Let's talk discounts.
I'd like to pick the WC hive mind regarding how/when/where to ask for discounts or special deals. Many of my watches were picked up at discount during sale periods but to date I've never haggled on price or tried to work out any kind of deal during an in-person sale. For clarity, the watches I'm looking at are in the 2-5k range.
I'm wondering if that puts me in a minority and/or if there are rules of thumb others use to strike a deal. For example, I find myself in the market for two watches, one a brand new release, one a few years old but still current, from two different marques but both of which I could get through the same dealer (dealer meaning large retailer), though not one with which I have any history. If I were to propose a deal for both watches at a discount (say a saving of 15-20% on their cumulative RRP) would that likely be met with interest or derision? Anyone who does this? Any success stories or words of wisdom?
Similarly, I might also be in the market for a discontinued model (big horological name, but not a notable or highly sought-after model). I can't currently find it on offer anywhere but assume sellers would be open to negotiation since customers are not breaking down doors to purchase this but how likely would you say striking a deal would be? And how much could I reasonably expect to save? And from which retailers?
Any advice, anecdotes, or horror stories welcomed!
To be clear: I like new watches, not display models or second-hand, and I like to buy from ADs not grey market.
Watch obsessive who believes smaller and cleaner trumps bigger and flashier. Much first hand love for Tudor, Grand Seiko, Longines, Oris, Hamilton, etc. while pining from afar for Rolex, Patek, VC, et...
Generally;
Boutiques won't offer any discount but may throw in some freebies like an extra strap or 2.
Ad's;
Unless the watch is waitlisted , you should be able to score at the minimum 10% and depending on the brand and how long the watches have been on display maybe more like 15-20%
IMHO , only ask for discounts if you are serious about the watch in question and always ask.
If they offer you nanda , simply walk but do not mention that you can get a better deal grey etc.. if you act clued up they will know that you know the market. Make it obvious you are a watch guy.
Remember most of the brands despite what the industry is claiming are not flying of the shelves.
I’m in general agreement with the above post. Federico has a “talks watches” YouTube show all about haggling and profit margins.
Remember that you must never ask apologetically, but also never rudely or overly aggressively. Remember that the “best price” in their opinion is full retail.
Be cheerful and pleasant and show no fear or uncertainty - I sold expensive items for some years and retailers can sense fear, no kidding. You can let them know you like a good haggle straight out if you like - after trying on a few watches and dancing around the ones you like. Always smile and be assured. If I were you, and I was buying two watches, I’d certainly haggle toward 20% on the entire purchase, or 20% off each piece, depending on which pleases the retailer best.
Happy hunting!
Its always your right to politely ask and it's always their right to professionally say "no." Be ready to buy immediately if they say "yes" to your offer.
If you’re a returning customer, ask do they have any customer appreciation reduction that you can use towards X.
Its always your right to politely ask and it's always their right to professionally say "no." Be ready to buy immediately if they say "yes" to your offer.
Yup, in all honesty the two watches I have in mind I would be happy enough to pay retail for, it's the sense that I could probably make a moderate saving with a few words. I would certainly not make an offer without having the money to back it up.
Yup, in all honesty the two watches I have in mind I would be happy enough to pay retail for, it's the sense that I could probably make a moderate saving with a few words. I would certainly not make an offer without having the money to back it up.
If you are buying two at once you should at least confidently ask for a discount. Something like "What discount will you offer if I am buy both X and Y today." Notice the wording is pretty strongly implying that you expect some discount, not asking if there is a discount available. Small thing, but it could make all the difference.
Boutiques - chances are no, although a friend of mine recently received 20% discount at Breitling on the “Pistachio”.
ADs - chances of a discount are exponentially higher (not the hot models), usually capping out at 20%
Rule of thumb is it never hurts to politely ask. My line is simple: “any wiggle room on the price?”
Good luck🤙🍀
I tend to buy most of my watches from one regular ad since he retails a few brands that have been on my wish list. He is in a very high rent shopping area so his costs might be higher than some other ad selling the same models, I get that so usually if he offers me close to 15% off MSRP we are ok. A few of his guys are acquainted with my shopping history so some of the BS tactics that sellers and buyers indulge in is done away with quickly. I do not pretend to be either wealthy or poor just a git with one valid credit card. If I walk into a new shop where I have no history I am honest and admit that I am there only because my regular guy does not carry the item I am looking for. I politely ask if there are courtesy discounts never am offended when the answer is a fast never. Of course there are a few brands such as Rolex or AP where you do not need to ask since they will tell you that you are probably not worthy of owning one of their mass produced watches even if you can afford one easily.
My line is always 'what's the best price you can do'. My dad got 10% off a pelagos without even asking and I've been offered deals on most brands below Tudor.
As I tell my kids, "A closed month don't get fed." In other words, you will never know unless you ask.
Always ask for one, the worst thing they possibly can say to you is no, then go to plan B
You don’t know if you don’t try.
At one point I was looking to get a gold JLC ultra thin date, and told them this is what I’m willing to pay. They told me no, so I kept it moving.
But about two months later, they said if I was still interested they can work with me on the pricing. At that point though, I had moved past it.
It really depend on the brand and the model. But again, you don’t know if you don’t ask.
I have asked for and gotten a discount in the following scenarios. 1) Buying more than one watch at a time as a first time buyer at a watch shop. 2) As a returning customer with a set dollar amount off purchase card they sent me, used for a strap while also getting a discount on a watch and earring purchase all at the same time.
Generally;
Boutiques won't offer any discount but may throw in some freebies like an extra strap or 2.
Ad's;
Unless the watch is waitlisted , you should be able to score at the minimum 10% and depending on the brand and how long the watches have been on display maybe more like 15-20%
IMHO , only ask for discounts if you are serious about the watch in question and always ask.
If they offer you nanda , simply walk but do not mention that you can get a better deal grey etc.. if you act clued up they will know that you know the market. Make it obvious you are a watch guy.
Remember most of the brands despite what the industry is claiming are not flying of the shelves.
100% true!