A World of Authentic Luxury & Our Commitment to Authenticity

At The Vintage Contessa & Times Past, authenticity isn’t just a word; it’s the cornerstone of our business. Each item in our meticulously curated collection undergoes a comprehensive inspection by our experienced specialists. We don’t just sell luxury; we guarantee the unblemished authenticity of every piece. When you step into our showroom, a breathtaking array of luxury items immediately surrounds you. From pristine Hermes Birkins to impeccable Rolex watches.

The question on everyone’s mind is always the same:
“How do you know it’s real?”

The Art of Recognizing Authenticity

Our answer is simple yet profound: Experience is our guide. Just as one can distinguish an apple from an orange through touch, our expertise enables us to identify authenticity intuitively. Our method involves a critical and discerning eye, especially when considering items for purchase.

Rather than being swayed by the initial allure of a luxury item, we engage in a detailed validation process. We rigorously assess and confirm the authenticity of each piece before it becomes a part of our collection. Following this process ensures that when we present an item to you, it is with absolute confidence in its authenticity and quality.

Rolex Watches Rob And Donae Chramosta The Vintage Contessa And Times Past

We stand behind this promise with a zero-tolerance policy against counterfeits and a 100% money-back guarantee.

Mastering Authenticity: Our Journey in Curating Genuine Luxury

Rob Chramosta At A Coin Convention Sporting A Rolex

Rob’s venture into this world began as a childhood fascination with coins and watches. At the tender age of five, Rob embarked on his first coin collection, laying the foundation for his future in luxury goods. By 13, he was already gaining practical experience working with a coin dealer. This early immersion in the industry fueled his passion and knowledge, enabling him to make a significant milestone at just 15 – purchasing his first Rolex watch.

Rob Chramosta’s journey in luxury items is marked by over 10,000 hours of hands-on experience, a testament to a career spanning more than four decades.

Beyond the Checklist: A Multistep Journey of Verification

Detailed Authentication Process

Question

Unearthing the Stories Behind Luxury

Our approach to acquiring new pieces is deeply rooted in curiosity. We engage with sellers not just to learn about the item, but to understand the narrative behind it. Each story – whether an item was a personal purchase or a heartfelt gift – adds to its value and uniqueness. Rob’s travels across the United States and the globe, from bustling cities like New York and LA to diverse cultures in Brazil and Japan, are not just buying trips. They are opportunities to connect with people, understand different communities, and build relationships that have stood the test of time, some spanning decades since his high school days.

Research

The Heartbeat of Our Passion

At the core of The Vintage Contessa & Times Past is a relentless pursuit of knowledge. For us, research isn’t just a task; it’s an engaging journey into the depths of what we love. Rob’s passion extends beyond buying luxury items; he immerses himself in the intricate dance of deal-making, where every detail matters. His love for coins and watches transcends ordinary interest, becoming a quest for mastery and understanding.

Inspect

A Meticulous Evaluation

Inspection at The Vintage Contessa & Times Past is a meticulous process where every step is crucial. Starting with the first impression, our authentication process is thorough and precise. Every aspect of an item is examined with the utmost attention to detail, ensuring that what we offer to our clients isn’t just a product but a symbol of authenticity and trust.

Ep #112 Hilary Magner, Co-Owner of Squash Blossom

Hilary Magner, Co-Owner of Squash Blossom, Vail’s Prominent Jewelry Store since 1973 is this week’s [...]

Ep #111 Gracie Cavnar, Writer, Philanthropist, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Recipe for Success

Gracie Cavnar is a go-getter who is changing the way Houston’s children eat their food. [...]

Ep #110 Tamara Klosz Bonar, Model, Stylist, & Fashion Runway Producer

This week’s Living the Authentic Life podcast guest is the impeccable model, stylist, fashion runway [...]

What Our Customers Have To Say

The Intricacies of Luxury Watches

Our authentication process for watches is detailed and precise. For brands like Rolex, Cartier, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, and others, we meticulously examine every aspect, from weight, density, and finish to the detailing of dials, movements, and engravings. Each watch tells a story, and we read every line.

