Finlay Watches

The Finlay journal

Comparisons, design details and straightforward explanations of how watches work.

Technical case drawing with an empty central opening, front and rear plans, side elevation, lug-to-lug, case diameter and lug width.
A watch case in plan, profile and reverse.

Anatomy of a watch

Start with the drawing: the case, crown, crystal, movement and the parts that connect a watch to your wrist.

Two ways to wear a Promaster

The smaller black BN0266 and the larger blue BN0151, side by side.

Casio AQ-230: light blue or white?

Same little rectangle, two very different dial colours.

Finding the right watch size

Why diameter is only part of the story, and what lug-to-lug tells you about fit.

Condition guide

Grades describe cosmetic condition of the individual watch. New or pre-owned status is separate. Read the listing’s condition report for its specific wear and damage.

Like New
No visible wear under normal inspection. May have been owned or worn.
Excellent
Minimal faint surface marks; no significant scratches or dents.
Very Good
Light scratches or scuffs.
Good
Noticeable wear, including deeper scratches or small dents; see the detailed condition report.
Fair
Significant wear or damage documented in the condition report.
New
Listed as new rather than previously used. Packaging, accessories and warranty information are described separately.
Pre-owned
Previously owned. Cosmetic grade, observed wear, accessories and known service or testing history are described separately.