質問
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Here's a compilation of frequently asked questions for Ante.
We want you to feel confident when choosing a vintage watch that has stood the test of time.
We'll guide you clearly from your store visit to after-purchase care.
About Visiting
Q.Do I need an appointment to visit the store?
You can visit the Ginza store without an appointment. However, as the number of items available in store is limited, we recommend contacting us in advance if there is a specific watch you wish to view.
Q.What are your business hours?
Business hours are 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with the last entry at 7:15 PM. These hours may change depending on facility operating conditions.
Q.Where is your store located?
We are located at EXITMELSA Ginza B1F, 5-7-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061. It is just a short walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza Station Exit A2.
Q.Can I see items listed online at the store?
Items listed on our online store can also be viewed at the Ginza store. Some items may be stored off-site, so if you have a specific product you wish to see, contacting us in advance will allow for a smoother viewing experience.
At the store, you can try on watches, comparing case sizes, how they look on your wrist, weight, strap colors, and more.
About Products
Q.Are the watches listed authentic?
We only handle authentic products. Our expert craftsmen, with specialized knowledge in vintage watches including Cartier, carefully inspect each watch for authenticity, exterior, dial, movement, engravings, and specifications.
Q.Are the watches maintained?
For every watch we purchase, we meticulously inspect the movement's condition, operation, accuracy, usability, and exterior.
Rather than applying a uniform maintenance process to all watches, we assess their age, current condition, and preserved originality to determine the necessary inspections and adjustments before presenting them. The specific procedures vary for each product, so please refer to each product page for details.
Q.Can I reserve a product?
Yes, we can hold an item for a certain period upon receipt of a deposit.
- Within 1 week: A deposit of 5% of the product price is required.
- Within 2 weeks: A deposit of 10% of the product price is required.
We do not accept reservations for periods exceeding 2 weeks. Upon purchase, you will pay the remaining balance after deducting the deposit. Reservations are limited to one item per customer.
In case of cancellation by the customer or if the reservation period expires, the deposit cannot be refunded. If the deadline passes, the reservation will be automatically canceled. This policy is in place to ensure fair access to our unique, one-of-a-kind items.
Purchase & Payment
Methods
Q.What payment methods are available in-store?
We accept cash, various credit cards, bank transfers, and shopping loans. Please inquire in advance about available brands and conditions.
Q.What payment methods are available on the online store?
We accept credit cards, bank transfers, and various online payment methods. Please check the available payment options displayed on the purchase screen.
Q.Can I use a shopping loan?
Yes, you can use a shopping loan in-store. For installments up to 12 months, we will cover the interest and handling fees. For 13 months or more, a prescribed installment fee will apply.
An application and identity verification documents are required for approval. Please ask our staff for more details.
Q.Can I make a tax-free purchase?
Overseas customers who meet the tax exemption conditions can use the tax exemption procedure at the Ginza store. Please bring the required documents, such as your passport. Please note that tax exemption may not be applicable depending on your resident status or length of stay.
Q.Can I return or exchange a product after purchase?
Due to the nature of vintage items, returns or exchanges for customer convenience are generally not accepted. As each item has a unique age, condition, and character, please feel free to consult us with any concerns before making a purchase.
For conditions and procedures for returns/exchanges, please refer to About Returns and Exchanges.
About Shipping
Q.Can I pick up my order at the store?
Yes, you can. If you wish to pick up your online purchase at the store, please contact us in advance. We may ask for identity verification upon pickup.
Q.Please tell me about shipping.
To ensure you receive your chosen watch safely, we re-verify its condition and operation before shipping, then carefully package and deliver each one.
Domestic Shipping
Shipping within Japan costs a flat rate of 900 yen nationwide. We ship via Yamato Transport.
International Shipping
We also offer international shipping. Shipping costs, including shipping and insurance, are a flat rate of 38,000 yen. Please contact us before ordering to inquire about countries and regions we can ship to.
Customs duties, import taxes, and customs clearance fees incurred overseas are generally the customer's responsibility.
Usage & Maintenance
Q.Are there any precautions when using a vintage watch?
