Dubai’s reputation for luxury shopping adds even more appeal to the big watch brands, almost every single one of them being available within the various malls and boutiques. These may include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and many others. Still, being a fan of celebrity watch brands doesn’t come cheap, which many apparently understand, and fake versions, often known as “first copy” watches, are sold within the harsh shadows at very reasonable prices. In some sense, yes, owning a branded watch at such prices would sound much more tempting, but at the same time, there are chances that individuals do get robbed in the process of being conned. In this piece, we will look at first copy watches in Dubai how one can be duped by a seller along with the ways a customer can ensure they are making the right purchase.

What Are First Copy Watches?

Watches are among the simplest and most popular pieces of jewellery among people. In addition to telling time, this accessory allows men and women to express themselves. For those with advanced tastes who want the best for less, first copy watches come in handy. This type of watch, also known as high-end copy watch, closely resembles genuine luxury watches, although it is only a mass-produced accessory. Measures that form the quality of these watches are never the same, so those who look for the perfect alternatives will be disappointed: it’s useless to chase such perfection as craftsmanship or value are legendary and unattainable.

While in Dubai, first copy watches are becoming very expensive, especially in places like Deira and Al Karama where there are street vendors and small shops selling the replicas. Some people have gone ahead and sold some of these rolex copy watches at such low rates that even the fans of watches can end up being swindled.

What Makes First Copy Watches Worth It?

The number one and key reason why first copy watches are admired so much is simply the cost. Buying an original luxury watch can be difficult for many people as it can sometimes run into tens of thousands of pounds. First copies, however, can still sell anywhere from a couple of hundred dirhams to a few thousand and are easy to sell as they cater to people who wish to have the look of a luxury watch at a much cheaper price.

In addition, first copy watches have a strong selling proposition as far as quality is concerned. Sellers can always claim that their watches are “AAA quality”, Swiss made or “the best quality” such that buyers may unknowingly purchase these replicas under false pretences. As a result, there is sometimes a high level of confidence in their purchase, even when the watch could not be anything further from real.

The Dangers of Purchasing First Copy Watches

For as great as the designs are for first copy watches, and they seem respectable, these copies do come with certain risks, including the following:

Inadequate Quality: Efforts are made to reproduce the non-replica version of the expensive watch, but first made copies, or simply first copy watches, are substandard and poor in all necessary ways because they are cheap. Hence, they could break or cease to function after only a short period.

Absence of Guarantee and Proof: A manufacturer’s guarantee and a certificate of authenticity are provided for true luxury watches. These two documents do not accompany a first copy of a watch. Because of this, it might be challenging to sell the watch or have it maintained by approved service providers.

Criminal Activity: Due to bad first copy watches being counterfeit products, they can’t be sold, and doing so is considered a crime in many nations including the UAE. Risks are associated with buying such goods if you are willing to buy first copy watches with the prospect of selling them primarily.

Diminished Market Price: Contrary to popular belief about the value of true luxury watches that increase, especially the limited editions and more exclusive variants, a first copy watch will lose its value as soon as you acquire it.

Ways to Prevent Scammers in Dubai

In order not to buy a replica watch when in Dubai and ascertain that one is getting an original timepiece, the steps to be followed include the following;

1. Buy from Authorised Dealers

Purchasing a luxury watch from an unauthorised dealer is relatively safe, but buying from a licensed authorised dealer is recommended. Buyers at well-known retailers such as the official Rolex store, Omega boutique, or Patek Philippe authorised dealers will never be sold fakes as they come with proper warranties and certificates of authenticity for timepieces. Also, purchasing from a licensed dealer means that the buyer gets an unused watch and receives after-sales service as well.

2. Price Check

If a luxury watch is available for sale and its price is too low and too good to be true, the chances are high that the watch is a replica or fake. Genuine luxury watches carry hefty price tags, most of the time, discounts for authentic watches unless it is an older model and not in demand are hard to come by. If there is a noticeable difference between the final cost of a purchase and the average market price set by an approved dealer, it is wise to be on alert.

3. Look Closely

In the first place, it is known that counterfeit watches, despite their good construction, are never exact copies. Small intricacies should be observed with care. Be aware of the weight of the watch where genuine ones are fairly heavy as the materials used are of quality. Visualise the scratches, cracks or imperfections on the case, the dial, the logo, and the finishing. A logo that appears slightly off-centre, crooked or uneven watch hands or a dial that is not very smooth all point to a fake piece.

Raise the concern of the watch movement also. Corrective luxury timepieces are made with solid movements that are flawless and reliable. A choppy movement of the clock or an irregular ‘tick-tock’ means the watch could be a knock-off.

4. Documents and Certificates

A genuine luxury timepiece would certainly show proof of purchase and more often than not, its box. This inability to provide documents from the seller raises an alert. Authentic watches also come with warranties and service records that are issued by the authorised dealer. Request such printed information before proceeding.

5. Conduct Research About the Seller

Don’t buy a watch blindfolded, do some research on the seller first. For instance, check their store or name on review sites or their social media pages. Look for complaints or reviews that state that the seller has sold fake watches or products. A good presumption is that if the seller has no site, they have no business to speak of.

6. Request a Test or an Inspection

In instances when purchasing from a second-hand or grey market seller, it is best to ask whether you may have the watch inspected by an expert or authorised dealer. Some authorised dealers charge a small fee for inspection services. Such assistance is rendered even before the buyer parts with cash for the watch.

7. Understand the Model and Technical Specifications

Look for information in advance about the specific brand or model that you are considering purchasing. Look for details such as features, engravings, or even serial numbers which are specific to original watches. This information can enable you to detect anomalies during the examination of the watch. Real luxury watches generally have those distinguishing elements which are difficult to imitate in replica varieties.

Conclusion

At first glance, a replica watch in Dubai may appear as a worthy alternative to the big money that authentic high-end watches cost, but there are considerable dangers associated with it. Many factors such as mediocre quality to some legal troubleshooting, purchasing a replica can disappoint and become a loss. Never wait to get cheated, check rumours or customer testimonials, and inspect the product closely if you can, since it is preferable to buy from accredited sellers. If such procedures are undertaken, it is assured that the luxury watch bought will withstand the elements and would be as genuine as it is supposed to be.

• Country: United Arab Emirates