Luxury Watch Brands:

  • Rolex 
  • Cartier
  • Audemars Piguet
  • Patek Philippe
The Vintage Contessa &Amp; Times Past
The Vintage Contessa & Times Past

How to know your Luxury Watch Is Real

Select a tab below for key IUdentifiers to pay attention to when purchasing a used luxury watch.

How to Inspect A Rolex Watch

  • Weight Inspection
    A key indicator of a genuine Rolex is its weight. Authentic Rolex watches are crafted with high-quality metals, giving them a substantial feel. In contrast, counterfeit Rolex watches often feel lighter, as they lack these premium materials.
  • Identifying the Crown Logos
    The distinctive Rolex crown logo is a crucial authenticity marker. On a real Rolex, this logo is perfectly centered at the top of the watch face. Additionally, a tiny crown is subtly etched at 6 o’clock, requiring a magnifying glass. This detail is often omitted in fake versions due to its intricacy.
  • Case Back Examination
    Inspect the case back of the Rolex. Authentic models typically feature a smooth, solid metal back without engravings or etchings. Fakes may include these or a clear case back to showcase the internal mechanism, but real Rolexes never have a see-through back.
  • Observing Dial Movements
    The movement of the second hand in a genuine Rolex is a testament to its precision engineering, moving smoothly without the typical ticking sound due to the Rolex’s automatic movements, as opposed to the quartz movements in many replicas, which often result in secondhand stuttering.
  • Date Magnification Check
    Many Rolex watches feature a date display magnified 2.5 times by a small lens known as a “cyclops.” Counterfeits may lack this magnifying feature, simply using clear glass over the date. Authentic Rolexes will enlarge the date.
  • Serial Number Verification
    An authentic Rolex will always have its serial number engraved between the lugs at the 6 o’clock position, visible upon removing the band. The engraving on a genuine Rolex is precise and smooth, often exhibiting a slight glow around the edges when held to light.
  • Expert Evaluation
    When in doubt, the best course of action is to consult a trusted watch expert. Professionals like thos

How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024

How to Inspect A Cartier Watch

Roman Numerals Signature
A standout feature of Cartier watches is their use of bold, black Roman numerals set against white or silver backgrounds. This design choice enhances legibility and contributes to the watch’s iconic and recognizable aesthetic.

The Signature Blue Cabochon
A hallmark of Cartier’s design is the elegant blue hands, complemented by the signature blue ‘cabochon’—a polished gemstone capping the watch’s winding mechanism.

Case Back Clarity
Upon examining the case back of a Cartier watch, the printing should be crisp and purposeful, fully identifying the watch with clarity and precision.

Serial Number and Case Reference
Authentic Cartier watches typically feature two key numbers: a unique serial number, commonly comprising six numbers and two letters, and a 4-digit case reference that indicates the watch’s model, reflecting its movement, shape, size, and design.

Stamping Details
In addition to serial numbers, genuine Cartier watches display stamps indicating the movement (such as ‘automatic’) and the watch case’s material (like ‘stainless steel’).

Gold Hallmarks
Authentic Cartier watches featuring 18kt gold will have hallmarks like “18K” or “750” and other proper stampings and case markings.

Screw Authenticity
Real Cartier watches do not use ‘Phillips-head’ or ‘X-shaped’ screws. Any such screws or imitations that merely stamp to resemble screws can be a clear indicator of a counterfeit.

Overall Appearance
Counterfeit Cartier watches sometimes bear little resemblance to authentic models. A comparison with genuine Cartier watches can often reveal significant discrepancies in design and quality.

How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024

How to Spot a Fake Patek Philippe Watch

While each collection has its signature features, below are general characteristics that will help you distinguish and spot a fake Patek Philippe watch over a real one across all collections.

