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Kenji
Appraiser, I have a big problem.
The product description for a used watch said, "Overhauled."
This means I don't have to worry, right?
It's like trusting "Chef's Recommendation" on a yakiniku restaurant menu, right?
The product description for a used watch said, "Overhauled."
This means I don't have to worry, right?
It's like trusting "Chef's Recommendation" on a yakiniku restaurant menu, right?
Appraiser
You're looking at the right thing.
However, what we need to look at today isn't the overhaul itself.
What's important is how to interpret the phrase "serviced" in the product description.
"Who said it," "to what extent," and "are there any exceptions?"
If you don't look at these, it'll be like trusting the chef's recommendation only to be served the chef's leftover meal.
However, what we need to look at today isn't the overhaul itself.
What's important is how to interpret the phrase "serviced" in the product description.
"Who said it," "to what extent," and "are there any exceptions?"
If you don't look at these, it'll be like trusting the chef's recommendation only to be served the chef's leftover meal.
Kenji
The chef's leftover meal...
So the subject of the recommendation wasn't "to the customer" but "to the chef's stomach."
The watch description suddenly looks like a Japanese language comprehension test.
So the subject of the recommendation wasn't "to the customer" but "to the chef's stomach."
The watch description suddenly looks like a Japanese language comprehension test.
Appraiser
(Product descriptions can sometimes be harder than university entrance exams for modern Japanese...)
① The first thing to look for with "Overhauled" is the "subject"
Appraiser
When you see "Overhauled," the first thing to look at is the subject.
Was it done by the manufacturer?
A partner workshop of the seller?
Is the previous owner saying so?
Or is it just briefly written on the sales page?
Even with the same "completed" (済み), the meaning changes depending on who said it.
Was it done by the manufacturer?
A partner workshop of the seller?
Is the previous owner saying so?
Or is it just briefly written on the sales page?
Even with the same "completed" (済み), the meaning changes depending on who said it.
The "subject" you want to check first
- Manufacturer's service: Was it serviced by the manufacturer?
- Seller's service: Was it serviced by the seller or an affiliated repair shop?
- Previous owner's statement: Is it based on the previous owner's declaration?
- Seller's confirmation: Is it information confirmed by the seller upon inspecting the actual item?
- Insufficient explanation: Does it just say "completed" (済み), with no mention of who performed it?
Kenji
I see.
It's like the difference in weight between a mother saying, "My child can do it if they try," and a judge at a national competition saying it.
My mom used to tell me that too.
But I was the type who would eat snacks and take a nap before doing anything.
It's like the difference in weight between a mother saying, "My child can do it if they try," and a judge at a national competition saying it.
My mom used to tell me that too.
But I was the type who would eat snacks and take a nap before doing anything.
Appraiser
That self-assessment is quite honest.
It's the same with watches; "who said it" is important.
When you see the word "serviced," first look for the speaker.
This alone will significantly change how you perceive the product description.
It's the same with watches; "who said it" is important.
When you see the word "serviced," first look for the speaker.
This alone will significantly change how you perceive the product description.
② "Overhauled," "Inspected," and "Operation confirmed" are different people with similar faces
Kenji
When I look at product descriptions, there are various terms.
"Overhauled," "Inspected," "Operation confirmed," "Serviced."
Do these all mean the same thing?
In my mind, they're all a team of watch doctors in white coats.
"Overhauled," "Inspected," "Operation confirmed," "Serviced."
Do these all mean the same thing?
In my mind, they're all a team of watch doctors in white coats.
Appraiser
That's today's key point.
Those words are similar, but not necessarily the same.
"Overhauled" implies disassembly and maintenance.
"Inspected" is often used to mean that the condition has been checked.
"Operation confirmed" strongly implies that it has been confirmed to at least be functional.
In other words, even if they all wear white coats, they can be as different as a surgeon, a health check-up doctor, and a receptionist.
Those words are similar, but not necessarily the same.
"Overhauled" implies disassembly and maintenance.
"Inspected" is often used to mean that the condition has been checked.
"Operation confirmed" strongly implies that it has been confirmed to at least be functional.
In other words, even if they all wear white coats, they can be as different as a surgeon, a health check-up doctor, and a receptionist.
Similar but often different expressions
- Overhauled: Often used to mean that disassembly and maintenance have been performed.
- Serviced: The extent of servicing depends on the explanation.
- Inspected: Focused on checking, not necessarily involving parts replacement or disassembly and maintenance.
- Operation confirmed: Strongly implies that operation has been verified.
- Timegrapher measured: There are values at the time of measurement, but it does not guarantee daily use.
Kenji
So "operation confirmed" could mean,
"It started up, at least."
I also get up in the morning.
But whether I can go to work from there is another story.
"It started up, at least."
I also get up in the morning.
But whether I can go to work from there is another story.
Appraiser
(I'm more worried about Kenji-kun's mornings than the watches now...)
③ Next, look at the "scope." Is it just the movement? Or the exterior too? What about water resistance?
Appraiser
After the subject, look at the scope.
For example, even if it says "serviced," whether that refers to the movement, includes the exterior, or even water resistance testing, is a separate issue.
You need to see how much the product description covers.
It's like going to a restaurant because you heard "all-you-can-eat," only to find that it only applies to meat, and rice, soup, and dessert are all extra.
For example, even if it says "serviced," whether that refers to the movement, includes the exterior, or even water resistance testing, is a separate issue.
You need to see how much the product description covers.
It's like going to a restaurant because you heard "all-you-can-eat," only to find that it only applies to meat, and rice, soup, and dessert are all extra.
Kenji
That would be heartbreaking.
When I hear "all-you-can-eat," my stomach becomes as wide as a schoolyard.
If they then tell me "white rice is extra," my stomach would sit in seiza.
When I hear "all-you-can-eat," my stomach becomes as wide as a schoolyard.
If they then tell me "white rice is extra," my stomach would sit in seiza.
Things to check regarding the scope of "serviced"
- Mechanical parts: Does it refer to the servicing of the movement?
- Exterior parts: Does it include finishing the case and bracelet?
- Operating parts: Has the operational feel of the crown and pushers been checked?
- Water resistance related: Has a water resistance test been performed, or is it not guaranteed?
- Warranty scope: To what extent does the seller intend to cover it?
Appraiser
When you see the word "serviced," you tend to feel that everything is in order.
But in reality, the scope of coverage can be limited.
So, what you should be looking at is not the word "serviced" itself, but what is covered and what is not.
But in reality, the scope of coverage can be limited.
So, what you should be looking at is not the word "serviced" itself, but what is covered and what is not.
④ Small print "However" is a pitfall in the watch world
Kenji
In product descriptions, it usually says "Serviced!" in big letters at the top.
But then at the bottom, there's small print like "Sold as-is," "Water resistance not guaranteed," "Some items not covered by warranty."
Should I read those?
I usually scroll past them at about the speed I read a phone's terms of service.
But then at the bottom, there's small print like "Sold as-is," "Water resistance not guaranteed," "Some items not covered by warranty."
Should I read those?
I usually scroll past them at about the speed I read a phone's terms of service.
Appraiser
On the contrary, that's exactly what I want you to read.
The truly important things in a product description are sometimes hidden in the "however" clauses at the bottom, rather than the flashy sentences at the top.
Even if it says "serviced," you should check the scope of what's not covered by the warranty, how water resistance is handled, return conditions, and what "sold as-is" means.
It's like seeing "Photo for illustration purposes only" written in small print below a magnificent steak photo.
The truly important things in a product description are sometimes hidden in the "however" clauses at the bottom, rather than the flashy sentences at the top.
Even if it says "serviced," you should check the scope of what's not covered by the warranty, how water resistance is handled, return conditions, and what "sold as-is" means.
It's like seeing "Photo for illustration purposes only" written in small print below a magnificent steak photo.
Kenji
Photo for illustration purposes only...
That's a magic phrase, isn't it?
Sometimes the photo shows a mountain range of meat, but the actual thing is more like a pebble on a hiking trail.
That's a magic phrase, isn't it?
Sometimes the photo shows a mountain range of meat, but the actual thing is more like a pebble on a hiking trail.
Expressions to check, especially in small print
- Sold as-is: The scope of support after purchase may be limited.
- Water resistance not guaranteed: Water-related issues may not be covered.
- Not covered by warranty: May exclude exterior, consumables, magnetization, drops, etc.
- Return conditions: Under what conditions can you consult after purchase?
- Explanation priority: Do the main claims and disclaimers contradict each other?
⑤ Daily rate figures are not "promissory notes" but "snapshots at the time of measurement"
Appraiser
Product descriptions sometimes include figures like "daily rate of 〇 seconds" or "timegrapher measured."
Having numbers is a good thing.
However, it's generally best to view them as the state at the time of measurement.
The actual feel of use changes depending on the environment, posture, winding condition, and storage.
So, the numbers are not an absolute promise, but like a proof photo of the watch.
Having numbers is a good thing.
However, it's generally best to view them as the state at the time of measurement.
The actual feel of use changes depending on the environment, posture, winding condition, and storage.
So, the numbers are not an absolute promise, but like a proof photo of the watch.
Kenji
Proof photo...
Indeed, my driver's license photo is me, but it's me on my most unapproachable day.
Numbers and photos just capture a single moment, don't they?
Indeed, my driver's license photo is me, but it's me on my most unapproachable day.
Numbers and photos just capture a single moment, don't they?
How to interpret numbers
- Measurement conditions: What posture and condition were the numbers measured in?
- Time of measurement: When were the numbers measured?
- Difference from daily use: Actual fluctuations may occur during wear.
- Relationship with warranty: The numbers do not necessarily represent the warranty content as is.
- Specificity of explanation: How does the store explain the condition, not just the numbers?
Appraiser
It's not about being relieved just because there are numbers, but about seeing how those numbers are explained.
That's important.
In product descriptions, honesty can sometimes be revealed more in how numbers are handled than in the numbers themselves.
That's important.
In product descriptions, honesty can sometimes be revealed more in how numbers are handled than in the numbers themselves.
⑥ See if the photos and description contradict each other
Kenji
Sometimes the description says "beautiful condition," but the photos show the case looking like it's been through many battles.
How should I interpret that?
In my mind, it's a new genre called "self-proclaimed beautiful condition."
How should I interpret that?
In my mind, it's a new genre called "self-proclaimed beautiful condition."
Appraiser
In that case, look for consistency between the photos and the description.
Words like "serviced," "beautiful condition," and "good condition" are the seller's subjective evaluations.
On the other hand, photos provide information closer to the actual item.
You want to confirm if the text and photos are aligned.
If it says "like new" but the watch in the photo looks like it belongs to a rugby player returning from practice, you should ask questions.
Words like "serviced," "beautiful condition," and "good condition" are the seller's subjective evaluations.
On the other hand, photos provide information closer to the actual item.
You want to confirm if the text and photos are aligned.
If it says "like new" but the watch in the photo looks like it belongs to a rugby player returning from practice, you should ask questions.
Checking consistency between photos and description
- "Beautiful condition" notation: How much scratch and wear are visible in the photos?
- "Serviced" notation: Don't misunderstand that the exterior is also in perfect condition.
- Included photos: Are the items mentioned in the description also shown in the photos?
- Areas of concern: Are there photos of the crown, bracelet, crystal, case back, etc.?
- Missing photos: Can additional photos be requested if parts you want to check are not visible?
Kenji
The text is a suit, the photo is a tracksuit.
So there are product descriptions like that.
It's like, "His resume was perfect, but he showed up to the interview in muddy cleats."
So there are product descriptions like that.
It's like, "His resume was perfect, but he showed up to the interview in muddy cleats."
Appraiser
That's a strong analogy, but the direction is right.
Don't judge by text alone. Don't judge by photos alone.
Comparing text and photos is important.
Don't judge by text alone. Don't judge by photos alone.
Comparing text and photos is important.
⑦ Before buying, instead of asking "Is it really okay?", ask specific questions
Kenji
So, if I find a watch I'm interested in, what should I ask the store?
If I ask, "Is this really okay?", it sounds a bit aggressive, doesn't it?
Like someone who asks "Can I trust you?" to a complete stranger.
If I ask, "Is this really okay?", it sounds a bit aggressive, doesn't it?
Like someone who asks "Can I trust you?" to a complete stranger.
Appraiser
In such cases, it's better to ask specific questions rather than emotional ones.
"Who serviced it?"
"What was the scope of the service?"
"Are there any exclusions from the warranty?"
"Has the water resistance been checked?"
"How do you assess its current operating condition?"
Asking this way makes it easier for the other person to answer.
When your questions are specific, the quality of their explanation also becomes clearer.
"Who serviced it?"
"What was the scope of the service?"
"Are there any exclusions from the warranty?"
"Has the water resistance been checked?"
"How do you assess its current operating condition?"
Asking this way makes it easier for the other person to answer.
When your questions are specific, the quality of their explanation also becomes clearer.
Question template before buying
- Where was this "overhaul" performed?
- Is the scope of servicing primarily the movement? Does it also include the exterior and water resistance?
- If it says "inspected" or "operation confirmed," what exactly was checked?
- Are there any parts or conditions excluded from the warranty?
- Are there any scratches or signs of wear that are difficult to see in the photos?
- How does the store assess the current accuracy and operational feel?
Kenji
I see.
Instead of "Is it okay?", I should break down the question.
It's easier to answer "Did you have breakfast?", "Did you sleep?", "Are your socks matched?" than to suddenly ask "How's life?".
Instead of "Is it okay?", I should break down the question.
It's easier to answer "Did you have breakfast?", "Did you sleep?", "Are your socks matched?" than to suddenly ask "How's life?".
Appraiser
While the sock question is a bit personal, the idea is right.
Rather than just throwing out your anxieties, break them down into specific points to check.
That's incredibly helpful when choosing a used watch.
Rather than just throwing out your anxieties, break them down into specific points to check.
That's incredibly helpful when choosing a used watch.
⑧ The seller should aim for an "easy-to-explain state" rather than "overhauling appeal"
Kenji
Conversely, what should the seller do?
