I'm sharing this slightly embarrassing story as a warning to fellow watch lovers. I recently bought a fake Seiko SARB017 Alpinist – let me tell you how it happened and how to avoid making the same mistake.
My Fake Alpinist Story
I've always regretted selling my original SARB017 Alpinist. It's a classic, discontinued watch now selling for crazy prices. After months of yearning, I gave in and searched for one on eBay.
The watch arrived, and something felt off. The dial seemed flat, not as rich as I remembered. I chalked it up to faulty memory, made a video about it... and that's when the comments poured in.
Guide to Spotting a Fake Seiko Alpinist (Don't Get Fooled)
The Seiko SARB017 Alpinist is a legendary watch, sadly discontinued and now highly sought-after. This popularity has led to a surge in well-made counterfeits. Arm yourself with expert knowledge to avoid disappointment.
Detailed Examination of a Fake Seiko Alpinist
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The Dial:
- Color: The original green dial has a rich, iridescent quality that shifts in the light. Fakes often have a flatter, less dynamic green.
- Text and Printing: Examine the "Seiko" logo and other dial text under magnification. Real Seikos have crisp, well-defined printing. Fakes can look blurry or slightly smudged.
- Indices and Hands: The original's hour markers and cathedral hands have precise angles and beveled edges. Fakes can appear rounded or flat.
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The Case and Crystal:
- Engravings: Caseback engravings should be sharp and deep. Fakes may be shallow or poorly spaced.
- Finishing: Seiko has high standards. Look for inconsistencies in brushing or polishing, especially around the lugs.
- Crystal: The original uses a sapphire crystal. Fakes may have cheaper materials, prone to scratches.
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The Movement:
- The 6R15: Unless you're a watchmaker, opening the caseback is risky. But if you can, look for:
- Striped Rotor: As mentioned previously, this is a hallmark of the 6R15.
- Overall Finishing: Real Seiko movements have a level of decoration, even on workhorse calibers.
- The 6R15: Unless you're a watchmaker, opening the caseback is risky. But if you can, look for:
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Other Red Flags
- Price: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Seller Reputation: Stick to trusted sellers or pre-owned from reputable dealers.
- Bracelet Mismatch: The SARB017 never came on a bracelet – that's an immediate giveaway.
Expert Tips
- Compare with High-Resolution Photos: Find reputable sources for close-up images of a real SARB017. Compare these side-by-side with the watch you're considering.
- Use a Jeweler's Loupe: A loupe magnifies details, making subtle flaws easier to spot.
- Don't be Rushed: Take your time examining the watch. If a seller pressures you, it's a bad sign.
The Importance of Authentication
If you have serious doubts about a watch, or you're spending a large sum, professional authentication is the safest route. Find a trusted watchmaker or service center specializing in Seiko.
Buying a fake Seiko is always disappointing, especially with an iconic model like the Alpinist. By arming yourself with knowledge and exercising caution, you can protect yourself from unscrupulous sellers.
I was heartbroken. Seiko inadvertently created a counterfeit market by discontinuing this beloved watch. The good news is, I found a different Alpinist model I love even more (the SPB210).
Lessons Learned and How to Protect Yourself as a Watch Enthusiast
My unfortunate experience with a fake Seiko Alpinist highlights a growing concern in the watch community. Here are the key takeaways from my mistake and how you can make smarter buying decisions.
Lessons Learned
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The Illusion of Scarcity:
- Discontinued watches become targets for counterfeiting. The desire for a rare item can cloud our judgment.
- Be wary of listings emphasizing a watch's scarcity or 'unobtainable' status.
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The Price Trap:
- "Too good to be true” often is. While everyone loves a bargain, unreasonably low prices for sought-after watches should raise alarm bells.
- Research the current market value for the model you're interested in.
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Trusted Sources Matter:
- Buy from reputable dealers, established sellers with good feedback, or directly from the brand.
- Watch forums are your friend! Seek recommendations on where to buy specific models safely.
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The Devil's in the Details:
- Before buying, become an expert on the specific watch. Study high-resolution photos of genuine examples.
- Learn the telltale signs of a fake for your desired model. A little research goes a long way.
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When in Doubt, Don't:
- Trust your gut. If something feels off, even if you can't pinpoint why, walk away.
- There's no shame in seeking professional authentication if you're unsure about a high-value watch.
Call to Action
Share your own experiences with counterfeit watches or close calls in the comments below. By raising awareness, we can help protect each other from getting scammed.
Additional Considerations
- The Emotional Impact: Discuss the disappointment and frustration of buying a fake, especially a dream watch. It makes your story more relatable.
- The Broader Problem: Touch on how counterfeits damage Seiko's reputation and the watch industry overall.
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