How to distinguish Swiss watches. Wristwatches: how to spot a fake

Specialists from the company, which sells exclusive Swiss watches on the Russian market, decided to tell us what the main differences between replicas and copies from real Swiss chronographs are.

For real, branded Swiss watches, you can choose many epithets. The most suitable ones are: luxurious, elite, stylish and exclusive. Thousands may dream of such watches, but only a few get them. And now you are ready to become one of the “chosen ones” and purchase an expensive luxury accessory from a famous world brand.

“First signs” of fakes and replicas

Real chronographs that were manufactured in Switzerland have distinctive features and details that cannot be counterfeited in any way. These are the first things you need to pay attention to:

• A real genuine Swiss watch will definitely have the inscription “Swiss” or “Swiss Made” on its case. This marking on this moment used by almost all world watch companies
• If you see the words “Movement” or “Quartz” next to the word “Swiss”, then this will indicate that in this chronograph, only the clock mechanism itself is “Swiss”, and all other parts were manufactured and selected for this watch in other countries
• The words “Geneve” or “Geneva” are stamped on the cases of expensive chronographs elite class. Other, cheaper models may not have this marking.
• You should immediately take a closer look at the movement of the chronograph hands: on a real, Swiss watch, they will seem to “float”, moving smoothly and measuredly. If the watch is fake, then most likely its hands will move in noticeably sharp jerks
• The company logo or name must be present on the watch case. For example, Rolex wrist chronographs have a crown engraved on them. It is better to study in advance the catalogs of the brands whose watches you want to purchase. This way you can see for yourself not only the option that suits you, but also the placement of branded engravings. And after that you can compare them with watches in stores and pawn shops
• Genuine chronographs made in Switzerland will definitely be registered in a special catalogue. They are also equipped with a stamped passport, which indicates their unique number identifier, place and date of sale
• Carefully inspect the box in which the watch is delivered. Even such a minor detail can tell a lot. The box should be “branded”, you can immediately determine this. Global brands supply their chronographs in packages made of expensive fabrics and materials: leather, saffiano, silk, moire, etc. There may also be embossed gold lettering. The bottom of the box is usually marked with information about the manufacturer

What is the mistake of most counterfeit manufacturers?

Now it’s worth talking in more detail about what genuine Swiss chronographs should never have. And what elements and parts can most often be found in fake models.

• Very low cost chronograph should be alarming. Typically, a watch priced below $100 cannot possibly be Swiss. The lowest price threshold for some Swiss watch models is from 500 to 1000 dollars. Exceptions may be watches from brands that specifically produce budget options. For example, Casio or Swatch
• Dial of poor quality, which in fake chronographs can even be cardboard, crookedly placed hour notches, unclear inscriptions - all this indicates that this is a craft
• "Swiss made"(“made” with a small letter) or the marking “Made in Switzerland” can also indicate a fake watch
• Low quality materials, such as: leatherette instead of leather on the bracelet, plastic glass instead of real glass, brass or copper instead of gold, etc. It is also worth paying attention to the neatness of the seams on the straps and the absence of bends on them
• No box and if there is one, it looks sloppy: with crooked inscriptions, protruding threads, made of cardboard, etc.

According to global research in this area, the greatest difficulty for fraudsters who make fakes is “copying,” that is, making the so-called. replicas Such crafts are very difficult to identify.

But here you can also identify a flaw, especially if you look closely at the poorly attached “diamonds”, and also make sure that there is no entry about this model in the catalog. "Precious" stones can have different sizes, to be crooked, clouded.

Where is the best place to buy and not get scammed?

Where is the safest place to buy expensive luxury Swiss chronographs? Of course, in branded outlets and those stores that have proven themselves well. This is the most basic guarantee that you will not be deceived when buying a Swiss watch.

You need to approach this choice as responsibly as possible, and only then luck will be on your side!

Rolex watches are a symbol of elegance and sophistication, and it is no wonder that they attract many counterfeiters. It's not easy to tell the difference between a real watch, but there are some signs you should pay attention to to determine whether you're looking at a genuine luxury watch or a cheap imitation. However, if you come across a high-quality fake, you may need professional advice. This article will help you learn to distinguish an original from a fake.

Steps

Main features

Listen to the ticking. The second hands of a regular watch move jerkily and if you listen carefully, you can hear a quiet ticking. However, the second hand of Rolex (and many other watches) expensive brands) moves very smoothly and you won't hear the second hand ticking. If you can hear a ticking sound on a Rolex, it's a fake.

