Condition Guide

Condition Guide

What our condition grades mean.

Every watch we list carries one of the grades below. They describe how the watch looks. Every watch we sell, whatever its grade, is authenticated and in full working order, and we disclose specific marks in the listing and the photographs.

Unworn

Brand new and never worn. The watch is exactly as it left the manufacturer.

  • No signs of wear of any kind
  • Protective stickers may still be in place
  • Usually supplied with full box and papers

Excellent

Worn very little, or professionally refinished. Any marks are only visible on close inspection under good light.

  • Faint hairlines at most, typically on the clasp
  • No dents, dings or deep scratches
  • Crystal, dial and hands flawless

Very Good

Most of our watches

Lightly worn and well cared for. The watch shows normal signs of careful use, and nothing that takes away from it on the wrist.

  • Light surface scratches and hairlines on the case, bracelet and clasp
  • No deep scratches or dents
  • Crystal, dial and hands clean and intact
  • Runs and functions as it should

Good

Worn regularly, with wear you can see. Cosmetic only. The watch is mechanically sound.

  • Visible scratches and possibly small dings on the case or bracelet
  • Bracelet may show some stretch
  • Any notable marks are photographed and described in the listing

What we tell you on every watch.

In the listing

  • Condition grade, plus any specific marks worth knowing
  • Scope of delivery: box, papers, full set or watch only
  • Reference number and key specifications
  • Real photographs of the actual watch, never stock images

On request

  • Close-up photographs of any area you want to see
  • Service history and whether the watch has been polished, where known
  • Bracelet size and number of links
  • A video of the watch running

Want a closer look?

Tell us the watch and the exact area you want to see. We send extra photographs or a video, usually within the hour. Every purchase also comes with a three-day inspection period.