Lessons from a Stolen Seiko SLA017: Navigating Online Watch Scams

DoesNotTickTock · 2020-09-28T07:03:19Z

Learn from DoesNotTickTock's experience with PayPal fraud involving a stolen Seiko SLA017. Get tips on secure online watch transactions and avoiding scams.

DoesNotTickTock

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

25 replies2841 views1 photos

DoesNotTickTock shares a critical update regarding the theft of his Seiko SLA017, a situation that highlights the vulnerabilities in online transactions. His detailed account of navigating PayPal's dispute resolution process offers invaluable lessons for collectors engaging in peer-to-peer sales. This post serves as a cautionary tale and a practical guide to protecting oneself against fraud in the luxury watch market.

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Stolen/Update

An update on my stolen SEIKO SLA017 (62 MAS reissue) Limited Edition #1232. I was finally able to speak to Paypal on the phone and my funds were returned to me. I wanted to thank you all for all the advice that was given in regards to dealing with Paypal and the theft of my watch. I wanted to note that I personally will not be using Paypal again considering the amount of effort on my side to prove that they needed to uphold their side of the Goods and Services T&Cs and the stress this caused. I thought I would provide you with some details with the hope that no one else finds themselves in this situation.

The address that the watch was sent to is:

3190 Summit Place Dr

LOGANVILLE, GA US 30052

This is the name that signed for it: C. Griffin
The suspected individuals who could be involved:

Instagram: Corde May Griffin

@ corde_may Bobby

@ lightskinbobby Oscar Griffin

@ oscar_grip Phyoncia Griffin

@ lpc2901 @ Sweetsugar1pg

Obviously scammers can use fake names so these details might not be all that useful. Always check references and research your payment method to make sure you will be covered if anything was to ever go wrong. Please keep in mind scammers can use fake names so my advice is to not ship to that address. Also, considering that the individual ended up with both the funds and the watch I would be wary of purchasing this watch if it ever came up for sale again (Limited Edition #1232 for reference). Always check references and research your payment method to make sure you will be covered if anything was to ever go wrong. I just wanted to give any advice I can in the hope no one ever finds themselves in a similar situation.

About the Seiko Seiko Prospex Ref. SLA017

The Seiko Prospex SLA017 is a limited-edition re-interpretation of the brand's first diver's watch, the 62MAS, originally released in 1965. This modern iteration was launched in 2017 as part of Seiko's Prospex line, known for its robust and professional-grade timepieces. It pays homage to its historical predecessor while incorporating contemporary watchmaking advancements.

The SLA017 features a 39.9mm stainless steel case with a super-hard coating, paired with a black unidirectional rotating bezel. It is powered by the automatic caliber 8L35, a high-grade movement assembled by Seiko's skilled craftsmen. The watch is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating on the inner surface and offers a water resistance of 200 meters.

As a limited edition of 2,000 pieces worldwide, the SLA017 holds significant appeal for collectors of Seiko diver's watches and enthusiasts of vintage-inspired designs. Its faithful recreation of the original 62MAS aesthetic combined with modern performance and finishing makes it a sought-after reference within the Prospex collection, representing a key piece in Seiko's dive watch heritage.

Specifications

Caliber: 8L35

Case: Stainless steel with super-hard coating

Diameter: 39.9mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 200 meters

Crystal: Domed sapphire with anti-reflective coating

Key Points from the Discussion

The contributor emphasizes the importance of thorough due diligence and risk aversion in online transactions, preferring authorized dealers for new purchases to ensure peace of mind.
A similar past experience with credit card fraud revealed a common scam tactic where recipients are paid to re-ship items, often unaware of the fraudulent origin of the goods, which might be relevant to the current situation.
The 'Friends and Family' (F&F) option on PayPal carries significant risks, as a buyer can falsely claim a commercial transaction and non-receipt, potentially leading to transaction reversal or account bans for the seller.
The original post's author clarifies that the scammer claimed unauthorized transaction activity with their bank and PayPal, despite the seller providing ample shipping evidence.
The contributor expresses concern over the increasing prevalence of online fraud and suggests that the scammer would likely attempt to resell the stolen watch.
For pre-owned and vintage watches, the original author recommends Chrono24's trusted checkout, despite higher fees and longer processing times, as a more secure alternative for online sales.

The Discussion

Mohannad (aka Riddler)

Sep 28, 2020

What a stressful situation, glad you got your funds back

I only use wire transfer when i sell When i buy “ i always buy the seller”

DoesNotTickTock

Sep 28, 2020

Thank you. It was definitely unnecessary stress.

It was the first and the last time I ever accept Paypal G&S.

PoyFR

Sep 28, 2020

Very happy to know you are covered ;-) [nt]