Super Clones and Frankenwatches: What Every Luxury Watch Buyer Needs to Know
The dream of owning a fine timepiece has never been more attainable, or more fraught with risk. As the luxury watch market thrives, so does a shadow industry of counterfeits so advanced they can deceive even experts. For anyone considering a significant purchase, understanding this landscape is essential. Aaron Klausman, CEO of Goldbro Timepieces in Las Vegas, has made it his mission to help buyers navigate it safely. Here's your essential guide. The Counterfeit Boom The scale is staggering: roughly 40 million fake watches flood the market each year. Rolex, the most recognized watch brand on earth, is also the most counterfeited, and certain models bear the brunt. The Submariner is the most-seized counterfeit worldwide, prized by forgers for its fame and clean dial layout. The Daytona and GMT-Master II have seen counterfeits surge as sophisticated "super clone" movements reached the market, and gold pieces like the Day-Date, plus grails from Patek Philippe and Audemars ...