The MyWatchGuru Journal

Authentication walkthroughs, appraisal frameworks, and market analysis from certified horologists who evaluate timepieces every day. Substance over hype.

Authentication
14 MIN READ

How a Certified Horologist Authenticates a Patek Philippe

Step by step, from the case-back inspection to the movement decoration to the serial-number registry — the actual workflow we use to authenticate every Patek before we list it.

Buyer Education

Understanding Watch Movement Types: Quartz, Automatic, and Manual

A buyer-focused breakdown of quartz, automatic, and manual watch movements, comparing accuracy, service intervals, daily wear habits, and what each option signals about how you really use a watch.

Buying Guides

Spotting a Redial on a Vintage Rolex Before You Buy

A practical, enthusiast-level guide to identifying redialed vintage Rolex watches. Learn the visual tells in printing, lume, coronet shape, and minute tracks that separate an honest dial from a repain

Selling Guides

The Collector's Checklist: What to Gather Before Selling a Watch

A practical pre-sale prep guide for watch collectors. Paperwork, condition notes, photography basics, and timing considerations that help you approach a sale prepared.

Buying Guides

Buying a Vintage Rolex Submariner: What Seasoned Collectors Actually Check

A walkthrough of the smaller tells seasoned collectors check on a vintage Submariner: case bevels, dial printing, tritium tone, bezel insert fade, and movement stamps.

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Appraisal
11 MIN READ

Insurance Appraisals: Why Yours Is Probably Wrong

Most insurance appraisals are written from outdated price guides and never updated. Here is how the watch market has shifted — and how to get your coverage in line with replacement reality.

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Trading
9 MIN READ

When to Trade Up: A Framework for the Patient Collector

The grail watch you bought five years ago has appreciated. Should you trade up, hold, or take cash? A clear framework — based on what we see at the desk, not collector forum noise.

More articles publishing weekly. Bookmark the journal or check back soon.