I just went through the same dilemma. I had a deal going with a web dealer and than found out reading the fine print that the watch would not have a serial number (they grind it out). To me not having a serial number was the biggest negative. One issue is identification for insurance purposes and also I think for future value. Without the serial number what if a run of watches had a defective part, how would you know yours was not one of them?
John R. on the boards here steered me in what I think is the right direction. I now have a nice new full size Seamaster Chrono and it has the serial numbers intact. Just piece of mind for me. The warranty was not a big deal for me either gray/authorized it would get fixed.
: I recently purchased two new mid-size Omega
: Seamaster watches (2252.50 and 2561.80) from
: a very reputable (I am certain of their
: authenticity)unauthorized dealer for 40% and
: 45% discounts respectively. Given that the
: warranty is only a small percentage of ones
: ownership, I cannot see the downside of
: loosing the manufacturer's warranty given
: this short duration (and the unauthrized
: dealer's self-warranty of 3 years)as once
: this time period has expired I am at the
: same point as purchasing from an
: "authorized" dealer with money
: left in my pocket. I still have 12 days to
: return my purchases for a full refund if
: there is a good reason to do so. Please tell
: me of any fallacy in my reasoning. Thank you
: for your time.