Notice the movement of the second hand. As stated, the Rolex seconds hand moves smoothly and does not jerk during the movement. Take a close look at the arrows to see if they move perfectly smoothly. Or do they speed up, slow down and jerk? If the second hand does not move smoothly, you have a fake in your hands.

Magnifying lens. Many (but not all) Rolex models have a date display. It is usually located on the right side of the dial (next to the number 3). To make the date easier to see, the manufacturer placed a small magnifying glass above the date indicator. This lens is difficult to counterfeit, so many fake watch This glass only looks magnifying, but if you look closely, it is ordinary glass. If the glass above the date indicator does not magnify the number, then you are holding a fake in your hands.

Loosen the crown and turn the hands back to change the date to yesterday. The date should change after 6 movements, not 12. This feature is almost impossible to copy, so if you don't see it, the watch is probably fake.

Suspicious lightness. Real Rolexes are made from real metal and sapphire crystal, which adds weight and weight to them. When you put them on your wrist or hold them in your hands, you will feel heavy. If you have a suspiciously light watch in your hands, then most likely it is counterfeited from lightweight materials.

Transparent back panel. The back panel of some fakes is transparent, which allows you to see the internal mechanisms of the watch. Such a panel should not be under a removable metal cover. None of the original models have such a rear panel. Only a few Rolex watches were produced with such panels, but they were not offered for sale, they could only be seen at exhibitions.

• Manufacturers of counterfeits thus mislead buyers who look at the internal mechanisms of watches and admire their work, without paying attention to the real origin of their purchase.

1. Non-metallic parts. Take the watch in your hands and examine it. Look at the back panel, it should be smooth high quality metal without any marks. The strap is made of leather or also of high quality metal. If any part of the watch is made of plastic or thin, cheap metal such as aluminum, then you are faced with a fake. All this indicates how to distinguish real Swiss watches from fake ones. Rolex watches are made from the most quality materials, for their manufacturers the costs of creating quality watches are not important.

   • If the back panel looks like metal, but there is plastic underneath, then the watch is also fake.

2. Check the watch's water resistance. The right way To determine the original watch is a water resistance test. All Rolex watches are perfectly sealed; if your watch has leaked even a little water, it is not a Rolex. To check, place the watch in a glass of water, hold it for a few seconds, and then remove it. A genuine Rolex will continue to function normally and no water droplets will appear on the inside of the glass.

   If other methods don't help, there is another one. In order to check the quality of the purchased watch, just check the availability of such a model from this company. To do this, go to the Rolex website, which has a catalog of all models with photographs. Find a photo of your watch model and compare. Special attention Look at the dial, is everything in its place? If your watch has an additional dial (date, chronograph) is it in the right place? Are the inscriptions identical?

   • If you answer even one of the questions with the word “no,” you have a fake. The Rolex company is known for quality; there are extremely rare defects in the products of this company.

   Minor signs

   1. Serial number. Some fakes are of very high quality and are difficult to distinguish from the real thing. To determine the authenticity of the watch you will have to study the smallest details, which is very difficult work. First, find the serial number of your watch. To do this you will need to remove the strap. You need to pick up the pin with a thin object and move it to the side. If it is difficult for you to do this, you can entrust this matter to professionals. The serial number is located between the “claws” under the number 6 on the dial.

      Note the crown under the number six. Since the early 2000s, Rolex began engraving the signature crown emblem directly onto the sapphire crystal. If your watch was made during this period, you will find this small identifying mark. Using a magnifying glass, inspect the glass in the area of ​​number 6. The crown will be exactly the same as at the top of the dial, but smaller in size. The micro-engraving is very small, so it is not easy to see. It can be seen if you tilt the watch at a special angle.

      Inscriptions on the dial. To others distinctive sign The originals are well-made inscriptions that lie smoothly around the dial. Check them with a magnifying glass. The inscriptions must be clear, thin, and free of defects. In addition, they must be engraved on the metal dial. If it looks like the inscriptions are drawn or printed, it is a fake.

      • This engraving is made on a series of Rolex watches called Oyster. Cellini series watches have a non-standard design (rectangular dial, etc.), so they may not have such engraving.

   2. Pay attention to the quality of the logo on the dial. Almost all (but not all) Rolex watches have a signature emblem on the dial, which is located next to the number 12. By examining it under a magnifying glass, you can also distinguish a fake from an original. The emblem is made of high quality metal. The circles on the edges of the crown are convex. The shine of the crown outline should be different from the rest of the crown. If the crown on your watch looks cheap and low quality, then the watch itself is of the same quality.

      Clear inscriptions on the dial. Rolex watches are known for excellence. Even a small flaw will indicate that your watch is not genuine. Check the inscriptions on the dial using a magnifying glass. Each number or letter must be printed carefully. The distance between words and numbers should be the same. If you notice even a slight unevenness in the inscriptions, it is a fake.

