Benefits of buying at a storefront/AD versus an app

We all talk about what watches we want next, but we seem to talk very little about how we decide on where/who to buy from. 

For context, I've been saving for a 30th birthday watch and am starting to plan/scope out where to buy the watch (an Omega Seamaster Professional Diver 300m).  It's not a particularly difficult watch to find, and there are some super clones out there. 

I have come pretty darn close to buying the watch unworn and at a steep discount via Bezel. They authenticate, and the watch is brand spanking new and has years left on the warranty! Why wouldn't I buy from them rather than the AD a few blocks away? 

...but then I thought about the "dealer relationship," that many here have mentioned. I thought about the fact that I'd purchased an SPB143 from this dealer, and discussed my impending 30th birthday purchase with them. I worried about "betraying" that relationship. I felt guilt (probably the same subconscious guilt that sales people are always building up in clients by getting them champagne, freebies, etc).

So I pose two hypotheticals to the crunchers...

(1) Bezel or Brick-and-mortar?

(2) What are some benefits to buying brick and mortar that I might not be considering?

Reply
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I think it can be useful to have an AD on your side for warranty work, but likely it’s more about valuing a personal relationship and supporting a local business. Some ADs are worth it, others not so much, one visit will tell. Finally it’s hard for me to get behind a luxury watch purchase without seeing it in person. 

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Speaking personally I think it depends most on why you feel you would need to maintain such a relationship. If there was a particularly hard to get watch, that you wanted, I can understand why it makes sense buying from the dealer but otherwise I personally would purchase from wherever I can get the best deal, particularly if the watch I want is available from them. 

The way the economy is now, watches seem to be heading to a general market correction/reduction in their values thus makes sense to me to go as cheap as possible.

The only other benefit I can think of from a physical store is the whole experience of purchasing the watch, i.e. you'll be able to talk and discuss with the dealer, enjoy some drinks and probably receive a gift (although some online dealers now give this too).

Good luck though, and happy 30th!

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You shouldn’t feel guilty for buying from someone else. Your AD is a salesperson, and they will understand if the deal couldn’t get done. They might be disappointed, but they will understand. 
 

That said, the salesman is trying to get your business by providing VALUE. The value will almost certainly not be the lowest price, but they can generate a great experience, build a relationship, help you with any warranty issues, etc. 

The way I would handle this/do handle this is that I offer an opportunity to the AD to earn my business. I.e., I tell them X watch is available at y price online with free shipping. I’m hoping you can match it. They won’t, but you can still have a max price in your mind that you feel is worth the experience/service/relationship they are offering and see if you can get that price. If you can get that price, use your local AD. If not, tell them thank you and try again next time. 

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Cheers on almost 30! I'll be getting a new strap for my 30th in a few weeks. 

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I am loyal to my AD for certain brands; IE does buying from the AD help you with allocation pieces? If not, I am loyal to my savings, IE I buy the best deal for very specific watches. 

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I never bought new or from an AD. I see watches like cars… let the original owner take the depreciation hit and grab “Preowned” for 20-30% discount…. 

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For me personally, I like buying from an AD, I like the personal interaction, and when the AD is knowledgable, I like spending time just talking watches. I am particular with my ADs though, and definitely like to buy from someone that gives me a good vibe, and someone that I can trust. Trust takes time though.

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The last time I went inside a Seiko AD was a bit strange. The lady there was very polite and helpful, letting me try the SPB147 on my wrist, but she also wasn't making much efforts to close a sale.

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Hey mate! I am buying my SMP 300 Sedna Gold / Steel vom my AD.

It costs 800€ more than on the grey market but I want to strenghten my relationship with the ad to have to possibilty to get other watches in the future that are over the list price. It's also about the feeling of getting it sized and the whole buying in an store moment.

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I have bought online and at my 2 ADs.  My ADs are just excellent.  If I go in they clean watches and other jewelry my wife may have on.  Treat us great, and let me know of special deals or incoming pieces I might like.  I get to try on everything(they grin and bear it) .

Yes I would prefer to buy at an Authorized dealer over anywhere else.