# eBay Buyer Messages: Vintage Watch Listing

**PRODUCT:**
Vintage Seiko 5 Automatic Watch - 1970s, Recently Serviced

**PRICE:** $175 + Free Shipping

---

## PRE-SALE MESSAGES

### Scenario 1: "Is this still available?"

**Buyer Message:**
"Hi, is this watch still available?"

**Your Response:**
```
Hi! Yes, the Seiko 5 is still available and ready to ship.

A few quick highlights in case helpful:
- Recently serviced (new crystal, fresh gaskets)
- Keeping accurate time (+/- 10 sec/day)
- Original bracelet fits up to 7.5" wrist

Happy to answer any questions or send additional photos. If you are ready to purchase, I typically ship within 1 business day.

Thanks for your interest!
```

**Why This Works:**
- Confirms availability immediately
- Adds value with key details
- Offers help without being pushy
- Mentions fast shipping (builds confidence)

---

### Scenario 2: "Can you do a better price?"

**Buyer Message:**
"Would you take $140 for this?"

**Your Response (Option A - Accept):**
```
Hi! Thanks for your offer.

I can do $150 if that works for you—that is the best I can offer given the recent service work. I will also ship it out tomorrow if you purchase today.

Let me know and I will send you an updated invoice, or feel free to make an offer through eBay for $150.

Thanks!
```

**Your Response (Option B - Decline):**
```
Hi! Thanks for reaching out.

I appreciate the offer, but $175 is already my best price for this piece. Comparable Seiko 5s from this era are going for $200+ on eBay, and this one has been recently serviced which adds significant value.

If you decide to move forward at asking price, I am happy to ship it out tomorrow. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Thanks for your interest.
```

**Why This Works:**
- Polite, not dismissive
- Justifies price with specifics
- Leaves door open
- Creates urgency ("ship tomorrow")

---

### Scenario 3: "Can you tell me more about the condition?"

**Buyer Message:**
"What is the real condition? Any scratches or issues I should know about?"

**Your Response:**
```
Great question—here is the honest breakdown:

**Case:** Light wear consistent with age (50+ years old). No deep scratches or dents. The case back has minor desk-diving marks.

**Crystal:** Brand new—replaced during recent service. No scratches.

**Dial:** Original, excellent condition. No fading, spots, or damage. Lume plots have aged to a nice cream color.

**Movement:** Serviced 3 months ago. Running at +8 sec/day. Power reserve is strong (40+ hours).

**Bracelet:** Original Seiko bracelet with stretch consistent with vintage pieces. Fits up to 7.5" wrist.

I tried to capture everything in the photos, but happy to take specific shots if you want to see any area up close.

Let me know!
```

**Why This Works:**
- Thorough and honest
- Organized by component
- Manages expectations
- Offers additional photos

---

## POST-SALE MESSAGES

### Scenario 4: Shipping Confirmation

**Situation:** Item shipped, want to notify buyer proactively

**Your Message:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name]!

Great news—your Seiko 5 shipped today!

**Tracking:** [TRACKING NUMBER]
**Carrier:** USPS Priority Mail
**Estimated Delivery:** [DATE]

You can track the package here: [TRACKING LINK]

I packed it securely in a padded box, so it should arrive safe and sound. Once it arrives, please take a moment to inspect everything and let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks again for your purchase—enjoy the watch!

[Your Name]
```

**Why This Works:**
- Proactive (prevents "where is my order?")
- All info in one place
- Sets expectation for inspection
- Friendly close

---

### Scenario 5: Delivery Follow-Up

**Situation:** Tracking shows delivered, checking in

**Your Message:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name]!

I saw that your Seiko 5 was delivered today—I hope it arrived in perfect condition!

Please take a moment to inspect the watch and make sure everything matches the description. If you have any questions about setting the time, adjusting the bracelet, or anything else, I am happy to help.

If everything looks good, I would really appreciate it if you could leave feedback when you get a chance. It helps small sellers like me more than you know!

Enjoy your new watch, and thanks again for your purchase.

Best,
[Your Name]
```

**Why This Works:**
- Shows you care post-sale
- Offers help proactively
- Asks for feedback naturally (not pushy)
- Personal touch

---

## PROBLEM RESOLUTION MESSAGES

### Scenario 6: "Item not received" (but tracking shows delivered)

**Buyer Message:**
"I never received my package but tracking says delivered. Where is it?"

**Your Response:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name],

I am sorry to hear the package has not reached you—I understand how frustrating that is. Let me help figure this out.

