RayFRayf check this out, Libellcca.com , a Geckota G-02 2824 eta bracelet watch for $68.99 usd, incl. shipping. Used Paypal for safety, but appears to be a Chinese company. Time will tell, no trace on the net for any scam warnings -- may just be a good deal!! As a geckota fan I thought I would share.
RayFIt is $350 usd direct from Geckota with 10% off the already reduced price!! I think it is too good to be true! which is why I used paypal, but who knows, maybe there is some good fortune around. But i think it may have the PT5000 movement not the genuine ETA 2824! So you know, the advert popped up on my Facebook page, and so far, not that I have bought from many of these adverts but they all have seemed legit. I must admit if it turns out to be genuine then maybe I should have bought a couple more and saved another 12%!!!! Here's keeping my fingers crossed.
It may be a calculated risk to order one of those Steinhardt at that ridiculous price, just in case, but with Paypal or similar protection!! What's a little gamble now and then!! I kinda felt this way with my Drop first order and that didn't even have Paypal protection. I had never come across Massdrop as they were called then.
If I go on I might just convince myself!!
seiko_killerHi thanks for your info. I do share your distrust; any particular things that made you think that ,apart from the site not appearing as professional as some?
I'll take a chance and if any problems recover the cost through Paypal:
but a few things did cross my mind were,
1. The other watches fitted the profile of a cheap clearing Chinese sales site; ie. no name brands and some invicta, and really watches that were generally sort of the "sell cheap" as no one wants them!
2 . Geckota isn't really IMO, a brand worth making a fake, even as a microbrand the number of potential customers who would be aware of the brand and how good it is (you,I, etc.) would not be a viable target. (Even criminals have some logic, well some of them!)
3.The other thing that made me think is that this watch is made in China, with the PT5000 Chinese movement; it is the only watch currently sale at Geckota; and at $350 usd. it is not cheap for a microbrand, and the newer version is already out.
I guess I am hoping that the supplier to Geckota may have just offloaded a few!! I would contact geckota but I would be 100% sure their response would be it isn't one of theirs, so as to keep up appearances etc.
Anyway it will be a mystery until,or if!! it arrives.
JAoneYes. True. I imagine the only way these guys could have gotten those watches sans-movements might be through some kind of offloading. You're right that Gekota probably isn't a brand worth faking, but what is their margin if they're selling this thing for $65? I don't know for sure that it's fake but what are the chances they're selling a real Gekota for $65?!
seiko_killerWell , like you, I normally think : "if it is too good to be true ,it probably isn't true"!
I have seen a few brands sell off some stock really cheap recently to achieve some cash flow, "The Horse", a leather goods and fashion accessory company here in Australia currently have a swag of 'Womens" fashion watches for clearance at around $40 usd. some with sapphire crystal and swiss movements; I bought 4 for my wife and daughter and the straps alone justified the price!!
This watch was at ; well according to Lebellcca website was approx. $190 usd. before the discount it would not surprise me if the Geckota supplier may have off-loaded 30 or 50 watches at $50 usd. cost initially and this reseller couldn't sell them at the $190 because of their relative anonimity!
The other issue that did cross my mind was that. Did geckota only, really produce a run of 100 watches per colour choice?? It seems like false economy to me , the set up costs would have been a lot for such a small production run!! Even in China. Just saying, even for a microbrand with such a limited run the sales price seems very low to make any real profit. I am just comparing it to the setup from other microbrands like "Yema" which appear to have great quality, but their asking price for limited runs of around the thousand mark is way higher than Geckota. Whilst I like to have faith in the Geckota brand and their promises , I do sometimes question this part of their business model regarding 100 piece limited runs!!
Anyway if it is reasonable quality the bead bracelet alone may be worth the purchase. Or , and probably a low percentage "or". It may just be the "perenial" gift horse -- I hope!
I did drop an email to geckota, just to see their reply. It's funny when you click on "international shipping" and another link on the Lebellcca site it takes you straight to the 'Watchgecko" site, an authorised reseller of Geckota product with a few others including 'Squales"!!!
JAone
Definitely FISHEY.
No one sells Steinharts for $53, and certainly not Steinhart Ocean 1 Premium Blue Ceramics, which are listed as an exclusive on GNOMEs site.