Dial:

  • It is not an exaggeration to say that everything printed on a genuine Patek Philippe dial should be perfect, even under extreme magnification. Patek Philippe watches are renowned for their absolute perfection in all aspects of the watch, making it easier to spot a fake Patek Phillippe. Authentic Patek Philippe watches will have crisp and evenly spaced printing, free from misspellings.
  • Apart from skeletonized models, real Patek Philippe watches do not have a visible tourbillon or balance wheels on the dial.
  • All modern Patek Philippe watches use sapphire crystals.
  • Models with luminescent coatings, such as the Aquanaut and Nautilus, should have even luminescent consistency when viewed in the dark.

Case:

  • Authentic Patek Philippe watches have a solid weight to them, while fakes feel lighter as they are often made with lesser-quality materials.
  • Genuine Patek Philippe cases are made with stainless steel, platinum, or 18k gold.
  • With the exception of select limited-edition watches, Patek Philippe case backs do not have engravings or decorations.
  • Patek Philippe watches with solid case backs have their serial and model numbers printed inside the case, while watches with exhibition backs have their serial and model numbers printed around the interior edges.
  • Newer Patek Philippe watches have “PPC” printed on the lugs as well as the case’s respective metal, such as Au750 for 18k gold and Pt950 for platinum.

Bracelet:

  • Genuine Patek Philippe bracelets come in 18k gold and platinum, while straps are available in leather, stain, or special composite material (exclusively for the Aquanaut).
  • Bracelets are printed with a model number specific to their watch’s series.
  • Authentic Patek Philippe straps have the Calatrava Cross and Patek Philippe logo printed on the inside.
  • Buckles are printed with the Patek Philippe logo and their respective metals.
  • All deployment clasps feature the Calatrava Cross.

Movement:

  • All movements have superb hand-finishing with crisp engravings.
  • Depending on the watch’s age, the movement will be adorned with the Geneva Seal or Patek Philippe Seal. In 2009, Patek Philippe announced that their watches would exclusively feature their own branded seal.
  • Where to buy real, pre-owned Patek Philippe watches
How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024
How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024

How to Inspect An Audemars Piguet Watch

Discerning True Audemars Piguet Craftsmanship: Spotting the Genuine Article

Price Check
Beware of deals that seem too good to be true. An entry-level Audemars Piguet, like the 33mm quartz Royal Oak, typically starts around $15,000, soaring to over $400,000 for premium models. Luxury timepieces often command higher prices on the secondary market than retail, so significantly lower prices should raise red flags.
Material Quality and Build
Audemars Piguet is synonymous with unparalleled quality, utilizing materials like titanium, ceramic, various gold shades, and stainless steel. An AP watch exuding anything less than the highest standard of quality should be scrutinized.
Heft and Weight
The weight of an Audemars Piguet watch is indicative of its authenticity, influenced by its features and complications. Genuine AP watches, such as those with the intricate caliber 1000, feel substantially heavy and solid.

Case Finishing
Authentic Audemars Piguet watches boast flawless finishing with smooth, sharp edges. Counterfeits often fall short, exhibiting uneven finishes and rough edges.

Dial Precision
On a genuine Audemars Piguet, every marking, logo, and detail is crisp, clear, and consistently measured, maintaining their integrity over time. In contrast, fakes might have uneven logos and markings that wear or fade, betraying their inferior quality.
Movement Mastery
Authentic Audemars Piguet watches feature sophisticated, finely finished in-house movements. Counterfeits typically cannot replicate these movements’ complexity and finish, revealing their true nature.
Bracelet and Clasp Integrity
Genuine AP bracelets align perfectly and are crafted from quality materials, with clasps that are firm, secure, and sometimes engraved with the Audemars Piguet logo. Counterfeit pieces often use inferior metals and have misaligned links.
Verification through Documentation
Ensure the watch’s authenticity by checking the case back for the serial number and requesting official documents. When in doubt, consult a reputable watch dealer for verification.

