I have an Apple Watch that is locked to an Apple ID that is no longer available

Use the steps in this support article to remove your personal information from a device, even if you don't have it anymore. Or make sure that the watch that you're about to buy from someone else is ready for you to use. --> Before you buy, sell, give away, or trade in - Apple Support

This support article has information about Activation Lock on your Apple Watch and how to turn it off. --> About Activation Lock - Apple Support

- Apple can completely reset a device if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. Do this online at: Activation Lock support request - https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support Apple says, "Proof of ownership documentation is required," but does not state what currently constitutes proof. Prior to this new online service Apple typically required the original receipt issued by an Apple Authorized dealer and documented provenance (so typically it would be the original owner who does this, or a descendant with legal proof of ownership). Apple recommends you keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device. --> Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device - Apple Support

It takes about a month, however this month needs to be without any use of the device that is being reset, or if you are resetting the Apple ID then you need to spend the time until they respond not using that Apple ID.

Tay7429 wrote:

It takes about a month, however this month needs to be without any use of the device that is being reset, or if you are resetting the Apple ID then you need to spend the time until they respond not using that Apple ID.

Are you sure you are not confusing account recovery with resetting a device? How would you be able to use a device anyway if you need to have it reset by Apple? If you could use it then you wouldn't need to have it reset.

I don't know, never having needed to use the service. I suspect it depends upon how busy they are.