General Thoughts on AP Accuracy

[MrJ320]

The 26300 ROC that I used to own ran about +5 sec/day and the 15202 I own now is also in the same range so no issues for me to date with APs. But neither of those are 3120 based movements though.

[VICI]

Sent mine to Clearwater - no problems since.

It's handmade. There is a margin of expected error. Otherwise the finish is top notch


Aka: Alex_NYC

[yjfang]

I've never obsessed about the accuracy of mechanical watches. As long as it is pretty close to my phone clock I am happy. Timepieces are a form of mechanical functional art and not ultra precision tools.

[singe89]

2 of the 3 APs I have with the 3120 movement were running fast at more than +20 sec per day. AP quickly fixed the issue during the pressure check for the 3rd year warranty. Both my ROOs with the 3126 have been almost spot on and the wife's RO with JLC caliber is also close to spot on. 2 out of 6 APs gaining time isn't great but AP fixed the issue and made it right.

Over the years I've also had like new watches from IWC, Panerai, Omega, and Rolex that ran way outside of COSC timing. I realized early on that if I was an accuracy freak this hobby would drive me crazy. I just enjoy my watches now and only occasionally track accuracy to make sure there isn't something seriously wrong with the movement.

[Audemars Piguet]

[MichaelFlash]

My Diver originally purchased at AD in February is running about a minute fast per day. I noticed it 2 days ago when I used the watch exclusively while on vacation for several days and noticed it was 8 minutes ahead! I am going to call Clearwater when I return. BTW, does anyone know if Clearwater will repair scratches automatically or do you need to request that service when you send it in for warranty work?

[yyzpam]

I've had a number of AP's including the panda, bumble bee, diver, (twice) 15400, RC, FC Diver, 44 steel novelty...just off the top of my head.

And while they have all been FANTASTIC to look at and wear. I cant say that they were great time keepers, in fact with a couple of exceptions, they all had their issues. In fact, my FC Diver is currently in Clearwater as it simply stopped working two days after I bought it (pre-owned mind you, but only a year old).

Having never owned one, I recently aquired a couple of Rolex pieces, and while they may not be AP when it comes to design and materials use.....there is a LOT to be said for a watch that just keeps good time......especially at this price range.

I cant see myself without at least one AP in the stable, I LOVE the brand and their products excite me like no other watch company but can we not get some better QC please !!!!

[red1108nyc]

Originally Posted by singe89

2 of the 3 APs I have with the 3120 movement were running fast at more than +20 sec per day. AP quickly fixed the issue during the pressure check for the 3rd year warranty. Both my ROOs with the 3126 have been almost spot on and the wife's RO with JLC caliber is also close to spot on. 2 out of 6 APs gaining time isn't great but AP fixed the issue and made it right.

Over the years I've also had like new watches from IWC, Panerai, Omega, and Rolex that ran way outside of COSC timing. I realized early on that if I was an accuracy freak this hobby would drive me crazy. I just enjoy my watches now and only occasionally track accuracy to make sure there isn't something seriously wrong with the movement.

Super well said :-)

[AshAP]

I have bought 3 Royal Oak Offshores new from dealer over a two year period, no problems at all.

I've even worn my Panda for marathon running and mountain biking and found it to be a very reliable sports watch.

[ksh977]

The 3120 movement operates at 6 beats per second (21,600 beats per hour), while a lot of movements operate at 8 beats per second (28,800 beats per hour). The higher beat rate movements are less sensitive to disturbances from the motion of the wearer's arm, so they should be more accurate, given that all other factors are equal.

[Royalex]

This accuracy issue may drive AP potential customers away.

[GB-man]

Originally Posted by Royalex

This accuracy issue may drive AP potential customers away.

It's driven me away from both AP and IWC.

[Koi6715]

Originally Posted by Royalex

This accuracy issue may drive AP potential customers away.

Not me
When i brought my ROO with 3126 movement
The look and materials in the watch was my first factor
The brand & history and craftsmanship was other factors in my decision
Time keeping im not really that hung up on that minus or plus seconds
Dont bother me
And my watch has such a small second hand I would'nt know if it was gaining seconds

[AshAP]

Originally Posted by tjspark

It's driven me away from both AP and IWC.

If small amounts of time are so valuable to you why do you still read the AP forum if the brand has driven you away?

[GB-man]

Originally Posted by AshAP

If small amounts of time are so valuable to you why do you still read the AP forum if the brand has driven you away?

Driven me away from purchasing not from enjoying other peoples watches. I like jags but I drive a porsche, that doesn't stop me from reading car and driver.

You are confusing accuracy, my issue, with the use of my time. Do not pass go, do not collect $200.

[Sir Larry Wildman]

Originally Posted by tjspark

Driven me away from purchasing not from enjoying other peoples watches. I like jags but I drive a porsche, that doesn't stop me from reading car and driver.

You are confusing accuracy, my issue, with the use of my time. Do not pass go, do not collect $200.

Right. I think that is an important distinction. I, too, love APs - the design, craftsmanship, history of the brand, etc. However when talking about ownership, if people are experiencing +45 per day, that's just not something I could live with. However, it does not diminish my love of the brand in the slightest, I'm just not sure I would own one.

