I thought I read it recently in an article posted on Hodinkee, but it seems I am mistaken, and I stand corrected: https://www.fhs.swiss/pdf/communique_180112_a.pdf Hong Kong + China + Japan + Singapore will dwarf the US.
I believe that a lot of people here are missing that the world is pretty big and even though 6969 pieces might seem a lot compare to the previous LE’s Omega has a plan. Just think about it, how many people here on the forum 40k+?. If everyone here wanted one and could afford it there would not be enough for everybody. For what I was told only 1k pieces for the USA market only, this might or not be true, but how many people in the USA that might want one. I am pretty sure there are people in some other countries in the world that might want one too. How many people, how many countries in the world. Now 6969 pieces don’t seem that hard to sell if the watch is nice. What do you think?
Agreed, but it's Two-Tone. That instantly reduces the customer base (compared to steel-only). Just look at how long it took them to sell all 3557 + 557 Speedy 1957 editions. And those were steel.
I think it’s fully refundable because legally they can’t hold/keep your money without providing a service or good. So, even if it wasn’t a “hot item,” they can still return your money with no worries.
I saw the 1957 edition and I liked it but I was holding off for the 50th anniversary, maybe some other people did the same.
Don’t think it is sold out yet, but US OB are now asking a deposit for the full MSRP+ taxes amount. Also, their new policy would require a 50% upfront deposit for watches with MSRP above $10,000... I am actually happy about these rules as it may help curb (a bit) the grey market/flippers!!
I'm not sure that you can pay a deposit and pay in full, surely it's one or the other. Also, has the MSRP been officially published and a stock number been issued?
I was the first to say that there would be 6969 pieces, and they have confirmed that in Europe it will cost 9,000 €
Even including tax seems very high. It's basically doubling the price of standard moonwatch.. I may pass.
Just to clarify: the "deposit" is now basically paying the watch in full if the price is < 10k$ (price of the Apollo 11 50th is $9,600 before taxes) and a 50% down payment for prices > 10k$. Hope this clarifies.
It all seems quite unnecessary, either way it's another example of first world problems getting in the way of enjoying our hobby. For the record I will get the option to have one the first batch when they arrive at my local OB, no deposit paid or asked for.
What do you mean with your statement above? In any case, great to read that you have established a good enough relationship with your OB, but overall, despite the fact that the payment is refundable, it still raises the bar for wannabe flippers, who REALLY get in the way of this hobby by making a quick buck on the back of true enthusiasts.
I don't have much of an issue with placing a deposit on a known commodity I'm interested in. If it slows flippers down, all the better. I think the only qualm I personally have is the boutiques wanting a healthy deposit for something they're choosing not to show yet. Let us see the goods, then ask for our money.