Same goes for the Geckota. My guess is they're not cloning or counterfeiting watches, I doubt they're even shipping them! Just grabbing the cash, like some of the "super fake" Rolex sites.
I'd avoid 'em like the plague.
Compare these two links:
https://www.gnomonwatches.com/products/ocean-1-premium-blue-ceramic-limited
RayFFunny they have direct links to Watchgecko on their homepage. I will be interested to see if they do arrive and what they are!! But I am happy with the Paypal protection. It has been good twice recently. I don't gamble or take many risks; this might be my bi-annual chance!!
RayFI did get a reply from Geckota; they say it is a "Scam site". So I contacted Paypal to recall payment. They usually contact the authorised user, ie. Libellcca for an explanation. It will be interesting to see the response, if any. Or maybe they are unauthorised to sell the product by Geckota and are just another "grey market" outlet. Anyhow I either get my money back or a really really cheap unauthorised Geckota watch; either way it works for me. Would be quite happy if it is a real product,just dirt cheap!!
JAoneI couldn't wait, I just bought two! I bought the olive green and the orange. It's a beautiful watch, and that watch is like $580 Canadian, so with the discount it comes out to like $85 per watch including the free shipping!
Fingers crossed.
seiko_killerI will update you when I receive paypal response. The chances of this being excess stock that Geckota refuse to recognise are slim ,maybe 2%, but that's better than zero. Fingers and toes crossed!!
seiko_killerI have just checked an email from Paypal. As far as they are concerned this whole transaction is bonafide, ie. there has been nothing unauthorised. Generally that means that from that my end all input was identified as being from the Paypal buyer, and the seller used the system to receive payment ,and at this time is a Paypal registered entity. According to the Paypal dispute system (which I have used at least three times in recent years with very good results): the avenues of complaint are:
Goods not received and I think at 4 -6 weeks in the current climate that is a reasonable time to start the process.
Goods not as described,or faulty. Which may well be the second possible scenario.
In any case from experience Paypal then goes into a contacting process with both the seller and buyer, after that and a few weeks later, they either think there is a case to answer to, and refunds the amount or not.
With that 2% of luck, maybe these goods are a number of stock that did find it's way to a grey market seller, but the manufacturer didn't want it known!! There is nothing wrong with "positivity", just not my personal normal state of mind!!
The last time I used the system, because the seller,( which I must say was a bonafide huge company here in Australia) didn't respond to them they refunded me. I think then like any insurance company they assume ownership of the debt and either proceed to claim it back or write it off.
Whichever way it goes it may be a good lesson to learn!! If it goes well I will be kicking myself for not ordering all three and getting the extra 12%!!!!!
RayFAt least that is a higher rate than the high street banks are offering!!
But on a serious note ,we all are aware of scammers, but this one does get right down to the core of the problem; I mean if they are infiltrating "Facebook" etc. is there no protection? "Buyer beware" is an old adage I have always used having been in direct sales for a number of years; which is also probably why I took a chance , because on a number of occasions I have sold a product to a surprised customer who could not fathom why they got such a good deal. But like I said, cashflow, unsaleable or old stock, (not necessarily faulty, but overpriced or wrong market conditions etc. can cause this to happen.
But Rayf I kinda feel you may be right, hope not for Seikokiller and my own hopes!!
seiko_killerThe problem with that thinking is that both watches (the Geckota and Steinhart) are current products, presently available on their respective sites! In the case of the Steinhart, they stole the entire page right off Gnome’s site!!!
RayFIn the great tradition of American justice they are innocent until proven guilty, all we have at present is hearsay evidence at best!!! Besides getting a visa for China may not be possible depending on the election outcome: as it is relations with Australia are not too good either. But it does give us 6-12 weeks to save the airfare!! That's about how long it takes for Paypal to complete their assessment and make a final decision; so for now Seikokiller and I can dream of a great deal.
I did get an email promptly sent back from their email address, and it seemed genuine right down to the broken English grammar explaining the order through to shipping process. Whats that movie "Miracle on 34th street"!!!
JAoneCanada's relations with China are worse. They've locked up 3 Canadians in the past year 'just because' in response to us arresting the Huawei CEOs daughter. Now we just accused them of Genocide in regards to the Uighurs. I have a feeling there will be some new rounds of retaliation on the horizon!
seiko_killerThink you are right, they seem to be waging a form of cold war these days. The Pandemic will only make it worse, historically war always seems to follow this sort of thing. Anyway maybe we will get our Geckotas' before that happens!!!
