Mike RM Plug's Watch Pro Academy Review: Buy, Sell, and Trade Watches + Alternatives

What are the Watch Pro Academy Pros & Cons?

Pros

• Beginner-friendly courses.
• The course creator is an authority on luxury watch trading.
• Lifetime access.

Cons

• Lack of detailed success stories and testimonials.
• Watch flipping has a very high learning curve.
• The business model requires an enormous capital to make significant profit.

Price: Watch Pro Academy’s The Watch Dealer Blueprint costs $1,495. The price of Watch Pro Academy is $2,495.

Refund Policy: Watch Pro Academy did not outline a refund policy.

Origin: Watch Pro Academy started in 2021.

Reputation: Watch Pro Academy does not have any third-party review online.

How Does Watch Pro Academy Turn Your Passion for Watches Into a Full-Time Income?

Watch Pro Academy can turn your passion for luxury watches into a full-time income through hands-on training and detailed strategies.

Watch Pro Academy provides a range of educational materials, including:

• Basic Watch Knowledge: Offers lessons on identifying different types of watches, understanding watch movements, and learning about various luxury brands.
• Market Analysis: Teaches students how to evaluate current market trends and understand the demand for specific watches.
• Buying and Selling Strategies: Provides practical tips on sourcing, negotiating, and closing deals effectively.

The platform’s advanced training further delves into:

• Risk Management: Educates on managing capital, minimizing risks, and achieving a stable income.
• Networking Skills: Shows how to build and maintain relationships within the watch trading community.

Access to a community of like-minded individuals also helps students to exchange knowledge and experiences. This keeps them motivated and informed. Watch Pro Academy’s exclusive community is currently in the form of a private Facebook Group.

What are the Watch Pro Academy Courses?

The Watch Dealer Blueprint

The Watch Dealer Blueprint is Watch Pro Academy’s beginner course for trading time pieces. It covers the initial steps in building a watch flipping business, product understanding (starting with Rolexes), marketing strategies, and more. This course’s price is $1,495.

Course Introduction

• Welcome to the Course
• Join the Facebook Group
• How to Set Up Your Business

Introduction to the Rolex World

• Rolex Models that Sell
• Rolex GMT
• Rolex Datejust
• Rolex DayDate II
• Rolex Daytona
• Rolex Yachtmaster
• Rolex Submariner
• Rolex Oyster Perpetual
• Rolex Skydweller
• The Difference Between Serial & Model Number

Social Media Explosion

• Social Media Juice
• How to Instagram Like a Pro
• How to Simply Take Pictures & Videos for Watches

Sourcing Watches Like a Pro

• Watch Sourcing 101
• How to Determine Your Margin
• Retail vs Grey vs Black Market
• How to Buy Your First Rolex

MINDSET

• Pre vs Post Mindset
• Mindset 101
• What You Should Do Next

NETWORKING

• The Basis of Networking
• Fundamental Rules of Networking

CONCLUSION

• Final Message

Watch Pro Academy Masterclass

Watch Pro Academy Masterclass is Watch Pro Academy’s advanced course on watch flipping. This covers identifying fake watches, protecting yourself as a dealer, essential tips, and advanced networking techniques. The Masterclass’s price is $2,497.

ONBOARDING

• Welcome to Watch Pro Academy
• Your Journey Starts Here!
• Section 1 Quiz

Course Introduction

• Intro to the Watch Business
• Why Are You Here?

GET IN THE GAME

• Set Up Your Business
• Naming Your Company
• KEY TERMS
• Code of Ethics
• Pick Your Niche!
• Networking 101 Part I
• Networking 101 Part II
• Networking Events & Conferences
• Quiz
• Networking at Events

Market Analysis

• How to Analyze the Market Before Buying
• Identify Your Target Market
• Finding the Best Deals
• How to Negotiate Deals
• Margins
• Risk Analysis

RESOURCES

• Different Watch Movement
• Automatic Movement or Self-winding
• Swiss Watches
• Metals & Materials
• Watch Anatomy
• Watch as Jewelry
• Fake vs Real
• Watch Inspection
• Watch Boxes
• The DO’s & DON’Ts (protect yourself as a watch dealer)
• Shipping & Logistics
• Watch Care & Warranty
• How to Properly Take Pictures & Videos of Watches

Mindset

• Positioning Yourself: Sacrifices
• DON’T F*CKIN QUIT!

BONUS

• Interview with Bandman Kevo
• TIPS: Make Money on the Buy!
• TOP 3 Mistakes to Avoid

Who is Watch Pro Academy for?

Watch Pro Academy is for beginners, entrepreneurs, traders, and enthusiasts of luxury watches.

First, it caters to beginners who are eager to learn about watch trading. This group may have little to no prior experience. However, they possess a keen interest in understanding the market and developing new skills in watch trading.

