So, where do you even start? Uh, first off – research, duh! I mean, know what you’re *supposed* to be looking at. What model is it *meant* to be? What year is it from? Google is your friend, people. Look up legit pics and descriptions. Seriously, a little research goes a LONG way.
Now, get your magnifying glass out (or squint REALLY hard). Check out the dial. See that little code near the 6 o’clock? It’s like, a four-digit dash four-digit kinda thing. Apparently, ALL Seikos are supposed to have that. If it’s missing… red flag city!
Speaking of the back, flip that baby over! You’re looking for the serial number. Apparently, unlike some fancy-pants brands, Seiko puts their serial on the caseback. And get this, the serial number tells you when it was made! Except, hold up, pre-1970s watches had 7 digits in the serial. So, yeah, there’s a little gotcha for ya.
Also, the Seiko logo on the case, is it clean? Is it crisply cut? Or is it like, kind of blurry and uneven? That’s a bad sign. Look at the index markers (those little lines or dots that mark the hours) and the hands. Are they super bright white? Do they glow in the dark? ‘Cause the real ones usually glow, and fake ones are often just… lame. I mean, who wants a watch that DOESN’T glow? That’s half the fun!
Oh, and this is a weird one, but check the crystal (that’s the glass bit over the face). Are there any like, *carved* writings on it? I’m talking like, someone scratched into it. Yeah, that’s not a good sign either.
Honestly, the packaging can be a clue too. If you got a box and a “guarantee card,” check out the logo inside the box. Does it look legit? Is it all crisp and professional? Or does it look like it was printed on a potato?
Look, I’m no expert, and there are probably a million other things to look for, but these are some of the basics. Honestly, if something just feels “off” about the watch, trust your gut. Sometimes you can just *tell* something ain’t right.
