Condition Grading Scale
TheWatchLuxury Condition Grading Scale
Our grading scale evaluates both the cosmetic state and the mechanical integrity of a timepiece. A full description includes both a grade (e.g., “Excellent”) and key specifics (e.g., “Unpolished, with papers”).
Quick-Reference Summary Table
| Grade | Cosmetic Condition | Mechanical Condition | Box & Papers | Typical Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mint / New Old Stock (NOS) | As new, unworn. Zero imperfections. | Perfect, unworn. | Essential. Full set as original. | A collector’s dream. Effectively a new watch from a past era. |
| Excellent | Near-perfect. Very light, superficial hairlines. No visible dents or deep scratches. | Perfectly serviced and functioning within chronometer specs. | Ideally full set, but at least papers. | A watch that has been worn with extreme care. Often “lightly polished” or “unpolished.” |
| Very Good | Light signs of careful wear. A few light scratches on case/bracelet, crystal perfect. | Excellent mechanical function, keeping good time. | Often has papers, box less critical. | Honest, attractive wear. The sweet spot for many collectors. |
| Good | Visible wear, moderate scratches, small edge nicks. Dial and hands remain pristine. | Functions well; may be due for a service soon. | Not guaranteed. | A “daily wearer” in honest, used condition. Value is in the model itself. |
| Fair / Honest | Significant cosmetic wear: deeper scratches, scuffs, noticeable dings. Dial/hands may have imperfections. | Runs but may have issues (amplitude low, runs inconsistently). Needs service. | Rarely included. | Bought for the core watch, with the intent to invest in restoration. |
| Project / For Parts | Heavy damage, corrosion, damaged dial/hands/crystal. | Non-functional or malfunctioning. | Not included. | For restoration experts or as a source of rare parts. |
Detailed Grade Breakdown
Grade 1: Mint / New Old Stock (NOS)
- Cosmetic: Essentially a new watch that has never been worn. The case, bezel, crystal, bracelet, and clasp are flawless with zero signs of wear. The original factory finish (brushed/polished) is intact. The dial and hands are perfect.
- Mechanical: The movement is in unworn condition or has been recently serviced to a like-new standard. It keeps perfect time.
- Components: Must include the full, original set: inner/outer box, warranty papers (filled or dated), manuals, hang tags, and all links.
- TheWatchLuxury Note: Extremely rare for vintage or discontinued models. The pinnacle of collectibility.
Grade 2: Excellent
- Cosmetic: Shows only the faintest evidence of careful wear under a loupe. May have superficial hairlines on the case sides or clasp. No dents, deep scratches, or imperfections to the dial, hands, or bezel insert (if applicable). Often described as “unpolished” or “lightly polished.”
- Mechanical: Recently serviced by a reputable watchmaker. Functions flawlessly with strong amplitude and accuracy.
- Components: Almost always includes original papers and preferably the box. Service receipts are a major plus.
- TheWatchLuxury Note: Represents the best-quality “pre-owned” watch. Highly desirable for collectors seeking a pristine example.
Grade 3: Very Good
- Cosmetic: Clear signs of regular but careful wear. Light scratches on the case and bracelet, but no major gouges or deformation. The crystal is clean. The dial and hands are perfect.
- Mechanical: Runs well and keeps good time. May not have a recent service record but shows no signs of malfunction.
- Components: Likely to have papers; box is a bonus.
- TheWatchLuxury Note: The most common grade for honest, desirable pre-owned watches. Offers excellent value and character without significant flaws.
Grade 4: Good
- Cosmetic: Visible wear consistent with daily use. Scratches are more pronounced, and there may be small nicks on the edges of the case or lugs. The dial and hands remain clean.
- Mechanical: Functions correctly but may be nearing the end of a service interval. Timekeeping may be slightly outside top specifications.
- Components: May be “watch only” (no box/papers), or have incomplete accessories.
- TheWatchLuxury Note: Valued for the model itself, not its condition. A great entry point to a desired reference.
Grade 5: Fair / Honest
- Cosmetic: Shows heavy wear: deep scratches, scuffs, and noticeable dings. The dial or hands may show aging (e.g., light patina, slight imperfections) which should be fully disclosed.
- Mechanical: Runs but performance is questionable. Likely needs a full service in the near future.
- Components: Rarely includes original accessories.
- TheWatchLuxury Note: Bought with the understanding that a future investment in servicing/cosmetic work will be required.
Grade 6: Project / For Parts
- Cosmetic: Significant damage, corrosion, heavy oxidation on the dial (“tropical” is different), cracked or damaged components.
- Mechanical: Non-running, missing parts, or significantly damaged movement.
- Components: None.
- TheWatchLuxury Note: Sold strictly “as is,” for restoration projects, watchmakers, or as a source of spare parts.
Key Terminology for TheWatchLuxury Listings:
- Unpolished: The watch case retains its original factory angles and finishes. Highly prized by purists.
- Lightly Polished: Minor refinishing has been done to reduce scratches, but the case shape remains sharp.
- Overpolished: The refinishing has softened or rounded the original sharp edges and bevels, diminishing value.
- Factory Fresh/Original Finish: Implies the watch is in a state as it left the manufacturer, often used with “Excellent” or “Mint” grades.
- Full Set (F.S.): Includes all original accessories (box, papers, tags, etc.).
- Watch Only: The timepiece alone, without box or papers.
- Patina: Even, natural aging of luminous material (e.g., creamy indices on a vintage dial). Not considered damage if uniform and attractive.
- Service History: Documentation of past maintenance. A recent service from a known expert adds significant value.
This scale ensures TheWatchLuxury clients can buy and sell with absolute confidence, understanding exactly what each grade represents in the collector’s market.