Identifying an Authentic Royal Oak
The Royal Oak’s distinct features include:

  • Bezel: Look for well-polished steel bezels secured with evenly spaced, aligned hexagonal screws.
  • Dial: Authentic Royal Oaks features a Tapisserie pattern that is evenly spaced and symmetrical, unlike the irregular patterns found on fakes.
  • Case Back: Genuine models have a sapphire crystal case back showcasing sophisticated, flawless movements.
  • Logo: The raised gold letters of the logo should be well-polished and clear, not faded or printed.
  • Serial Number: Genuine Royal Oaks have consistently engraved serial numbers, while fakes may display them inconsistently or unclearly.
  • Warranty and Certification: Genuine Royal Oaks come with a warranty and authentication certificate; the absence of these is a concern.
  • Packaging: The luxury of a Royal Oak extends to its packaging, often made from high-quality materials like suede and velvet, which counterfeits may need to be improved.

When seeking an Audemars Piguet, especially a coveted model like the Royal Oak, it’s crucial to observe these details closely to ensure the authenticity and quality of your potential investment.

How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024

How to Inspect A Breitling Watch

Construction

  • Authentic Breitling watches are typically large, and they are solidly constructed. Therefore, they should feel heavy when held.
  • If the watch is steel and still feels light and flimsy, then it is unlikely to be the real thing.
  • Working components should be easily adjusted, such as the hands with the winding crown or a rotating outer bezel.
  • Test how well everything moves, feels, and functions: expect these parts to feel strong and move smoothly.

Back Of The watch
Inspect the back of the watch very closely. A valuable attribute of every genuine Breitling watch is a very clear model and serial number printed onto the back of the watch.
Model Number:

  • This model number defines the basic look and function of the watch and should always be a sequence that begins with a letter followed by five numbers
  • The letter indicates the material of the watch: the letter “A” for example, denotes the most common material used by Breitling, stainless steel.
  • This letter and number combination can now become a useful key with which to search and compare the watch with others online.

Serial Number:

  • Watch-specific serial number: it is smaller and much harder to see but should be there at the outer edge beneath the model number
  • The serial number is typically seven digits long.
  • This number, like the model number, should match exactly with the paperwork if you have it.

Other Official Stamping On The Back That You Should Expect To See:

  • The official “Chronometre” stamping, the water-resistant depth rating in meters, and a variation of the official Breitling logo
  • The logo most often appears as the letter “B” in a distinct script integrated with an anchor and a set of wings

The Front Of The Watch
When you look at the front of the watch, at the dial, know that all numbers, hands, and smaller dials have a purpose, whether it is to show time or calculate something.

The smaller dials are called recorders. They record the elapsed time of an event. The hands-on these dials can be started, stopped, and reset with the conspicuous buttons on the right side of the case. When used, these recorders can time an event, showing its seconds, minutes, and hours, typically ending at a maximum of 12 hours.

It is common for bad fakes to get this all wrong, which is a clear red flag:

  • Some of these bad ones confusingly mix in days of the week or, months or years.
  • Some really bad imposters even have 7-hour days or 90-second minutes. These are easy to spot.

One way to weed out a good fake is to test the watch. Give it power and push the buttons to make sure the function here is as it should be. The chronograph is a useful tool and not just for show. Observe how it works.

Box And Papers

  • All of the items that come with a Breitling, from box to warranty, should match the model name and numbers. The model number and serial number that is printed on the back of the watch should be the same as the numbers found on the warranty.
  • Like most brands, Breitling warranties have been paper documents through the years, but they started using a distinct digital device in 2013.
  • All Breitling watches produced since 2000 are “Chronometer” rated. That means that they have passed extra tests for accuracy and endurance and have the extra documents to prove so. This chronometer certificate should match the serial number of the watch exactly.
How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024
How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024

Discerning Authenticity: Spotting a Genuine Panerai Watch

Dial Detail Examination
Authentic Panerai watches, such as the Luminor, are known for their precise font and weight of numbers and lettering against bold, black Roman numerals. Experts can spot inconsistencies in the font uniformity, size, spacing, and even the length of the second hand, which should nearly reach the dial’s outer edge. In models like the GMT, it should align just above the marker. Counterfeits often need to improve in these details, revealing their inauthenticity.

