zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

I purchased a nice Omega Seamaster Pro - Chronometer Automatic from a dealer in Los Angeles - named authenticwatches.com.

I am pleased with my purchase... but I wasn't aware of the gray market before I purchased. I received everything the dealer promised but the watch did not come in its original box and did not have any original paperwork. Also, the watch didn't seemed to be in new perfect condition... as advertised!!! After very close examination the watch had a few minor scratches... kinda in places that signaled someone might have worn the watch for a week or so... but again they were minute... so minute most people would have needed a magnifying glass to see. Also, the inner clip had some white substance inside. The band was perfect... not one scratch... so I either think they put a new band on a used face. I also brought the watch across the street to an authorized dealer to have it authorized. It's the real thing... so I'm okay there!!! But for a minute I almost called the BBB.

I was truly expecting - how they advertised it - a really "NEW NEW" watch in the box etc... as if bought from a real dealer. So I was a little disappointed. Especially when I know a dealer across the street who is authorized would have sold me the same watch for a few hundred dollars more. With a box... all papers... the works. So, personally I would NEVER EVER EVER buy a gray market watch AGAIN. I wish I knew about these "gray market" dealers before I purchased the watch. I feel like I got screwed. We all learn our lessons. And to think I was going to buy a TAG from them. I am glad I didn't.

Also, if you go check out "this site" - the consumer warning - I think the place you mention is on their list. Sometimes they even send the watches with out serial numbers. I think it is hit or miss. My watch HAS ALL SERIAL NUMBRES... So I feel like I lucked out!!! I didn't see authenticwatches.com on there... but I think they should be.

Now, I'm not trashing them. I saved over 46% on my watch. It is and seems new. It's a nice watch and I know that only after wearing this for a day the scratches just pop up. These watches scratch very easily. So, I feel as if I got a good deal. I just would have rather had the experience of a totally spanking new watch for a few hundred dollars more.

If you don't mind the mental pain of this type of purchase go for it. If you don't want this pain... by the real deal. I learned a very valuable lesson. Don't trust anyone!!! Especially on EBAY or anywhere else on the net.

Good luck with your purchase.

: I am considering buying a Seamaster for myself
: and a Tag for my wife at an online
: store{www.jomashop.com}. Does anyone have
: any feedback from past dealings? Thanks...