      • Any spelling error or incorrect spelling also indicates that the watch is not genuine.

   Seller reliability

   1. Avoid poor quality packaging. Everything about Rolex should be impeccable and elegant. This also applies to packaging. Real Rolex watches are packaged in quality boxes that include watch mounts and a small cloth for cleaning the watch. Each element of the packaging must bear the Rolex logo and name. The watch comes with a warranty card and instructions. If your watch does not have any of these, it is fake.

      • You shouldn't buy watches from street sellers, they don't have original packaging and there is no guarantee.
   2. Sometimes, even knowing all the signs, it is almost impossible to distinguish the original from the fake. In this case, it may help you experienced jeweler or a watch seller: he will pay attention to details that are invisible to a layman. If you know this specialist well, he may be able to assess the authenticity of your watch for free. IN otherwise You will have to pay a fairly high price for the service, although quite acceptable compared to the cost of real Rolex watches.

   3. Ready.

   • Take your watch to a Rolex service center. They will open the watch and tell you whether it is real or fake.
   • Search Google for the model you purchased and its serial number. Compare the signs original model with the characteristics of the watch you purchased.
   • Check also the watch box. The fakes have a box that looks wooden, but is actually made of a material like chipboard; the pad inside the box is made of a cheap-looking material.
   • Pay attention to the seller. Signs of a fake may be that the seller says that he bought the watch abroad or that it was given to him as a gift.

Expensive watches from famous world brands are a status item, recognizable and in demand. No less important for reputation than a car. Cheap watch on hand successful person- this is much worse than modest, good-quality shoes or a coat from a novice designer. This is why well-known watch manufacturers are thriving, but counterfeit manufacturers are also thriving.

Watches from the most popular brands are not a cheap purchase; people buy them for various reasons:

• emphasize your position in society;
• show your level of well-being;
• make a profitable investment;
• replenish the collection;
• you just need a good, reliable chronometer.

Prosperous businessmen and celebrities buy their watches from manufacturers' stores, so the problem ishow to distinguish original watches from fakesdoesn't occupy them. But for those who count their own, even very decent money, this question is important.

What brands of watches are most often counterfeited?

Swiss brandRolexheard even by those who are not interested in expensive and prestigious brands. It is preferred by politicians, famous personalities and mafiosi from cult films. The number of counterfeits usually significantly exceeds the production of own products.

The oldest and most famous French companyCartierlovers of masterpieces of both watchmaking and jewelry art. The brand has the largest collection female models. Cartier is worn by queens and movie stars. The brand is especially interesting for collectors and investors - the price of real Cartier products is only growing.

Breguet– Swiss classics and notorious quality. High prices They also pose a temptation for masters of fake business.

Tissot – original collections, limited edition exclusive models. Unusual materials reliable protection authenticity. But this brand cannot avoid being copied.

Patek Philippe – is considered the manufacturer of the most complex – and most precise – mechanisms. The fakes are made to look similar, but they sell just like all the poorly made cheap imitations.

Chinese craftsmen are mass-stamping even plasticLuminoxvery inexpensiveFossil– but the terrible quality is visible even to a completely inexperienced eye.

Types of fakes of expensive chronometers

Fake watches range from downright cheap watches made by Chinese artisans to very high-quality replicas, which are most often produced in Turkey and Egypt. Such products are quite expensive to manufacture and very accurately convey the design of the model being copied. Fraud can often be detected only by the mechanism, and this is difficult to organize even in a store. If you have the opportunity to consult with an expert, remember that you will be able to return the detected counterfeit to the store within two weeks if you have a receipt and the seller’s stamp on the purchase passport.

In such difficult situation it is especially important to know, how to distinguish an original watch from a fake.

If a specific brand is not selected

Do not buy a watch from a very expensive brand if it is not important to you. IN official store can offer fairly high-quality watches: when choosing, in addition to design, you need to pay attention to important features -how to spot a fake watch good original.

Appearance

• on fake copies, the color of the hands and marks on the dial is often different - this should not happen;
• defects in inaccurate stamping lead to blurring of numbers and inscriptions along the edges, which is not found in real production;
• the arrows should be parallel to the surface of the glass - this can be seen if you look closely;
• on the back of the watch there should be markings: logo, serial number, country of origin;
• the watch must be accompanied by well-printed instructions, a passport or a warranty card with the data entered on it as indicated on the cover;
• watches must be sold in branded packaging with the logo and name of the manufacturer.

If there is no warranty for the product, and the passport is not attached, you cannot buy a chronometer. There will be no one to make a claim.

