zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: As Steve pointed out, very nicely I might add, that my blanket
: statement of doubling their costs just isn't correct---all the
: time. I'm sure in some cases it is correct. And this may be one
: of them as Steve said. But, you get the idea that if they took
: 6oo off the cost of my watch, they still made enough profit to
: justify having it in the display case and they won't lose their
: status as an AD. So, I'd be willing to bet my Tag that if you
: buy it a Jareds they'll automatically take 600 off the price for
: you. I bet that's company wide. (I bought mine in Pittsburgh,
: PA.)
: And Steve thanks for the info. It made me start looking on the net
: for more info. I found one article and you might be interested
: in it. See the link I've added. It's an older article, but
: seemed to be on target for today also. It's titled "The
: Death of Retail" by Ed Zimmer, 1999, The Entrepreneur
: Network. I don't know where he got his numbers, but I'm guessing
: it's from his experience. I checked the author out and he's well
: educated and been around the block. You might find it
: interesting reading. Of course, it's not as interesting as
: wearing an Omega Speedmaster on your wrist! Thanks again for the
: info. These forums are great, huh?!
: Chris

Like most far reaching prognostications, it will be generally, but not wholly true. The change will be slower than you might think.

Huge portions of the economy are going to be based on having a local retailer: groceries, gas and any physical services, such as hair, repair and despair (medical). Not all is retail I realize.

Clothing is too difficult to purchase online unless it is a standardized item; higher cost items will continue to be available in local stores. I'm not going to purchase a $1,000 suit over the internet and go elsewhere to have it fitted -- without having seen it and felt the fabric.

I suspect luxury goods that are truly individual will be the same. Diamond rings and most jewelry can be photographed accurately so that you can buy over the internet. For instance, I don't think watches can -- for a $3,000 watch I have to see it on my arm.

but I could be wrong

Sam aka Hewybaby