RayFYes. It is curious that they would be getting old stock from a current product. I really have no idea. Like why choose to rip off this one model of Geckota in three different colors. Why not a brand that is much more well-known? On the other hand, since JAone checked and they seem to be legit as far as PayPal is concerned why would they have this business for however many years they've had it, and then suddenly start going rogue with counterfeit merchandise?
RayFYes, I will watch the debate tomorrow; not bad entertainment!!!LOL. That seiko presage isn't half bad on the Drop release I looked at one in the flesh before buying the Alpinist and it was also very tempting. The Drop price on the blue dial is currently $100 aud less than Starbuy, who only have that sort of price when on a sale event. Wish I had saved the money I spent on the "Phantom" Geckota!!
seiko_killer
Paypal sees them as legitimate because they also operate a clothing store; see their About Us or Help links at the bottom of their watch site.
RayFBut that just makes me more confident then, that they aren't some fly by night company. I doubt they will risk their entire company because they want to scam a few people on some watches.
JamesRennerThat was my immediate first thought. But others have raised a good point. Why would you clone unknown and mid-tier brands. I understand people are cloning rolexes and omega's and tutors. Just doesn't really make sense to clone these other brands that are not well known
seiko_killerThey are NOT cloning them Liebchen, there is NO DAMN WATCH!
They simply take your money and go on vacation with it--nothingships, no box, no bubble wrap, no nothing!
That scam is total BS, but I have a friend in Nigeria (actually, he's a Prince) and he's trying to get a large sum of money out of the country without tipping off the local authorities. He needs a little help and is willing to pay handsomely to anyone who can help him.
I'm not exactly sure how it works, but if you send him $30,000--he'll explain all the details.
JamesRennerLike your T shirt- not! at least this may be a small scam; pales in comparison to what is currently the biggest scam of all time. What is his latest comment: -"coronavirus doesn't exist!". Tell that to all the relatives of those that have died.
My apologies.Yes I know we don't do politics on this platform; but that would normally be for real politicians; not this mongrel.
seiko_killerWell I certainly have no knowledge of PayPal's policy or strategy in matters such as these, but I'm willing to wager...you two guys are about to become an authority on the subject!
Now I'm sure PayPal has a crack-team of bunko guys on the case, just like all the other banks and credit card companies would. And it's possible they have a way of resolving this sort of episode to the satisfaction of all parties. BUT, if they decide you did something unwise, or downright foolish (something I bet they've already spelled out in their "Agreement" with you), they might decide to leave you boys swing'n in the breeze!
I hope not or course, but we'll just have to see how it all unravels in the end...
RayFWell, JAone and I will be taking one for the team on this one. We will be keeping you up to date on any updates.
Have you heard anything recently @JAone? Did you cancel your order or does it still stand? I emailed the company yesterday and they said they are working on it and will send out shipping info when it ships. I'm giving them 3-4 more days, then cancelling my order with them if it hasn't shipped.
seiko_killerI think this company maybe a little like "Wish", that is to say that from what I have read, the likely-hood of receiving , the promised article is very low; but not impossible. From my claims with Paypal, I would say as previously found you just have to jump through the hoops , ie. send emails to the company,then after sufficient time ,Paypal try to get response/resolution, and if not satisfactory eventually you get a refund and they close the case. So the worst scenario is you have gambled you money for about 4 months!!
When you look around at what is happening in the world this little speed bump really will become insignificant; "hell", I got ripped off by a plumber last week at twice this cost !! But in Australia that is not unusual , this society is set up for "Tradespeople " to pretty much "mug" customers legally. For those who don't know, it is illegal to do your own electrical or plumbing work!! If that's not a way to legitimize "Highway robbery" what is?
Thought I would change the subject to reduce the impact of what is sounding like impending disappointment. LOL. Plus I don't think we are alone!!
JAoneWell, all I can say is "Fingers Crossed"
That sucks about Plumbing and Electrical. I've saved tens of thousands over the years doing stuff myself!
Come to Canada. Canadians are like Americans, except without guns...