When purchasing a watch with jewelry, you need to look at the quality of placement of stones in the sockets, their appearance and cleanliness. In fakes, they look cloudy and are unevenly installed. After all, they were making a replica watch, not jewelry.

Also, fakes have poor gilding, the coating quickly deteriorates - this can be noticed. Let us remind you that we're talking about about budget purchases.

If the seller is showing an excellent looking watch with “real Swiss quality”, then the case or dial should be engraved: Swiss Made. The inscription Swiss Parts indicates that the mechanism has Swiss components. And the Swiss Movement mark indicates assembly in another country. In any case, the manufacturer must have an official website and the model can be seen there, unless the chronometer is vintage. You need to inspect and check your purchase especially carefully, as it will not be cheap.

If possible, check out the manufacturer's website for all the design details and specifications.

How to buy real Cartier watches

Cartier – French brand very popular watches and jewelry. In fact, the chronometers themselves will be real works of art, the price of which will increase with age. This is both prestige, an investment and a collectible.

Cartier's global fame gives rise to the massive appearance of brand replicas on the market. They often pass off well as genuine items and sell well. With such an acquisition we are talking about large sums, so you need to knowhow to distinguish a fake watch from an original.

Signs of a real Cartier:

• The stamp on the back cover indicates the metal used, its sample, serial number, model name, brand mark and master's mark. The last mark is typical for the French brand.
• Materials - gold, platinum - are used only of high standard.
• Cartier hands are made of blued steel. Special processing gives bluish tint and shine. The brand’s hands are also massive – they cannot be thin and flat with this technology.

How to Identify a Genuine Rolex

Rolex has been associated with prosperity and influence for centuries. Several signs of a real chronometer will come in handy:

• Inspection appearance must show perfect quality: uniform color, smoothness, transparency of glass, font accuracy, symmetry of the location of characters on the dial.
• Sapphire crystal cannot be scratched, and water does not spread on it - even a tiny drop will demonstrate this.
• The engraving of the series and model numbers is very clear and deep, the lines are thin and uninterrupted. – On the replica they are of poor quality.
• The logo – the familiar crown – is required on the dial. It is also present on the winding head.
• Quartz models are very rare for the brand.

How to avoid buying a fake Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe Chronometers They are distinguished by their unusual design and unique precision of the mechanism. The brand combines the rigor of classics and modern boldness of forms. Finds fans among different walks of life. Characteristics brands:

• Engraving with the name of the material and a unique mark are applied to the metal under the lid - on flat part mechanism. The cover of a real Patek is clean. The designations are exactly on the replicas.
• The case and bracelet are made only from precious metals– gold, platinum, silver.
• The sapphire crystal of the dial is not subject to mechanical damage.

Buy a real chronometerBreguet

The famous Breguet is an example of reliability, good taste, aristocracy - has been successfully producing and selling watches since the end of the 18th century. The quality has only increased over two centuries. But he was also affected by a wave of shameless counterfeit goods. The brand has enough signs of originality:

• A unique technique of guillochéing the dial after applying all the marks, inscriptions, and engravings. Upon completion of processing, a fine mesh pattern is visible on the metal surface. All work is done by hand, so cannot be copied.
• Arrows of a special shape - with a circle included in front of a thin pointed end. This form is over 200 years old.
• The corrugation on the surface of the case is also a handmade pattern.
• Security secret signature on the dial - visible only from a certain angle in strong direct light. Fake makers cannot copy it.

Characteristics of other brand watches

Famous brands protect their products different ways. Watermarks and holograms, unique complex logos - a frigate for Flagship Longines, a crown for Rolex, a MK sign for Michael Kors, eagle relief at Armani . Brand names are applied with fine engraving - on the head of the plant and in some other places, often inside, under the lid.

Some manufacturers have secret security marks that only the developers and a few of the company's craftsmen know about. This allows you to always find the most skillful replica. But it doesn’t help the inexperienced buyer at all, forcing him to contact only the brand’s brand stores.

What is the danger of counterfeiting?

Buying and wearing counterfeits is not only bad form in the eyes of many. There is a very high risk of rapid breakdown of the mechanism, which, most likely, will be disposable. Loss of appearance and similarity to the copied sample can occur even earlier. All that remains is to read the famous name on the tarnished case.

In the very best case scenario fake watches last for a year. But they show inaccurate time from the very beginning. Even the honest ones chinese watch sometimes they work better, although also not for long.

But the main thing is that the owner of the replica has no idea what materials the counterfeit manufacturers used to create their product. Alloys may contain: zinc, nickel, lead compounds, harmful plastic. This is impossible to determine visually.

