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Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com?

JSA

Apr 17, 12 20:29

Post #1 of 92 (8150 views)

Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com?	Quote \| Reply

They have great prices. I have searched the web and the reviews are mixed with quite a few more positive results than negative. It seems like the people who had bad experiences were not paying attention (e.g., not making sure the watch was in stock, not reading the reviews, etc.).

Anyone have any experience with these guys?

http://www.authenticwatches.com/
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

last tri in 83

Apr 17, 12 21:38

Post #2 of 92 (8140 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

paging Mopdahl

_____________________________________________
To err is human, to forgive, canine

Andrewmc

Apr 18, 12 0:04

Post #3 of 92 (8125 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I'd be extremely cautious. A quick review of the net, and they run exactly the same scam, or appear to, that certain camera stores do. Cheapest price, then delay, procrastinate, dont ship etc etc, to save what is, on many high end watches, a fairly insignificant amount.

I've bought watches now for about 10 years, primarily from London Dealers, and twice from Antiquorum, once in NY and once in Geneva.

Personally I'd not ever hand over cash to anyone I had doubts about, especially when it came to watches.

What specifically are you looking at? and how much better is their price than MRP

KING_COOPA

Apr 18, 12 7:40

Post #4 of 92 (8067 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [Andrewmc] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

it looks like their prices are ~45% off MSRP.
this is just based on a quick scan of their site.

i agree with you though, i'd be very cautious...
that's a pretty steep and almost unbelievable discount.

________________________________________________
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.” - Plato

JSA

Apr 18, 12 11:48

Post #5 of 92 (8038 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [Andrewmc] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I am finally in a position to be in the market for a "real" watch. So, I am a complete newbie in this area. I have done my research and narrowed down to a few.

I am not in a position to be looking at luxury watches (Panerai, IWC, Franck Muller, etc.) so I am focusing more on "designer" watchers (Tag, Breitling, Omega, etc.). I have my eye on a Tag, Link collection. Retail is $3800. Best price I found at an authorized dealer is just under $3,100. On the website it is $2775.

http://www.authenticwatches.com/...-cat2010-ba0952.html

I have scoured the internet for info on these guys. I have found a lot of good reviews. There are also a number of bad reviews, but, they stem from issues with customer service. I have not found anything that says these watches are anything other than authentic. The complaints regarding delay and availability all come from watches that are not listed as "in stock." I would stay away from them.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

Ski racerz

Apr 18, 12 12:06

Post #6 of 92 (8028 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I didn't know my well built Omega was just a "fashion watch"! What will I tell my Movado, lol?

Anyway I bought watches from these guys a long time ago and they are still around for whatever that is worth:

http://www.worldofwatches.com/...amp;bo_brand_id=2300

haole

Apr 18, 12 12:21

Post #7 of 92 (8018 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

what is the difference in time shown on Swatch vs. Tag???

if you cannot afford Patek you are just wasting your hard earned money son....

LorenzoP

Apr 18, 12 12:25

Post #8 of 92 (8012 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

who wears a watch these days - a watch only has one feature : )

JSA

Apr 18, 12 12:26

Post #9 of 92 (8011 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [Ski racerz] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Ski racerz wrote:

I do have a Movado and I love it. I called my Movado and the Tag I want a "luxury watch" and was promptly smacked down by a watch snob who told me anything under $10k is "fashion jewelery." ;-p I beg to differ, but, like I said, I am a newbie to the watch game, so, what the hell do I know ... ;-)
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

JSA

Apr 18, 12 12:29

Post #10 of 92 (8007 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [LorenzoP] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

LorenzoP wrote:

who wears a watch these days - a watch only has one feature : )

What's funny about you post is, I kinda said the same thing. I used to wear watches religiously and laughed at the young people who do not wear watches anymore. Then, for some reason, I stopped wearing watches altogether. Nada. Didn't need it.

However, I learned that a watch is the one piece of jewelry a man can wear to set himself apart and a good watch finishes off a professional outside perfectly. I have been on a stretch where I have been trying cases throughout the south and everyone in the courtroom has a nice watch. I was advised I need to obtain one myself to complete my professional appearance. Thus, I find myself here.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

JSA

Apr 18, 12 12:32

Post #11 of 92 (8003 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [haole] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

haole wrote:

what is the difference in time shown on Swatch vs. Tag???

if you cannot afford Patek you are just wasting your hard earned money son....

I know. I know. But, the cheapest one I found is $12,500 (pre-owned) and, sorry, not gonna happen. The one I REALLY want is $216,900.

http://www.jomashop.com/patek-5004p-033.html
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

triengineer

Apr 18, 12 12:36

Post #12 of 92 (7998 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [LorenzoP] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

LorenzoP wrote:

who wears a watch these days - a watch only has one feature : )

Lol.
Just in case you don't know (my apologies if you do), look up complications for watches. Wikipedia claims the record for complications (i.e. features) on a watch is 24.

NCtri

Apr 18, 12 12:38

Post #13 of 92 (7995 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

watchuseek.com

I've bought and sold many there. Sucker bet to buy it new.

****************

Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.

haole

Apr 18, 12 12:45

Post #14 of 92 (7986 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

if you are a baller you pay retail instead of looking at some dodgy discount sellers. then you rock it out so people can drool over your Tag (btw Tag and alike are like 3 series BMWs..every paupers' dream)

JSA

Apr 18, 12 12:51

Post #15 of 92 (7978 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [haole] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

haole wrote:

Hey! I resemble that remark! ;-)
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

haole

Apr 18, 12 12:54

Post #16 of 92 (7973 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Hey! I resemble that remark! ;-)

hahaha...in all honesty so did I but when I was 17. grew up a bit since then

msaskin

Apr 18, 12 14:57

Post #17 of 92 (7932 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [NCtri] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

NCtri wrote:

watchuseek.com

I've bought and sold many there. Sucker bet to buy it new.