HA!
seiko_killerSeems that the so called retailer also enters into a contract of sorts with Paypal when they commence accepting funds through them. So in the big picture I would say that Paypal have an enormous amount of clout. Personally if I have the slightest bit of doubt about any company I am dealing with I use Paypal; that's not to say Visa and Mastercard too have their buyer protection policies, which are equally as good but do seem to take a little longer. Anyway just to stoke the controversy: What's the difference between a Geckota copy and say one of these "Shield" watches?? LOL
seiko_killerI have been to Canada, well BC and Alberta , my father side of the family all moved there in the 60's. The West coast in particular very like America. I lived in LA in the 80's ,and that just felt like a big movie set. But yes , guns do make me nervous. just imagine if we had as many guns here the "Plumbers" and "Sparkies" would be crims out of control!!
RayFHere here! That is true. I don't think there's ever been as much attention on US politics, from all over the world as there has been on this next election. I just hope we don't have to wait two weeks for final results to be tallied!
RayFIt is a worry when the Nigerians are protesting against their own Police about corruption and distrust, they seem to have invented "The Scam"!!! Or they just all immigrated to Libellcca!!!!!! Kinda sounds like a country.
Actually, I was the one advising against (the site appeared obviously fake to my cynical eye).
It was my more trusting and enthusiastic pals, @JAone and @seiko_killer who decided to go ahead and walk on the wild side—so to speak.
From our discussions, I’ve been able to glean the following: PayPal has been advised, is looking into the matter, but has preliminarily ruled the site is legitimate up to the point where the order does not ship—there is a time limit that kicks in at some interval.
Unfortunately, combined with current Covid related shipping delays, these scammers (aka: douchebags) can probably stretch this this thing out for several months or more. We’ll all just to wait and see.
Watch this space for details!
kolabI've found another website similar to libellcca, it's lityolo.com
I've actually tried to purchase something from it and revolut put my money back after 30 minutes, saying that the payment has been reverted.
seiko_killerLooks like the watches have been shipped, a very elaborate information page. I had sent 4 emails threatening Paypal intervention!! But the reply was always "I don't understand"!!! Paypal initailly closed the complaint , but I have asked for it to be opened as I still don't really think we will get the watches based on how they have responded. But who knows!!! Anyway Geckota has got a "Black November " sale on with new watches added each week!!
JAoneYes, I have sent them several emails, the last one was on the 31st saying they are very busy, and shipping now.
I just emailed them today because it obviously didn't ship 'now'
Let's see what happens!
seiko_killerI just got an email from Paypal, who have reopened my dispute,they have told me that they have contacted the seller and await a reasonable reply. Probably will say "I don't understand"!!! I hope because they will give me a full refund on 16/11/20 if they are not satisfied with the reply. I am not too happy with the shipping agent details not being listed; it says on the site "other"!!! So that kinda indicates it is "Fake", the only thing we can thank Trump for is the increased use of this word!!
seiko_killerYes, I almost think that they have "earned" our dollars for the amount of trouble they seem to have gone to by putting up this "Fake", yes I have been "Trumped"! website. I think maybe as soon as Paypal sent any correspondence they put all the orders to "shipped"!!! Why I don't know because if ,as we believe there is any kind of approved account the account will be suspended if it doesn't return the funds to Paypal. Still, it would be good if it was indeed legitimate.
JAoneI only sent an email asking for clarification on the claims they where a scam, didnt contact PayPal and got the tracking info soon there after. When I enter the tracking number into Aftership it comes back as a valid EMS China tracking code but with no info which would check out if they'd just shipped it.
patrickjmqInteresting, I am really hoping I have jumped the gun by trying to get Paypal intervention. I did originally ask Paypal if they would clarify that they were bonafide; but received no reply. Then I went via the resolution centre. Did Paypal respond to your question regarding whether or not it was a scam?
JAoneI asked the seller flat out rather than PayPal, got no clarification on their status, just they would ship the watch soon. Will give em a week and if the tracking isn updating i'll hit up PayPal. If it was anything other than watches they where selling, i'd see no red flags in my experience so far.
patrickjmqTo keep you and Seiko-killer updated: I just received an email from Paypal that they are reviewing, no idea of content, but they fact that they are reviewing would suggest they have asked for clarification; probably to indentify the shipping company.
seiko_killerThought I would let you know that Gekota are having a sale, I just ordered a watch adding "Welcome10" to bring the discount up to 41% off. Not as good as our dream price from Libellcca , but very real!!!
