I don't disagree on the fairness issue but I don't think a worldwide policy is possible. Some jurisdictions don't allow taking deposits for one reason or another (or that is their cover story), and some markets just don't want to have to commit to a buyer they may or may not know getting a watch by making a firm deposit (or full price). I'm cynical enough to believe that these markets want to retain control as to who does, or does not, get a watch, or two, or three. Some will be pulled aside for 'special' clients who may be good customers or just a flipper that will pay over retail to get a couple of watches. This is how some of the watches turn up on the grey market, flipper makes a deal with an AD to buy a couple of watches over the retail price (extra money for the dealer), and then they are flipped for the profit. I do think the US method is the most fair, if you are a collector and want the watch then you have to make the commitment up front for the full price knowing it may be 3 to 9 months to get the piece. During the March 2019 timeframe anyone in the US could walk into an OB, express interest, and pay $9,650 for a firm spot on the list. The downside is these buyers will see other country buyers who put nothing down get their watches well before you do. Aggravating, but Omega management in each region/country sets their own rules.
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