July 22nd, 2007 - Shopping Online for Watches the Secure Way
Since security is one of the main issues why many people stay away from online shopping I decided to post a few tips that might put your mind at rest and will encourage you to take advantages of online watch retail stores.
- Buy from authorized watch dealers - Authorized dealers are the way to go if you want to be 100% sure that the watch you buy is authentic. They also, of course, have very secure payments methods. The downside is that you can be sure not to be able to get anything at a discount price (unless they happen to have a sale going on).
- Do research on any unauthorized dealers - There are plenty of really good unauthorized dealers out there. The good thing with unauthorized dealers is that they usually have a good variety of watches of different brands and models and offer plenty at stuff at discount prices. Make sure the dealer has a good reputation though. Do not believe just the testimonials on their website but ask in forums and search their name on the internet to find out their real reputation among customers. You can also use Who Is as a starting point to investigate their identity. The best way is of course to buy from a store that someone you personally know recommends.
- Do not buy from an online store that doesn’t have a clear privacy and security policy. Do not buy from an online store that does not list their permanent address and gives other ways to contact them like their email address and/or phone number.
- Choose stores that accept PayPal and other online payment options that use escrow services over stores that accept credit card only. By using an escrow service you can be assured that your money only gets to the seller after you have received the goods. Use your credit card only when you are really sure that the store you are buying from is a reputable one.
- Buy a small item first before buying more expensive ones. Try out the stores service and the quality of their product by buying items like a simple watch strap. If you are satisfied with their service (no problems with charging or with the delivery speed) and the product you bought then you can buy the more expensive product you’ve been really eying all along.