How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024

Signature Blue Cabochon and Subdial Inspection
Authentic Panerai watches are distinguished by their blue hands and the signature blue ‘cabochon,’ a polished gemstone capping the winding mechanism. Additionally, on genuine Panerai models with subdials, like the Radiomir, look for indicators like the 3, 6, 9, and 12 markers, which are not merely painted but cut out to reveal a luminescent layer beneath. Counterfeits often miss these intricate details, lack proper luminescence, or incorrectly place the subdials.
Case Shape and Crown Analysis
Genuine Panerai watches boast a distinct ‘cushion-like’ case shape with slightly curved edges. The dimensions, typically ranging from 40mm to 47mm, often need to be more accurately replicated in fakes. Additionally, authentic Panerai timepieces with locking crown guards should allow easy winding without unlocking, unlike counterfeits where the proportions usually need to be corrected.
Bezel and Water Resistance Verification
The Submersible, a Panerai dive watch variant, features a unidirectional 60-minute timer dive bezel. Verify the clarity of numbers, the even spacing of the markings between 12 and 3, and the bezel’s functionality. While genuine Panerai watches are water-resistant to varying degrees, they are generally not advised for wear in water, except for the Submersible model, which meets modern dive watch standards.
Serial Number Authentication on the Caseback
Genuine Panerai watches have detailed engravings on the case back, including the serial number, case number, and a unique alphanumeric combination indicating the production year and series number. The engravings should be crisp and precise, unlike the often lower quality found on counterfeits. Note that Panerai reference numbers (PAM) are never found on the back of authentic watches.
By paying close attention to these key details and enlisting the expertise of professionals when in doubt, enthusiasts and potential buyers can confidently identify an authentic Panerai watch, ensuring the quality and craftsmanship they seek.

The Charm of Luxury Handbags

For handbags, our focus is on the harmony of design, the precision of stitching, the finish of hardware, and even the smell of leather. Authenticity stamps, serial numbers, date codes, holograms – each element is scrutinized to ensure the bag you choose is as genuine as it is beautiful.

Luxury Handbags We Handle:

  • Hermes
  • Chanel
  • Louis Vuitton
  • Dior
  • Gucci
Shop Handbags
Rob And Donae Chramosta The Vintage Contessa And Times Past
Rob And Donae Chramosta The Vintage Contessa And Times Past

Rigorous Inspection for Every Luxury Item

We don’t just look at luxury items; we delve into their soul. Our multistep inspection process scrutinizes every detail:

  • Symmetry of design
  • Stitching consistency and accuracy
  • Hardware finish
  • Authenticity stamps
  • Manufacturer’s serial numbers
  • Date codes and holograms
  • The smell and patina of leather
  • Overall wear and style

Transparency in Condition Reporting

We capture the beauty of our items with high-end photography, though colors may vary in images. Every item is assessed for imperfections and reconditioned if necessary. Our condition reports, listed with each item, categorize products from ‘Like New’ to ‘Vintage’, ensuring you know the exact condition of your purchase.

Condition Categories Defined

  • Like New: Brand new with original tags, boxes, or papers.
  • Excellent: Exceptional condition with minimal signs of wear.
  • Very Good: Gently used with well-maintained quality.
  • Good: Quality appearance with signs of use but no significant flaws.
  • Vintage: May need reconditioning; flaws are noted and items are final sale.

How to know your Luxury Handbag Is Real

Ensuring the Authenticity of Designer Handbags

Unveiling the Assurance of Entrupy Technology
In the world of designer handbags, where counterfeits are becoming increasingly sophisticated, Entrupy emerges as a beacon of authentication. The Vintage Contessa & Times Past has integrated this advanced technology to ensure each handbag in our collection is genuine. Entrupy’s system uses a high-resolution camera and artificial intelligence to analyze various materials, hardware, and craftsmanship details that are often overlooked by the untrained eye.