This will be my second from them the last one(C-03) was better than I could have wished for, except the strap that is!! For a company that started selling watch straps their straps are pretty average; but the watches well above average so far.
seiko_killerMe too,probably 5 or 6 but just had my wings clipped. May be looking at an unfortunate Covid related cost soon.If not there is always Christmas.
JAoneGo to Aftership.com and enter the tracking number they provided on their website. That'll show the real status. And Gekota having a big 50 percent sales makes this less outrageous.
patrickjmq
Call me back when they put the new Phalanx on sale for 50% off!
No way I'd spend $920 on it even though they claim it's powered by ETA 2824-2
(I'd have to run that claim by @ED61 before I'd believe it ;- )
RayFI just don’t see the price justification sounds gimmicky 20 minute bezel marker don’t they all as for 2824-2 no mention of grade so you would have to assume standard if it were top or chrono they would surely mention it besides glycine managed to make good watches with the 2824 for less than $300 not very long ago granted it’s a great movement but it’s not an exspensive movement i got a bad feelin bout this one sarge
patrickjmqYes, but even the PT5000 model is still a discount of over 80% on the current reduced price from Geckota. I have a feeling that this may be the PT5000 model, the ETA movement sold out; and that some PT5000 stock could have been dumped cheap as I don't think it was anywhere as successful as the ETA movement, it appears to be a new movement without any credentials!! Although they say it is the first Chinese 'Chronometer" grade model and equivalent to the ETA, it comes from H.K. Technologies, so internationally not too high a profile (that I can see anyway); if it was Seagull, or even Miyota maybe it would be known. I will try the tracking site. But even if something is coming....-what will it be like???? Only problem if we do receive goods,if it's bad or not as described ; Paypal require you to send back and ask for refund!! Then it could take another 6 weeks or so to get refund ,and we will probably have to pay tracking freight costs to prove they received the goods returned!! So anyway you look at it, we are still in a very small percentage chance. Fingers still crossed.
RayFNice looking watch.Still a lot at %50 off; but I suspect you may get your wish as that's may be the reason they launched the watch at such a high cost: only to reduce it soon after in a sale. Usually a lot of these microbrands have a reduced pre=order pre launch price. I could understand the price if it was a 2893 or 7750 , but still a lot for a 2824 and with just a fabric or rubber band, Yema appear to give two bands and are cheaper!!
JAoneIt absolutely is the PT5000 model if its anything. I'm totally cool with that, the industry is abuzz at the quality of the watch. The other 2 option are they've gone to Alibaba (one manufacturer is using the Gekota in its marketing materials saying "hey! we can build you this") and sourced something from there or they've managed to get dump stock from a select group of the PT watches they couldnt shift. A bonus option is they're sending us a homage of some variety but i'd nearly be happy with any auto dive watch at this kind of money to be honest. Its a fun experiment. Last update I got was: Arrived at sorting center from Yesterday.
JAoneHey, ive been following this thread, since i also bought the watch,
And to my suprise the aftership tracking works and have been updated, it started in jiangmen and is now in guanzhou.
But still think im getting ripped off as i suspect its not a geckota that will arrive, maybe a pagani design if we're lucky
AntonalbertThe cost of build will be very similar; Geckota uses the same parts as most of the better Chinese watches, just has their designs done in the UK. and despatches them from there. Different to say Panzera who use Chinese and Japanese parts and have them assembled in Australia. and then sent from Australia. I agree with Patrick it could be any "homage" watch and a little fun. Should be interesting or disappointing!!
patrickjmqSays it is received in Jieyang!! That's not my address!! I would think that it has now to be shipped from this place. If it is real it should take a couple of weeks. It is only 250ks from Hong Kong!! We'll see. Thanks for the info. Regards.
