Buying knock-off watches at Silk Market
Went to Silk Market to buy knock-off watches, and I’ve managed to bargain from RMB 2,400 to RMB 400. That bitch, she looked shocked when I told her my price, such good actress. I’m not sure if the price I got them for is ok, but I overheard this Chinese guy bargain for a watch that’s priced at RMB 600 and the lady sold it to him for RMB 300.
So anyway, here are some tips on buying knock-off watches from Silk Market:
- · If there’s a certain brand, model and make you want, it is best you print it out or save a picture of it on your phone. Saves you time from trying to look and explain to the salesperson the model you want.
- · Visit at least 2 or 3 stalls before making a purchase – that way, you’d at least have a feel of the merchandise because sometimes there are other stalls who sell better-quality watches.
- · There are two types of watches:
1. Class A - usually the more expensive ones are kept in a different metal case that’s stashed under or behind the counter. Other cheaper (but still Class A) ones are displayed on a glass shelf behind the sales people.
- Considerably heavier
- Smoother finish
- Transparent blue stickers to protect the metal clasps from scratching each other
2. Cheap Fake – these are the ones that are displayed on top of their stalls and are open for the customers to touch and see.
- · Having said the types of watches - be weary that the seller might trick you into buying the Cheap Fake but asking for a Class A price. So as much as possible, hold both the fake and Class A and compare.
- Rolex watches have the crown logo engraved (see #3 here) on the bottom inside part of the glass face. Yes, that intricate, even for a fake.
- The face color is different
- The glass face is, according to them, scratch proof (yes, they used the tool against the glass scratch test).
- · After purchasing, set the correct time and wear or put the watches in your bag where there is constant motion. Check them after 15-30 minutes to see if they are still working. It has already happened to me twice –the watch not working - you don’t wanna go home just to find out that the watch your bought is no longer working, no?
- · If a stall doesn’t carry the watch you want, most likely they’d ask from their neighbors for available stock. That’s just how Chinese business operates.
This is based purely on my experience in Silk Market. I dunno how others bargain and buy watches from that place, and I’m not even sure if the price I’ve bargained for is the “acceptable” price. Any comments, suggestions or tips are greatly appreciated. J
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