質問
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
We have compiled answers to questions frequently asked at Ante.
Choose your vintage watch with confidence.
From your visit through post-purchase support, we provide clear guidance every step of the way.
Visiting the Store
Q.Do I need an appointment to visit?
You can visit our Ginza store without an appointment. Since the selection available in-store is limited, we recommend contacting us in advance if you have a specific watch you would like to see.
Q.What are your business hours?
Our hours are 11:00-20:00, with last admission at 19:15. Hours may change depending on the facility's operating status and other circumstances.
Q.Where is the store located?
We are located at EXITMELSA Ginza B1F, 5-7-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061. We are just a short walk from Exit A2 of Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro.
Q.Can I view online-listed products in-store?
Because the number of watches we can display in-store is limited, not all products listed in the online store are on permanent display at our Ginza store.
If you know which watch you would like to see, we recommend contacting us in advance. After checking its availability and storage location, we will let you know whether it can be viewed at our Ginza store.
At our store, you can try on watches in person and compare their Case Size, how they look on the wrist, weight, and strap color as you choose.
About the Products
Q.Are the watches listed authentic?
We only handle authentic pieces. For vintage watches, including Cartier, our specialists with extensive knowledge inspect each piece individually—not only for authenticity, but also its exterior, dial, movement, markings, and specifications.
Q.Are the watches Serviced?
For every watch we acquire, we check the movement's condition, operation, accuracy, ease of operation, and exterior.
Rather than servicing every watch uniformly, we assess its era, current condition, and remaining originality, then carry out the inspections and servicing necessary for that particular watch before presenting it. The work performed varies by item, so please see each product page for details.
Q.Can I place an item on hold?
Yes, we can hold an item for a specified period upon receipt of a deposit.
- Within one week: A deposit of 5% of the purchase price is required.
- Within two weeks: A deposit of 10% of the purchase price is required.
We do not accept holds for longer than two weeks. When purchasing, you must pay the remaining balance after deducting the deposit already paid. Each customer may place a hold on up to one item.
Deposits cannot be refunded in the event of a cancellation for customer convenience or if the holding period expires. After the deadline, the order will be automatically canceled. This policy allows us to offer our one-of-a-kind pieces fairly and ensures that everyone can make their selections with confidence.
Purchases and Payment
About
Q.What payment methods are available in-store?
We accept cash, various credit cards, bank transfers, and shopping loans. Please contact us in advance regarding available brands and terms.
Q.What payment methods are available in the online store?
We accept credit cards, bank transfers, and various online payment methods. Please check the payment methods displayed at checkout.
Q.Are shopping loans available?
Yes, shopping loans are available in-store. We cover the installment interest and fees for up to 12 payments. For 13 or more payments, the applicable installment fees will be charged.
An application review and identification documents are required. Please contact our staff for details.
Q.Can I purchase items tax-free?
International customers who meet the tax-free eligibility requirements can complete tax-free procedures at our Ginza store. Please bring your passport and any other required documents. Depending on your residency status and length of stay, you may not be eligible for tax-free shopping.
Q.Can I return or exchange an item after purchase?
Due to the nature of vintage products, we generally do not accept returns or exchanges for customer convenience. Each piece differs in era, condition, and character, so please feel free to contact us before purchasing if you have any questions.
For information on eligibility and procedures for returns and exchanges, please see Returns and Exchanges.
Shipping
Q.Can I pick up my order in store?
Yes. If you would like to pick up your purchase in store after ordering from our online store, please contact us in advance. We may ask you to verify your identity when collecting your order.
Q.Can you tell me about shipping?
To ensure that you receive your selected watch with confidence, we inspect its condition and operation again before shipping, then carefully pack and ship each watch individually.
Domestic Shipping
Shipping within Japan is a flat ¥900 nationwide. We ship via Yamato Transport.
International Shipping
We also ship internationally. The flat shipping fee is ¥38,000, including shipping and insurance. Please contact us before ordering to confirm the countries and regions we can ship to.
Customs duties, import taxes, customs clearance fees, and other charges incurred overseas are generally the customer's responsibility.
