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What brands of new watches does Capetown sell? | We offer significant discounts on all major brands of upscale Swiss timepieces with suggested retails of $1,000 or more. Our inventory does not include low-end or trendy Japanese timepieces.
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Where does Capetown acquire new watches? | All of our new watches originally emanate from factory authorized jewelers. Model for model, they are the very same as those found in America's finest jewelers such as Tiffany & Co.; Cartier; Baily, Banks & Biddle; etc.
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What is Capetown's discount on new watches? | Our discounts range from 20-50% depending on brand availability, origin of accessories, seasonal influences, method of payment, etc. Our average discount is in the 30% range. Due to price fluctuations, it is advisable to wait until you are clearly focused and in a buying posture before calling for a quote. (The price can then be locked in for 48 hours pending receipt of payment)
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Will Capetown negotiate? | You bet we will. We want your business and are thus combatively competitive. We will generally meet and beat all legitimate substantiated offers. Our comparison shoppers continually monitor and investigate advertising claims nationwide. Discounts that sound too good to be true usually turn out to be too good to be true! Capetown will not allow any legitimate jeweler to better our price, service and warranty package.
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Is Capetown required to collect sales tax? | Under current Supreme Court ruling, we are not required to collect sales tax on out-of-state sales where we do not have a distinct presence.
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Are there any benefits in buying a pre-owned watch from Capetown? | Absolutely. The most obvious benefit is the savings that can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending upon make, model and generation of watch.
Unlike the planned obsolescence inherent in products, such as automobiles, television sets, and trash compactors, a well maintained, classic, Swiss watch is designed to last a lifetime or more. Styles rarely change. So, if you can't tell the difference...why pay the difference?
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What is Capetown's discount on pre-owned watches? | As a rule-of-thumb, the discount range for
most Rolex and Cartier classic models, in show-room perfect
condition, is 35-45%. With other fine brands, you can realize discounts that can exceed 50%.
Rolex prices are sensitive to currency fluctuations and, of course,
scarcity and low production also effect prices. Rolex
has, for many years, raised the prices on their watches without
notice. In our experience, pre-owned is always the best buy.
You'll get a watch that looks like brand new and a lifetime warranty to
boot.
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Where does Capetown acquire their used watches? | As one of America's premier vendors of Swiss timepieces, our primary source of used watches is customer trade-ins and trade-ups. Additionally, we obtain watches from estates as well as from jewelers and private parties who may be either financially distressed or going through a change of lifestyle.
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Do Capetown's pre-owned timepieces really look and function like new watches? | Yes. All pre-owned watches, whether a few months or several years old, are treated equally by our watchmakers. They determine what is needed, not our cost accountants. No expense is spared in the refurbishing process. First, the watch is opened and the movement is removed. It is taken apart, down to the very last screw, and the parts are checked for wear. Replacements are made where necessary. Then the parts are cleaned, re-assembled, and lubricated. The movement is regulated. The watch (if water resistant) is checked for water tightness. The case and band are professionally refinished to remove visible scratches and abrasions. The end result is a sparkling timepiece that could easily be mistaken for new. With proper care and maintenance, the watch should last a lifetime. We are so confident in the restoration of these timepieces that we extend them the very same warranty we extend to new watches...Capetown's Exclusive "No-Worry," Limited Lifetime Warranty.
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If a used watch is such a bargain, why buy a new one? |
An emotional, although not very rational, reason for buying a new watch is the fleeting joy of being the first person to own it. Emotions aside, the facts are that a finely restored, pre-owned watch offers the buyer the best value for his money. Lest we boast, our executive team developed the unique marketing concept of offering restored classic timepieces to the general public. Our merchandising efforts have worked so well that they have created a worldwide shortage for select makes and models. Thus, we may not be able to obtain the pre-owned watch of your choice in a timely manner, leaving those not willing to wait with no alternative but to purchase a new watch.
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How long will I have to wait for my watch after Capetown receives my payment? | Our mammoth inventory generally allows for immediate delivery of the most popular models. We will not take orders for merchandise that we cannot deliver in a timely manner unless the client is aware of and accepts the protracted delivery date. (Keep in mind that seasonal influences may affect delivery)
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Why isn't Capetown an official franchised Swiss watch dealer? | Our policy of heavy discounting is in direct conflict with the manufacturer's dedication to "retail price maintenance". It is no wonder that the manufacturers' interest and loyalties lie with their thousand of sanctioned dealers rather than with the a handful of discounters. Furthermore, franchised dealers are forced to stock many unpopular models and styles that generally take a very long time to sell. As independent cash buyers, we have the luxury of purchasing only the most desirable models. Since we do not have to tie up capital in slow-moving inventory, we're able to pass on additional savings to our clients.
