Take two watches people actually argue about. A Rolex Datejust 36 in steel. A Chopard L.U.C Mark III. Score them the same way, with price and brand fame left off the sheet. The higher total is not the winner of every column.

Rolex Datejust 36 126234

TS 73 · Engine 24 · Craft 0

Chopard L.U.C Mark III

TS 63 · Engine 27 · Craft 7

The Datejust takes Tenue Score on Engine and independent timing. The Mark III takes Engine quality and Craft on the calibre, the case, and the handwork. Craft sits beside the number. It is never added.

Read the number with what stands beside it. A crown does not move them. If you disagree with a score, name the field that moved — Engine, Frame, or Bench.

Not scored: price, brand equity, scarcity, celebrity, auction results, finishing used as prestige.