What is the difference between a factory-set diamond watch and a custom-made diamond watch?

The main difference between a factory-set diamond watch and a custom-made diamond watch is that factory-set diamonds are placed in watches by their respective manufacturers during the production process, while custom-set diamonds are installed by a third party at a later point in time, once the watch has already left the factory.

Factory-set watches are designed with real diamonds and precious gemstones of similar size, quality, and quantity as custom watches, but there are many distinct characteristics between the two types of watches. A factory-set timepiece means that the stones were applied directly by the technicians of the watch brand’s manufacturer, without any third-party involvement. All the inserts/components were intended as part of the original design. The alignment, orientation, position, stability, and proportion of the gems are precise.

Custom watches, also referred to as aftermarket watches, have diamonds added by non-brand authorized third parties to a pre-existing timepiece. Also referred to in the industry as “iced-out” or “blinged-out,” a custom timepiece has some replica parts, and the bracelet, case, or diamonds set into the watch are not original.