Tracking shows it was delivered on [DATE] to [CITY/ZIP]. A few things to check:

1. **Mailroom/Front Desk:** If you live in an apartment or condo, it may have been left there
2. **Safe Location:** Carriers sometimes leave packages in side doors, garages, or with neighbors
3. **Other Household Members:** Sometimes packages get brought in and set aside

If none of those pan out, I recommend:
- Filing a missing mail search with USPS: [LINK]
- Checking with your local post office with the tracking number

Please let me know what you find. If it truly is lost, we will figure out a solution together—I want to make sure you are taken care of.

Thanks for your patience.
```

**Why This Works:**
- Empathetic, not defensive
- Practical troubleshooting steps
- Does not immediately blame buyer or carrier
- Commits to resolution

---

### Scenario 7: "Item not as described"

**Buyer Message:**
"This watch has more scratches than shown in photos. Not happy with this purchase."

**Your Response:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name],

I am really sorry to hear the watch did not meet your expectations. That is never the experience I want my buyers to have.

I do my best to photograph and describe items accurately, but I understand that vintage items can look different in person than on screen.

I want to make this right. Here are your options:

**Option 1: Partial Refund**
If you would like to keep the watch, I can offer a $25 partial refund to compensate for the discrepancy.

**Option 2: Full Return**
If you would prefer to return it, I will send you a prepaid shipping label and issue a full refund once it arrives.

Please let me know which works better for you, or if you have another solution in mind. I want you to be happy with this transaction.

Thanks for giving me the chance to resolve this.
```

**Why This Works:**
- Apologizes without admitting fault
- Offers clear options
- Empowers buyer to choose
- Protects against negative feedback

---

### Scenario 8: Return Request

**Buyer Message:**
"I want to return this. It is not what I expected."

**Your Response:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name],

No problem—I am sorry the watch was not what you were looking for.

Here is how we can handle the return:

1. Please ship the watch back in its original packaging
2. Use a tracked shipping method (USPS Priority Mail works great)
3. Once I receive it and confirm condition, I will issue your full refund within 24 hours

**Return Address:**
[Your Address]

Please note: I ask that the watch be returned in the same condition it was sent—unworn with all included accessories.

If you have any questions about the return process, just let me know. I will keep an eye out for the package.

Thanks for your understanding.
```

**Why This Works:**
- No guilt trip
- Clear instructions
- Sets expectations on condition
- Professional throughout

---

### Scenario 9: Negative Feedback Response

**Situation:** Buyer left negative feedback, you want to respond publicly

**Public Response:**
```
I am sorry this transaction did not meet expectations. I reached out to resolve the issue but did not hear back. My return policy is always open, and I stand behind every item I sell. I would still be happy to make this right—please message me.
```

**Private Follow-Up Message:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name],

I saw your feedback and I am genuinely sorry you had a negative experience. That is never my intention.

I would really like the chance to make this right. Whether that is a partial refund, full return, or another solution—I am open to whatever works for you.

If we can resolve this, I would be grateful if you would consider revising your feedback. But either way, I want you to be satisfied.

Please let me know how I can help.

Thanks,
[Your Name]
```

**Why This Works:**
- Public response shows professionalism to other buyers
- Private message opens door to resolution
- No accusations or defensiveness
- Focuses on making it right

---

## MESSAGE TEMPLATES BY SITUATION

### Quick Reference Table:

| Situation | Tone | Key Elements |
|-----------|------|-------------|
| Availability inquiry | Friendly, helpful | Confirm + add value + offer help |
| Price negotiation | Firm but polite | Justify price or counter-offer |
| Condition questions | Honest, detailed | Organized breakdown, offer photos |
| Shipping confirmation | Proactive, clear | Tracking + carrier + ETA |
| Delivery follow-up | Warm, appreciative | Check-in + offer help + ask feedback |
| Item not received | Empathetic, solution-focused | Troubleshoot + commit to resolution |
| Not as described | Apologetic, flexible | Options + empower buyer |
| Return request | Professional, no-drama | Clear steps + expectations |
| Negative feedback | Graceful, open | Acknowledge + offer resolution |

---

## RESPONSE TIME BEST PRACTICES

| Priority | Response Time | Situation |
|----------|---------------|----------|
| Urgent | Under 2 hours | Disputes, negative feedback, angry buyers |
| High | Under 12 hours | Pre-sale questions, price negotiations |
| Normal | Under 24 hours | Shipping questions, general inquiries |
| Low | Under 48 hours | Feedback requests, follow-ups |

**eBay tracks response time!** Aim for under 24 hours on all messages to maintain Top Rated Seller status.

---

## WORDS TO USE vs AVOID

| Use These | Avoid These |
|-----------|------------|
| "I understand" | "You should have..." |
| "Let me help" | "That is not my fault" |
| "Here are your options" | "You need to..." |
| "I want to make this right" | "Per my listing..." |
| "Thanks for your patience" | "I already told you..." |
| "Happy to answer questions" | "Read the description" |