This is a very common problem faced by us in purchasing online. But here a few tips I've compiled from various website regarding 'Fake watch dealers' an the 'details on watches' that you should look for before making any transaction.
1. Try to compare any watch that is up for auction or sale with pictures from its original makers website. You 'MUST' check out the details such as the loops, the ball or arrows on the watch, the bezel insert and displayed numbers and misspelled words for example : - certified wrongly spelled as 'certified' on the front face or caseback.
Tips : You can print and bring it to your nearby watch store just to get extra advie or post it / share the picture in any watchforums. Usually people in the forum will give you a quick feedback.
2. Always make sure the warranty cards has its referrence number. If you can check with it's original watchmaker or publish in a popular forums or website regarding reports on stolen watch just to see if there is any respons. Of course, you must never rush in purchasing online if you want to be safe.
CASE STUDY : Omega Seamaster : Detecting a fake bezels.
Normally a 'fake bezels' are typically printed without any lume. The triangle and numbers are printed in a yellow color to give the appearance of lume. Genuine bezels have a lumed triangle and numbers. Older authentic bezels may not glow very long, but may still energize for a short time if exposed to bright light.
3. Purchase from website or auctions which is included with the owners picture. Maybe some don't agree with me, but this is to make sure the sellers has an excellent track record or won't cheat you. Try to request some extra information on the sellers profile.
Ask them to provide you with extra information on where they live, picture or Tax id number. Or try to get them scan their I.D card or Passport and mail them to you, then only you will agree to make the purchase.
IT MAY TAKE LONGER THAN USUAL, BUT THAT IS THE WAY YOU CAN TRACE THEM LATER. IF ITS IS A FALSE PASSPORT, THAT 'SOMEONE' MUST BE IN OTHERS WAYS RELATED TO THE ORIGINAL SELLERS'