It is also worth remembering that the business of making counterfeits is illegal, and few people know where the fabulous profits go. Every year, 30 million branded watches are produced in Switzerland alone, and about 2,000,000 fakes are confiscated and destroyed during the same time. Certainly, most of counterfeits remain in circulation.

Prices

For exclusive Swiss chronometers highest quality, or samples of jewelry from famous brands, discounts and promotions cannot be. Of course, you can buy the original from a private person - especially vintage models from previous years. There is such an opportunity in resale stores, where all items are checked by specialists.

Buying expensive watch, many people ask the question: “How to distinguish a fake Swiss watch from an original?” Nobody wants to pay for a fake. Let's start with the simplest thing, the price.

· Rough copies are sold at an average price of 100 - 600 rubles

This watch has a lot of obvious shortcomings. The dials are made carelessly. The numbers and serifs are shifted and slightly rotated along the axis. The edges of the inscriptions most often “float” slightly, that is, they have irregularities. But if a small amount of water or even steam accidentally gets into the watch, the defect will be detected instantly.

On the case of such watches, there is usually no engraving at all. Sometimes you come across very rude inscriptions “Made in Swiss” or “Made in Switzerland” (such markings are not provided by Swiss manufacturers. The original watches contain the markings: “Swiss Made” or “Swiss Movement”), in more detail, we will return to marking later. The case may have a coating that is peeling off from the very beginning. The straps of such watches are made sloppily and are made of leatherette. Pronounced folds and wrinkles form when the strap is bent. Uneven stitching, threads sticking out in places. On the inside there is either nothing at all, or there are incomprehensible inscriptions. Steel bracelets also show signs of handicraft production - rough stamps, poor polishing of the inside. Their outer side is often covered with paint, which, due to carelessness, ends up on the inside.

The mechanism of these fakes is usually Chinese. Fails quickly. Often, products of this quality are not even attempted to imitate well-known watch brands, but they invent their own. However, we have seen hundred-ruble Rados and two-hundred-ruble Tissots and Rolexes. It is not difficult to distinguish such a fake.

· Good copies sell for an average of 700 - 2,500 rubles

Such fakes can already be compared with the original. The property of copies of this group consists in seemingly minor deviations from the original and, of course, in the quality and origin of the mechanism.

You can always identify a fake by the location and style of the marks if you have seen the original watch several times before. The location of the inscriptions and the shape of the arrows may differ from the original, and the paint

The marks may be slightly worn or uneven in some places.

Often, uneven printing of inscriptions on the cases and bracelets of such watches is noticeable. Counterfeiters use flat stamps to print on curved surfaces. This does not allow printing to the same depth. Manufacturers rarely change stamps; their edges wear off over time. This is why it is noticeable that the outermost letters of words, the protruding elements of letters, are not clearly pressed out.

The cases of gold watches of such fakes are usually made of brass and with low-quality gold plating, which, over time, will begin to peel off the gilding. This flaw is difficult to detect at first. Original watches made of precious metals must have a hallmark (18-karat gold is used as standard). Such counterfeits are rarely produced under fictitious brands, but they often distort models of well-known brands or do not have any branded prototypes at all. For example, there is a known case of the sale of a 1932 Franck Muller watch. However, maestro Frank Muller himself (the founder and chief designer of the company) was born in 1958, and the company that received his name was created in 1992.

The mechanism of such watches, depending on the price, can be either Chinese, Japanese, or even partially Swiss. (Often, basic mechanisms become objects of smuggling, as a result of which their value is significantly reduced). There are often cases of substitution of the nature of the mechanism. For example, the original watch has an automatic movement; a copy of a similar model is equipped with a quartz movement. Sellers of such fakes usually insist that this is “a modification” of the original watch. At the same time, they will confidently tell you that the watch was produced “under a Swiss license” in Dubai or possibly in... Finland... It’s not difficult to determine which mechanism is installed in the watch you are considering: the second hand is in mechanical watch it moves smoothly, and in quartz watch moves in leaps and bounds from division to division.

The straps and bracelets of such watches can be either quite good or very rough. You need to understand that the better the quality of the copy, the more expensive it is to produce. Naturally, manufacturers of fakes try to save on everything, which certainly affects the quality.

· Exact copies are sold at an average price of 3,000 - 10,000 rubles

Replicas are the name given to high-precision copies of luxury watches. They are almost no different from the original, except that they were not produced in Switzerland at their own factory. The production of an exact copy is more expensive than cheaper fakes, their price is usually quite high.