JAoneIs there any problem with sharing shipping numbers? Any potential privacy issue? If not it might be worth everyone who has a shipping number posting it here just to make sure they're not just shipping something to somewhere random and have given everyone the same tracking number.
patrickjmqWe dont have the same shipping numbers, because my local postal service got the shipping info through my email and phone number, so they know the end delivery locatipn here in sweden
seiko_killerOkay so the tracking number you posted looked similar to mine at first glance but that was just the format the carrier uses, Mine is actually different thank god: [Redacted (code was different)] a good sign.
patrickjmqMine number is different as well. So it's good that Patrick has achieved what he set out to do . I personally don't have a problem with some personal info being shared. Although this community discussion board is policed, in the past there have been a minority of "ratbags" that have been well let's just say abusive. It is a shame because there are a lot of great guys on the site. So I would be a little careful with any identifiers posted ,just in case someone tries to cause an issue. Drop does have to be careful with the information that is released .
JAoneI think the most identifiable thing to come from a tracking code is the city I live in, cant think of anything else one could glean from a tracking code... but just to be safe i've removed my code from above. As JAone has said, this confirms that it looks like they're sending out unique tracking codes and seem to be shipping "stuff" so a boy can only dream :)
patrickjmqI just wouldn't want someone to use it and compromise your delivery. Like I said most people on this site are really fantastic but there is always that small percentage.
patrickjmqYes, I find that is the case or most of my purchases; I really don't like to spend more than $200 usd. on any watch ,unless a proven performer i.e Seiko Alpinist, or a respected Swiss make; some of the watches I have had a reasonable resale have mainly been Swiss and funny enough Ingersoll, because the Drop prices were good to start with. Whilst I support and admire some of the microbrands and their styling, unless you plan to keep the watch forever one has to be careful; although Steinhart seem to hold their resale quite steady.
I particularly like the designs and finish on Geckota ,but at the end of the day it is just a Chinese made watch and when it is "sold on", you lose your shirt if you pay anything near the asking retail. This watch here is asking approx. $400 usd. or so for the PT5000 movement from Geckota on sale! even with the ETA movement unless a swiss made watch it will sink badly on resale. In reality they all do , apart from the odd icon and some Rolex and IWC. But those watches are far from my reach. If this watch is genuine and does turn up it will be a sensational buy. I would have probably been happy to spend around $200 - $250 usd. But $70 is a gift, as I said though, if it is legit!!!!!!!
seiko_killerwish is full of fake sieko 5s and casios... sorry, but you are looking the rentability of faking from your comfortable western home, for an average chinese somewhere outside the 1st tier cities, faking everything pays off...
BeeK86Well, if they're willing to fake Seiko 5s and Casios, which don't cost anywhere near what these Geckota watches cost, then maybe we are all in for a wake-up call! If we get sent fake stuff what do we do? Dispute it on PayPal and ask for the money back?
seiko_killerYes thats what we'd do. I'd like to point out that A) Seikos and Casios are big brand name items which makes them much more likely to be faked. An obscure English watch maker probably isnt high on the 'to-fake' list for China, but who knows, a fake Geckota would be interesting. Anyway, this is an experiment with very little to lose. I don't care either way if i'm being honest.
patrickjmqWhen I consider that "Geckota" declare they only make 100 watches in a release of a model per colour; you would have to think that purely the setup cost on the factory floor would make it hard to make a modest profit even at their full retail; never mind their sale prices. So taking into account the fact that these are made in China for Geckota; it would not surprise me if that limited run of 100 watches would now and again run over and there may be excess stock!!! "Just hoping",that is the only logical reason I can think of ,outside of the "scam". Haven't seen them on "Wish" but have seen almost every other make.
RayFIt now has been passed onto the carrier as at 13th,Nov!!!! So "something" is coming!! Yes I know: "so is Christmas"!!!! But on the Libellcca website it now has shipping info. ............in Chinese!! So very helpful. Some people would pay a lot of money for this sort of entertainment!! Although the "Tromp" show was also free to air!!
BeeK86I must admit, having just received a watch from Geckota direct a C-01 model; I was surprised at the lack of info. on the rear of the case; if I didn't know better (having ordered direct) I would say that the lack of info. on the caseback gave it that fake look!!! I will say I have seen some fakes of other brands and if I wasn't told ,or removed the caseback I would not be able to tell: and I have been in the retail side of the business!! Anyway I don't expect any company to admit their products are being sold so cheap, I am sure it does happen; hopefully this time!!!! LOL
JAone
Hmm...away from home this week so I can’t check mine for comparison—but since you ordered that one from the source, I’m sure all is as it should be.
AntonalbertHello !!
