TRAVEL JAPAN / FIELD GUIDE 03
A few clear questions make a watch-store visit easier.
Use these cards when browsing Japanese watches or checking the details of a purchase. Each card pairs a polite Japanese question with its English meaning and approximate romanization. You can simply show the Japanese line on your phone.
Twelve questions to keep handy
01
May I try this on?
試着してもいいですか。
Shichaku shite mo ii desu ka.
Point to the watch you mean and wait for the assistant to hand it to you.
02
Do you have this model in stock?
このモデルの在庫はありますか。
Kono moderu no zaiko wa arimasu ka.
Show the full model reference. A photo alone may leave the dial or bracelet version unclear.
03
Could you write down the model number?
型番を書いていただけますか。
Kataban o kaite itadakemasu ka.
Keep the reference with your notes so you can compare the exact version later.
04
Is this new or pre-owned?
これは新品ですか、中古ですか。
Kore wa shinpin desu ka, chūko desu ka.
Ask about the condition of the specific watch being offered.
05
Does it have an overhaul history?
オーバーホール歴はありますか。
Ōbāhōru-reki wa arimasu ka.
For a pre-owned watch, ask whether dated service records are available.
06
Have any parts been replaced?
交換された部品はありますか。
Kōkan sareta buhin wa arimasu ka.
If the answer is yes, ask which parts and whether there is supporting paperwork.
07
Is bracelet sizing included in the price?
ブレスレットのサイズ調整は料金に含まれていますか。
Buresuretto no saizu chōsei wa ryōkin ni fukumarete imasu ka.
Confirm the cost before requesting an adjustment.
08
May I also have the removed bracelet links?
外したコマもいただけますか。
Hazushita koma mo itadakemasu ka.
Store spare links with the watch’s box and paperwork.
09
Is this warranty valid in [country]?
この保証は［国名］でも有効ですか。
Kono hoshō wa [country] demo yūkō desu ka.
Show or say your country. Ask who provides the warranty and how a claim would be handled after you return home.
10
What is the total price including tax?
税込みの合計金額はいくらですか。
Zeikomi no gōkei kingaku wa ikura desu ka.
Ask for the final amount for the exact watch and any extra services you want.
11
Could you explain the return and exchange conditions?
返品・交換の条件を教えていただけますか。
Henpin, kōkan no jōken o oshiete itadakemasu ka.
Check the conditions before paying, including any effect of bracelet adjustment or use.
12
Could I have that in writing?
書面でいただけますか。
Shomen de itadakemasu ka.
Use this after a specific answer about condition, included accessories or warranty terms.
Small words worth recognising
| Japanese | Reading | Meaning here |
|---|---|---|
| 型番 | kataban | Model reference |
| 保証 | hoshō | Warranty |
| 中古 | chūko | Pre-owned |
| コマ | koma | Bracelet link |
| 修理 | shūri | Repair |
| 納期 | nōki | Delivery or completion timing |
Before you leave the store
- Check that the model reference matches the watch and receipt.
- Keep the warranty document and the store’s written explanation of coverage.
- Check the accessories and removed bracelet links agreed as part of the purchase.
- Ask for the relevant contact details if you need help from overseas.
Buying pre-owned? Take the practical checklist →
Original editorial phrase guide. Romanization is a reading aid; showing the Japanese text is often simpler. No store-specific policies or inventory are implied.
