TZ Grading System

We use the universally accepted TZ Grading system to grade the condition of our watches. This system helps to provide clarity when assessing the condition of a timepiece. Please use this in conjunction with the photos on each listing to properly assess condition.

  • LNIB [100%] A pre-owned watch that has been worn, yet is in perfect condition. Accompanied by the factory box(es), tags and documentation. No alterations from factory-delivered condition. Where older models have papers, these must be stamped to establish the authenticity and validity of the watch. No bracelet resizing or marks of any kind.

  • Mint [98%-100%] A pre-owned watch that is in very nearly perfect condition. Signs of wear are visible with a low powered loupe. The watch may be one that is in LNIB condition but not accompanied by the factory box(es) or documentation. May refer to an older watch that has been restored, so long as the restoration returned the watch to very nearly perfect factory original condition. Working perfectly, keeping excellent time, needs nothing.

  • Near Mint [93%-97%] Showing very light signs of wear. Faint scratches on the case, bezel, bracelet or buckle are visible to the naked eye. Completely original in every way. Strap shows light use - if leather, it may be bent or lightly creased, but not stained. If on a bracelet, it may have been resized. The watch is working perfectly, keeping very good time and needs nothing.

  • Excellent [88%-92%] Evidence of use is visible to the unaided eye. Scratches are light, but more numerous than "near mint". If the watch has been restored, all original replacement parts have been used. Strap is clearly used with creasing but no stains. No dents are detectable and the bracelet has little wear. Working perfectly, needs no repair or service.

  • Very Good [83%-87%] The watch shows what might be considered normal wear by a careful owner who wore the watch regularly. Scratches are evident, but no major dents. May have replacement parts and/or a high quality redial. Running and keeping good time though may need minor regulation. A sound, attractive presentation overall.

  • Good [77%-82%] Nothing is fundamentally wrong with the watch though it has quite obviously been used. Running and wearable, but may gain or lose some time over a 24 hour period. The case may show a few dings, nicks or deep scratches. It may have a redial that is not up to high standards. It may not have all original parts.

  • Fair [72%-76%] Well used, may require service and/or restoration to be useable. May be running erratically. Dial, case, and other major components may not be original, but no pieces are missing. Even to the untrained eye, one could tell the watch is worse for wear.

  • Poor [66%-71%] Shows abuse, requires service and/or restoration. May have major cosmetic flaws, missing parts or may not run at all. A speculative piece at best. Not junk but requires lots of work to be made good and wearable.

  • Scrap / Parts Only [<64%] A collection of parts that at one time may have been a functioning timekeeper. Now missing parts, may be rusted or corroded, not worth restoring but useable to the extent of salvaging for parts.