Every watch listed on MWRIST goes through the same process: provenance checks, movement inspection under the caseback, condition and paperwork verification, then a final quality pass before dispatch. If any step fails, the watch never reaches the product page.

1. Provenance review

We buy only from long-standing collectors, authorised dealers and auction houses. Before anything enters our inventory we confirm the seller's identity and trading history, the watch's circulation record, and whether the asking price is materially out of line with the market. A watch with an unclear history is declined, however good it looks.

2. Caseback opened, movement inspected

Our watchmakers open the case and inspect under magnification:

• whether the calibre, bridge finishing and screws match the official specification for that reference;
• any sign of water ingress, corrosion, non-original parts or re-welding;
• the condition of the rotor, balance wheel and hairspring.

The watch is then placed on a timing machine, where rate, amplitude and beat error are recorded and monitored for more than 24 hours before it moves to the next step.

3. Case, dial and bracelet

Case, bezel, dial, hands and bracelet are checked one by one, under both natural and direct light. Scratches, dents, refinishing and polishing are recorded and used to grade the condition. Every flaw is stated in the listing — nothing is left out.

4. Serial numbers and paperwork

Case and reference numbers are matched against the warranty card, booklet, hang tags and box, confirming the reference, material, dial configuration and factory specification agree. Where key documents are missing, the listing states "watch only" and reflects that in the price.

5. Final check before dispatch

Before listing, a second full pass: timing re-confirmed, gaskets checked, exterior cleaned and the watch packed to transport standard. Shipping is fully insured and signed for, with tracking synchronised to your account.

Four reasons we will not list a watch

1. Untraceable provenance — doubts about the seller or the circulation record;
2. Movement does not match the reference — calibre, bridges or key components outside factory specification;
3. Undisclosed repair — for example a re-welded case or a repainted dial the seller did not declare;
4. Unstable timekeeping — rate still outside the acceptable range after 24 hours of observation.

What you receive

• The watch itself, after the inspection above;
• Original documents where applicable (as stated in the listing);
• A summary of our inspection record;
• Fully insured delivery and a 14-day return policy, no questions asked.

To see the inspection record for a specific piece, use the enquiry button on its product page — one of our watchmakers will reply directly.