How Entrupy Enhances Our Authentication Process

Entrupy’s technology allows us to delve deep into the fabric of each designer handbag we acquire. By examining microscopic patterns and materials at a level of detail beyond human capability, Entrupy provides a supplementary layer of verification to our expert assessment. This method isn’t just about peace of mind; it’s about giving tangible proof of authenticity that our customers can trust.

How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024

The Impact of Entrupy on Your Investment
Choosing a designer handbag is an investment in quality, style, and craftsmanship. With the assurance provided by Entrupy verification, you can make this significant decision with confidence. Knowing that your chosen piece has passed through rigorous, technologically advanced authentication processes ensures that the value, both aesthetic and monetary, of your designer handbag is indisputable.
At The Vintage Contessa & Times Past, Entropy is more than just a tool; it’s part of our pledge to uphold the highest standards of authenticity and provide our customers with an unmatched luxury experience.

The Entrupy Certificate: Your Guarantee of Authenticity
Each handbag authenticated through Entrupy comes with a certificate, a physical testament to the item’s verified authenticity. This certificate isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a promise from The Vintage Contessa & Times Past that the luxury item you’re taking home is as genuine as it gets. It represents our commitment to quality and the trust we strive to build with every customer.

Diamond Authentication: The Precision of the Yehuda Machine

Unveiling the True Sparkle of Diamonds

At The Vintage Contessa & Times Past, we understand that the authenticity of a diamond is as important as its brilliance. To ensure that each diamond in our collection is genuine, we employ the state-of-the-art Yehuda machine, a hallmark of precision in diamond authentication.

The Yehuda Machine: A Technological Marvel in Diamond Verification

The Yehuda machine stands at the forefront of diamond testing technology. It’s designed to meticulously differentiate between natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and high-quality simulants. By employing advanced spectroscopy, the machine analyzes the unique properties of each diamond, assuring its authenticity.

Our Authentication Process: Rigorous and Thorough

Every diamond we procure undergoes a stringent evaluation. The Yehuda machine is critical in this process, but it’s just a part of our comprehensive approach. Our experts examine the cut, clarity, color, and carat weight alongside the Yehuda machine’s analysis to provide a complete authentication report.

How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024
Shop Diamonds

Cartier Jewelry: Signed with Elegance

The Legacy of Cartier: A Testament to Authenticity

Cartier’s jewelry is synonymous with elegance and craftsmanship. At The Vintage Contessa & Times Past, we take great pride in offering authentic Cartier pieces, each carrying the legacy of this storied brand. Our authentication process for Cartier jewelry is as meticulous as the pieces’ craftsmanship.

Verifying the Iconic Cartier Love Bracelets

The Cartier Love bracelet, a symbol of timeless elegance, demands a special focus in our authentication process. We examine the signature design elements: the unique screw pattern, the precise engraving, and the overall finish. Our experts ensure that every Love bracelet we offer is a genuine Cartier creation, bringing a piece of history to your collection.

Beyond Love Bracelets: The Cartier Collection

Our commitment extends to the entire range of Cartier jewelry. Each piece, from necklaces and rings to earrings and brooches, is authenticated with the same rigor. We verify hallmarks, assess craftsmanship quality, and ensure the lineage of each item, confirming its place in the Cartier legacy.

Your Assurance of Authentic Cartier Jewelry

When you choose a piece of Cartier jewelry from our collection, you’re not just acquiring a luxurious accessory but embracing a piece of art with a rich heritage. We guarantee that each Cartier item we offer is an authentic representation of the brand’s unparalleled craftsmanship and design excellence.

How Do You Know It'S Real? March 18, 2024

Your Assurance of Genuine Luxury

We invite you to experience the authentic luxury that The Vintage Contessa & Times Past offers. Each piece in our collection not only tells its own story but is a testament to our commitment to authenticity and quality.

Questions? Connect With Us

We are here to assist you with any inquiries about our authentication process or to help you find the perfect addition to your collection. Contact us at 713.977.7296 or visit our website for more information.