Q: What are the main details of this watch?
A: This is a vintage Chanel Matelasse watch, reference H0116, with a 19 mm stainless steel square case, black dial with quilted motif, black quilted leather strap and Swiss quartz movement.

Q: Will the 19 mm case suit my wrist?
A: Yes, if you like a petite, jewellery-like watch. A 19 mm case wears quite small and elegant on the wrist. The listed wrist perimeter is approximately 18 cm, so it should suit slim to average wrists depending on how closely you prefer your watch to fit.

Q: What condition is this watch in?
A: The watch is listed in very good overall condition for a vintage piece. Please expect scratches on the case, shiny hardware with scratches and light wear on the strap, as noted in the product details and visible in the photos.

Q: Is this a battery-powered watch?
A: Yes, it has a quartz movement, so it is battery-powered rather than manual or automatic. Quartz watches are appreciated for being easy to wear and simple to set. CHANEL notes that battery life can vary by model, but is typically around two to seven years.

Q: What should I do if the watch stops running?
A: As this is a quartz watch, the first step is usually a battery check. CHANEL advises replacing a depleted battery promptly and ideally within three months of the watch stopping, to help avoid leakage that could damage the movement. For best results, use CHANEL or a qualified authorised watch service.

Q: Can I wear this watch in water?
A: We would not recommend treating a vintage leather-strap watch as a swimming or shower watch. Even if a watch model originally had water resistance, that should never be assumed on a pre-owned vintage piece. The leather strap should also be kept away from water where possible.

Q: Does it come with its original box or product information?
A: No. This piece is listed with no original box and no additional product information included, so please expect to receive the watch only unless otherwise stated on the product page.

Q: Can the strap be replaced if needed?
A: Yes. Leather straps are wearable parts and can usually be replaced when they show age or wear. Because this is a vintage Chanel model, availability of an exact replacement may vary, so a CHANEL-authorised service centre or an experienced watch specialist would be the best place to ask.

Q: How should I care for this watch?
A: Wipe the case gently with a soft cloth, avoid wearing hard bracelets on the same wrist to reduce scratches and keep the leather strap away from water, heat and heavy moisture. Store it in a dry place when not in use, and consider periodic professional maintenance for long-term care.

Q: How do you authenticate this watch?
A: Every item at A Retro Tale is carefully inspected by in-house experts before sale. We assess details such as materials, finishing, markings, construction and overall consistency so you can shop pre-owned luxury with confidence.