Independent Pre-Purchase Vintage Watch Check

Avoid expensive mistakes when buying vintage watches (1930–1990).
Clear expert verdict in 48 hours.

Don't Buy a Vintage Watch Without an Expert Eye.

The vintage market is a minefield of Franken-watches and redials.

I am Joshua Grillet, a professional Independent Watchmaker and a Vintage Watch Lover. I help collectors buy with confidence.

100% Independent. I work for you, not the seller.

"Buy the Seller" is Not Enough Anymore.

Even reputable dealers make mistakes. Even auction houses miss details. In this market, the risk of buying a polished-up wreck or a "Franken" watch has never been higher.

A simple mistake can cost you thousands of dollars in lost value and restoration fees.

  • Is that Omega dial original or a high-end reprint?
  • Are those Rolex hands service replacements?
  • Is the movement corroded inside?

You shouldn't have to gamble with your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you verify a watch without seeing it physically?

Yes. As a trained watchmaker, I know exactly where to look. In 95% of cases, high-resolution photos are enough to spot redials, service hands, correct serial number sequences, and signs of over-polishing. If the photos provided by the seller are insufficient, I will tell you exactly what specific angles to ask for. If the watch cannot be vetted remotely, I will refund you.

Do you authenticate all brands?

I specialize in the "Golden Era" of mechanical watchmaking (1930s-1990s). My core expertise covers Omega (Speedmaster, Seamaster), Rolex (Submariner, GMT, Datejust), Universal GenèveZenithHeuer... If you have a specific niche request (e.g., Patek Philippe complications), please contact me first. I prefer to decline a job if I cannot guarantee 100% accuracy.

Why should I pay for this when forums are free?

Forums are great, but they are public, slow, and often contradictory. You might get three different opinions from three anonymous users. With my Pre-Purchase Audit, you get a private, professional, and liable assessment from a qualified watchmaker. I provide a technical breakdown, not just an opinion. Plus, you avoid alerting other collectors to a "good deal" on a public forum.

What happens if the watch turns out to be a fake?

Then the service has paid for itself 100 times over. My goal is to save you from losing thousands of dollars. If I spot a Franken-watch (a watch assembled from disparate parts) or a fake, my report will detail exactly why (wrong bridge codes, incorrect font, etc.). You can then walk away from the deal with zero regrets, or use my report to prove to the seller that the watch is not compliant.

Are you affiliated with any dealers or marketplaces?

No. LumeVille is 100% independent. I do not sell the watches I audit. I do not take commissions from sellers. I work exclusively for you, the buyer. My only interest is protecting your asset and your passion.

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