Our Standards and Sourcing

Our Standards & Sourcing

MaxandsohWatches.com
Last Updated: 17 March 2026

At Max & Soh Watches, we believe that every timepiece should be as responsibly sourced as it is beautifully made. This page explains the ethical standards, authentication processes, and sourcing commitments that underpin every product we sell — from luxury pre-owned watches to our affordable moissanite and fashion collections.

We are committed to full transparency. Whether you are purchasing a £35 quartz watch or a £100,000 tourbillon, you deserve to know exactly where your product comes from, how it was verified, and that it was sourced with integrity.

1. Ethical Sourcing & Conflict-Free Commitment

1.1 Our Promise

MaxandsohWatches.com is committed to ensuring that every product we sell — and every material within it — has been sourced responsibly and ethically. We do not knowingly deal in, stock, or sell any product that has been produced through exploitative labour, conflict financing, or environmentally destructive practices.

1.2 Conflict-Free Moissanite & Diamonds

All moissanite and diamond-set watches and jewellery sold on our website are sourced exclusively from suppliers who adhere to strict ethical labour practices and conflict-free supply chain standards. This means:

Every natural diamond used in our products is sourced in compliance with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), the internationally recognised framework designed to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds (see Section 3 below).
All moissanite stones are laboratory-created and therefore inherently conflict-free. They involve no mining, no displacement of communities, and no environmental destruction associated with traditional gemstone extraction.
We require our suppliers to provide written confirmation that their stones and materials are sourced from facilities that meet internationally accepted standards for fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmental responsibility.
We do not source from suppliers who cannot provide provenance documentation or who operate in regions subject to international trade sanctions related to conflict minerals.

1.3 Responsible Material Sourcing

Beyond gemstones, we are committed to responsible sourcing across all materials used in our products:

Precious metals (gold, platinum, silver) used in our luxury watch inventory are sourced through established trade networks and verified dealers who comply with the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Responsible Gold Guidance and equivalent standards.
Stainless steel, ceramic, and titanium components in our fashion and sport watch collections are sourced from manufacturers who adhere to applicable environmental and labour regulations in their country of operation.
Leather straps are sourced from suppliers who comply with EU and UK regulations on animal welfare and the use of chemicals in leather tanning (including REACH compliance where applicable).

2. Authentication & Verification — The Max & Soh Assure Process

Every branded luxury watch sold on MaxandsohWatches.com passes through our proprietary “Assure” verification process before it is listed for sale. This multi-point inspection is designed to confirm the authenticity, condition, and mechanical integrity of every timepiece we offer.

2.1 Movement Integrity

The movement is the heart of every mechanical watch. Our verification process includes:

Calibre identification — We verify that the movement inside the watch corresponds to the correct manufacturer’s calibre for that specific model and reference number. Each brand uses proprietary movements with unique identifying features, engravings, and serial markings.
Functional testing — We test the watch for accurate timekeeping, smooth winding action (both manual and automatic rotor function), and correct operation of all complications (date, chronograph, moon phase, GMT, etc.).
Power reserve assessment — Where applicable, we assess the watch’s power reserve performance to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s stated specifications within acceptable tolerance.
Visual movement inspection — Where the caseback design permits (exhibition casebacks or transparent backs), we visually inspect the movement for correct finishing, decoration, and condition consistent with the manufacturer’s standards.

Note: We do not routinely open screw-down or pressure-sealed casebacks, as doing so can compromise the watch’s water resistance and void existing warranties. Internal movement inspection via caseback removal can be arranged upon request at additional cost, performed by a qualified independent watchmaker.

2.2 Material Authenticity

We verify that the physical materials of every luxury watch are consistent with the manufacturer’s original specifications:

Case material — We verify that the case material (stainless steel, gold, platinum, ceramic, titanium) matches what the manufacturer used for that specific reference. This includes checking weight, finish, colour tone, and hallmarks where present.
Dial authenticity — We inspect the dial for correct printing, applied indices, luminous material, logo placement, and colour consistency with known genuine examples of the same reference.
Crystal verification — We check that the crystal (sapphire, mineral, or acrylic) matches the manufacturer’s specification for the model, including anti-reflective coating characteristics.
Bracelet and clasp — We verify the bracelet or strap, clasp type, engravings, and material against the manufacturer’s known production for that reference and serial range.
Bezel and crown — We inspect the bezel insert (ceramic, aluminium, or steel), crown engravings, and crown tube integrity.