Separately, is the 60 hr power reserve pretty good (as in pretty much right on)?

[Royalex]

Originally Posted by tjspark

Driven me away from purchasing not from enjoying other peoples watches. I like jags but I drive a porsche, that doesn't stop me from reading car and driver.

You are confusing accuracy, my issue, with the use of my time. Do not pass go, do not collect $200.

Agree, I have almost bought AP several times, but when i learn about the issue, i have to make up my mind. However i still enjoy reading about the other peoples AP since I still like the design and its history.

[AK797]

Don't be put off as if the watch has problems it will show quickly and under warranty and AP service is exemplary. I have been emailing with them and they are so polite, almost deferential, a joy to interact with them and they make you feel very special, like a 3 star Michelin restaurant. Almost a waste not to use their exacting service.

[diver2012]

Originally Posted by Royalex

Agree, I have almost bought AP several times, but when i learn about the issue, i have to make up my mind. However i still enjoy reading about the other peoples AP since I still like the design and its history.

Issues tend to happen in the first few months and are quickly fixed.

From then on the general consensus is it is plain sailing!

[Sir Larry Wildman]

I wonder if there is a way to sniff out an accuracy or timekeeping issue before purchase? Maybe if buying at an AD or AP boutique, you put a downpayment on a watch, set it to the atomic clock, and then tell them to hold it for you until the next day. You can come back and check the performance then.

[GB-man]

Originally Posted by Sir Larry Wildman

I wonder if there is a way to sniff out an accuracy or timekeeping issue before purchase? Maybe if buying at an AD or AP boutique, you put a downpayment on a watch, set it to the atomic clock, and then tell them to hold it for you until the next day. You can come back and check the performance then.

I recall someone saying they did exactly this, I believe on a new Rolex in the main forum. Sounds hilarious and OCD, particularly with Rolex given their reputation for accuracy.

I'm sure they would oblige you, but I'm not sure I would be willing to suggest it in the AD.

As others have said, AP customer service has a good rep so I'm not saying I'll never buy one, rather without knowing these tendencies I would already own one.

[SMD]

Originally Posted by Sir Larry Wildman

I wonder if there is a way to sniff out an accuracy or timekeeping issue before purchase? Maybe if buying at an AD or AP boutique, you put a downpayment on a watch, set it to the atomic clock, and then tell them to hold it for you until the next day. You can come back and check the performance then.

My problems were that it would be fast when worn, but sitting in my case it was spot on. So not sure this will solve the "issue" to the extent their is one.

[masterserg]

You guys are worrying too much about it. As Neil said and I can attest to, AP service is fantastic and will solve any issues should they occur.

[ksh977]

Originally Posted by AK797

Don't be put off as if the watch has problems it will show quickly and under warranty and AP service is exemplary. I have been emailing with them and they are so polite, almost deferential, a joy to interact with them and they make you feel very special, like a 3 star Michelin restaurant. Almost a waste not to use their exacting service.

Originally Posted by Sir Larry Wildman

I wonder if there is a way to sniff out an accuracy or timekeeping issue before purchase? Maybe if buying at an AD or AP boutique, you put a downpayment on a watch, set it to the atomic clock, and then tell them to hold it for you until the next day. You can come back and check the performance then.

I don't think the customer should ever be expected to act as the manufacturer's quality assurance agent. When I pay the kind of money AP is asking, I don't want to enter the deal with the expectation of phone calls, shipping, and emails to cover for work that should have been performed on the factory floor in the first place. My initial response would be to pass on the product. Maybe my position will change as additional facts unfold.

[masterserg]

It's not an expectation, by any means. Regardless, it is nice to know the manufacture stands behind their products and will take the utmost care with your piece.

Issues happen ... These things are not made by angels in heaven ... even if they look like it.

[chummx]

I have bought 2 AP'S quite recently - brand new 15400 and a 6 month old Diver. Whilst the 15400 was keeping good time (+2/day) the date change failed and it is in the AP hospital right now. The Diver seems to be behaving as others have described and periodically gaining seriously over a short period. It wll need to go to the AP hospital as well I believe. I love both these watches and appreciate the design and finishing. The quality control, seems, to leave a lot to be desired though!

[Daytona4130]

I just sent my Diver to Clearwater today. Hopefully all will be we when I get it back. If not, it's gone like so many others! I'll keep you posted on how it turns out

[AK797]

Originally Posted by masterserg

It's not an expectation, by any means. Regardless, it is nice to know the manufacture stands behind their products and will take the utmost care with your piece.

Issues happen ... These things are not made by angels in heaven ... even if they look like it.

Exactly, all watches have problems, no brand is guaranteed no issues nor are there brands guaranteed to have issues. I can live with sending it in for a few weeks if a problem develops which is a typical timeframe with AP, what bothers me more is if the return time is many months and this is often a problem for PP and Lange owners, but then basically you rule out so many high level brands so not a consideration for me.

[Deep-House]

You're only going to own the thing for a month or two, who cares?

[Sir Larry Wildman]

Originally Posted by Deep-House

You're only going to own the thing for a month or two, who cares?

Not sure that I understand this...