Being able to spot fake watches is a very good skill to add to your arsenal to avoid being scammed when buying a watch or receiving one. So here are some tips on how you can spot fake/replica watches. Here is how you do it:

  • Check if the model even exists: This is the easiest way to spot a fake watch, if such a model doesn’t even exist with certain colors or shapes and patterns, then it’s indeed very fake
  • If the model is supposed to be a chronograph, but instead has a calendar function. Since most factories can’t afford an actual automatic chronograph, so they purchase a calendar automatic and put the hands and print of the calendar complication.
  • Feel its quality: Get a good feel of the watch, is everything loose and poorly put together? Does it feel like the watch was held together by glue instead of screws? These tells should be very obvious
  • Look into the details and compare it to an authentic watch image: Comparing details of a watch with an authentic image might be tricky sometimes, since not everyone has sharp eyes. That could help you indicate some hints
  • Feel the weight: If a watch was fake, it would definitely use fake materials; the weight will be different and perhaps even the color so that would be something to look out for. If the authentic watch is supposed to be in solid gold, the replica will use gold plating. Check if there are any areas where the color is fading into green/steel, if so then it’s definitely fake
  • Check the reference number: The reference number is something many replicators fail to get right, so just look for the reference number of the model on the watch and google it. If you find replicas as your first result, chances are its fake
  • Open the movement: You will need equipment and smooth hands to do this without damaging the watch, but once you see the movement of the watch you’ll instantly be able to tell if it’s a fake or not. If you don’t know what the authentic movement is supposed to look like, look for images online. However, the replica watch industry may have the ability to create a replica to the movement, in order to be sure about it check your dealer and ask them whether it’s an authentic watch or not
  • Look at the sizing and placing of certain things: If a watch uses a fake movement, the placement of certain things will change, maybe the date window will be way too close to the 3 o’clock hour mark. These simple  details that you should look out for
  • Take it to an authorized dealer: If all else fails, just take the watch to an authorized dealer where only authentic watches exist. They’ll check it out for you and tell you whether its fake or not

Replica watches are improving continuously, so it’s up to us to raise awareness and learning how to spot them despite what grade they are.