The allure of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is undeniable. Its iconic octagonal bezel, integrated bracelet, and sophisticated complications have cemented its place as a legendary timepiece, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike. This very desirability, however, fuels a thriving black market of counterfeit watches, leading to a significant problem with fake Audemars Piguet Royal Oaks flooding the market. This article delves into the world of these replicas, exploring their prevalence, the methods used to identify them, the price points, and the implications of purchasing or unknowingly owning a fake.
Audemars Piguet Authenticity Check: Spotting the Imposter
The first and most crucial step in navigating the treacherous waters of counterfeit luxury watches is learning how to perform a thorough authenticity check. While a trained professional can easily identify a fake, even a discerning amateur can learn to spot many tell-tale signs. These often lie in subtle details that are easily overlooked by the untrained eye.
* The Case and Bezel: The Royal Oak's distinctive octagonal bezel is meticulously crafted. Counterfeit versions often exhibit inconsistencies in the sharpness of the angles, the alignment of the screws, and the overall finish. The case itself should be flawlessly polished or brushed, depending on the model. Look for imperfections, uneven surfaces, or poorly executed finishing. The weight of the watch is also a significant factor; genuine Royal Oaks are substantial and weighty, unlike their lighter, often cheaper, counterparts.
* The Bracelet and Clasp: The integrated bracelet is another hallmark of the Royal Oak. Fake bracelets often feel flimsy and lack the precise articulation and smooth movement of the genuine article. The clasp should be seamlessly integrated and operate smoothly. Examine the engravings on the clasp; these should be crisp and deep, not shallow or blurry.
* The Dial and Hands: The dial of a genuine Royal Oak is meticulously crafted, with perfectly applied markers and flawlessly printed text. Fake dials often exhibit misaligned markers, blurry text, or incorrect font styles. The hands should be precisely placed and exhibit smooth, precise movement. The lume (luminescence) on genuine watches is typically brighter and more consistent than on fakes.
* The Movement: This is arguably the most difficult aspect to check without specialized equipment. However, even a cursory glance at the movement through the exhibition caseback (if present) can reveal inconsistencies. Genuine Audemars Piguet movements are highly finished, with intricate detailing and precise engravings. Counterfeit movements often lack this level of detail and exhibit poor finishing. A genuine movement will also have a specific reference number etched on it.
* The Serial Number and Documentation: A legitimate Audemars Piguet Royal Oak will come with documentation, including a certificate of authenticity and warranty card. The serial number on the watch should match the documentation. Verification through the official Audemars Piguet website can further confirm authenticity. Be wary of any watch sold without proper documentation.
Audemars Piguet Copy Watch Price: The Deception of a Bargain
One of the most enticing aspects of counterfeit watches is their significantly lower price. While a genuine Audemars Piguet Royal Oak can cost tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the model and complications, a fake can be purchased for a fraction of that cost. This price difference is, of course, a major red flag. The significantly lower price is a direct reflection of the inferior materials and craftsmanship used in the creation of the fake. While the initial price might seem attractive, the long-term implications of owning a fake, including potential legal repercussions, far outweigh any perceived savings.
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