What We Check During Authentication?
Jaeger-LeCoultre is a highly valuable timepiece with exquisite craftsmanship. When you bring your Jaeger-LeCoultre to us for a pawn loan, authenticity is an important part of the valuation process.
Thus, our experts will first examine the watch thoroughly to confirm its authenticity.
Here’s what we do:
We start by identifying the exact Jaeger-LeCoultre model reference and check its unique characteristics such as the case design, dial layout, movement, hands, crown and overall proportion and match them with the model.
- Verify the Serial & Reference Numbers
The serial and reference numbers are matched to the model and its production characteristics. These marks are usually engraved cleanly on the case back or cradle. They provide important information about the watch and help identify discrepancies that may indicate non-original or replaced components.
The dial of a JLC is a crucial part of the assessment. The spacing, lettering, and the JLC emblem are all inspected under magnification to ensure clean printing and sharp edges. For iconic Jaeger-LeCoultre models like the Reverso, we check the Art Deco symmetry, case dimensions and swivel mechanisms to ensure originality.
The caseback is often opened to check the in-house Swiss movement running inside. The watch is placed on a machine to test beat amplitude, error and accurate timekeeping performance. We also check for proper Côtes de Genève or Perlage decoration.
- Review the Box, Papers & Accessories
If available, we also consider the original box, certificates, papers, service records and other accessories. While these items do not independently prove the watch’s authenticity, they provide useful information about the watch’s history and provenance.