The programs also benefit entrepreneurs looking to dive into the lucrative business of watch flipping. Additionally, it is valuable for existing traders who wish to sharpen their skills in evaluating the worth of different timepieces. They may also want to get an insider view of Mike RM Plug’s methods and practices.

Lastly, Watch Pro Academy is suitable for watch enthusiasts who already have a passion for timepieces. In fact, this platform is best recommended for them. This is because of the high learning curve of this business model.

Are the Students of Watch Pro Academy Getting Results?

There is enough information to tell if Watch Pro Academy’s students are getting results or not. We can only refer to the few testimonials posted on the course’s official website.

For instance, Patrick T. said the academy helped him understand so much about the watch. It would have taken him years to learn that much about the industry on his own.

Another testimonial from Bernardo H. said that sourcing was the most important thing for him. The RM Plug’s course helped him in this subject tremendously. Also, Jeremy B. described the program as a “detailed course with step-by-step teaching.”

These are short testimonials that lack details. You should take them with a grain of salt.

Who is Mike RM Plug?

Michael Herman, known as Mike RM Plug, is a mentor and a successful entrepreneur in the luxury watch industry. Mike has made a name for himself in the world of high-end timepieces. He founded Omni Timepieces as his watch dealer company. Also, Mike started Watch Pro Academy in 2021 as a learning platform for watch flipping. He prides himself as an expert in Richard Mille watches, thus the name “RM Plug.”

Before venturing into the world of luxury watches, Mike Herman established himself in the fashion industry. He founded the Leather Clothing Factory (LCF). This is a brand that specializes in leather apparel, including t-shirts, hoodies, and jackets. Leveraging connections in China, Mike quickly scaled his business by selling products on Etsy. His products caught the eye of celebrities like Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook.

Despite his success in fashion, Mike felt unfulfilled and sought a new challenge. His journey into the watch industry began at an Art Basel event in Miami. There, he met a mentor who would change his life. With no prior knowledge of high-end watches, Mike dedicated himself to learning the trade. For a year, he worked for free with his mentor. Mike gained hands-on experience in trade shows and in-store visits.

Mike was raised in the Ivory Coast and later in Miami. He graduated with a degree in fashion from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2009.

Pejman Ghadimi vs Mike RM Plug on Watch Flipping

Pejman Ghadimi is well-known for his Watch Trading Academy (WTA) . His course focuses on acquiring luxury watches at their lowest market value and then selling them for a profit. Ghadimi’s students learn to identify different types of watches. This includes commercial, fashion, mid-range, and boutique watches.

In contrast, Mike RM Plug emphasizes on what he believes as the most important aspect of watch flipping, which is “sourcing.” He also advises beginners to start with more affordable brands before moving to high-end luxury watches.

One key difference between Pejman Ghadimi and Mike RM Plug’s courses are the prices. Pejman Ghadimi’s Watch Trading Academy costs $497 if you watch the  2-hour free training. Otherwise, it’s $1,997. Mike RM Plug’s basic course is $1,495 and $2,497 for the masterclass.

What Profit Margins Can New Watch Traders Expect?

New watch traders can expect profit margins between 5% and 10% per sale, depending on their sourcing and negotiation skills. High-end or rare watches might occasionally yield 15%–20%, but only for traders with deep market knowledge and established client networks. For most beginners, margins are slim after accounting for transaction fees, authentication costs, and taxes. Profitability improves as traders build a reputation and gain access to private sellers offering below-market deals. In contrast, seasoned dealers who buy in bulk or sell to elite clients can earn higher margins, but those opportunities take time and capital to reach.

How Much Capital Do I Need To Start Flipping Watches?

You need $10,000 to $20,000 in capital to start flipping watches, though serious dealers often invest $50,000 or more. Entry-level traders might start with pre-owned Rolex or Omega models, which retain value and move faster in the resale market. However, buying just one high-end piece like a Rolex Submariner or an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak can cost more than $10,000 alone. Beyond inventory, you’ll also need funds for insurance, authentication, shipping, and market fees. The larger your inventory, the more flexibility you have to negotiate and scale, but the financial barrier to entry is significant.

How Do I Find Reliable Watch Suppliers?

To find reliable watch suppliers, join watch trading communities and forums such as Chrono24, WatchRecon, TimeZone, and Rolex Forums, where verified dealers operate. Attend watch fairs and events like Baselworld, WatchTime New York, or Miami’s Watch Expo to connect with wholesalers and collectors in person. Always verify authenticity by requesting certificates, original boxes, and service papers, and use escrow services for high-value deals to minimize fraud risk. Over time, focus on nurturing long-term partnerships with trusted dealers rather than chasing quick one-time purchases.

How To Become a Watch Dealer?

