Buying Guides
How to Read Watch QC Photos Without Overreacting
A repeatable way to judge alignment, dust, date position and perspective in watch inspection photos.
Inspection photos are useful evidence, but wide-angle distortion, a tilted watch and harsh light can make acceptable details appear wrong. Start by identifying the camera angle before judging alignment.
Find a centered frame
Use the straightest dial image for marker, date and bezel alignment. Compare several frames rather than drawing a conclusion from one photograph.
Separate removable issues
Surface dust, protective-film bubbles and reflections are not the same as marks beneath a crystal or damage to a finish. Ask for a cleaned follow-up image when the distinction is unclear.
Request functional context
A short video can show bezel action, crown operation, date change and chronograph reset more clearly than a still image. Focus on material issues you could notice in normal use.