We don't leave this to chance. Every watch undergoes a double-blind verification process by two independent experts:

- A Vintage Specialist: Verifies the aesthetics, the dial, the provenance, and the historical correctness of the model (case, box, and papers).
- A Master Watchmaker: Opens the watch to inspect the movement, verifying the caliber, internal components, and mechanical integrity.

We are experts, but we are also human. In the unlikely event that a detail escapes our rigorous checks, our guarantee is absolute: if a watch is proven not to be authentic as described, we offer a full, immediate refund.

In the vintage world, "authentic" doesn't always mean "born with the watch." Over decades of life, parts like crystals, crowns, or bracelets may have been replaced with service components or aftermarket alternatives (e.g., a metal bracelet added to a watch originally sold on leather).
We practice Radical Transparency: our descriptions clearly state if a watch is fully "coeval" (all original factory parts) or if it has service/aftermarket components. If you have any doubt about a specific component, please contact us, we are here to clarify every detail.

We believe that scars are often part of a watch's character. Generally, we prefer to leave cases unpolished to preserve their original lines and history.
However, sometimes a light professional intervention is necessary to reveal the true beauty of a piece that has been neglected. If we decide to polish a watch, it is done by masters of the craft to respect the original geometry.

Given that our curated pieces are often 30, 40, or 50 years old, complete sets are rare.
It is important to remember that original papers no longer hold any warranty value (as they expired decades ago); they possess only historical and collectible value. If a watch is sold as a full set, it will be stated in the description. Regardless of the original set, every Ad Astra watch is sold with our premium packaging and our official 1-Year Warranty & Authenticity Logbook, which is the only document that guarantees the mechanical functioning today

We edit photos for lighting and color accuracy, but we never remove scratches, dents, or patina. In fact, we use macro photography to highlight flaws, not hide them. We want you to be happily surprised when you open the box, not disappointed.

We source from a trusted private network of collectors, auctions, and vetted dealers worldwide built over the years.

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Many vintage watches use Radium (pre-60s) or Tritium (60s-90s). While Radium is radioactive, it is harmless as long as the watch remains closed and the dial is intact. Tritium is safe but may no longer glow. We celebrate the creamy "patina" these materials develop over time as a mark of beauty.

We sometimes digitally blur the full serial numbers in our public photos solely to protect the privacy of the future owner and to prevent counterfeiters from using our valid serial numbers on fake watches. The full serial is, of course, visible on the physical watch and recorded in your papers.

Vintage sizing is specific, and fit depends entirely on the construction of the watch. We distinguish between two main categories:

• Standard Bracelets (e.g., Rolex Oyster, Omega):
  We photograph every watch on a standard 17.5 cm (6.9 inch) wrist to give you a clear reference. In the description, we always list the maximum wearable size. While some models allow for extra links to be sourced, others are so rare that finding spare links is nearly impossible, meaning they must be worn at the size listed.
• Integrated Bracelets:
  These are special cases (often precious metal timepieces) where the bracelet is soldered directly to the case. Adding length to these is extremely difficult as spare links rarely exist. However, if the bracelet is too long, it can be customized. A professional goldsmith can carefully cut and shorten the mesh to fit your wrist perfectly.

Our Advice: Always check the "Max Wrist Size" in the technical specifications. If you are unsure or fall between sizes, please contact our Concierge before purchasing. We can measure the watch live or advise on whether a specific integrated bracelet can be tailored to you.

Yes. We ship globally using DHL Express (or specialized armored couriers for high-value items). Every shipment is fully insured for 100% of the value. Shipping is always free.
Note: If you live in a remote area, an island, or a country with complex import regulations (e.g., specific zones in the Pacific, Russia, Brazil), please contact our Concierge before purchasing to verify if our courier can serve your location safely.

We typically dispatch watches within 24-48 hours of payment clearing. Once shipped:

• Europe: 1-2 Business Days.
• USA & North America: 3-5 Business Days.
• Asia & Rest of World: 3-5 Business Days.

EU Clients: No customs, no extra taxes. The price you see is final.

Extra-EU Clients: You are responsible for import duties and VAT.

Crucial Advice: To avoid shipping delays, please have your ID/Passport and Tax ID ready when the courier contacts you. Customs authorities require these documents immediately to clear the package. If you are not reachable or unprepared, the package remains stuck in storage at your risk.

Security and discretion are our top priorities.
Your shipment will arrive in a Special Anti-Theft Bag with a unique code printed on the front. This is the first layer of defense. Inside this sealed bag, you will find a discreet, unbranded package containing the watch.
This multi-layer system ensures that the contents are not visible during transit and that any attempt to open the package is immediately visible.

To guarantee your insurance coverage and safety, please follow this Strict Protocol upon delivery:

1. Verify the Anti-Theft Bag: Before signing, look at the outer bag. Does the unique code match the one we sent you? Is the bag intact and sealed?
2. Inspect BEFORE Accepting: Check for any sign of cuts, tears, or resealing (e.g., double tape). If the bag looks tampered with, REFUSE the delivery stating "Damaged Package" to the courier. This allows us to trigger the insurance immediately.
3. Film the Unboxing: If the bag looks good and you accept it, film a continuous video while opening it. Start by showing the sealed bag and the unique code. Cut the bag open and remove the inner unbranded package. Open the inner package and reveal the watch, all in one continuous take. Why? This video is your insurance policy. If the box is empty or the watch is damaged, this video makes the refund process instant. Without it, claims can be extremely difficult to process.
4. Don't throw away the packaging until you are sure that everything is as it should be.