This. Have a small number of Panerai's as well as a B&R all purchased pre-owned, saved I can't even think of how much money off of buying new, and they work just as well, look just as good, etc.

fred_h

Apr 18, 12 17:45

Post #18 of 92 (7895 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

If you have not please read this thread. There is some good info:

http://forum.slowtwitch.com/gforum.cgi?post=3504067

Fred.

fred_h

Apr 18, 12 17:48

Post #19 of 92 (7892 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

[I know. I know. But, the cheapest one I found is $12,500 (pre-owned) and, sorry, not gonna happen. The one I REALLY want is $216,900.
http://www.jomashop.com/patek-5004p-033.html]

but but FREE SHIPPING!!!!!!!!!
Fred

klehner

Apr 18, 12 17:57

Post #20 of 92 (7885 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [fred_h] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

fred_h wrote:

For that coin, they should have a Brazilian supermodel deliver it to your office and give you a BJ while strapping it on your wrist.
----------------------------------
Of course, with your ears stuffed with outrage cotton balls, all you heard was, rahrahra, govt comes to get your guns, rhahrahrah, stamp out your FREEEEEDOM! - slowguy

JSA

Apr 18, 12 18:17

Post #21 of 92 (7879 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [klehner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

klehner wrote:

fred_h wrote:

For that coin, they should have a Brazilian supermodel deliver it to your office and give you a BJ while strapping it on your wrist.

You should get more than that for $216k ...
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

steveandbarb1

Apr 18, 12 18:38

Post #22 of 92 (7865 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I would certainly go vintage, some beautiful/classy stuff out there far less than a new watch. You should be able to find a nice gold Hamilton or perhaps an older Rolex with a simple movement for about 1k.

(This post was edited by steveandbarb1 on Apr 18, 12 18:43)

JSA

Apr 18, 12 18:49

Post #23 of 92 (7856 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [steveandbarb1] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Where? How do you know you are buying an authentic watch?
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

IzzyG

Apr 18, 12 19:11

Post #24 of 92 (7849 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

JSA wrote:

LorenzoP wrote:

who wears a watch these days - a watch only has one feature : )

Agreed 100%. People treat you differently(both professionally and casually) with a nice watch(even when I wear just scrubs most of the time).

Uncle Arqyle

Apr 18, 12 19:21

Post #25 of 92 (7847 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

JSA wrote:

Where? How do you know you are buying an authentic watch?

Actually, there is a bit on authentic watches in this month's GQ magazine. It gives some suggestions and recommends some websites.

last tri in 83

Apr 18, 12 20:40

Post #26 of 92 (3409 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I like this company a lot

http://www.xetum.com/

I like the new Breitling stuff

I think Tag is pretty boring.

_____________________________________________
To err is human, to forgive, canine

Andrewmc

Apr 18, 12 22:27

Post #27 of 92 (3395 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

there are lots and lots of well respected watch dealers, unless a watch was an obvious fake, cheap crap bracelet as an example, there is no way that I could differentiate a single or double red sea dweller original from a fake made from a sea dweller. I know that there were never as many produced as regularly come on the market, but I could not identify the real ones from the fake ones. SO I use watch auction houses, Antiquorum, combined with watch dealers for servicing and authentication.

I have a 1987 sub, bought at auction no box no papers, both of which would have increased the price. I bought it because for all the years the auction has run, in NY, Hong Kong and Geneva, I'm only aware of one instance where a fake has come to light, and in those circumstances the auction house bought it back.

Once I receive the watch, I took it to be serviced, and the service record acts, along with the sale documents, as a means of authenticating it.

On what you should buy, I'd rather have a self wound PP Caltrava thats old than a new Tag, we should be clear about how the watches are valued. PP produce 25-30k units / year. Rolex produce close to a million. PP are hand made amazing pieces of kit, Rolex are great watches but no PP. (I say that as the owner of a sub and a sea dweller)

Tag, Omega, even companies like Oris make nice watches, they are generally well engineered nice pieces of kit, but they are not, and never will be, high end watches. Occasionally one might produce a movement or design that will retain its value, but on the whole, if you walk out of a store with a Tag, Omega etc, the value starts dropping, its just like a car.

See attached - we could all argue about the details (i.e. I'd have split the top two tiers in to three and not compared Rolex with Omega and Tag - resale value alone separates them, bit thats neither here nor there) - http://www.chronocentric.com/watches/brands.shtml

I'd decide what you want, then head on to forums, watch this - http://www.detailingworld.co.uk/...wthread.php?t=241069 (cant find original address on youtube)

Do you want a sports watch or a dress watch? I wear sports watches for work all the time, my wife wants me to get a dress one (or at least thats what I'm telling myself)

I'd identify a trusted dealer, I've always bought used, my sub was less than a new Tag or Omega, determine what you want and then have at it.

mopdahl

Apr 19, 12 9:32

Post #28 of 92 (3368 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [Andrewmc] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

^^^^ This x2.

There was a previous LR thread on watches that covered this ground in detail.
____________
“There are two novels that can change a bookish fourteen-year old’s life: The Lord of the Rings and Atlas Shrugged. One is a childish fantasy that often engenders a lifelong obsession with its unbelievable heroes, leading to an emotionally stunted, socially crippled adulthood, unable to deal with the real world. The other, of course, involves orcs.” John Rogers

gary_a_gooner

Apr 19, 12 17:58

Post #29 of 92 (3331 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

There are very many reputable grey dealers you could find on watch forums. They have access to many new models with prices much better than ADs.