To become a watch dealer , you need to:

• Understand the Market: Study watch brands, models, and values. Focus on brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet. They are known for high resale value.
• Create a Business Plan: Outline goals, target market, budget, and business model. Register your business and check for necessary permits.
• Find Suppliers: Join auctions and online marketplaces. Verify the watch’s authenticity by checking certificates, packaging, and service history.
• Establish Online Presence: Create profiles on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Engage with the watch community through forums and discussions.
• Develop a Brand and Marketing Strategy: Use SEO and content marketing. Attend watch fairs like Baselworld to showcase your collection and network.
• Hone Negotiation Skills: Set a pricing strategy based on market research and profit margins. Effective negotiation increases deal closure rates.
• Track Finances: Monitor expenses and revenues. Reinvest profits to expand your inventory.
• Adapt and Learn: Stay updated on watch market trends to maintain a competitive edge.

What are the Challenges of Watch Flipping?

• Difficulties in Sourcing: Acquiring genuine high-end watches is difficult and often expensive. Finding buyers willing to pay top dollar is not always guaranteed. eBay is a good place to start. Mike RM Plug also personally recommends Chrono24 for sourcing and product research. The key here is buying a watch at the bottom price to be worth flipping.

• Market Volatility: The luxury watch market is volatile. Prices of watches can fluctuate widely. A model popular today might lose its value quickly. This unpredictability makes it hard to ensure consistent profits. For instance, the prices of popular models from major watch brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe have dropped 25-35% on the secondary market (Source: Glossy.co).

• Passion and Skill Requirement: Experts agree that watch flipping is as much about passion as it is about profit. It requires patience, knowledge, and strategic planning. Expert Michael Brown mentioned in an interview that most new flippers face steep learning curves. They often lose money initially. A report from Resell Calendar highlights that the watch dealer industry is full of experienced people. They are mostly watch enthusiasts. This makes it difficult for newcomers to find good deals. Entering this industry needs an enormous amount of patience and a bit of luck.

• Legal and Authenticity Issues: Ensuring the authenticity of watches and dealing with legal matters can be challenging. Counterfeit watches are a real problem. Missteps can lead to significant losses. Watch companies issue certificates of authenticity for legitimate models, according to Above the Law. They exercise close control over the distribution to combat counterfeits.

• High Initial Investment: Entering the luxury watch market requires significant capital. The high cost of premium watches means that only a few people can afford to buy and flip these timepieces. You can start with cheap or midrange watches. However, the profit margin would be too small to be worth your time and effort. Unless you are flipping luxury watches worth several thousand dollars, the cost of flipping a watch is hard to offset. Here’s a Reddit comment on how the expenses of flipping watches can be endless.

   

Final Verdict: Is Watch Pro Academy Worth It?

Watch Pro Academy is worth it for experts who already have established connections. While Mike RM Plug brings real-world experience and insider knowledge, the course lacks verified success stories or independent reviews, which weakens its credibility. The program’s high cost and unclear refund policy make it risky for newcomers who aren’t already involved in the watch market. Watch flipping, though potentially lucrative, requires high capital, expert sourcing, and deep connections to achieve consistent profits.

Is Local Lead Generation More Feasible Than Flipping Watches?

In my experience, local lead generation is way more feasible than flipping watches for profit because it requires minimal startup capital (just a website and a call tracking tool). You’re not freezing thousands of dollars in slow-moving inventory like filling a rented warehouse in New Jersey with Michelangelo replicas carved from Carrara marble that never sell. Cash flow is fast because leads generate revenue quickly. You earn up to 95% profit margins from customers who are ready to buy. Unlike the extreme market volatility of luxury watches, leads don’t fluctuate with hype cycles or influencer trends. Local businesses always need customers, so the demand is consistent and stable. Payments from local businesses are straightforward (monthly retainers or pay-per-lead invoices). There’s no risk of counterfeit transfers, fake escrow, or chargeback fraud. You’re dealing with stable, recurring B2B clients, not anonymous buyers.

Local lead generation doesn’t rely on inventory, capital, or volatile market trends. It builds digital assets that generate recurring income by targeting consistent, high-intent local demand. It’s a system that compounds value over time. Unlike watch flipping, which depends on timing and resale margins, local lead generation offers scalable, predictable, and sustainable cash flow with far less risk.

Why is Local Lead Generation My #1 Pick for a More Profitable and Passive Business?

Local lead generation is my #1 pick because it offers high-profit margins, low startup costs, and truly passive recurring income without relying on inventory, ads, or platform restrictions. For instance, my lead gen site Riverside Elite Roofing 10098 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, California 92503 951-633-8880 https://riversideeliteroofing.com/ generated 18 new leads worth $52,280 to my client’s business in under 20 days. They paid me $2,614 just this month for a 5% commission for forwarding high-value leads to them.

Local lead generation offers a high return on investment. You can rent out a ranked website at a fixed $500-$2K a month. Once the lead generation system is in place, it requires little daily management.