Can a fake AP have a real serial number?

[PalmBeacher83]

I’m looking to buy an AP offshore from a grey dealer/secondary dealer. This is through chrono24. I have concerns about getting a fake watch with how good these things have become. How can I check that this serial number is correct and it’s not a fake AP with a real serial number?

[shafran]

If it has papers it's easy to verify. If not u need to take ut to ap

[77T]

Papers are easier to make than the watch itself.

If you wish help on the watch - try posting the photo’s in the WatchOut section.

Better yet, consider the TRF Boutique sellers for the AP you’re wanting.


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[VogelPhoenix]

Originally Posted by PalmBeacher83

I’m looking to buy an AP offshore from a grey dealer/secondary dealer. This is through chrono24. I have concerns about getting a fake watch with how good these things have become. How can I check that this serial number is correct and it’s not a fake AP with a real serial number?

What does "real" serial number mean? A number copied from a real AP - sure. A number that together with the warranty card number registers successfully on the AP website as the right model? Seems quite a bit less likely.

[Bach609]

Be careful, it seems pretty easy to me to replicate an engraved caseback as well as papers from a real one, which will be registrated.

For exemple, I am selling a fake black 15510, I just have to take contact to a guy selling a real one, to get a registrated number for a black 15510. Then I engrave that serial number and the papers and here we are, a nice fake 15510 registrated/duplicated.

My advice would be to ask a pro if you are not an expert enough, good luck with your purchase sir !

[chuangyee]

I recently registered a 15500ST and a ROO. There is the case number and warranty number on the card. Once registered online, the movement serial number will be shown on the page. The serial numbers can be found etched on the watch caseback and on the movement itself. Not easy to fake IMO.

[VogelPhoenix]

Originally Posted by Bach609

Be careful, it seems pretty easy to me to replicate an engraved caseback as well as papers from a real one, which will be registrated.

For exemple, I am selling a fake black 15510, I just have to take contact to a guy selling a real one, to get a registrated number for a black 15510. Then I engrave that serial number and the papers and here we are, a nice fake 15510 registrated/duplicated.

To register, you will also need the warranty number. Registering it will un-register the watch from the previous owner, which will make it appear like he sold the watch and will cancel the AP coverage service. Not sure how many volunteers for that you will find. Finally, that might work once, but it's unlikely that AP won't notice repeated use of the same serial/warranty number for registration. You might run out of contacts quickly.

[Aviela.W]

Research the seller's reputation on Chrono24 and other platforms. Look for reviews and ratings from other buyers. A reputable dealer is more likely to sell authentic watches. Good luck!

Originally Posted by PalmBeacher83

I’m looking to buy an AP offshore from a grey dealer/secondary dealer. This is through chrono24. I have concerns about getting a fake watch with how good these things have become. How can I check that this serial number is correct and it’s not a fake AP with a real serial number?