Ski racerz

Apr 19, 12 19:58

Post #30 of 92 (3309 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Anyone familiar with Bucherer watches? I have an heirloom watch and no idea about it's build or quality.

mopdahl

Apr 19, 12 20:01

Post #31 of 92 (3305 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Agreed.
____________
“There are two novels that can change a bookish fourteen-year old’s life: The Lord of the Rings and Atlas Shrugged. One is a childish fantasy that often engenders a lifelong obsession with its unbelievable heroes, leading to an emotionally stunted, socially crippled adulthood, unable to deal with the real world. The other, of course, involves orcs.” John Rogers

JSA

Apr 19, 12 20:36

Post #32 of 92 (3297 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I know I am not in the real collector or elite level here, but, what do you think about this watch and price?

http://www.demesy.com/p/54853.html
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

last tri in 83

Apr 19, 12 21:12

Post #33 of 92 (3288 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Beautiful.

_____________________________________________
To err is human, to forgive, canine

mopdahl

Apr 20, 12 0:48

Post #34 of 92 (3270 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Shit. My achilles heel on watch knowledge.

Not the watch, but what I feel vs actually know/value of it. Here we go:

First off, if you are buying used, figure 50% of SRP as a starting point. Add/subtract 10-15% based on documentation & rarity, then negotiate from there. $6k for a run-of-the-mill $8k PAN is too much.

I posted in the aforementioned watch thread about PANs.....but aside from that:

1. Are you a big guy? B/C 90% of PANs are Big---lik 44mm+++. If you aren't big, you'll look like Sir Douche with a big "look at me" watch on your wrist.
2. I think the look rocks (insofar as their design). I think most PAN's present beautifully. I've owned several....and sold them all shortly thereafter. #1 reason---they are FRIGGIN BIG! And (as ludicrous as the following statement is when talking about a $5k piece of male jewelry) they simply aren't practical. FWIW, as a bigger guy (6'3/210), I would never buy a SS PAN---they are just too heavy. Ti also holds its value better, though it is prone to scratches (but cleans up nicely).
3. You mentioned you are looking for a professional watch.....95% of PANs aren't that watch. You live in the midwest.....99.9% of the populace have no idea what a PAN is...you might as well wear something from Fossil or Invecta if you want a "big" watch. Hell, Casio makes a couple of really nice big watches if thats what you are after and they'll cost you 1/20th of what a decent PAN costs. Now as to the why on "non-professional" watch---have you ever tried to put on a real dress shirt with a 44-54mm watch? Good luck. Even with french cuffs you are going to have issues---most likely the watch is going to ride to the front, pinching against your wrist/back of hand......and it isn't going to look right. PANs are great casual Friday/pimping-going-out watches. I wear custom shirts, and I have an extra 1/2" on my left cuff, and I still can't fit my big watches comfortably under the cuffs. It is the wrong watch for the situation. Period. Unless you are 6'2+ &/or built like Arnold (and there is something about short body-builder guys wearing big watches that screams small penis syndrom to me), its hard to pull off a big watch in anything but a casual enviro.

Seriously, what are you looking for? If you want a business watch at the $3-5k point I'll happily point you to 5-6 choices that will appreciate over time, will be classic in any environment, and you'll cherish. Statement watches are not necessarily about their size. Or recognizeability....especially in this day & age (of fakes)---ANYONE can walk around with a Rolex Daytona on their wrist, and honestly, I can't tell whether that (or most Rolex's) are real or fake anymore. I have three "everyday" watches right now: a Blancpain Leman Flyback, an IWC Portugeiser in Rose Gold & an Omega Seamaster Titanium Professional refitted with the Nautical/America's Cup bezel & I NEVER wear the Omega for business---it is just too big (and its smaller than every PAN I've owned). The IWC is barely ok for biz---solely b/c it is elegant.

You want something that will look great in both biz & casual, that will only appreciate in value, and might be a steal?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Blancpain-Leman-Flyback-Chronograph-2185F-1130-71-100-Authentic-Excellent-Cond-/221005580257?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item3374f587e1#ht_634wt_791 (fwiw I'm the high bidder at $800---you'll spend $500 on links to fit your wrist, but this is a GREAT watch at under $3k).

IMHO the best potential appreciation value in watches today = Glashutte: IF you are patient you can find a SS Panomatic for <$6k, and that is a GREAT watch. This also isn't a bad deal:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Glashutte-Original-39-41-02-02-04-Senator-Klassic-PanoDatum-Lunar-SS-MINT-B-P-/310394065372?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item4844ed91dc#ht_4792wt_1024

but if you are patient these sort of deals appear: http://cgi.ebay.com/...rt=nc#ht_1144wt_1024

&, FWIW, my next (and last for a while) watch will be this once it hits <$13k: http://www.ebay.com/...429e6#ht_1681wt_1212

However, IMHO the holy grail of watch-dom is simply Lange & Sohn. NOTHING will appreciate like a Lange. They are rare. They are RIDICULOUSLY nice. There are very few watches that I've held over the years & simply marveled at the sheer level of quality of the piece. Fuck Patek. In 2008 I played it conservative & didn't take advantage of a couple of fire-sales when guys needed <$20k for their Lange Timezones in Rose Gold & I've regretted it ever since. While a L&S Tourbograph is my holy-grail watch, I'd happily settle for a platinum Tourbillion or even a platinum Datograph....one needs to be amenable to compromise. The Lange Saxonia or even the Grand 1 is a "I want to be buried with this watch, watch". When I take my next company public, I am buying a platinum Lange & never taking it off.

Happy to discuss further, but remember you have to be happy with what you are wearing. Everyone's style is different, and for 99.9% of the populace it really doesn't matter.

____________
“There are two novels that can change a bookish fourteen-year old’s life: The Lord of the Rings and Atlas Shrugged. One is a childish fantasy that often engenders a lifelong obsession with its unbelievable heroes, leading to an emotionally stunted, socially crippled adulthood, unable to deal with the real world. The other, of course, involves orcs.” John Rogers

(This post was edited by mopdahl on Apr 20, 12 0:52)

Andrewmc

Apr 20, 12 4:24

Post #35 of 92 (3257 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Watch size is key, my sub and sea dweller are fine for work, the aqua timer looks big, deeper and has a funky bezel and is probably a bit to ostentatious

That said, it's no where near a Pan, or as immediately recognisable as a Richard Mille.

