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Provenance refers to a watch's documented history of ownership, repairs, and modifications, providing essential information about its authenticity, rarity, and condition.

Provenance documents a watch's authenticity, ownership history, and condition timeline, significantly impacting value. Watches owned by celebrities or with notable histories can command 2-10x premiums. Service records prove proper maintenance, while original papers verify authenticity and protect against counterfeits.
Key documents include original purchase receipts, warranty cards, service records from authorized dealers, certificates of authenticity, extract from archives (for vintage pieces), and correspondence with manufacturers. Photos documenting the watch over time also contribute to establishing comprehensive provenance.
Some manufacturers like Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Audemars Piguet offer Extract from Archives services, searching their records to document original specifications and sale dates. This costs $200-500+ but adds significant value by establishing official factory provenance for vintage timepieces.

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