Use and Maintenance
About
Q.Are there any precautions for using a vintage watch?
Please take care around water, sweat, strong impacts, magnetism, and sudden temperature changes. Vintage watches may not have the same water resistance or shock resistance as modern watches.
To preserve the distinctive appeal of a watch that has stood the test of time while enjoying it, we recommend handling it with a little extra care in daily use.
Q.Is the watch water-resistant?
Regardless of whether a water-resistance rating is indicated, vintage watches should generally be treated as not water-resistant. Take particular care during handwashing and around rain, sweat, and humidity.
Q.How many times should I wind a Manual-Winding watch?
Generally, wind the crown slowly approximately 20–30 times once a day. The number of turns varies by watch. If you feel strong resistance, do not force it any further.
Q.What should I do if my watch stops?
If the watch has stopped, first check it according to the type of movement.
- Manual-Winding watch: Slowly turn the crown approximately 20–30 times, then check that it is running.
- Automatic watch: For models with a Manual-Winding function, wind the crown; for models without one, gently move the watch to build up some power before use.
- Quartz watch: The battery may be depleted. Do not force the controls; please consult us.
Strong magnetic fields may cause the watch to gain, lose time, or stop. If the issue does not improve after checking the above, stop using the watch and contact us.
Q.How often is an overhaul necessary?
Although it depends on usage frequency and the condition of the movement, for mechanical watches, approximately 3–5 years is generally a guideline.
If there is a significant change in accuracy, an unusual feeling when winding, or abnormal noise, we recommend an inspection regardless of the time elapsed.
Straps and Bracelets
About
Q.Can the Leather Strap be replaced?
A strap can be replaced if one is available that matches the watch's size and specifications. The usable strap may vary depending on the Era and Buckle shape. We will recommend specifications suitable for the watch, including available colors and materials.
Q.Can I purchase genuine straps or genuine Buckle?
If we have compatible genuine straps or genuine Buckle in stock, we can offer them for an additional fee. The specifications that can be fitted vary by Era and model, so please contact us with photos showing the watch details or with product information.
Q.Can the bracelet size be adjusted?
Yes, we can adjust the bracelet size at the time of purchase.
- Adjusting the Wrist Size smaller: We provide this service free of charge.
- Adjusting the Wrist Size larger: Additional links are required, so a separate fee applies.
The available options depend on the availability and compatibility of links. Size adjustments typically take approximately 7–10 days.
Warranty and Repairs
Q.Is there a warranty after purchase?
Yes, each product comes with a warranty. The warranty period varies depending on the watch's Era, movement, and condition, and is up to three months. The exact warranty period will be provided on each product page or at the time of purchase.
Because each vintage watch has a different Era and construction, we set warranty coverage appropriate for each watch.
Q.What types of failures are covered by the warranty?
We will repair or adjust natural failures of the internal mechanism that occur during normal use, in accordance with the warranty terms.
Damage caused by drops or impacts, exposure to water or sweat, magnetism, damage to the exterior, crystal, or strap, improper operation, and consumables such as batteries and Leather Strap are generally not covered by the warranty.
Q.Can I request repairs after the warranty period ends?
Even after the warranty period ends, you can consult us about repairs and maintenance for watches purchased from our store.
Repair details, turnaround times, and estimates vary depending on the watch's Era and condition and the availability of parts. After first inspecting the watch, we will explain the most appropriate options available.
We will continue to provide attentive support after your purchase so you can enjoy your cherished watch for years to come.
Q.Can it be repaired at an authorized boutique?
This depends on the brand, Era, condition of the watch, and its parts configuration. We cannot guarantee that the watch will be accepted for service by an authorized service center, so if you have concerns about future maintenance, please consult us before purchasing.
Contact Us
Q.Can I ask for more details about a product?
Of course. If you have any questions about a product's condition, fit, appearance when worn, or movement, please feel free to consult us.
Every vintage watch has its own character and condition, even when it is the same model. We provide clear, detailed guidance on each watch so you can make your choice with confidence.
We accept inquiries through our contact form or official LINE ID @ante.
If you cannot find the answer you are 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
