage watches are generally more delicate than modern timepieces.

  • Be gentle when operating the crown and other components
  • Avoid water exposure: Many vintage watches lack modern water resistance. Keep them away from water as much as possible to prevent moisture damage
  • Wind carefully: For mechanical watches, wind them gently and stop when you feel resistance. Overwinding can damage the mainspring
  • Avoid extreme activities: Leave vintage watches at home during vigorous activities that may subject them to shocks or impacts
  • Keep them clean: Wipe the watch gently with a soft cloth, including the caseback, to remove dirt and perspiration
  • Service regularly: Have vintage watches serviced every few years to ensure the movement is clean and properly lubricated
  • Be mindful when setting: Set the time in a clean, dry environment to avoid dust entering the movement
  • Don't expect perfection: Vintage watches may be slightly less precise than modern ones. Allow for some variation in timekeeping
  • Avoid constant winding and do NOT use watch winders for vintage pieces, as they were not designed for constant winding
  • Research the specific model: Different vintage watches have unique needs. Learn about your particular watch's quirks and requirements
  • Be cautious with water resistance: Even if a vintage watch was originally water-resistant, old seals and gaskets may have deteriorated
  • Consider the environment: Store vintage watches in a cool, dry place when not in use.
  • Watches should not be worn in wet or dirty environments

By following these care tips, you can help preserve your vintage watch and enjoy it for years to come.

How should I care for my vintage fountain pen?

Caring for a vintage fountain pen requires special attention to maintain its functionality and preserve its value. Here are essential care tips: 

Ink

  • Stick to high quality name-brand fountain pen-specific inks for optimal performance. Premium brands include Waterman, Parker, Montblanc, Pilot, Lamy, Kaweco, etc. Never, ever, use India Ink, China Ink, artist ink, engineer ink, drawing ink, etc... as these are meant exclusively for dip pens or specialized writing instruments designed specifically for their use. They can all clog the pen and are difficult to clean out.
  • Ink can degrade over time. To maintain its quality and extend the life of your ink, store it in a cool, dark place—such as the box it came in—away from direct sunlight. Always ensure the bottle is tightly sealed, and, to prevent contamination, avoid returning unused ink to the bottle.
  • When dealing with older or vintage ink bottles, start by checking the ink level. If the bottle is not full, it may have been used or evaporated. Next, check if the ink can still be used: mix it gently with a stick. If there are solids or sediments floating in it, it can no longer be used.
  • The presence of mold is another red flag. It can either be floating on the surface, which makes it easy to spot or be suspended within the ink. To identify the latter, stir the ink with a toothpick—if you notice anything slimy sticking to it, the ink is contaminated and can no longer be used.
  • Finally, perform a 'smell test.' Fresh ink should have a chemical or clean scent. If the ink smells musty or off, it's a clear indication that it has spoiled and should not be used.

Cleaning

  • Clean your fountain pen regularly to prevent ink residue buildup. Flush the pen with lukewarm water to remove dried ink. If the pen is particularly dirty, add a drop of mild detergent to the water, but avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the pen
  • Flushing Method: To flush the pen, fill it with water, then repeatedly expel until the water runs clear. This helps clear any remaining ink from the nib and feed
  • Nib Care: Use a soft toothbrush or a specialized pen cleaning brush to gently clean the nib and feed. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure to avoid bending the nib
  • Avoid Soaking: Do not soak vintage pens in water for extended periods, especially those made from materials like casein or hard rubber, as they can be damaged by prolonged exposure to moisture
  • Never use bleach to clean your fountain pen, as it can cause irreversible damage to the materials

Storage

  • Store the pen upright or with the nib facing up to prevent ink leakage and ensure proper ink flow when you next use it
  • Keep the pen away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperature fluctuations, as these conditions can damage the materials
  • When not in use, store your fountain pen in a dedicated case or pouch to protect it from dust and scratches

Maintenance

  • If your pen requires repairs or restoration, seek professional help from experienced pen restorers. Attempting to fix it yourself may lead to further damage.

By following these care tips, you can ensure your vintage fountain pen remains in excellent condition and continues to provide a unique writing experience for years to come.

Is there any special care needed for antique jewellery?
  • Always handle antique jewellery gently and with clean, dry hands to avoid transferring oils or dirt.
  • Keep pieces separated in soft cloth pouches or lined jewellery boxes to prevent scratching. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
  • Use a soft, lint-free cloth for regular cleaning. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners which can damage delicate pieces.
  • To prevent damage, remove antique jewellery before exercise, housework, gardening, swimming, bathing, or any other activities that could harm it.
  • Apply cosmetics, perfumes, and hairsprays before putting on jewellery to avoid chemical exposure.
  • Be particularly cautious with pearls: Store pearls separately as they are especially delicate. Avoid spraying them with perfumes.
  • Check regularly for loose stones, bent prongs, or other signs of wear and have a professional jeweller address any issues.
  • Have valuable pieces professionally cleaned and inspected annually.
  • For any damage or restoration needs, consult an expert in antique jewellery repair rather than attempting DIY fixes.

By following these care tips, you can help preserve the beauty and value of your antique jewellery for years to come.