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[Purchase location recommendation] AD vs OB vs GM?

3.7K views 28 replies 23 participants last post by  Bronco909  
#1 ·
Omega Boutique I'm guessing is out of the question in terms of their MSRP. But what do you all think about an Authorized Dealer? I'm on Long Island and don't really trust any ADs out here or in NYC to be honest but if you have suggestions I'm open. And lastly, the Gray Market, such as Jomashop? I know they don't offer an Omega warranty but with savings like 30% makes it worth it? All opinions welcome. I'm trying to decide between a Seamaster 300, a Planet Ocean or a Speedmaster Pro. I've decided that the planet ocean, not the biggest one but the 43.5?, is probably my favorite right now but I'm open to all listed if the discounts are good enough.
Thank you all in advance.
 
#5 ·
Im probably of the minority here but Im all for grey market and Jomashop in particular. Speedmaster Pro retails for $5k+ I believe and you can pick one up on Jomashop for $3,500. To me its a no brainer because I dont care about the warranty. The price savings are well worth it to me.

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Agreed.

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#6 ·
I have purchased from Topper before, and I can say that they are fantastic to work with. However, grey market is still going to be cheaper if you don't care about the purchasing experience/warranty/relationship with AD. Many ppl I know purchased their speedmaster pro from Jomashop with no issue what so ever.
However, if you are open to a pre-owned, you will be able to save even more money and perhaps still obtain a watch with warranty left (i believe PO has 5yr warranty now).
 
#7 ·
There are lots of reputable dealers on here if you're reticent to buy from a random individual. Some even offer a warranty. Many have inventory not listed here. I've dealt with Aamir at AIS watches and been ecstatic with the piece I obtained from him, condition was better than described.
 
#9 ·
Hi, good luck with your purchase! I would normally recommend AD, but last summer I branched out and made a purchase via Jomashop for a Rolex Explorer 214270 and the interaction went great. Let me say, there is wiggle-room when dealing with Jomashop, even though their prices are already better than AD (in general). So do contact them directly before purchasing. At a minimum, they will offer a slight reduction if you're willing to pay in cash/wire transfer since they don't have to pay the credit card or paypal fees.
 
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#11 ·
The general consensus on this thread looks like GM and only half as much for AD. Very hard choice and was considering even Bobs watches for a PO. Very tough call even with all the GM support. Jomashop has great prices too especially for this grads and dads season. On top of that Joma is right in Brooklyn not far from whereI live on Long island so it makes it even tougher. Topper hasn't gotten back to me yet unfortunately
 
#13 ·
Entirely dependent on the model youre looking at. Definitely start with an AD. You've got nothing to lose. I bought my AT at my AD for less than grey market and I got to try on several watches, have a coffee etc and walked out with full set and AD box and papers. Its a no brainer. If its a newer model like the SMP, then you may not do so well but I cant see the sense it going straight to a grey market seller when your local AD may be able to beat them on price AND service.
 
#18 ·
I have used Jomashop for my moonwatch- I sold it and didn’t take too much of a ding on the lack of warranty card. I wouldn’t do it again though- I don’t like that Joma controls the warranty/exchange process.

I have used Topper for my seamasters, zenith, and they were great- received factory fresh from them next day. The slightly higher (than Joma and other GM) prices was worth it to have a blank warranty card and their overall service.

I also have several other goto trusted sellers I have used for factory fresh models. They have typically matched or at times come in under Topper. PM me if you would like their contacts.

The other thing I would say is bear in mind that Omega is generally really soft on resale. So unless you are certain this is going to be a keeper or really need new, I recommend looking preowned- plenty of great deals to be had there.
 
#22 ·
I grabbed my Aqua Terra Skyfall via grey market (authentic watches) many years ago under the idea that the massive savings could pay for a full service + more. Moreover, I went with AW vs. Jomashop because AW doesn't charge taxes shipped to NY.

In hindsight, I should've tried to see what the boutique on 5th ave would have offered (just to get the official warranty). But, still, doubt it would have come close to the savings.

Coming up on 5 years with the watch and no issues whatsoever.
 
#24 ·
I've purchased all my recent Omega watches from trusted GM dealers, here in the UK.
For me, it was a 'no brainer'. I saved 25% on the watches and received all the correct cards which were dated and signed & stamped from the original Omega AD.
So, this means I get the FULL Omega international warranty, with these watches. :-!
Bonus positive, getting 25% off, keeps the wife happy!!!!! ;-)
 

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