How to Identify Real Luxury Watches
Tag Heuer, Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, Mont Blanc, Hermes, Chaumet and Cartier are all nice luxury watches; however, there are watches that look similar to these and have the name brand listed on the watch. Unfortunately, some people try to make a living by selling fake watches for much less. For the luxury timepiece consumer, the following list is a simple guide for identifying a luxury watch.
- Ask the vendor for a price, as this is a determining factor in identifying a luxury timepiece. A vintage Patek Philippe collectible timepiece from the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer located in Geneva will cost a lot more than $250.
- Examine the timepiece for a serial number, which is applied to all authentic luxury watches. If purchasing on the Internet, ask the seller to provide a serial number. Avoid a transaction for a luxury watch without a serial number.
- Request the manufacturer’s guarantee and bill of sale. A pre-owned Patek Phillipe watch should come with a warranty to signify the watch’s validity. No paperwork should mean no sale.
- Search the manufacturer’s website for a list of authorized distributors. Most manufacturers provide a list of authorized distributors for the watches around the world on the official website for the brand. Steer clear of vendors that are not included on the list.
- Study the watch for irregularities in the logo, insignia or for misspellings. Luxury watch manufacturers are very particular about logos. Buyer beware, Cartier knows the correct spelling.
- Visit authorized stores that carry luxury watches and study particular lines such as Tag Heuer and Cartier. If there are no local suppliers, try researching a particular watch online and study the band style, hands and clasps. Do not believe a sales person that says the band style is new without checking it out first.