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As the global economy recovers from the effects of the Pandemic, many consumers have made more practical purchases than they did previously. Some of them think faking a fake entry-level watch makes sense. The resemblance between authentic and fake watches is close. This raises the question of is a fake watch worth it.
A fake watch is cheap. You get to wear a watch at a fraction of its original price. It is illegal and the watch is not likely to last for years, thus negating its affordability.
How to Spot a Fake Patek Philippe
Being one of the most coveted Swiss luxury watches, it doesn’t come as a surprise that Patek Philippe watches are some of the most replicated in the market. Some imitations look so good that buyers are often deceived into paying good money for them. If you don’t have any plans to buy a fake Patek Philippe, these are some of the telltale signs to help you avoid it.
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Determine the type and quality of the material.
One of the solid ways to determine a fake Patek Phillippe is by simply holding the watch and feeling it. A real Patek Philippe only uses the finest materials such as gold, platinum, or some special kind of stainless steel. The same goes for Patek Philippe watch bands that are usually leather or rubber. It should be quite heavy in contrast to the fake ones that are much lighter to carry.
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The case needs to be looked at again.
“If you look at the case back of the watch, you can see if it’s authentic. The serial number is not put in any visible part of the watch. The serial number inside the case was inscribed. The watches are designed in a way that they are free from any inscriptions. The watch is most likely a fake if you have seen any number on the case.”
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Check the crown and letters.
Patek Philippe does an amazing job in creating high-quality watches that are unparalleled in terms of accuracy, precision, and design, and that should make it difficult for counterfeiters to replicate its watches accurately down to the last detail. The brand uses a single style and size that is uniform across all of its watches. A diamond is placed on each timepiece to separate it from fake ones.
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The screws should be examined.
“The screws may seem insignificant, but they could be a sign of something. The process of heating the screws first before attaching them to the watch makes them more resistant. The only thing unique to Patek is that it doesn’t use this process. Instead, it gathers the best screws and uses them directly in its watches.”
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The price should be weighed-in.
“If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. A watch from the lower end of the spectrum will cost at least $12,000. It’s enough to question its authenticity if it’s cheaper than that. With the materials being used to create one, you are assured of high-end quality that will last for generations, even though it will cost you this much. It’s a good idea to compare prices at at least three different boutiques before buying.”
Why It Matters to Invest in an Authentic Watch
- It retains its value.When properly taken care of, an authentic watch can retain its value even after several years. Depending on market demand, you can even sell it for a higher value, giving you an impressive ROI.
- It would last for a very long time. Because of the high-quality materials used and the special features, a luxury watch is outfitted with, you afford yourself a luxury watch that will not only support your lifestyle but one that will last for several years as well.
- It makes for a great investment.In relation to the first point, an authentic watch has a high possibility of being valued higher than its retail price in the long run. This is particularly true with limited-edition watches and vintage pieces.
- It’s the right thing to do. This is no-nonsense. Purchasing counterfeit goods may result in civil or criminal penalties—and it’s understandable why. It means you’re patronizing counterfeiters who are stealing someone else’s efforts. In the case of Patek Philippe, they’re stealing more than 180 year’s worth of research and development to deliver high-quality watches in the market.
Takeaway
“If you are considering buying a fake watch, consider buying a second hand one. It will cost a bit more than a fake one. For a fraction of the price of a new one, you’ll get an original Patek.”
May this article serve as a reminder that purchasing fake watches may seem promising at first. But, it will not take you long to realize that its affordability is far outweighed by its many downsides. Like with anything, it’s better to do your research first before buying the item you have your eyes on. Think of buying an authentic watch as supporting the industry and businesses that have started from scratch and undergone hardships to perfect their processes.
Buying a second-hand watch is always an option. A wide range of pre-owned watches can be found on many websites. Some unused watches come with their original packaging, even if they are not used. It is a matter of being smart with your purchase.
What do you think about a fake watch? Leave a comment to let us know
