If you want the best, most beautifully designed, most technically advanced, and most desired watch then you simply have to buy Swiss. However, a watch from one of the big manufacturers is expensive. But, is it possible to buy a cheap Swiss watch at a discounted price? The answer is yes, but you have to work that little but harder at finding it.
The world’s best watches come from Switzerland and many dream of owning one. Each manufacturer has a certain style and niche, whether it’s the complicated movements of Patek Philippe, the diving history of Panerai watches or the aeronautic heritage of smartwatch for lg g2 each of these watches, and others brands, can cost many thousands of dollars. And, while many want to own one, many also want a bargain. So, where do you find a cheap Swiss watch?
Well, you’re not going to find one in your local department or watch store. Prices of Swiss watches remain pretty stagnant; you typically don’t find the massive price reductions during sale-time that you do on other luxury items. The main reason for this is that most manufacturers only produce a comparatively small amount of watches each year – only around 35,000 Panerai watches are produced annually. Demand usually outstrips supply. Stores know this and they know they don’t need to budge on price to attract customers; the fact is they can sell the watches without the need to drop the price.
However, if you do go to the store you may be able to negotiate ‘extras’, such as straps. Don’t think this is peanuts; Patek Philippe straps are hand-stitched crocodile skin and cost hundreds of dollars to replace. Getting a free strap will save you money in the future.
Okay, getting ‘extras’ is great but it still doesn’t get you a cheap Swiss watch. You need to go online and begin your search. For starters, many online retailers sell cheaper than their department store competitors, due to lower overheads and because they sell watches by the bucket full. You’ll be amazed at the price differential you can find. You can also get the free ‘extras’ into the bargain.
But real savvy buyers look further afield. Many will seek to buy from boutiques in Europe. The boutiques have very close ties with the manufacturers and prices can be very competitive and you can also find a wider selection of merchandise.
The smartest will look even further afield. There are many fine stores in Hong Kong and Singapore that sell Swiss watches. The price is usually cheaper than in Europe or the United States and exchange rates can significantly reduce the real cost of the watch. If you’re comfortable with exchange rates and can handle the extra hassle of buying from abroad, you can really find yourself a cheap Swiss watch – saving hundreds of dollars.
One word of warning though: If you do buy from abroad you’ll need to first wire the money or pay by Credit Card (remember paying with a card means the merchant paying the credit company a percentage, so don’t pay with a card and negotiate a further price reduction). Also, you’ll usually need to fax some form of ID.
One more point: You will have to pay a small surcharge to the shipping company when the watch is imported. You can contact the company before hand and find out how much it will be.