The case usually accurately reproduces the characteristics of the original, and parts of it that should be polished are polished, and parts that are ground are sanded. Cases of exact copies can be made of precious metals (usually silver, less often gold); there are fakes inlaid with precious stones. Jewelry replica watches are usually distinguished by poor quality of inlay (stones often fall out and do not stay in place). To identify such defects, just run your finger along the bezel with diamonds. The original watch has all the stones set to the same depth. None of them stick in or stick out. Diamonds in fake watches are poorly cut, may have a grayish-yellow tint and contain inclusions. The color of the stone is, of course, not easy to determine by eye. Not every person is able to do this, even if they have the original in front of them. A specialist will recognize such a substitution at one quick glance. The markings of the replicas correspond to the requirements of the original, but there are also copies without a catalog or serial number. The crown of most expensive

models contains an embossed emblem of a brand or a specific series. The crown required for Rolex is modified on fake watches. In the Flagship series, Longines has an image of a frigate on the crown, which is repeated on the case back, while other models have the company logo engraved on the crown.

A good familiarity with the original can help recognize an exact copy. According to experts, there are few copies that would be impossible to distinguish. Such a fake would be too expensive. And saving on production always affects quality. Some companies mark their watches with security elements, like watermarks. Thus, the Breguet company makes secret writing on the dial, which can only be seen at a certain viewing angle. Original Frederique Constant watches have markings that are only visible in ultraviolet light. The platinum Heart Beat Day-Date and Heart Beat Retrograde models feature an invisible edition number on the dial. Original Frederique Constant watches have silver dials with an Arabic index at 10 o'clock and reflect the limited edition number. "S wiss made" will appear on the bottom and top of watches with a black dial. But these and many other signs are kept secret, and are not even available to all professionals. In general, for a non-specialist, it is extremely difficult to distinguish a high-quality replica from the original. Without a thorough examination, with opening the case and inspecting the mechanism, the probability of error is extremely high, even for a specialist. The autopsy, however, reveals everything. Manuel Emsch CEO The ancient Swiss watch company Jaquet Droz says that the easiest way to determine the authenticity of a Swiss watch is by opening the case. "The elegance and beauty of the mechanism is what confirms the originality." Also, parts of original mechanisms are branded with company marks. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you purchase watches in specialized stores. Don't risk your money and your status!

Swiss watch markings

Several departments are involved in the protection of marks of origin in Switzerland, the main one being The Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry, which issued Verordnung Swiss Made (a list of parameters for compliance with Swiss quality). To be fully eligible to bear the Swiss Made mark, a watch must: 1. Have a Swiss movement. 2. Be collected within Switzerland. 3. Pass the final quality control in Switzerland. Now about a hundred watch companies produce products that meet these requirements, which are allowed to be marked with the inscription Swiss Made. Many watches are marked with the inscription Swiss movement (Swiss movement). This marking means that the watch mechanism is made in Switzerland, from original components, has passed a quality test, but the body of the product and final assembly have a different origin. Honest manufacturers indicate the country and name of the company where the watch was made. The “Swiss quarz” marking is placed only on Swiss watches, which fully corresponds in meaning to the meaning of the Swiss made marking, and not the Swiss movement. The bracelet can also be marked “Swiss made”. What it means is that the bracelet is made in Switzerland, and not the watch itself (naturally, if there is no such inscription on the watch itself). The inscription "Swiss wristlet" (Swiss bracelet) can also confirm the Swiss origin of the bracelet. Swiss case marking on back wall means that only the watch case is made in Switzerland. Markings swiss made or swiss parts (Swiss parts) are also applied to individual parts Swiss made, but these inscriptions are placed on the parts themselves, and not on the watch dial or the back wall of the case. These inscriptions should not be visible to the buyer, because they do not guarantee that the watch as a whole complies with Swiss quality standards. Markings on the watch case, dial, or bracelet can be translated into other languages, but in any case they must correspond to the information contained in the certificate, which is necessarily attached to the branded watch. When buying a watch, you should pay attention to the box: genuine watches are always packaged very well: moiré, morocco, gold embossing. The box, of course, can be stolen or even counterfeited, but the real one must have detailed details of the manufacturer at the bottom.

The article was written for the Portal www.timecheck.ru

How to distinguish a real watch from a fake and are there originals that are not counterfeited? The answer to the second question is no, if we are talking about a well-known and expensive brand. Usually they do not produce fakes for two categories of products: in which they are used unique technologies and accessible to everyone. Although experts say that replicas of cheap plastic models can also be found on sale. In such cases, poor quality is immediately noticeable to the naked eye. From this article you will learn what a copy is, what they are like and how to understand what is in front of you? We will talk about markings and other signs. Let's start with the most obvious ones.

