Was considering having a pre-owned AP lately and have begun a little research on the subject. I thought it would be helpful for somebody here, so decided to share it with you for the moment when you decide to have your own pre-owned AP ))
No one told me anything when I bought my previous pre-owned watch Constellation Chronometer Electronic Stahl Datum Herrenuhr Ref. 198.0027 and there were some mistakes I made. With the next AP, I try to be more cautious, and probably my thoughts and analysis would be helpful for someone of u
Here is what I concluded to be highly important about pre-owned AP, especially if we are referring to the Royal Oak or Oak Offshore models.
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No one told me anything when I bought my previous pre-owned watch Constellation Chronometer Electronic Stahl Datum Herrenuhr Ref. 198.0027 and there were some mistakes I made. With the next AP, I try to be more cautious, and probably my thoughts and analysis would be helpful for someone of u
Here is what I concluded to be highly important about pre-owned AP, especially if we are referring to the Royal Oak or Oak Offshore models.
- I would recommend you look for a “fresher” iteration of the AP Royal/Offshore. You can begin with the F series and up; earlier series are not worth it, even if they are in good shape and condition. In the ideal scenario, it should come with a service history.
- If u still are in love with older models, make sure the ROO comes with the full history of service. I wouldn’t take the risk of having one without papers unless I know the previous owner.
- According to my inspections, there are some issues with the 5402. Pay attention to the crown. Also, would be better to avoid using the feature responding for the quick-set calendar advance running on 2121 caliber. Some owners complain about the crown stem that breaks by coming off and pulling it out to set the time. Such a problem can take place as frequently as twice per year, especially with regular use. My recommendation is to be prudent when pulling the crown out in order to set the time. In the same context, it would be more than enough to turn the crown 5-7 turns while winding it.
- 5402s AP can’t promise water-resistance after being serviced at least one time. So, if u get one, don’t wear it while in the shower, pools, seas, etc… you can’t even wash your hands with it on if u want to protect it.
- Never make the mistake of servicing your AP by independent parties. Especially when u want your bezel to be polished. The edges will become thinner and more rounded because of the inappropriate technique. AP official service uses a sort of special technique to keep the octagonal form of the bezel in its initial look, without compromising the brushed/polished areas.
- If you balance between a manual and quartz, go for the manual movement. The Quartz version will generate headaches with every battery change. The battery is to be replaced every 2-3 years, and nothing would be difficult, if not for the watch construction that needs to be completely disassembled to reach the movement. Almost all components need to be removed to change the battery and things can always go wrong with an independent service. On the other hand, it might be too pricey if servicing it in an official service for just a battery change.
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