Yes. We offer a 14-day return window from the moment the watch is delivered. However, the conditions depend on the reason for the return:

• Scenario A: Our Fault (Defect/Discrepancy): If the watch has a mechanical issue, a defect not mentioned in the report, or differs significantly from the description/photos, the return is 100% Free. We will organize the pickup and cover all costs.

• Scenario B: Your Choice (Change of Mind/Taste): If you simply changed your mind, the watch feels too big/small, or the bracelet fits strictly as described but is too tight for your preference, you can still return it. However, since the item is exactly as described, you will be responsible for the return logistics costs.

To cover the high cost of insured international logistics and security, a Restocking & Insurance Fee applies.
The fee is calculated as follows:

€100 Flat Fee + 1% of the Watch Value

Example: For a €5,000 watch, the cost would be €100 + €50 = €150.

How is this paid?
We do not deduct this fee from your refund. Whether you purchased via a third-party platform (e.g., Chrono24) or directly on our site, the fee must be paid upfront.
We will send you a secure payment link or our bank transfer details for the logistics cost. Once paid, we generate the insured shipping label. This ensures that the full original amount of your order can be refunded cleanly once the watch passes inspection.

Returns are strictly managed to ensure safety. You cannot use your own courier. Here is the step-by-step protocol:

1. Contact Us: Email our Concierge within 14 days to request a Return Authorization.
   
2. Pay the Logistics Fee: We will calculate the return cost (€100 + 1%) and send our bank transfer details.
   
3. Label & Pickup: Once the fee is settled, we issue a pre-paid, fully insured DHL shipping label. Standard Procedure: We will organize a secure courier pickup directly at your home or office on a day that suits you. This is the safest method. Drop-off option: In some specific countries or regions, dropping the package off at a certified DHL Service Point may be possible. We will verify if your address qualifies for this option when organizing the return.
   
4. Inspection & Refund: Once the watch arrives at our lab and passes our strict "Re-Entry Inspection" (confirming no damage or swapped parts), we will refund 100% of your original purchase price to your original payment method.

If the inspection is successful, we will refund the full amount (minus the return fee, if applicable) within 3-5 business days to your original payment method.

IMPORTANT: If the watch arrives damaged, scratched, or with missing parts, we reserve the right to withhold a portion or the entirety of the refund. The withheld amount will be congruous with the cost of restoration or the loss of value.

No. To comply with strict international Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations and for your security, refunds can only be processed to the original payment method used for the purchase. If you paid by credit card, the funds go back to that card. If you paid by wire transfer, they go back to the originating bank account. No exceptions.

If you purchased a watch using a trade-in and decide to return your purchase:

1. We will refund the cash difference you paid (minus the shipping/insurance fees).
   
2. We will return your trade-in watch to you (shipping costs at your expense).
   Note: If your trade-in watch has already been serviced or sold in the meantime, we will issue a Store Credit for the agreed trade-in value.

No. The 14-day return window begins strictly from the date the courier delivers the package to your address, as confirmed by the tracking number. We cannot extend this period for scheduled gifts or holidays. We recommend timing your purchase accordingly or contacting our Concierge to schedule a specific delivery date.

Vintage watches are delicate. Even a few days of wear can introduce new "hairline" scratches on the clasp or case, or crease a leather strap.
If the watch returns with any signs of wear that were not present in the original report (including micro-scratches or strap creases), we reserve the right to deduct a restoration fee from your refund to bring the watch back to its sold condition. In severe cases, the return may be rejected entirely.

No. We value your time. You can check out as a Guest without registering. All necessary information, including your order confirmation and tracking number, will be sent directly to the email address you provide at checkout.
However, creating an account allows you to save your shipping details for faster access to future Drops.

Once your watch is dispatched, you will receive an automated email with your DHL Express Tracking Number. You can follow the journey of your timepiece in real-time.
Note: If you don't see the email within 48 hours of purchase, please check your Spam folder or contact our Concierge.

We move fast to get the watch on your wrist. If you notice an error in your address or need to make a change, please contact our Concierge immediately via WhatsApp or Email.
Once the courier has generated the label and picked up the package (usually within 24 hours), we cannot change the destination.

To comply with strict Italian Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations regarding the sale of precious goods and luxury watches, we are legally required to identify the beneficial owner of every purchase.

Before we can ship your watch, you must provide:

• International Clients: A copy of a valid Government-issued ID (Passport or Identity Card).
• Italian Clients: A copy of a valid ID (Carta d'Identità/Passaporto) AND your Tax Code (Codice Fiscale).

How to send them:
After checkout, you will receive a secure link or an email from our Concierge to upload these documents safely.

Rest assured: Your data is processed in strict compliance with GDPR privacy laws and is used solely for legal identification purposes. It is never shared with third parties for marketing.
Note: We cannot dispatch any order until these documents are received and verified.

We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Maestro), as well as digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay for a seamless mobile experience.
For security reasons, on extremely high-value transactions, we may request a direct Bank Wire Transfer.

Yes. We believe in passing savings back to our clients.
Since credit card processors charge high fees, we offer a 1.5% discount on the final price if you choose to pay via direct Bank Wire Transfer.
To apply this discount, select "Bank Wire" at checkout or contact our Concierge to receive the adjusted invoice.

We are actively working to integrate a native crypto payment gateway directly on the site.
In the meantime, we can accept crypto payments manually on a case-by-case basis. If you wish to pay using Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDT, please contact our Concierge to discuss the daily exchange rate and wallet address.

Absolutely. All transactions are processed through encrypted, Level 1 PCI-DSS compliant gateways (like Paypal or Shopify Payments). We never see or store your full credit card number. Your financial safety is as important as the watch itself.