When you spend your hard-earned money on a luxury watch, you want to make sure it’s the real deal. Unfortunately, con artists are becoming more and more sophisticated with their fake watches. It’s important to carefully examine your luxury watch before purchasing it to ensure you receive an authentic timepiece that’s worth the price tag. Spend your money wisely by using these ways to identify and avoid a fake luxury watch.
(Image of comparison between Real vs Fake Daytona credit:www.watchfinder.com)
Pay Attention to Small Details
It’s difficult to discern a fake watch from an authentic one at first glance. That’s why you must look closely at all the little details that make up a true luxury watch. While fake watchmakers can mimic the overall appearance of a specific timepiece, there are going to be a few small features that they miss.
Engravings are a crucial detail to pay attention to. Luxury watchmakers use precise instruments to create crisp, clean, and even lettering. If the engraving on a watch is uneven or difficult to read, it’s probably a fake.
It’s also a good idea to look for brand-specific details. For example, Omega watches always laser-etch the watch number onto the lug. Patek Philippe watches don’t use blued screws. Minute yet meaningful details such as these will tell you whether a watch is a fake or an authentic luxury timepiece from that brand.
Feel the Weight
Luxury watches consist of quality, precious metals, such as gold or platinum, that are significantly heavier than other materials. Combine these metals with all the intricate moving parts within a watch, and the timepiece is going to carry some weight. If a watch feels light when you pick it up, be sure to examine it thoroughly for other signs that it might not be authentic.
Bear in mind that some luxury watches feature lightweight designs. Others might have lost weight over several years of polishing, refurbishing, and other maintenance. However, a genuine watch will still carry weight and feel sturdier when compared to a fake watch.
Look for Smooth Movement
(Image of a genuine Rolex Daytona Calibre 4130 introduced in 2000 credit:www.wired.co.uk)
Movement refers to the overall mechanism that powers the watch, and it plays an essential role in identifying and avoiding a fake luxury watch. It's nearly impossible to replicate the smooth movement that characterizes real luxury watches. The smooth mechanisms of a luxury watch also mean there’s little to no ticking sound. If your watch ticks loudly, it’s most likely a fake.
(Image of high-end fake watches feature replica movements, such as this counterfeit Rolex Daytona Calibre 4130 credit:www.wired.co.uk)
A watch expert will be able to examine the internal mechanisms of a specific watch and tell you whether or not it’s authentic. Before making your purchase, be sure to consult with an expert so you know you’re buying a genuine luxury watch.
Choose a Reliable Seller
As with any product, choosing the right seller is the key to purchasing a quality watch. Whenever you buy a luxury watch, make sure you work with a reputable and well-established supplier who you can trust. At Phigora, all of our pre-owned luxury watches come with a certificate of authenticity and a warranty card to give you peace of mind with your purchase. Find authentic luxury timepieces from the most renowned brands in the industry at Phigora.