At a distance there is no way anyone can tell a real from fake rolex, apparently at least one John Mayer daytona has been faked if I recall correctly and sold at auction

Newman, single and double reds are a little like Woodstock, there are far more people out there claiming to have been there than were

I'd like a caltrava, but I'd never buy an AP, I think they're obnoxious

For 3-6k you can probably find an example by almost any manufacturer of some vintage though it certainly may not be what you want

Decide what you want, why you want it, think that it's like a home, you are going tomwear it, not put it in a safe deposit box, so u have to like it.

Also just bear in mind that few watches appreciate considerably, some appreciate a little, fewer still hold their value and a shitload lose a ton of value from the moment you buy them so choose wisely

This is for jSA but follows on from mopdahl

JSA

Apr 20, 12 6:38

Post #36 of 92 (3228 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

THANK YOU! That is exactly what I needed to hear (and from Andrew as well). I did read the other thread, which was quite helpful. But, this is the specific information I needed.

I am looking for a business watch at the $3-5k price point. I would gladly take you up on your offer to point me to 5-6 choices that will appreciate over time! Please do so.

Regarding style, for this particular watch, I am leaning towards leather/crock band. Something like this: http://www.essential-watches.com/...th-Silver-Dial-43955

THANK YOU!
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

Andrewmc

Apr 20, 12 7:11

Post #37 of 92 (3220 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I love IWC, it's a smart dress watch

http://catalog.antiquorum.com/catalog_asta.html

See if that link works, Search for Patek then sort by price and they have a dozen with an estimated price of 6k or less as alternatives

I like the portugese (sp?), the 2 Lange at 7k pilots watches, I like reasonable sports watches for work

I just sat through a meeting with this complete wanker wearing a gold rolex, gold bracelet and gold college ring, it just makes you look like some wide boy salesman

I think gold on a sports watch looks cheap, gold on a caltrava good, titanium is the mutts nutts

I'd also hit the different forums timezone, rolex, IWC and see if there are any deals, post what you want and see if someone can hook you up

mopdahl

Apr 20, 12 13:58

Post #38 of 92 (3189 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I'll do it in the next couple of days. Remind me if I haven't sent you anything.

This showed up in my spam box today: http://igmx.curak.ru/...rand&brand_id=52

Lots of Rolex & other fashion watch fakes out there.
____________
“There are two novels that can change a bookish fourteen-year old’s life: The Lord of the Rings and Atlas Shrugged. One is a childish fantasy that often engenders a lifelong obsession with its unbelievable heroes, leading to an emotionally stunted, socially crippled adulthood, unable to deal with the real world. The other, of course, involves orcs.” John Rogers

last tri in 83

Apr 20, 12 14:14

Post #39 of 92 (3180 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Wow those look pretty good. Tempting - where I live nobody would know the difference!

_____________________________________________
To err is human, to forgive, canine

mjcrna

Apr 20, 12 17:02

Post #40 of 92 (3161 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Well it's on sale and it's free shipping, duh no brainer!

last tri in 83

Apr 20, 12 21:45

Post #41 of 92 (3132 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Don't use this company. Bad reputation

http://www.ripoffreport.com/...luxury-replicas.aspx

_____________________________________________
To err is human, to forgive, canine

JSA

Apr 24, 12 10:20

Post #42 of 92 (3062 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

mopdahl wrote:

Just a friendly reminder. Thanks!
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

mopdahl

Apr 24, 12 12:45

Post #43 of 92 (3049 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Ok, just my humble opinion on what I like & what I would buy for $3-8k right now, with the considerations being in my personal delta valuation of (price/appearance/rarity/possible appreciation (or limited depreciation). My caveats also are that I don't like gold (except white or rose) on watches, prefer Ti over SS, and anything bigger than 42, possibly 44mm for a dress watch is too big.

I'm also going to limit my recs to the following companies & here are the reasons why (IMHO):

1. A. Lange & Sohne: simply the finest watches made. Their craftsmanship is unsurpassed, and they have a feel & heft to them that screams quality. Their values/costs have doubled over the past decade, probably largely due to currency exchange rates. Only strike against them from my POV is that quite a few of their watches are mechanical vs automatic---kind of a PITA for daily wear, and their is some agreement that an automatic in a watch-winder will last longer & be more accurate than a mechanical that is used only occasionally.
2. Original Glashutte: I like to think of them as the "sporty" Lange & Sohne. Same heritage, not quite the same level of craftsmanship,
3. Blancpain: small company, been in business since 1753. Not well known except to watch enthusiasts. Prices have appreciated over the last 10 years the way Lange & Rolex have, and its hard to find a decent used chrono for under $10k aside from the SS Leman; they certainly keep their value well. They tend to run smaller in size vs their competitors---a 38mm Leman fits my wrist really well, and I'm 6'3/210/ex collegiate swimmer. Pretty classic looks.
4. IWC: hate their pilot watches & flieger chronos as they are just too big. Lots of fakes coming onto the market. Only ones I would recommend are the Portugese, though they are big watches & their pushers stick out quite a bit & I've bent mine on my Rose Gold Chrono. Appreciating in value at about 1/2 the rate of the first 3 mentioned.
5. Jaeger LeCoultre: lots of classic watches. Their high-end Tourbullions are very nice, but I would never buy one. Great Reverso if you are into that sort of thing. The Master Control Calender series is extremely nice & a relatively good value vs the competition, but haven't seen many come up. They make A LOT of different watches, and while they don't necessarily appreciate in value, and most of their line will depreciate somewhat over time, the company behind the brand is solid.

