After owning many Omegas over the years I've felt like I've become pretty good at spotting replicas but straps can have me stumped. I recently purchased this 20mm rubber strap (ref. 98000085) from the bay from what looks to be a reputable seller with a good amount of feedback. It hasn't shipped yet and I got a bit skeptical on its authenticity after really studying the pictures. The seller told me it came off of his Omega that was purchased at an Omega AD. However I'm confused/wary about several disconnected points:
-The ref. 98000085 strap should be for a regular Omega Seamaster 300M Chronograph model but the seller states it was from his Casino Royale Planet Ocean.
-With the above statement, there is no "Planet Ocean" script on the underside of the strap, it only says "Seamaster". I've never seen the rubber strap made for a Planet Ocean without the "Planet Ocean" text.
-The "Seamaster" text and reference number on the underside of the strap are thicker and deeper embossed than other pictures I've found online of legitimate ones (as well as pictures I have from two previous exact model straps that I sold a while ago).
-There looks to be some unclean edges and cuts around the strap and inside the sizing holes which from experience doesn't scream Omega level quality.
-The buckle looks suspect for some reason, looks more rounded in shape and not as defined edges.
Do I believe the seller's story and give it a shot or is it clearly a fake? The item is located overseas so returning it might not be so easy if I decide to wait to see it in person.
Pictures:
-The ref. 98000085 strap should be for a regular Omega Seamaster 300M Chronograph model but the seller states it was from his Casino Royale Planet Ocean.
-With the above statement, there is no "Planet Ocean" script on the underside of the strap, it only says "Seamaster". I've never seen the rubber strap made for a Planet Ocean without the "Planet Ocean" text.
-The "Seamaster" text and reference number on the underside of the strap are thicker and deeper embossed than other pictures I've found online of legitimate ones (as well as pictures I have from two previous exact model straps that I sold a while ago).
-There looks to be some unclean edges and cuts around the strap and inside the sizing holes which from experience doesn't scream Omega level quality.
-The buckle looks suspect for some reason, looks more rounded in shape and not as defined edges.
Do I believe the seller's story and give it a shot or is it clearly a fake? The item is located overseas so returning it might not be so easy if I decide to wait to see it in person.
Pictures:
