|
GUIDE TO GRADING
The following guide is presented to help you
determine the overall quality of a particular timepiece. Bear
in mind that this is a guide only, thus a numerical range is
given for each category. A mint watch that shows no wear but
has a very light crease, would not be dropped down to excellent
because of this minor blemish. The fact remains that the overall
condition is still mint. The reverse of this, of course, would
be a watch that is graded excellent even though the case shows
very little wear. It may show a brassy look, thus the excellent
rating. The most important factor is that every watch sold by
ASHLAND is fairly priced in relationship to its grade.
CASES AND MOVEMENTS
| UNUSED |
100% Never worn, no problems whatsoever,
looks the same as it did when it left the jeweler's store. Watches
in this condition are seldom seen and command significant premium. |
| MINT |
90% - 99% A seldom used watch
showing very minor handling blemishes. |
| NEAR
MINT |
80% - 89% Shows evidence of occasional
use, no easily noticeable signs of wear. A very presentable watch. |
| EXCELLENT |
70% - 79% Wear and occasional
use are evident, note there may be minor brass on goldfilled
cases. There may be minor dings or scratches. |
| FAIR |
50% - 59% Daily and frequent use
are obvious. Easily noticeable brass and wear, and possible dings
and scratches are evident. |
| POOR |
Major damage or wear. Functional
as a holding case only. Not collectible except in a very rare
item. |
GUIDE TO DIALS
| SUPERB |
No hairlines, scratches, cracks, flakes or
chips visible. In metal dials, full original color, no stains,blemishes
or scratches. |
| VERY FINE |
Very attractive, but has a light hairline
or a couple of edge flakes. |
| AVERAGE |
A few hairlines or a well-repaired flake can
be found. In metal dials, some discoloration or other slight
problems. |
| BELOW AVERAGE |
Some damage or other serious problems. In
metal dials, discoloration to a point where it should be refinished. |
JEWELRY
| UNUSED |
A piece which is virtually new
in all aspects. |
| MINT |
An item showing very little use.
Any small flaws should be visible with the use of a loupe. |
| NEAR MINT |
An extremely well-preserved piece,
slight signs of use may be visible |
| EXCELLENT |
Presentable condition. Mounts
and frames may need refurbishing. Stones may show some abrasions
or scratches. Some previous repairs. |
| POOR |
Readily visible damage to either stones and/or
settings. |
|