Some decent buys out there right now (just using Ebay instead of looking thru the weeds):
1. Aforementioned Blancpain Leman Flyback in SS: 38 mm case, about the thinnest Chrono that you are going find, you would need to find some bracelet links, but that isn't too hard--under $3-3200k this is a steal (no box & papers, you'll spend $200-250 on getting the links, and condition looks to be a 7.5/10 or so): http://www.ebay.com/...4f587e1#ht_623wt_913 : I would maybe offer $4800 & get mint & box/papers on this one: http://www.ebay.com/...cc986#ht_4304wt_1402 . Blancpain Moonphase: similar to the JLC Masterdate, this is a very nice watch. Probably an aftermarket leather band but it has the Blancpain deployment clasp which is a huge plus: http://www.ebay.com/...1af4f#ht_4115wt_1402 In Rose Gold if you can ever find a Leman Alarm with black face for around $10-12k, its worth stepping up & buying it. They've appreciated about $5k in the last 2-3 years & now retail for $25k +.
2. Glashutte: http://www.ebay.com/...6b136#ht_2200wt_1402 : cool watch, bit of a Mad Men look to it. Its really nice in person--42mm--but to the average person hard to tell from a Timex. http://www.ebay.com/...d91dc#ht_4713wt_1402 : some very nice details here. Price is right on this as these usually are $6k+ for comp condition---can't tell if strap is original & I don't like tang buckles. http://www.ebay.com/...e7dfc#ht_1432wt_1402 : probably the best chance for appreciation of the watches listed so far. This is a VERY cool watch...especially with a grey dial...however at 12mm thick it is on the verge of being too sporty (more from an appearance---the Blancpain is thicker, but doesn't look it due to the edging on the case). Another point--this is a new watch---and even if you could get for $7500 or so, you are still only $3k under SRP--a 7 y.o. used one just went for $4600, which is about right given the age/condition/seller.
3. JLC--this one is about to end, but its the right price for a GREAT watch----http://www.ebay.com/...54681#ht_8888wt_1402 . This isn't quite as nice--no power reserve + a watch-winder is a must (and even with them the various date settings are a PITA) but if you like the black face, a pretty solid choice: http://www.ebay.com/...d101e#ht_2845wt_1171 There aren't any current listings, but the Master Control Triple is a great <$5k used watch: http://www.ebay.com/..._cvip=true&rt=nc
4. IWC Portugeiser--I'm partial to the Rose Gold Chrono, and if you can find one for under $10k its a great deal (assuming condition is good). There are a lot of different variations---two that present well are the Power Reserve with white face/blue steel hands: http://www.ebay.com/...de14#ht_10296wt_1402 and the SS chrono also with blue hands: http://www.ebay.com/...a5367#ht_1330wt_1402 If under $5k for the Power Reserve & under $6200 or so for the Chrono, these would be good buys. Do an ebay search for IWC Portugese though---there are about 40 different hand/dial/case combos.
5. Lange: shit, haven't been following their costs lately. There isn't anything out there now for under $12k. The Lange 1 is a GREAT watch & has basically doubled in value in the last few years. Ditto Saxonia (no longer making) and even the 1815, which is too dressy for me. Maybe when the currency exchange rate gets better. FWIW don't buy one of the stupid 50mm converted pocket watches labeled Lange & Sohn....just a waste of $$. Kicking myself for not buying a Timezone for $16k back at start of recession when everything was going for fire sale prices---now they are back to $30k+.

So, with Lange out.....I would look at Zenith---they have been appreciating in value, they make VERY complicated watches, they aren't a super-hot brand (and may not ever be), and they have some cool watches---but probably not in the dressy mode. If I wanted a look-at-me sporty watch for Vegas, I'd get this: http://www.ebay.com/...c186a#ht_2012wt_1402 but it certainly won't work for business wear. Maybe this: http://www.ebay.com/...2f23a4#ht_500wt_1416 but there are about a million warning signs (Poland (home to high-end fakes & pocket-watch conversions), platinum case w/18k tang buckle, no papers, Poland). I've seen this in person & its a GREAT watch, but unless you could somehow do some sort of authentication + escrow I wouldn't go within a million miles of this.

One important thing----go try some of these out---go visit Tourneau next time you are in Chicago or NY or LA, or Westime in LA...or any serious watch place & try some of these on for fit & feel---the net is great for photos, but how it actually fits your wrist & your individual preference is hard to do unless you see it first. Lastly fakes: part of the reason I recommended the above brands is that there are very, very few fakes of these out there right now, and the ones that are produced are usually the brands $100k bling watches.
____________
“There are two novels that can change a bookish fourteen-year old’s life: The Lord of the Rings and Atlas Shrugged. One is a childish fantasy that often engenders a lifelong obsession with its unbelievable heroes, leading to an emotionally stunted, socially crippled adulthood, unable to deal with the real world. The other, of course, involves orcs.” John Rogers

JSA

Apr 24, 12 18:15

Post #44 of 92 (3009 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Thanks! I placed a couple bids. We will see what happens.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

last tri in 83

Apr 24, 12 19:07

Post #45 of 92 (3001 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Man those are all nice.

_____________________________________________
To err is human, to forgive, canine

JSA

Apr 24, 12 20:09

Post #46 of 92 (2977 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [last tri in 83] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Ebay sucks. I hate bidding. Just tell me the price of the damn watch.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

fred_h

Apr 24, 12 20:37

Post #47 of 92 (2970 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

on which ones if you do not mind the curiosity?

Fred.

JSA

Apr 24, 12 21:11

Post #48 of 92 (2959 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [fred_h] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

fred_h wrote:

on which ones if you do not mind the curiosity?

Fred.