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Are there any advantages in dealing with a "non-sanctioned" company? | Dealing with Capetown affords you many advantages. As a non-franchised jeweler, we set our own pricing policy. We are obligated only to our customers, not to the dictates of a foreign entity! Additionally, since we handle all of the world's most famous brands, we are not forced to promote one manufacturer over another. Therefore, we have no incentive to sell you a watch that's not right for you. Rather, our staff is armed with unique options that will help match a timepiece to your individual needs, lifestyle and budget.
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What is Capetown's mail order refund policy? | Most pre-owned watches carry a 5-day money back guarantee* if returned, postpaid insured, in the same condition as received. Our policy does not allow us to sell a new watch twice. Consequently, new watches and/or special order merchandise are not subject to return or cancellation. You must call us immediately upon receipt of the watch/jewelry advising us of your intentions to return. The watch must be returned via 2nd day insured UPS delivery and received at our National Mail Order Center in Atlanta within 5 days of your delivery date- in same condition as received. Do not use Federal Express. They do not insure jewelry. Remember, the merchandise is your responsibility until its safe return to us. Of course, special order or items custom-made to your specifications are generally not refundable. Diamond and fine jewelry refunds vary with return priviledges ranging from 5 days or longer. The mutually agreed upon terms between the purchaser and seller will be indicated on sales receipt.
(* Shipping charges are excluded.)
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Does Capetown offer an additional discount for cash? | Yes. Our best discount price applies to purchase payments made by cash, check or bank wire. (All quotes given include our cash discount.) Other forms of payment fall into our secondary discount tier.
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Does Capetown accept credit cards? | Generally, we prefer American Express for mail order card sales because they indemnify us against credit card fraud. However, in individual situations, if circumstances warrant, we will accept Visa or Mastercard. An authorization form will be faxed to you for your completion. All information furnished will be carefully verified, including your home and business address, and a faxed copy of your driver's license and credit card. In these times, this procedure is required to protect both you and ourselves from fradulent credit abuse. Credit card sales do not qualify for our 5% cash discount, which is included in all prices quoted on this website and by our sales associates.
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How can I sell or trade-in my watch or jewelry by mail? | Quite easily. The first step involves a brief phone conversation with one of our experts to determine the approximate value of your property. To save time, please have the watch or jewelry as well as appraisals or other pertinent information on hand when phoning. If it appears that we can be of benefit to one another, our staff will give you instructions on how to safely insure, pack, and ship your merchandise to the appropriate office. Upon arrival, it will be examined to determine its precise value. If the price is agreeable, we will remit the funds to you immediately or credit your account, whichever you prefer. If we can't come to terms, your property will be promptly returned.
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Why are Swiss watches so expensive? | - The assembly of high quality handmade mechanical masterpieces involves a highly trained, very specialized, and extremely costly labor force.
- The manufacturing process is very capital intensive. Besides the high cost of labor, lengthy production schedules tie up precious metals and gemstones for extended periods of time.
- To maintain brand recognition and prestige, huge sums are spent annually on advertising and promotion.
- The world demand for fine Swiss watches is exceeding production capabilities further fueling price increases.
- The spiraling costs of maintaining a conventional retail establishment (rent, personnel, insurance, etc.) mandates high retail mark-ups.
- The demand for certain models exceeds production capabilities thereby further driving up the price.
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Is their cost justified? | Your watch and jewelry are important statements about your personality and station in life. It's often one of the first things people look at when they meet you. Is their cost justified? It all depends on how much you value your image. Moreover, unlike most expensive consumer items, fine watches are made to last a lifetime or more. When you amortize the price over several decades of pleasurable use, are they really that expensive?
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Are Swiss watches good investments? | Certain ones are. The last decade has witnessed a dramatic appreciation of many fine contemporary timepieces. Some makes and models have soared significantly in value. The attrition of skilled watchmakers coupled with the increasing international demand continue to propel prices upward. Our experience and accumulated knowledge have helped clients establish noteworthy collections that have enjoyed significant appreciation.
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How can I make purchases if I live outside of the United States? | Upon receipt of you bank-to-bank wire transfer, Capetown will ship the merchandise via an international carrier. (Details to be discussed at the time of purchase). Import duties (if any) are the responsibility of the purchaser.
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