What you need to pay attention to right away

How to distinguish an original watch from a fake at first glance? Expensive products are most often counterfeited Swiss brands, such as Rolex and other famous brands. It is important to remember that everything produced in this country is produced with the inscription Swiss made on the dial or other visible part. This signature means that the entire mechanism or part of it was made there. Do you see the phrase Made in Switzerland? They offer you a good or bad copy.

When choosing accessories from other brands, you can pay attention to the second hand. If it is quartz (it moves jerkily), and the real product involves a mechanical device (the arrow moves more smoothly), then it is a fake. Typically, manufacturers use the first option, since it is simpler and cheaper to assemble.

A special feature of fakes

How else can you find out what is in front of you - an original watch or not? Replicas can even be sold on specialized sites and forums. Another sign of the authenticity of a product is its price. If a store offers a obviously expensive product cheaply, this is a reason to be wary. Want to know the origin of a Rolex on someone you know? Compare their price with the person’s income level.

The counterfeit market is very developed in every country. Sometimes owners of a branded accessory don’t even suspect that they are wearing an item made by the wrong company. All because there are copies different levels quality. They can be divided into three categories. Let's tell you more about each of them.

Superficial

If you carefully examine such products, numerous inconsistencies and errors in execution will become visible. Dials are often assembled sloppily, with offset numerals and serifs. The inscriptions are made unevenly, there is no engraving, and the coating peels off over time.

When bending the strap, it becomes clear that it is made of leatherette, as folds and creases remain, and the seams are sewn crookedly. If the bracelet is made of a different material, it is unevenly painted (paint gets on the back side) and poorly polished. Of course, the mechanism itself of such a device fails very quickly. In most cases, even an ignorant person can see such a fake.

Good

How to distinguish a copy of a watch from an original if obvious signs No? It’s more difficult to do this if you don’t know exactly what the product should look like. This replica differs slightly from the original source.

Differences:

• Arrow shape.
• Tilt of inscriptions and marks.
• Uneven lettering on the case and strap.
• Material. The gold dial stated in the sale is made of brass with gilding.
• Dye. If you look closely, the notches are painted unevenly or are slightly worn out.
• Model or company name. Intentional or accidental errors in words, facts in the presentation.
• Mechanism. Most often they change to quartz. But depending on the price of the fake, it can be produced in any country and using any technology.

Accurate

The similarity to the original is very high and the cost of such products is higher than that of good replicas. This is due not only to the external characteristics, but also to the “filling” of the device. It is distinguished by quality and, like the design, is made “based on” or very similar to a branded item. How to determine the original watch in this case? If you are a beginner, then ask for the opinions of amateurs on the forums or buy the accessory only in branded stores. This will be a more reliable way to check. If this is not possible, check out the company’s official website or in discussions on the Internet what the product should look like. Pay attention to a few details:

• Back cover. Many fakes have it transparent.
• Font. Style may vary.
• Stones. They may not be securely fastened. Run your finger along the body. In this device they are embedded to the same depth and well cut.
• Marking. Some fakes do not have it or do not match the one set by the brand. Sometimes there is no catalog or serial number.
• Emblems, logos, watermarks. Some companies apply security elements to their products. Such marks can only be seen at a certain angle or under ultraviolet light.

Experts note that there is no such falsification that cannot be distinguished from the original source. Precise adherence in production would cost too much, but such things are made, most often saving on materials and work. Reducing costs always results in the presence of shortcomings.

Can a copy be better than the original?

Many buyers have a natural question. If there is a good fake Swiss watch at an affordable price, then why not wear it? There are three reasons why a replica is considered not so a good purchase, just like the real version.

• Quality. Only products made at the factory of the official manufacturer guarantee all the declared characteristics: durability, accuracy, impact resistance, moisture resistance. The value of originals, especially mechanical ones, only increases over the years.
• Guarantee. In the event of a malfunction, you will have nowhere to take your purchase for repairs.

It is also worth noting that if you are looking for a status accessory, even the best copy will lose. It will quickly become unusable and there is a chance that you will not feel as confident as you could.

How to distinguish a fake Swiss watch from an original

This section of the article contains a list of possible shortcomings of replicas that are offered as products from Switzerland.

• Package. A genuine device is always sealed in an elegant, beautiful box from expensive materials. Gold embossing is often found. Even if it is an affordable product, with more simple design, it looks neat. The details of the manufacturer are always printed on the bottom. Inside, along with the accessory, there is a certificate or passport. They indicate the product data (you can also find out the origin of the item), the date and place of sale, and a stamp. Exact copies can be packaged in the same way as the original, including documents. Only knowing the nuances will help you distinguish one thing from another.