The two IWCs. Are you the bastard who out-bid me? ;-)
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

fred_h

Apr 25, 12 5:14

Post #49 of 92 (2924 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

No I am not that bastard but if I was buying right now I would have definitively tried on those 2!

Fred.

(This post was edited by fred_h on Apr 25, 12 7:12)

mambwe

Apr 25, 12 7:10

Post #50 of 92 (2911 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [fred_h] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Not that I am in the market for a new watch, but is ebay a reliable place to buy such an expensive item? Especially given how many counterfeits watches there are. Does ebay offer any protection if something comes up counterfeit?

JSA

Apr 25, 12 11:53

Post #51 of 92 (1085 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mambwe] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

mambwe wrote:

It is a bit of a risk and I do not believe there are any protections. That is why guys like mopdahl are so helpful b/c they know what things to look for to determine whether it is a risk.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

JSA

Apr 26, 12 12:30

Post #52 of 92 (1050 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

mopdahl wrote:

4. IWC Portugeiser--I'm partial to the Rose Gold Chrono, and if you can find one for under $10k its a great deal (assuming condition is good). There are a lot of different variations---two that present well are the Power Reserve with white face/blue steel hands: http://www.ebay.com/...de14#ht_10296wt_1402 and the SS chrono also with blue hands: http://www.ebay.com/...a5367#ht_1330wt_1402 If under $5k for the Power Reserve & under $6200 or so for the Chrono, these would be good buys. Do an ebay search for IWC Portugese though---there are about 40 different hand/dial/case combos.

FYI - I went after these two. I REALLY like the Power Reserve! I thought I had a shot, but, it is now at $6,800 and likely rising. I took your comment to mean that was too high for this watch. That would be over 1/2 SRP.

I landed a Zenith Chronomaster XXT Open. I fear it is on the large size -- larger than you and Andrew may approve. But, the damn thing is absolutely gorgeous. I could not stop looking at it, so, I popped and picked it up for 48% of SRP. Should arrive tomorrow.

I would really like an Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean of the 2918.50 variety (with rubber strap) as a semi-casual going-out watch. I do not want to pay new prices. The only pre-owned I found is with the orange bezel and would prefer the black bezel. Can those be changed?
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

mopdahl

Apr 26, 12 13:08

Post #53 of 92 (1042 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Congrats on the Zenith--if it is the silver dial, with sweep second hand + power reserve you did well. One of my favorites of the Zenith as the open movement is really nice. I think you'll be ok with the 45mm as the sides are graduated & don't make it appear too clunky.

As to the Omega, anything is possible. Omega services all of their watches in NY, and turnaround is 4-6 months on average, but they can easily swap out the bezel. I had my Seamaster Pro Titanium bezel fall off & they replaced it with a Ti bezel, not the original black one. Find an authorized Omega dealer & get a firm price then decide.

Welcome to the dark side. Now you need a watch winder.
____________
“There are two novels that can change a bookish fourteen-year old’s life: The Lord of the Rings and Atlas Shrugged. One is a childish fantasy that often engenders a lifelong obsession with its unbelievable heroes, leading to an emotionally stunted, socially crippled adulthood, unable to deal with the real world. The other, of course, involves orcs.” John Rogers

gary_a_gooner

Apr 26, 12 16:49

Post #54 of 92 (1011 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Re : watch Winders. Is there s reason you recommend one? I never thought of them necessary unless you have an automatic with many complications. I just let my watches wind down and get their rest. It takes less than a minute to get it set up again.

JSA

Apr 26, 12 19:16

Post #55 of 92 (990 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

gary_a_gooner wrote:

Mike would know better than I, but, I have done extensive research on this issue. Automatic watches need to keep running to keep properly lubricated. Allowing an automatic to "wind down" will degrade performance over time.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

JSA

Apr 26, 12 19:17

Post #56 of 92 (989 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Yep, it is the silver dial with sweep second hand and power reserve. Very excited. Thank you for all your help! I am sure I will have more questions in the near future.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

gary_a_gooner

Apr 26, 12 19:28

Post #57 of 92 (986 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I could see how that would be the case back in the day. Although, I Don't believe that's the case anymore, especially with the oils they currently use in watches. There can be a whole discussion/debate about this, but there are some that believe keeping a watch winded will increase wear. Additionally, oils don't dry up like they used to.

FWIW, I have 2 automatics and a manual. I never use a winder.

I should really stay away from this thread. Talking about watches makes me want to buy one. Must....resist.....

JSA

Apr 26, 12 19:35

Post #58 of 92 (980 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Again, I am no expert, but -

Is frequent resetting the watch by hand recommended? No, not in the long term. Manually resetting or rewinding your watches using the watch's screw down crowns will cause a problem over the long run, namely, thread wear. That is, manually unscrew the crown to wind and reset the watch by hand will eventually cause wear and tear to the crown's thread and other mechanism, in particular the gasket employed to water-seal the watch. Thus, frequent resetting the watch manually is not only inconvenient, it is also not recommended as doing so would accelerate wear and tear to the watch in the long term.

How can an automatic watch winder enhance the mechanical life of my automatic watch?
In addition to reducing wear and tear of the crown system as mentioned above, a properly designed watch winder can help distribute the lubricating oil inside the watch evenly most of the times. When a watch winds down and stops, the lubricating oil inside the watch will tend to settle and clot, and lose certain extent of its viscosity over an extended period of time.

As such, the chance of certain moving parts not being properly lubricated when the watch runs again is much greater; resulting in increase friction and pressure caused to certain moving parts inside the watch. The consequence would be that the mechanical life of the watch could be shortened and the performance of the watch being hampered. This explain why certain watches, left in a watch retail store for too long a time without winding, seems to perform not in its pristine condition even if it is a "brand new" watch.

_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

fred_h

Apr 26, 12 20:02

Post #59 of 92 (970 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Like this one?
Fred.

