House · Authentication
Watch authentication.
Authentication proves a watch by inspecting the watch, not by reading its papers. A twelve-point protocol checks movement, case, dial, hands, bracelet, engravings and documentation together, against manufacturer reference — because each can be faked alone but not easily in combination. Papers can be forged and modern superfakes defeat a surface glance, so the inspection is what establishes authenticity, with the paperwork as corroboration. Every watch the house handles carries a written authenticity guarantee held for the life of the watch.
What the twelve points cover
- Movement — calibre, finishing and markings against reference.
- Serial and reference — engravings, depth and font against the period.
- Case — proportions, lug profile and machining.
- Dial — printing, lume, indices and ageing consistency.
- Hands — shape, finish and lume matched to the dial.
- Crystal and cyclops — material, magnification and etching where applicable.
- Crown and tube — logo, thread and feel.
- Bracelet and clasp — links, end-links, stamps and factory finish.
- Caseback — engravings, gasket and prior service marks.
- Function — timekeeping, complications and power reserve on the timing machine.
- Documentation — papers, cross-checked against the watch, never taken on trust.
- Provenance — service history and prior sale records where they exist.
Why the inspection beats the paperwork
A decade ago a fake gave itself away at arm's length. Today's "superfakes" use clone movements, sapphire crystals and correct-looking engravings, and can pass a glance even from an enthusiast. What they do not pass is a point-by-point comparison against a genuine reference on a timing machine and under a loupe. That is the whole case for hands-on authentication — and the reason a guarantee that rests on inspection is worth more than a certificate that rests on documents. The counterfeit data is the context.
Questions
How do you authenticate a watch?
By inspecting the watch against manufacturer reference, not by reading its papers. A twelve-point protocol checks movement, case, dial, bracelet, engravings and documentation together, because each can be faked alone but not in combination. Findings are written down and the watch carries a written guarantee.
Can papers prove a watch is real?
No. Papers can be forged and paired with a different watch. Superfakes defeat a surface glance, so authenticity comes from physical inspection against reference, with papers as corroboration rather than proof.
Do I need authentication to sell a watch?
It is what lets a buyer pay a real price with confidence, and it matters most where papers are missing. The house authenticates every watch it brokers and backs it with a written guarantee and escrow.