Should the watch wear a hachimaki headband and proclaim, "I've been serviced!" upon entering the store?
Should the watch wear a hachimaki headband and proclaim, "I've been serviced!" upon entering the store?
Appraiser
No hachimaki needed.
What a seller can do is not to overtly promote "serviced," but to have information readily available for explanation.
When was it serviced? Where was it sent? What issues did it have? Are there any current concerns?
You don't have to remember everything perfectly.
If you can honestly communicate what you know, it makes it easier for the appraiser to make a judgment.
What a seller can do is not to overtly promote "serviced," but to have information readily available for explanation.
When was it serviced? Where was it sent? What issues did it have? Are there any current concerns?
You don't have to remember everything perfectly.
If you can honestly communicate what you know, it makes it easier for the appraiser to make a judgment.
Information to summarize before selling
- Service period: Roughly when was it?
- Service provider: Manufacturer, watch store, repair shop, etc., as far as you remember.
- Usage status: Daily wear, stored mostly, unused for a long time, etc.
- Symptoms of concern: Stopping, running slow, running fast, unusual operation feel, etc.
- Documents on hand: Estimates, receipts, warranty cards, purchase documents, and any other relevant materials.
Kenji
So for sellers, it's about organizing rather than exaggerating.
In a job interview, instead of saying "I can do anything!",
saying "I'm a little bit good at Excel, normal with phone calls, and not a morning person" is, in a way, more realistic.
In a job interview, instead of saying "I can do anything!",
saying "I'm a little bit good at Excel, normal with phone calls, and not a morning person" is, in a way, more realistic.
Appraiser
While whether to declare your weakness in the mornings is debatable, honesty is important.
With used watches, accurately conveying the condition tends to build more trust in the long run than trying to make it look perfect.
Stating "I don't know" when you don't know is also valuable information.
With used watches, accurately conveying the condition tends to build more trust in the long run than trying to make it look perfect.
Stating "I don't know" when you don't know is also valuable information.
⑨ The way to remember is "Subject, Scope, However." These three make product descriptions easier to read.
Appraiser
Today's summary is simple.
When you see terms like "overhauled," "serviced," or "inspected,"
look at the subject, scope, and however.
Who is saying it?
What does it cover?
Are there any exceptions or exclusions?
By focusing on these three points, you'll be less likely to be swayed by product descriptions.
When you see terms like "overhauled," "serviced," or "inspected,"
look at the subject, scope, and however.
Who is saying it?
What does it cover?
Are there any exceptions or exclusions?
By focusing on these three points, you'll be less likely to be swayed by product descriptions.
Kenji
Subject, scope, however.
It sounds like a Japanese language class.
But watch descriptions are indeed comprehension questions.
Like, "State the meaning of 'serviced' that the author intended here."
It sounds like a Japanese language class.
But watch descriptions are indeed comprehension questions.
Like, "State the meaning of 'serviced' that the author intended here."
Appraiser
Exactly.
And it carries a high score.
Because it affects the price, peace of mind, and satisfaction after purchase.
In choosing a used watch, the ability to read product descriptions is also an important part of connoisseurship.
And it carries a high score.
Because it affects the price, peace of mind, and satisfaction after purchase.
In choosing a used watch, the ability to read product descriptions is also an important part of connoisseurship.
Conclusion: "Serviced" is not a word of reassurance, but a word for clarification
Appraiser
"Overhauled" and "serviced" can indeed be reassuring.
However, they are not words to make a judgment based solely on.
What's important is the subject, scope, and however.
Who is saying it?
What does it refer to?
Are there any disclaimers or exclusions?
Here's how to remember it:
"Serviced" is not a stamp of reassurance, but a signal to start asking questions.
However, they are not words to make a judgment based solely on.
What's important is the subject, scope, and however.
Who is saying it?
What does it refer to?
Are there any disclaimers or exclusions?
Here's how to remember it:
"Serviced" is not a stamp of reassurance, but a signal to start asking questions.
Kenji
From today, I won't get carried away when I see "Overhauled" in a product description.
First, I'll ask:
"Who is the subject? What is the scope? What are the 'howevers'?"
This can be used not only for watches but also for "today's specials" at an izakaya.
First, I'll call the manager and confirm the subject.
First, I'll ask:
"Who is the subject? What is the scope? What are the 'howevers'?"
This can be used not only for watches but also for "today's specials" at an izakaya.
First, I'll call the manager and confirm the subject.
Appraiser
(I hope you'll ask a bit more gently at the izakaya...)
Three things you can do from today to avoid mistakes with "serviced" descriptions:
- Check the subject: "Who is claiming it's serviced?"
- Check the scope: "To what extent was it serviced or inspected?"
- Read the "howevers" such as "sold as-is," "water resistance not guaranteed," and "items not covered by warranty."
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