What’s up, readers? Ripley Sellers right here, a author, editor, and journalist at aBlogtoWatch.
At the moment, I’m going to stroll you thru the right way to detect a pretend Seiko watch through the use of a counterfeit Alpinist I not too long ago received my fingers on.
Let’s dive in and see how this convincing pretend compares to the real article!
Key Takeaways
- The pretend Seiko Alpinist had a greater strap than the real one, which matches to indicate how unhealthy the actual strap is.
- The case engravings, particularly the “Made in Japan” textual content, have been sloppier on the pretend.
- Inside, the pretend had a adorned 4R motion disguised as a 6R15, with a plastic retaining ring and steel gears interfacing with the compass bezel.
- The dial was a lifeless giveaway, with glued-on lume plots, the Seiko emblem, and hour markers, in addition to much less crisp textual content.
- The extent of element within the pretend is horrifying, contemplating the comparatively low retail value of the real Alpinist.
- To keep away from getting fooled, intently study the watch, examine it with a identified real instance, and don’t be afraid to open it up and examine the within.
Shopping for the Pretend Alpinist
I discovered this supposed Alpinist on OfferUp for simply $40, a steal in comparison with the standard retail value. I drove right down to Lengthy Seaside to select it up, which was a little bit of a trek from LA, however it was cheaper than delivery. As quickly as I received it in my fingers, I had my doubts. I used to be sporting my actual Alpinist on the time, and whereas the pretend seemed shut, one thing wasn’t fairly proper.
Evaluating the Straps and Case
First off, the pretend strap was really higher than the actual one: softer, extra supple, and even with the identical padding. It simply goes to indicate how unhealthy the real Alpinist strap is!
The case engravings have been shut however not fairly as crisp on the pretend. The “Made in Japan” textual content, particularly, seemed a bit sloppy.
Actions and Internal Workings
All proper, time to crack this child open. Bear in mind, security first—all the time use finger cots!
Inside, it seems like a 6R15 motion, however I believe it’s really a adorned 4R, judging by the Geneva stripes on the rotor, a real Seiko motion however not the appropriate one for an Alpinist. A couple of different crimson flags:
- The retaining ring appears like plastic, not steel,
- Gears turning the compass bezel are steel, not the self-lubricating polymer discovered within the real Alpinist.
- The compass bezel textual content isn’t as crisp.
- The date wheel font is barely off.
Dial Variations
Right here’s the place the pretend actually reveals its true colours. All the things is positioned accurately, however the building is all flawed:
- Lume plots are glued, not riveted.
- The Seiko emblem is glued on, not utilized.
- Hour markers are glued from behind, not stamped via the dial.
- The dial is just too shiny, and the textual content isn’t as crisp.
You may spot these variations with out even opening the watch—although having an actual one to check helps!
The Scary Half
It’s terrifying how a lot element they put into faking a watch that retails for only a few hundred bucks. Utilizing a real Seiko motion and a case that appears legit at a look—think about what they may do with a watch costing hundreds!
To keep away from getting burned, actually scrutinize the Alpinist or another Seiko. Examine it with a identified real instance, and if wanted, open it up and peek inside. The small particulars make all of the distinction when recognizing a pretend Seiko watch.
Video Journey
Conclusion
I hope this detailed comparability helps you know the way to detect pretend Seiko watches and reveals simply how sneaky these counterfeits could be. Hold your eyes peeled when purchasing for watches, and keep in mind the following tips for recognizing a phony Seiko. Keep sharp on the market, fellow watch lovers!
