Is your Corum
the real deal?
Corum, founded in 1955 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, is known for daring and unconventional luxury watch designs. The Admiral collection with its nautical flag markers and the Golden Bridge with its transparent linear movement are iconic. Corum's distinctive designs and collector appeal make them targets for counterfeiters.
How to authenticate a Corum
Nautical Flag Hour Markers
The Admiral collection uses international maritime signal flag markers at each hour position. Each flag must be precisely painted or applied in the correct colors and patterns corresponding to the actual maritime alphabet. The flags should be sharp-edged and vibrant. Counterfeits have poorly painted flags with incorrect colors or blurred details.
Dodecagonal (12-Sided) Case
The Admiral features a distinctive 12-sided case that echoes the 12 nautical flags. Each of the 12 facets should be identical in length and angle with crisp edges. The case finishing should be impeccable with both polished and satin-brushed surfaces. Counterfeits have uneven facets or rounded edges.
Movement Quality
Corum uses quality Swiss movements including in-house calibers for higher-end models. Through exhibition case backs, the movement should display appropriate finishing with signed components. The Golden Bridge uses a distinctive linear movement visible through the case. Counterfeits use generic movements without proper finishing.
Dial Finishing
Corum dials feature high-quality finishing with precise printing. The Corum logo and "CORUM" text should be perfectly executed. On Admiral models, the date window frame should be cleanly integrated. The overall dial layout should be balanced and well-proportioned. Counterfeits have blurry logos and poorly printed text.
Crown Design
Corum crowns feature the distinctive Corum key logo, precisely engraved. The crown should operate smoothly and, on water-resistant models, screw down securely. The logo detail should be sharp under magnification. Counterfeits have vague logos and rough crown operation.
Bracelet and Strap
Admiral bracelets are crafted with precision-machined links that reflect the 12-sided case design. The links should articulate smoothly with no rattling. Rubber straps on sport models should be supple with signed buckles. Counterfeits have loose bracelets with poorly fitting links.
Corum counterfeit warning signs
Incorrect Signal Flags
Each hour marker on the Admiral corresponds to a specific maritime signal flag. If any flag has wrong colors, wrong patterns, or doesn't match the correct maritime alphabet, the dial is counterfeit.
Uneven 12-Sided Case
All 12 sides of the Admiral case must be perfectly equal. If any facet differs in length, angle, or finishing quality, the case is counterfeit.
Missing Key Logo on Crown
Corum's signature key logo should be clearly engraved on the crown. If the crown is blank or has a different symbol, the watch is counterfeit.
Cheap Flag Printing
Genuine Corum signal flags are vibrant and sharp. If the flags appear faded, blurry, or the paint is bleeding between colors, the dial is a counterfeit.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Corum known for?
Corum is known for unconventional and creative luxury watch designs. Their two most iconic collections are the Admiral, featuring a 12-sided case with maritime signal flag hour markers, and the Golden Bridge, which showcases a transparent linear (baguette) movement visible through sapphire crystal. The brand also produced the famous Coin Watch made from real gold coins. Corum represents Swiss luxury with a bold, distinctive identity.
What do the flags on a Corum Admiral mean?
The 12 colored markers on the Admiral dial represent international maritime signal flags from the nautical alphabet. Each flag corresponds to a letter and has a specific meaning in maritime communication. For example, the flag at 12 represents "B" (Bravo), which means the vessel is carrying dangerous cargo. Corum uses these flags as a tribute to the naval and maritime world.
How much do Corum watches cost?
Corum watches range from approximately $3,000 for entry-level Admiral models to $50,000+ for the Golden Bridge and limited editions in precious metals. The Admiral 42 in steel typically retails around $3,500-$6,000. Pre-owned models can offer significant savings, with some Admiral references available from $1,500-$3,000 on the secondary market.