• Weight. Replicas, as a rule, have less weight than the originals due to the lightweight “filling”.
• Strap or bracelet. It often happens that the dial is perfect. If so, pay attention to these details. Perhaps the manufacturer of the counterfeit saved money on them. If it is leather, the seams must be perfect. After bending, there are no creases or defects left on this material. On metal products appreciate the grinding on the inside and the quality of the engraving.
• Glass. In the original it fits tightly to the body. The flaws are visible if you look at the watch from the side. If the seller states that it has been used sapphire crystal, drop some water on it. In the original it will come together at one point.
• Arrows. In fakes, this element can be crooked. This is noticeable when you look at him in profile. Find out what these parts look like (length, thickness) from the official manufacturer.
• Date of. The numbers in the box should be located in the center, with the same distance to the top and bottom borders. They are clearly visible from any viewing angle.
• Winding crown. In fakes it is often made with omissions. For example, without a rubber protective ring. Some brands, particularly Rolex, produce it with a crown engraving.
• Jewelry elements. An exact replica can be decorated with real precious stones. But they are poorly cut, not securely attached, and cloudy.

How to check the authenticity of a Swiss watch by number

This information is indicated in the certificate or passport attached to the mechanism. Also in the documents you will find instructions and addresses of warranty workshops. On the company's official website there is a list of stores that have the right to sell this product. There is not always a special search by code, but communication with the manufacturer is available. Experts also recommend contacting service centers. The masters know how to accurately understand the replica in front of you or not.

Marking

Let's tell you more about this method of identifying fakes. At the beginning of the article, we already provided information about the inscription that may be present on the originals. Now let’s write about a few more points and decipher their meaning.

How to identify a fake or original watch

The quality of accessories from Switzerland is confirmed by special marks adopted by several departments. Their illegal use entails heavy fines. Devices that fully comply with the established parameters are sold with the Swiss Made (Swiss Quarz) mark on the dial or case. If you see this phrase, it means that the item is completely designed, manufactured and tested in that country. A similar mark on the bracelet (there is a variation of the Swiss Wristlet) indicates that only this bracelet was made there. Other signature options are also acceptable:

• Swiss Parts. The mechanism is made from Swiss parts and assembled in another territory.
• Swissmovement. The “stuffing” of the watch is made from Swiss components and passed quality checks there, but the remaining elements have a different origin.
• Swisscase. Everything except the body was made abroad.

Examples of fakes

Let's tell you in more detail about what you need to pay attention to in models of three popular brands.

Rolex

In addition to the place of sale and cost (dealers and prices are posted on the official website), you should be alerted to inconsistencies in several points.

• Magnifying glass. Many products of this brand are equipped with it. It almost doubles the date below it. It may not be present in replicas and this is easy to see.
• Back panel. At the factory, these elements are manufactured only in metal form. In copies they are often replaced with plastic ones in order to save money. If you have the opportunity, take a look at the mechanism itself. In branded items, it is also made from strong and durable materials.
• Arrow. In the original, it almost always moves smoothly, without jerking. If you put the watch to your ear, then sharp sounds you won't hear. The colors on the arrows and labels must match.

Also, do not forget to carefully evaluate the uniformity of painting and the inside of the bracelet or strap.

On the back panel of the original there is an engraving of the brand: name, emblem, raw materials from which the parts are made, number. Most often there are fakes of old models of this brand.

• 46941. You can distinguish products using the built-in calendar. Activate it, set the desired date and set the time to 12 o'clock. In a real device, the date will change to the next one, but in a fake device it will remain unchanged.
• 46943 and 48743. In this case, it is very difficult to independently determine the replicas, since the differences usually lie in the mechanism.

If it is not possible to contact service, buy the product only from authorized dealers and carefully inspect the item for scuffs and unevenness. Any little detail done carelessly, the absence of a passport or certificate, is a sign of a fake.

In addition to the main signs of counterfeit products, pay attention to the following nuances.

• Tag. It is on all products that this company produces. It must contain all information about the device and the REF number. Using it, you can check the accessory on the brand’s website.
• Winding crown and strap. The original is produced with an engraving in the form of the letter T.
• Back panel. A code is applied to it, which must match the one printed on the label and in the instructions.

All additional dials in this version are functional, the inscriptions are not blurred, and there are no errors in them.

In this article we told you how to determine the authenticity of Swiss watches and products from other countries. Have you decided that the fact that it is produced by an official brand is not important to you and you want to find a high-quality replica? We suggest taking a look at our store catalog. It has a large selection of women's and male models for every taste. The site employs consultants who are always ready to help you make a choice.