How to Tell if Your AP Watch is Real: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Start with the Serial Number

One of the first things you should check is the serial number on your AP watch. Every genuine AP watch has a unique serial number engraved on it. The serial number is typically found on the back of the watch case. It’s important to note that the engraving should be precise and sharp, not rough or faded. You can also contact Audemars Piguet or an authorized dealer with this serial number to verify its authenticity.

2. Inspect the Caseback

The caseback of an AP watch is a tell-tale sign of its authenticity. On genuine models, the caseback is usually engraved with intricate details, including the brand’s logo and the watch’s model number. The engraving should be crisp, clean, and centered. Any deviation from this standard could indicate a fake watch. Additionally, the screws on the caseback should be perfectly aligned and secure, not loose or misaligned.

3. Check the Weight

An authentic Audemars Piguet watch is made from high-quality materials, which give it a significant weight. Counterfeit watches are often made from cheaper materials, making them lighter than the real deal. If your watch feels unusually light, this could be a red flag.

4. Examine the Dial

The dial is another critical area to examine. AP watches are known for their flawless dials, with perfectly aligned hour markers, sharp fonts, and smooth finishes. Look closely at the printing on the dial—any smudges, misalignment, or unevenness are clear indicators of a fake. Additionally, the “Audemars Piguet” logo should be centered and proportional, with no variations in font or spacing.

5. Look at the Movement

The movement inside an AP watch is a masterpiece of engineering. Audemars Piguet uses high-quality movements that are not only precise but also beautifully finished. If you have access to the movement, either by opening the caseback or through a transparent caseback, examine it closely. The movement should have the brand’s logo and should be finished with intricate patterns such as Geneva stripes or perlage. A counterfeit watch will often have a movement that looks rough, unfinished, or completely different from an authentic AP movement.

6. Analyze the Materials

Authentic Audemars Piguet watches are made from premium materials, including stainless steel, gold, platinum, and high-quality rubber. The finishing on these materials is impeccable—smooth, even, and without blemishes. In contrast, counterfeit watches often use inferior materials that may feel rough, cheap, or have visible defects.

7. Observe the Hands

The hands of an AP watch are meticulously crafted. They should move smoothly without any jerking or skipping. The hands should also be perfectly aligned with the markers on the dial. Pay close attention to the tips of the hands—they should be sharp, not rounded or blunted. Also, on genuine AP watches, the hands are usually made from gold or steel and have a polished finish.

8. The Bracelet and Clasp

The bracelet and clasp of an AP watch are other areas where counterfeiters often fail to replicate the quality of the original. The links of the bracelet should be perfectly aligned, with no gaps or loose screws. The clasp should close securely and bear the Audemars Piguet logo, which should be engraved with precision. A fake watch may have a clasp that feels flimsy or doesn’t close properly.

9. Test the Water Resistance

Audemars Piguet watches are known for their water resistance, especially models like the Royal Oak Offshore. While it’s not recommended to submerge your watch in water just to test this, you can take it to a professional who can perform a water resistance test. If the watch fails this test, it’s likely a fake.

10. Seek Professional Verification

If you’re still unsure about the authenticity of your AP watch, the best course of action is to take it to a professional. A reputable jeweler or watchmaker with experience in luxury watches can perform a thorough examination and provide you with a definitive answer. They may use specialized tools and equipment to check the watch’s movement, materials, and overall craftsmanship.

In Conclusion: Identifying a fake Audemars Piguet watch can be challenging, especially as counterfeiters become more sophisticated. However, by paying close attention to the details—such as the serial number, caseback, weight, dial, movement, materials, hands, bracelet, clasp, and water resistance—you can protect yourself from being duped. When in doubt, always seek professional advice to ensure that your investment in a luxury timepiece is a wise one.