JSA

Apr 26, 12 20:10

Post #60 of 92 (967 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [fred_h] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Yes. Very much so. However, the face is grey/silver, rather than black. But, looks like that.

Here it is: http://www.ebay.com/...id=p3984.m1497.l2649
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

last tri in 83

Apr 26, 12 20:58

Post #61 of 92 (954 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Sweet!

_____________________________________________
To err is human, to forgive, canine

mopdahl

Apr 26, 12 21:11

Post #62 of 92 (949 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Carefully, you are stRting to speak and reason like a watch geek.
____________
“There are two novels that can change a bookish fourteen-year old’s life: The Lord of the Rings and Atlas Shrugged. One is a childish fantasy that often engenders a lifelong obsession with its unbelievable heroes, leading to an emotionally stunted, socially crippled adulthood, unable to deal with the real world. The other, of course, involves orcs.” John Rogers

MOP_Mike

Apr 26, 12 22:45

Post #63 of 92 (941 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I think you should just get a watch tat. :-)

"...Sometimes it's about getting the most speed out of the motor you have." -- Tom A.

Andrewmc

Apr 27, 12 0:25

Post #64 of 92 (930 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I own 3 automatics and dont own a winder. Back in the day where lubricants dried, sunk to the lower parts of the watches etc, stopping and starting will have caused unnecessary wear. Now, I do not believe that to be the case and neither do the guy's that service my watches.

I alternate 2 on a weekly basis, the third I don't wear much. I don't think that there's any consensus on this, but lubricants have improved and I think that we can live with out a winder.

Good call on the watch.

For the query about the bezel, that can be changed by almost any watchmaker and replacement parts for watches can be bought online.

brewerbry

Apr 27, 12 4:54

Post #65 of 92 (920 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

If you do go down the winder path and want to test the waters without spending a pile of cash, i have purchased 2 Eilux single winders from this spot: Watch products.net

They usually have a 20% off coupon on eBay and you can normally find a refiurb Eilux for around $100. You hardly ever have to mess with the time and date set if you use a wi dee - it seems silly but it is nice if you don't wear your automatic for a few days and pick it up to find you have to adjust everything omit - kind of a pain if you have a watch with the date.

gary_a_gooner

Apr 27, 12 6:27

Post #66 of 92 (911 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

TBH, this sounds like something a watch winder company wrote....

JSA

Apr 27, 12 6:30

Post #67 of 92 (909 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [MOP_Mike] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

MOP_Mike wrote:

I think you should just get a watch tat. :-)

That sure would be a hell of a lot less expensive than these watches ...
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

JSA

Apr 27, 12 6:35

Post #68 of 92 (906 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

gary_a_gooner wrote:

TBH, this sounds like something a watch winder company wrote....

Quite possible. The only thing I know for sure is that continually running will not harm the watches. Sounds like there is conflicting information regarding lubrication. Not sure how anyone could argue against the wear and tear issue of constantly re-setting the watch.

I picked up a 4-watch winder off e-bay last night for $150. Considering how much these high end watches cost, seems like dropping another $150 for possible preventive maintenance is a good investment. Of course it is quite possible that all I did was succumb to marketing by a company with a vested interest in selling me their product.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

gary_a_gooner

Apr 27, 12 6:43

Post #69 of 92 (903 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Regardless--I hope you enjoy your new piece. Wear it in good health!!

fred_h

Apr 27, 12 6:43

Post #70 of 92 (903 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Very nice!
Fred.

IzzyG

Apr 27, 12 7:35

Post #71 of 92 (890 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Kinda like dropping $100(times 2) for tires after spending 3 grand for wheels :P Man, keep up the expensive hobbies, you'll soon feed a third world nation alone ;)

(and unfortunately I share the same interests. Then again, compared to billionaires mining asteroids we're actually "thrifty")

JSA

Apr 30, 12 16:05

Post #72 of 92 (847 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [mopdahl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

mopdahl wrote:

Carefully, you are stRting to speak and reason like a watch geek.

I hate you. After purchasing the Zenith (which is INCREDIBLE) I found the Omega Seamaster I was seeking, nearly new, mint condition, used, that I picked up at a great price. I now find myself checking ebay every night for some sweet deals and hanging out in watch geek forums learning pricing on pre-owned watches. I blame you for this. I never thought I could find anything to make me as obsessive/compulsive as I am about tri gear. I hate you...
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

NCtri

Apr 30, 12 16:58

Post #73 of 92 (836 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

JSA wrote:

mopdahl wrote:

Carefully, you are stRting to speak and reason like a watch geek.

Oh please, you ain't even sick yet.

Half reps, half gens.

****************

Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.

JSA

Apr 30, 12 17:33

Post #74 of 92 (827 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [NCtri] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Wow. Love the Panerais! How many are authentic?
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

rick_pcfl

Apr 30, 12 17:42

Post #75 of 92 (822 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

JSA wrote:

Wow. Love the Panerais! How many are authentic?

How rude! Would you ask a woman how many of her boobs were real? ha!
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Rick Smith - Founder of Bus Bulletin
Parent notification software designed for pupil transportation ~ Providing information while it still matters.
http://www.BusBulletin.com

NCtri

Apr 30, 12 17:48

Post #76 of 92 (1028 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

2, but once you get in the watch community you will soon find that the difference is really, really small. Especially with a watch that has as cheap original movement as Panerai. They should be shot for selling at the price they do.

Shamefully that is one box of two.

As others have said the state of the art on reps has to be seen. I have no idea why anyone would buy a gen PO. The reps with swiss 28.8 movements are spot on.

I still like some gens, but knowledge in watches is everything. And with reps you have to know who you are buying from. I have one woman in China. I never buy from anyone else. Yeah, yeah, yeah, IP, child labor, etc. etc. etc.

****************

Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.