2.3 Reference & Serial Number Verification

Every luxury watch is checked against the manufacturer’s published reference number database to confirm the model, year of production (where determinable), and original specification.
Serial numbers (where visible without opening the caseback) are recorded and cross-referenced to ensure they fall within known production ranges for that model.
We check that the serial number has not been reported as stolen through available industry databases and stolen watch registers.

2.4 Documentation & Provenance

Where original boxes, papers, warranty cards, and certificates of authenticity are available, we review them for consistency with the watch.
We verify that warranty card serial numbers (where present) match the serial number on the watch.
If a watch is sold without original documentation, this is clearly stated in the product listing as “Watch Only” or “No Box/Papers.”

2.5 Condition Grading

After authentication, every watch is assigned a condition grade using our standardised scale. Full details of our grading system are available on our Authenticity & Product Condition Policy page.

2.6 Our Authenticity Guarantee

We guarantee that every branded watch sold on MaxandsohWatches.com is 100% genuine. If any watch we sell is subsequently proven to be counterfeit, replica, or materially not as described, we will provide a full refund including all return shipping costs — no questions asked, no time limit. Full details are set out in our Authenticity & Product Condition Policy.

3. The Kimberley Process & Conflict Diamond Compliance

3.1 What Is the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is an international agreement established in 2003 to prevent the trade in “conflict diamonds” — rough diamonds used by rebel movements to finance wars against legitimate governments. The scheme requires participating countries to certify that shipments of rough diamonds are conflict-free before they can be traded internationally.

As of 2026, the Kimberley Process has 59 participating members representing 85 countries, accounting for approximately 99.8% of the global rough diamond trade.

3.2 Our Commitment

MaxandsohWatches.com fully supports and adheres to the principles of the Kimberley Process. Specifically:

New diamond-set watches and jewellery: All natural diamonds in new products sold on our website are sourced from suppliers who provide Kimberley Process certification and who are members of recognised industry bodies committed to ethical sourcing, including adherence to the World Diamond Council System of Warranties.
Pre-owned diamond-set watches: For pre-owned luxury watches that contain factory-set diamonds (such as certain Rolex, Cartier, Omega, and Breitling models), the diamonds were originally set by the manufacturer using stones sourced through their own certified supply chains. As an independent secondary market dealer, we verify the authenticity of the watch and its original factory configuration, including the diamond setting, through our Assure verification process.
Aftermarket or custom diamond-set watches: Where a watch has been modified with aftermarket diamonds (i.e., diamonds not set by the original manufacturer), this is clearly disclosed in the product listing. We require suppliers of aftermarket diamond-set pieces to confirm that all diamonds used are Kimberley Process compliant.

3.3 Our Warranty on Conflict-Free Sourcing

In accordance with the World Diamond Council System of Warranties, we confirm:

“The diamonds sold on this website have been purchased from legitimate sources not involved in funding conflict and in compliance with United Nations Resolutions. We hereby guarantee that these diamonds are conflict-free, based on personal knowledge and/or written guarantees provided by the suppliers of these diamonds.”

4. Lab-Grown & Moissanite Transparency

4.1 Our Labelling Commitment

MaxandsohWatches.com is committed to ensuring that every customer can make a fully informed purchasing decision. We clearly label all moissanite and laboratory-grown stones across our website to distinguish them from natural gemstones. This means:

Every product containing moissanite is clearly identified in the product title, product description, and product specifications as containing moissanite — not diamond.
Every product containing laboratory-grown (lab-created) diamonds is clearly identified as such, using the terms “Lab-Grown,” “Lab-Created,” or “Synthetic” in the product listing.
We never describe moissanite as “diamond” or use misleading terms such as “diamond alternative” without also clearly stating that the stone is moissanite.
We never describe laboratory-grown diamonds as “natural” or “mined” diamonds.

4.2 What Is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral (silicon carbide) first discovered in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan. The moissanite used in modern jewellery and watches is laboratory-created, meaning it is grown in controlled environments using advanced technology. It is not mined from the earth.

Key characteristics of moissanite:

Hardness: 9.25 on the Mohs scale (diamond is 10), making it one of the hardest known substances and highly suitable for everyday wear.
Brilliance: Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65–2.69, which is higher than diamond (2.42), giving it exceptional light performance and “fire.”
Ethical sourcing: Because moissanite is lab-created, it is inherently conflict-free and involves no mining.
Value: Moissanite offers an outstanding alternative for customers who want the visual impact of a diamond-set watch at a fraction of the cost.

4.3 Why We Sell Moissanite

We believe that customers should have access to beautiful, high-quality timepieces at every price point. Our moissanite watch collection allows us to offer stunning, diamond-like designs without the ethical concerns or high cost associated with natural diamond mining. Every moissanite watch we sell is crafted to the same standard of precision and durability as our other collections.

4.4 Lab-Grown Diamonds

Where we sell products containing laboratory-grown diamonds, these are diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds — but are created in a controlled laboratory environment rather than extracted from the earth. Lab-grown diamonds are graded using the same internationally recognised standards (the 4Cs: Cut, Clarity, Colour, and Carat) as natural diamonds.

We clearly disclose the use of lab-grown diamonds in all product listings and never represent them as natural or mined stones.

5. Supplier Standards & Due Diligence

5.1 Luxury Watch Suppliers

We source our luxury and branded watch inventory from a vetted network of established trade dealers, secondary market platforms, and verified wholesale partners. Before onboarding any new supplier, we conduct due diligence including:

Verification of the supplier’s business registration and trading history
Review of their authentication processes and quality standards
Confirmation of their compliance with applicable anti-money laundering (AML) regulations
Assessment of their track record through industry references and trade membership

5.2 Fashion Watch & Accessory Suppliers

Our affordable fashion watch and accessory range is sourced through international manufacturers and fulfilled via our logistics partner, CJdropshipping. We select suppliers based on:

Product quality and consistency (verified through sample testing)
Compliance with applicable product safety and labelling regulations
Ethical manufacturing practices, including adherence to local labour laws and working condition standards
Responsiveness to quality issues and willingness to resolve customer complaints

5.3 Ongoing Monitoring

Supplier relationships are subject to ongoing monitoring. If we become aware that any supplier has failed to meet our ethical, quality, or legal standards, we will cease trading with that supplier immediately and remove any affected products from our website.

6. Environmental Responsibility

We recognise the environmental impact of both the watch industry and e-commerce, and we are taking steps to reduce our footprint:

Sustainable packaging: We are transitioning to recyclable and biodegradable packaging materials wherever possible, without compromising the safety and presentation of our products.
Digital documentation: Where customers consent, we provide digital receipts, certificates, and correspondence to reduce paper waste.
Longevity over disposability: We believe in selling products built to last. A well-made watch, properly maintained, can last a lifetime — or longer. By promoting quality and repairability, we encourage a culture of keeping and caring for timepieces rather than discarding them.
Pre-owned market support: By dealing in pre-owned luxury watches, we extend the useful life of existing timepieces, reducing the demand for new production and the associated environmental impact of manufacturing and mining.

7. Industry Memberships & Standards

MaxandsohWatches.com operates in accordance with the following frameworks and standards:

Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) — For conflict-free diamond sourcing
World Diamond Council System of Warranties — For diamond supply chain transparency
UK Consumer Rights Act 2015 — For product quality and customer protection
UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) — For data privacy and protection
PCI DSS — For secure payment processing (via Stripe and PayPal)

As our business grows, we are actively pursuing membership of additional industry bodies and trade associations to further strengthen our commitment to ethical sourcing and professional standards.

8. Reporting Concerns

If you have any concerns about the sourcing, authenticity, or ethical standards of any product sold on MaxandsohWatches.com, we want to hear from you. Transparency is at the core of our business, and we take every concern seriously.

Please contact us at:

MaxandsohWatches.com
Email: admin@maxandsohwatches.com
Phone: +44 7506 608408
Address: 44 Sidlaw Close, Basingstoke, RG22 5BJ, United Kingdom

We will investigate all concerns promptly and take appropriate action, including removing products from sale if necessary.

9. Contact Us

For any questions about our sourcing practices, ethical standards, or authentication process:

MaxandsohWatches.com
Operated by: Ngoubi Maximillian Diangha
Address: 44 Sidlaw Close, Basingstoke, RG22 5BJ, United Kingdom
Email: admin@maxandsohwatches.com
Phone: +44 7506 608408
Website: www.maxandsohwatches.com

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