What to look for before taking delivery or possession of a watch?

[liuk3]

There was some thread sometime I remember reading what to look for when purchasing a new watch. I can't find it now. It had great tips like checking to see if the hands are straight when setting the watch to read 6'oclock (minute had straight up and hour hand straight down).

What recommendations do you have when inspecting a watch trying to decide before you buy and take possession?

[GradyPhilpott]

Originally Posted by liuk3

What recommmnedations doyou have when inspecting a wach tyring to depide beter to Peahut

For myself, my purchases have been from an AD, so I don't expect any surprises.

I have asked the watchmaker to get a baseline accuracy reading, but beyond that I have no criteria.

[Andad]

On a new watch I usually have a look with my 6x and that's about it.
If second hand then there are a lot of variables to check and always some learning to do.

[liuk3]

Originally Posted by GradyPhilpott

For myself, my purchases have been from an AD, so I don't expect any surprises.

I have asked the watchmaker to get a baseline accuracy reading, but beyond that I have no criteria.

Sorry, I was falling asleep from some cold medication when I was typing on my iphone. I've been purchasing from an AD as well, but there were things someone was saying to check as even Rolex at times has quality control issues and things fall through the cracks. I guess though that's why you have a warranty.

[liuk3]

I'll bring a 10x loupe with me to loop over, but I was thinking that maybe I should do more. I make sure serial number matches the watch. Unscrew/screw crown, maybe play with the adjustments, and check clasp. Anything else we could be doing?

Nobody has a checklist?

[kilyung]

I'd recommend against a 10x. Even BNIB watches at ADs will show imperfections with 10x. 4x or 6x is more than sufficient. I'd go over serials, case, glass, and bracelet for any non disclosed issues. Just don't get hung up with the loupe if you're buying used - if you want new condition then buy new at AD.

I'd check the movement by winding, setting date, setting time, hands alignment, date alignment, other complications as needed. Ask if there's any warranty/return policy. That's about it.

[liuk3]

Originally Posted by GradyPhilpott

I have asked the watchmaker to get a baseline accuracy reading, but beyond that I have no criteria.

What's involved in a baseline accuracy reading?

[Joey_V]

I check:

- Crown, ease of winding, ease of closing.
- I cycle through date, hours, minutes for a bit.
- I make sure bezel feels right.
- Bezel alignment is a must.
- Check for scratches.
- Check for visible imperfections... like dust under the crystal, alignment/level of the crystal, etc.

[Casey VP-26]

I look very close at the price.

[03cobraa]

Check the serial number against the paper work (it does have paper work)? Unscrew and Pull out the crown, wind it up a few turns, change the date, and set the time. Then go over it with a loupe, look for any dirt or lint under the crystal, and maybe check out the clasp and bezel.

[liuk3]

Thanks everyone for your input so far. Really appreciate it and helpful.