Nowadays, it can be difficult to tell the difference between authentic watches and forgeries. Particularly, ‘Frankenstein watches’ can be very difficult for prospective buyers to properly distinguish from other counterfeit watches.
Those days are now gone when counterfeit watches used a counterfeit brand name. Also, no counterfeits are produced that do not exist in the real watch market. Even experts sometimes can’t distinguish between the counterfeits and the original one by looking at the external aspects of a few models.
So, in this post, we will have a few closer looks at how you can recognize real from counterfeit when buying any pre-owned watches. The following are a few things that you need to verify.
- Whether the model exists?
The first thing that you need to see is whether the model exists or not. You can search online to check, but do not rely too much on the internet. Instead, confirm from the dealer of that brand.
- Examine and verify all the watch details
Often most counterfeit watches miss certain finer details. Therefore, try to get familiarized with the model well in advance and get acquainted with the special features.
As an example, while in the six o’clock position, the lasered Rolex crown can only be seen if the crystal of the watch is illuminated from its side with a certain flashlight and is viewed under any magnifying glass.
Similarly, Omega has attempted to do almost the same with its engraved globe with the logo or in the engraved Omega logo. Despite all this, one can easily distinguish an original from a fake as both the Omega logo and the Rolex laser crown will be crudely finished on any counterfeits.
- The watch movement is the most difficult part to imitate
The movement is one of the most important indicators for identifying any counterfeit watch from the original. Here, special attention must be given to all the brand-specific details in construction and engravings characteristic of the movement.
Usually, counterfeiters will not put in much effort to faithfully copy movement with all its components.
- Inspect the weight
Mostly, the weight of inexpensive counterfeits can expose them. Luxury timepieces from famous brands are exclusively made from precious and high-quality materials, which carry a certain weight.
Imitator handles this carelessly by placing lead weights inside the case.
- Always check the accessories
Finally, check all the accessories of your watch to see whether it comes with all the original papers and box. The accessories of a counterfeit watch will be much easier to identify, as the box writing will not be very smooth.
Always make sure you buy from trustworthy dealers. However, if you are buying second hand watches from private sellers, then the above tips must be judiciously followed so that you are not fooled by any counterfeit watches.