Please be careful with moisture, sweat, strong impacts, magnetism, and sudden temperature changes. Vintage watches may not have the same level of water resistance or shock resistance as modern watches.
To preserve the charm unique to watches that have aged over many years, we recommend handling them with a little extra care in your daily life.
Q.Does the watch have water resistance?
For vintage watches, regardless of whether water resistance is indicated, please treat them as non-water resistant. Please be very careful with hand washing, rain, sweat, and humidity.
Q.How many times should I wind a hand-wound watch?
Generally, wind the crown slowly about 20-30 times once a day. The number of winds varies depending on the watch. If you feel strong resistance, please do not force it further.
Q.What should I do if my watch stops?
If your watch stops, first check according to the type of movement:
- Hand-wound watch: Slowly wind the crown 20-30 times and then check its operation.
- Automatic watch: For models with a manual winding function, wind the crown. For models without, gently move the watch to build up some power before use.
- Quartz watch: The battery may be dead. Do not force any operation and please consult us.
Near strong magnetic fields, watches may run fast, slow, or stop. If the issue persists after checking the above, please discontinue use and contact us.
Q.How often does a watch need an overhaul?
While it varies depending on usage frequency and movement condition, a general guideline for mechanical watches is every 3 to 5 years.
If there are significant changes in accuracy, a feeling of discomfort when winding, or unusual noises, we recommend inspection regardless of the time elapsed.
Straps & Bracelets
Q.Can leather straps be replaced?
Yes, if there is a strap that fits the watch size and specifications, it can be replaced. The type of strap that can be used may vary depending on the watch's age and buckle shape. We will guide you to a suitable specification, including the availability of colors and materials.
Q.Can I purchase genuine straps or genuine buckles?
If we have suitable genuine straps or genuine buckles in stock, we can offer them at an additional cost. The specifications that can be fitted vary depending on the age and model of the watch, so please inquire with photos or product information that show the watch's details.
Q.Can the bracelet size be adjusted?
Yes, we can adjust the bracelet size at the time of purchase.
- To make the wrist size smaller: This service is free.
- To make the wrist size larger: Additional links are required, which incur an extra charge.
The guidance will vary depending on the availability of links and compatibility. The typical turnaround time for size adjustment is about 7-10 days.
About Warranty & Repairs
Q.Is there a warranty after purchase?
Yes, each product comes with a warranty. The warranty period varies depending on the watch's age, mechanism, and condition, and is up to 3 months. The specific warranty period will be provided on each product page or at the time of purchase.
Due to the unique age and structure of each vintage watch, we set warranty terms appropriate for each timepiece.
Q.What types of malfunctions are covered by the warranty?
We will repair or adjust any natural malfunctions of the internal mechanism that occur during normal use, based on our warranty policy.
Damage caused by drops or impacts, water or sweat intrusion, magnetism, damage to the exterior or glass, straps, incorrect operation, and consumables such as batteries or leather straps are generally not covered by the warranty.
Q.Can I request repairs even after the warranty period has ended?
Even after the warranty period expires, you can consult us about repairs and maintenance for watches purchased from our store.
Repair details, turnaround time, and estimates will vary depending on the watch's age, condition, and parts availability. We will first examine the watch's condition and then propose the most appropriate method.
We are committed to providing careful support even after purchase, ensuring that watches passed down through generations can continue to be used with peace of mind.
Q.Can I have it repaired at an authorized boutique?
This depends on the brand, age, watch condition, and component configuration. We cannot guarantee whether authorized services will accept the repair, so if you have concerns about future maintenance, please consult us before purchasing.
Contact Us
Q.Can I get detailed advice about products?
Of course. Please feel free to consult us about any questions you may have, such as product condition, size, impression when worn, or differences in movements.
Vintage watches, even the same model, each have unique characteristics and conditions. We will provide clear and easy-to-understand guidance for each item, so you can choose with confidence.
You can contact us via our contact form or official LINE ID @ante.
If you can't find the answer you're looking for
If you have any questions,
please feel free to contact us.
Business Hours: 11:00–20:00
5-7-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
EXITMELSA B1F
