Start an inspection record
Copy the fields and tables below for each watch. They are blank record templates, not test results. Keep the listing, photographs, videos and support messages under the same watch ID so evidence from different configurations is not accidentally combined.
| Field | Your record |
|---|---|
| Watch ID; review and arrival dates | [enter] |
| Seller and listing version | [name; saved description date; order reference if applicable] |
| Intended reference / generation | [enter; or Unverified] |
| Configuration | [dial; bezel; bracelet; date/no-date; movement claim] |
| Measurements and required functions | [written dimensions; required display and controls] |
| Return deadline and unresolved items | [date; issues requiring an answer before that date] |
Result key: Matches = supported evidence agrees with the specific claim; Does not match = a recorded difference; Unverified = absent, ambiguous or insufficient evidence. State exactly what matched: a video may establish a demonstrated function while leaving its manufacturer unknown. Every row below starts with a blank result for you to complete.
Stage 1: before ordering
Resolve details that can change the selection before placing an order. Unit-specific evidence is more useful for condition than a stock image. If the evidence only illustrates a design, label it as such.
| Item | Evidence to keep | Result | Next action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reference and configuration | Saved description plus front/side images showing the same dial, bezel and bracelet. | [result; evidence ID] | Resolve conflicting photos or versions before deciding. |
| Dimensions and bracelet range | Measured diameter, thickness, lug-to-lug and minimum/maximum bracelet fit; measurement method. | [result; values] | Compare with a comfortable watch or your sizing needs; leave nominal-only sizes unverified. |
| Movement description | Written maker/base claim, decoration or adaptation, and actual operating instructions. | [result; known/unknown fields] | Use label decoding to separate the claims. |
| Required functions | A demonstration identifying the unit and controls, plus any function not yet shown. | [result; functions covered] | Use the relevant family guide below; keep missing demonstrations unresolved. |
| Materials and finish | Written base-metal and coating description for case, bezel and bracelet separately. | [result; claim source] | Do not assign alloy or precious-metal content from colour or weight. |
| Return and repair terms | Return window, condition rules, exclusions, shipping responsibility and fault-report process. | [result; saved terms] | Clarify an unclear remedy or deadline before ordering. |
Stage 2: on arrival
Check the supplied configuration and visible condition promptly within the actual return window. Follow the supplied mechanism's instructions for operation. If a crown, pusher or calendar is unexpectedly resistant, stop that check and document it. Avoid opening the case, altering parts or resizing before establishing how those actions affect the return terms.
| Item | Evidence to keep | Result | Next action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Correct configuration | Arrival photographs next to the saved specification; identify dial, bezel, bracelet and display. | [result; differences] | Report the exact changed item, rather than only saying the watch looks wrong. |
| Visible condition and fit | Front, sides, back, clasp and bracelet images; measured dimensions; wrist-fit observations. | [result; observations] | Record damage, uncomfortable edges or a sizing mismatch and the affected area. |
| Dial and hand operation | Clear views at different hand positions; setting/running video under the actual instructions. | [result; operation shown] | Describe sticking, contact or uncertain clearance; obtain another angle when reflections obstruct the view. |
| Clasp and advertised adjustment | Open/close and adjustment video; available links and smallest comfortable fit. | [result; fit limits] | Resolve insecure closure or an adjustment that does not match the description. |
| Family-specific functions | Calendar, bezel, GMT or chronograph record, as appropriate. | [result; missing tests] | Follow the targeted guide below; a short video cannot verify every function. |
| Rate and reserve claims | Dated records with conditions, signed differences and actual observation intervals. | [result; conditions] | Use the performance record; leave uncertain start/stop conditions unverified. |
Choose the relevant function branch
- Datejust and Day-Date: use the date or dual-calendar observations, including alignment and the setting method.
- Submariner: record bezel direction, zero alignment, positioning and play separately from the date.
- GMT-Master II and Explorer II: record hand-setting behavior and read the actual 24-hour display.
- Daytona: distinguish running seconds, minute/hour accumulation, stop and reset.
- Explorer and Oyster Perpetual: concentrate on time setting, legibility, hand clearance and fit.
Stage 3: checks for an independent watchmaker
First confirm that the repairer accepts the watch, understands the requested checks and has given an estimate. Case opening, identification, internal condition, parts fit and pressure testing are separate tasks; an external photograph cannot answer all of them.
| Item | Evidence to keep | Result | Next action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installed movement and adaptation | Examiner's identification, photographs and any unresolved maker/version. | [result; examiner/date] | Correct the movement record and obtain compatible instructions or parts advice. |
| Running condition | Diagnostic observations and instrument settings; scope of checks performed. | [result; conditions] | Request an item-specific diagnosis and quote; do not infer lifetime reliability. |
| Pressure-test claim | Unit-specific report with method, pressure, date and findings. | [result; test limits] | Agree supported use with the repairer and compare it with the warranty. |
| Proposed repair or replacement | Parts identification, fit assessment, availability, work scope and estimate. | [result; remaining unknowns] | Approve a defined remedy only after considering the support or return route. |
Keep water resistance separate from appearance
A depth marking, diving-style dial or screw-down crown is not a test report. Keep an untested claim marked Unverified and avoid water exposure pending assessment. A pressure result concerns the unit and conditions tested; it is not a permanent guarantee or by itself a certification for diving. Record the agreed use limits and whether any later opening or repair requires reassessment.
Record a mismatch and the support response
Use a factual message: “For watch [ID], the description dated [date] states [claim]. The attached [photo/video/record] shows [observation]. Please confirm the remedy under [saved term].” This gives the recipient a specific issue to address without pretending that a photo proves an internal cause.
| Claim and observation | Contact record | Agreed action | Open item |
|---|---|---|---|
| [exact claim; evidence ID; Matches / Does not match / Unverified] | [message date; response date; saved reply] | [clarification / return / repair / replacement; responsibility and deadline] | [unanswered point; next follow-up date] |
Track return deadlines while a clarification or inspection is pending. A promised repair, an accepted return and a completed remedy are different statuses. Keep the confirmation of the final outcome with the original record.
What this checklist can establish
Does a “Matches” result mean the watch is genuine?
No. It means the recorded evidence matches that particular description. These guides concern openly identified replicas. An original Rolex specification, engraving, colour or movement-style label does not authenticate the complete watch or establish brand approval.
What if the seller supplied no numerical tolerance?
Record the observation and ask what standard applies to the written claim. This checklist supplies no universal alignment, daily-rate, reserve or water-resistance pass mark. An aesthetic preference and a contradicted specification should be recorded as different issues.
Can a higher price replace missing evidence?
No. Price, seller grades and stock images do not complete an empty record. Choose with the known facts and unresolved items visible, using the family comparison when the required function or fit changes your shortlist.