A lot of people – even seasoned collectors – can find themselves confused when trying to distinguish between authentic and counterfeit watches. In this guide, you’ll learn about buying authentic luxury watches and how they can help you be a more educated collector and shopper.

An authentic watch is undisputed in origin, and not a replica or copy. This means that in order for something to be authentic, it has to be 100% backed by something not just real. Every brand has a unique signature which sets apart an authentic piece from a replica. The word authentic is used in the industry to distinguish between genuine timepieces and counterfeits of global players like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and so on that are widely copied and sold.

As a buyer, the first step in guaranteeing you get an authentic watch is by always buying directly from the brand or a trusted and reputable auction house which can ensure that the watch is genuine. As an auction house when AstaGuru acquires a vintage watch, our primary task is do is examine the authenticity of the watch; and as a buyer, you should be doing the same.