These initials stand for New Old Stock. It refers to a watch that was never sold to an end-user, but may have been sold between pre-owned watch dealers.

This would be a brand new watch that may have some very light, almost invisible, signs of wear due to in-store handling or customers trying the watch.

These would be watches that are in the same condition than when they came out of production.

This means that the watch was very rarely worn or used. It would not have any visible markings, scratches or dings to the naked eye and the bracelets may have been resized. To a untrained eye of a layman, it could pass as brand new.

This would be a timepiece that has been lightly worn but carefully maintained and stored. It may have some minor surface scratches or swirls that would be visible only under close inspection. These would not have any major dent and should work perfectly. The other elements of the watch such as the dial, the hands, and the crystal would also be in excellent condition. The only real visible sign of light wear would be on the bracelet or the strap. The case has probably not been polished, but if so, only the one time, allowing the edges and lugs to retain their original sharpness.

This would be a watch that was regularly worn but well cared for and well stored when unworn. It would have some noticeable hairlines and scratches, possibly even a few tiny dings. The watch should run very smoothly though but could required a light service to change the oils inside the movement. Dial and hands remain clean, no visible damage. Unless specified otherwise, the case has likely been polished once or twice, but the edges remain somewhat sharp.

This would be a watch that has evident signs of wear — scratches, nicks, and possibly some fading on the dial and/or the hands which normally adds to the charm of the watch overall. The Bracelet or strap will show stretch, wear or sign of sweat on the inside of the strap. The watch case - or the head - has likely been polished multiple times, and the edges not as crisp. Mechanically, this watch is probably in need of a service. The watch remain presentable and wearable.

This would be a watch with some heavy wear that is visible: deep scratches, dents, faded bezel, stretched bracelet, faded dial and hands, worn out strap.The dial or hands may even show patina, discoloration, or lume degradation (which can be quite an asset in the context of a vintage watch). The movement runs but service history uncertain and a service would be necessary. These watches are often traded at a discount and bought by collectors for restoration.

These watches will be non-functional and/or badly damaged. They even could have some missing parts, broken elements, visible water damage, or heavy corrosion. These are typically sold “for parts” or as a project.

This would refer to the dial and/or the hands of the watch that would have been discolored over time. The Patina is the result of the natural fading and ageing of these elements.