JSA

Apr 30, 12 18:09

Post #77 of 92 (1020 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [rick_pcfl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

rick_pcfl wrote:

JSA wrote:

Wow. Love the Panerais! How many are authentic?

How rude! Would you ask a woman how many of her boobs were real? ha!

Ha! I would not have asked had he not announced that some were auth and some were rep.
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

rick_pcfl

Apr 30, 12 18:38

Post #78 of 92 (1008 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

I would not have asked had he not announced that some were auth and some were rep.

I know. You typically show a fair bit of decorum, even if you are a labor lawyer. :) Come to think of it, that's probably why; If you were a smart-ass at the wrong time, you'd be pricing cement shoes instead of watches.

This thread and the other one a few months back has gotten me interested in watches. For now, I'll be an observer. As with most other topics, there are usually a few people around here who know their stuff and provide interesting information and discussion.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Rick Smith - Founder of Bus Bulletin
Parent notification software designed for pupil transportation ~ Providing information while it still matters.
http://www.BusBulletin.com

NCtri

Apr 30, 12 18:42

Post #79 of 92 (1007 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [rick_pcfl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

rick_pcfl wrote:

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, do not get interested in watches. My reps are unusual stuff, things they made 10 of as gens and you have to have them custom made. You would not believe how many custom guys I know in china. I have wasted so much of my life. :-)

****************

Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.

Andrewmc

Apr 30, 12 22:45

Post #80 of 92 (987 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [NCtri] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

any richard mille?

I'll get a gen PP to add to the others, but I think most RM's are out of my range

NCtri

May 1, 12 12:03

Post #81 of 92 (951 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [Andrewmc] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

As you might imagine it is the most popular stuff that gets repped well. Rolex, Omega, Pam, although AP and Graham have some very nice examples. The swiss ETA is out of copyright, so the Chinese have an Asian clone that is very, very difficult to tell from Swiss. Biggest problem is the QC on the oiling and waterproofing. So I send mine to a watch guy as soon as I get them. Also a good way to tell if you like a watch before dropping $$$$$$$ on one.

The RM or the PP are just not that popular amongst the unwashed so you are not going to see them repped at a high level. They exist, but there are significant tells.

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Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.

West Side

May 1, 12 12:33

Post #82 of 92 (941 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [NCtri] (Deleted by West Side) [In reply to]

West Side

May 1, 12 12:35

Post #83 of 92 (936 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [NCtri] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

What are some good sites that sell reps?

Thanks.

gary_a_gooner

May 1, 12 12:40

Post #84 of 92 (932 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [West Side] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

reps?!?!?! NO THANKS.

NCtri

May 1, 12 12:53

Post #85 of 92 (924 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

gary_a_gooner wrote:

reps?!?!?! NO THANKS.

Good for you!!!!!!

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Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.

JSA

May 1, 12 13:25

Post #86 of 92 (915 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [NCtri] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

DAMMIT! I hate ebay!!! Bunch of frick'n idiot newbs overpaying for pre-owned watches! I have been watching/bidding on two nice selections for 3 days. I got sniped on BOTH!

At least I got one jack-ass to over-pay on a pre-owned Tudor mini sub by $250. I took a big gamble and ran him up as time was expiring.

Too frustrating when people jump in at the last minute and over-pay. Do some frick'n research you lazy pricks! I have only been in the watch game for 2 weeks and already I know what many of these watches are worth! SHEESH!
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

NCtri

May 1, 12 13:31

Post #87 of 92 (913 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

In my experience JSA ebay is not the way to go. Spend a few days on watchuseek. Read. I've got some really good deals on there and you still have paypal protection in most cases.

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Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.

rick_pcfl

May 1, 12 13:36

Post #88 of 92 (908 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Why don't you just go ahead and pay for a penis enlargement. then you won't have to worry about buying watches and triathlon gear. :)
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Rick Smith - Founder of Bus Bulletin
Parent notification software designed for pupil transportation ~ Providing information while it still matters.
http://www.BusBulletin.com

JSA

May 1, 12 13:46

Post #89 of 92 (903 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [rick_pcfl] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

rick_pcfl wrote:

Why don't you just go ahead and pay for a penis enlargement. then you won't have to worry about buying watches and triathlon gear. :)

I DON'T HAVE ANY MONEY FOR PENIS ENLARGEMENT! I AM SPENDING ALL MY MONEY ON WATCHES AND TRIATHLON GEAR!!!

I hate you people. You are enablers ... ;-p
_______________________________________________

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers

Emery's Third Coast Triathlon | Tri Wisconsin Triathlon Team | Push Endurance | GLWR

rick_pcfl

May 1, 12 13:49

Post #90 of 92 (897 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [JSA] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

The penis enlargements are quite a bit cheaper than the watches you're buying. Not that, uh, I've looked into pricing, or asked if they offer lay-a-ways. Cause they don't offer lay-a-ways, in case you had a friend who didn't have internet and you were checking into it for him, or something.
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Rick Smith - Founder of Bus Bulletin
Parent notification software designed for pupil transportation ~ Providing information while it still matters.
http://www.BusBulletin.com

(This post was edited by rick_pcfl on May 1, 12 13:51)

gary_a_gooner

May 1, 12 13:54

Post #91 of 92 (895 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [NCtri] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

NCtri wrote:

In my experience JSA ebay is not the way to go. Spend a few days on watchuseek. Read. I've got some really good deals on there and you still have paypal protection in most cases.

x2....ebay blows.

Luck

May 2, 12 16:22

Post #92 of 92 (846 views)

Re: Any experience with AuthenticWatches.com? [gary_a_gooner] [In reply to]	Quote \| Reply

Just in case it wasn't obvious you can negotiate an AD down anywhere from 10-35%. The mass produced stuff more so ...
I got 25% off very easily and could have got more if I walked out or waited for a call back from the sales guy.