Luxury watches are faked with increasing sophistication. Here are the checks ALT experts always run before valuing a piece.
1. Second-hand sweep
Most high-end mechanical watches have a smooth “sweeping” second hand (several beats per second). A crude one-tick-per-second motion often signals a cheap fake movement — genuine quartz models aside.
2. Weight and materials
Real gold, 904L steel and titanium have a distinctive heft. Fakes tend to be lighter, made of cheap metal with plating that wears off.
3. Finishing details
Logos, engravings and markers should be sharp, even and symmetrical. Misaligned fonts, shallow engraving and rough edges are red flags.
4. Dial and date window
The date window should be centered with crisp digits; a Rolex cyclops magnifies at the correct 2.5x. Lume should be even in color and glow to spec.
5. Serial and reference numbers
Numbers should be crisply engraved and match the papers and the brand’s database. Blurred, acid-etched or mismatched numbers are a major warning.
6. Papers and movement
Warranty card, invoice and movement numbers must all agree. Opening the case back to inspect the movement is the final step — and one for an expert only.
Not sure? Bring your watch to ALT’s authentication process, or browse authenticated watches for sale.