A few months ago, various studies were done regarding the “market share” of replica watches. Despite the criticism and negative opinions about this industry, studies actually show that the number of replica watches is constantly increasing. If we are talking about a relatively small territory like the UK, this country has about 1 million fake watches in circulation. Now imagine what is happening on a large scale, in the United States territory.
Given that replica watches are expanding progressively, I want to talk about some truths about this industry. The point is that the forums are full of incorrect information and I feel that I must speak about the misinterpretations circulating on the Internet. I hope you find this article helpful because it could change your view on this industry.
What Do Studies Say?
Before revealing some truths, I would like to share some key facts from recent studies. Very few people know what is happening in this industry. So, I think that a little light on the subject will not hurt.
The number of fake watches sold worldwide has increased to 40 million. This number has grown rapidly compared to 2021 when statistics show a figure 2 times lower. What has not changed is the interest in Rolex Knockoffs, which until now have remained the most popular replica watches.
In the same sense, studies indicate a fruitful increase in the quality of replica watches. Factories have massively switched to technological techniques such as 3D printing and CNC machines. This opened the way to a much more accurate and precise reproduction of authentic watches. As a result, it is no wonder that imitations have become really difficult to spot from a genuine in comparison.
Last but not least, we observe a very interesting formula in the knockoffs industry. 7 years ago, about 80% of fake watches showed obvious signs that they were fake. Only about 20% looked as good as they could and required careful observation to spot the signs of authenticity.
Today, the formula looks exactly the opposite. Only 20% of the knock-offs show obvious signs of mediocre quality, which makes them clearly counterfeit. The remaining 80% – well – are clear examples of superior manufacturing in which only a specialist will tell you if it’s fake or not.
Customer Behaviour Regarding Replica Watches
The positive aspect of this whole thing is that customer behavior has also changed. 10 years ago, watch lovers could hardly accept a fake watch in their collection. Now, surveys show that 40% of (questioned) customers are ok with the idea of buying a fake watch occasionally.
Finally, we observe a positive replica watch culture statistic. 75% of those who buy a replica watch do it consciously while knowing all their advantages and disadvantages. I want to point out that 7 years ago, the statistics show only 30% while the rest were buyers deceived by dealers to buy a genuine watch that was actually a fake.
Myths And Truths About Replica Watches
In my opinion, the statistics are quite optimistic. I am glad to see that the quality of imitations has increased and that customers have become more aware. Even if some opinions still bring the argument of illegality, my dears, replica watches continue to be searched for and bought intensively. All that remains is to educate ourselves in this field so that we know what to expect when buying a fake watch. Here is what you need to know.
Myth 1: Replica Watches Are Irreparable
It is possible that this myth was true some 10 years ago. But not anymore. Decades ago, replica watch factories were indeed engineering “clumsy” fake watches. When they broke, no one from the repair shops wanted to fix them because of the unusual mechanisms in them.
Today, however, most replica watches have mechanisms that you can find in many mass-market watches. I mean, any repair shop knows how to repair these technical constructions from fake watches without caring too much whether it is a genuine or fake model. So, if you refrain from a replica watch just because you don’t know where you can repair it, you can rest assured that everything can be solved at any watch repair shop. In addition, the amount of fake watches on the market is so large that you won’t surprise any repair specialist with another fake watch.
Myth 2: All Fake Watches Are The Same Bad Quality
This myth is usually invoked by those who have never seen a high-quality replica watch. Now please think logically about a small detail: would the replica watch industry have spread so much if all fake watches were of poor quality? Of course not. And this is not just a subjective opinion and an argument backed up by studies.
As I highlighted above, the 20/80 formula has reversed to 80/20. The 80% refers to imitations that are hardly detectable as fakes while the 20% ones are of low quality. Numbers never lie and I prefer to believe in them than in personal yet subjective opinions.
Myth 3: Wealthy People Don’t Buy Replica Watches
You bet they do. I have personally met plenty of rich people who prefer replica watches. Obviously, they have genuine models as well in their watch collections. But that doesn’t mean that they don’t fool around with a couple of reps for various reasons.
Many wealthy people prefer an imitation instead of a genuine one when they go on vacation. Thus, they avoid the fear of the watch being stolen in a moment of inattention. Others buy an imitation because they only want a watch for a few months.
Also, some rich people get bored waiting in line for a genuine Rolex and end up getting a fake one. So, there are various reasons. But the idea is the same: fake watches are not only for those who cannot afford a genuine model. Plenty of people have fun with replica watches including the rich ones.
Bottom Line
The most beautiful part of these studies is that consumers have become more aware of the fact that replica watches are not as “sinful” as was thought some years ago. As long as we are aware of the choice we make between a fake and a genuine watch, I think we have every right to choose an expensive watch or an affordable one.
I know that many will say “You could get some NOMOS watches instead of fake ones”. Yes, I could. But what should I do if I am in love with the design of luxury watches and I also want to feel confident wearing one on my wrist?!