I live in a country called Korea. I don't know if you know, anyway It's pretty close to China
I waited about 10 days. but has not shipping yet, so I opened the PayPal dispute today.
We fell for it. fxxxxx!!!!!!
AntonalbertYes, right. :D
There was no response to the request to cancel the order, But an e-mail was sent saying that it was delivered last day. 🤣🤣
I can’t trace it yet. 😑
RayFI posted this earlier this week, apparently in the wrong place. I'm new here. What are ya gonna do?
I ordered from Libellcca on 11/10, the C-04. It was about $70 USD. Looks like a great watch and was exactly what I was looking for. I got a tracking number from the company last Monday, 11/16, United States Postal Service. It's a legitimate number. But the e-mail I got from Libellcca says it's been shipped and the USPS says it's "currently awaiting package." It says the same thing today, 6 days later.
There were a lot of clues I should have paid attention to before buying. The links to Watchgecko's web site, despite this being a different company, the fact that I couldn't find anything on Libellcca's site indicating where they are or where the watch is being shipped from. All that and lots more. After buying, I noticed that the watch is a couple of hundred dollars more on Watchgecko's site and that if you click on "Celebrating a Decade Online" on one of Libellcca's product pages, it takes you to Watchgecko. And if you do a search for Libellcca, there are a couple of watchdog sites that say Libbellcca's site is about 6 months old. Now I'm thinking, unless they have some kind of distributor inside the U.S., why would they have assigned just a USPS number instead of DHL or whatever?
I might change my user name to "Old Enough to Have Known Better." I'll update if anything changes, but I'm not expecting anything but BS from them.
JayU
"Fool me once, shame on you..."
I believe that's how that parable goes?
It's my guess that this an old scam from the early replica watch days; the way it works is based on the volume of orders. A site advertises and takes orders for watch X and begins to reel in the rubes (that would be you and all the other guys on this thread--they know who they are). The idea is to just take the money and not ship anything, but if they want to keep the con going, they have to stall the victims who have become suspicious and might be complaining to an audience or forum. The bad guys don't want bad press, so they start stringing the complainers along with fake shipping information. When the shipping docs and tracking information don't pan out, the seller switches tactics to "your item must have been lost in transit, we'll ship another..."
That ploy can be repeated and stretched out for weeks if not months.
But here's where it get's slick--they've already made a ton of money on the scam (let say 100 x $70), so it's not unusual for them to actually buy a few genuine items from the original manufacturer--that way they can ship a couple to the loudest complainers, or the ones represented by credit card companies. Those victims will intern acknowledge receipt and leave a positive review for others to read when evaluating the site. It's like "chumming the waters"--it draws in more fish! Now the scammers can point to people who have received product, making them seem quite legit.
I don't know for sure, but I think that's what may be going on here. Who knows--you might end up being one of the lucky ones who actually gets at watch?
Good luck!
Antonalbert
I think that's also part of the scammers scam--they count on victims just giving up once they realize they've been hoodwinked.
Hopefully PayPal steps in for you guys, but don't give up--hang in there!
RayFHaha well that is not going to happen. I've no issues whipping off the back and giving them a full technical breakdown of real vs fake in order to get PayPal to step up. I'll share the document here once I have it finished (dependent on the actual watch arriving) so you can all use it to help win your case.
We indeed will receive something. It is a watch!! well a Curren watch ,worth about $10! LOL .better than expected!
This is the scam were they say it is a mistake and can you return it with tracking shipment which cost 3 or 4 times the value of the watch!! Then you hope and wait until they send something else! Anyway It's not as bad as losing on the "Pokies"/fruit machines.LOL. But I am not sure how Paypal will respond, their protocols usually are to advise return and await replacement or refund;that could take months; and do you really want to throw good money after bad!! Maybe if enough people have the same complaint Paypal just might intervene outside of their normals procedures. I can't even sell a curren watch to any pawn/cash-converter agents!! Even the charity shops don't want them!!! cc seiko-killer,rayf etc.
RayFI am surprised they sent anything!! Eventually Paypal will recover payment,or at least stop using them. I would imagine there are a fair few people who have been caught up. I already left a complaint with Facebook, as well as Paypal. If their company gets booted from both it might be a big potential loss for a little profit. It was because they had the credentials of Paypal and Facebook that I took a chance; and I am sure that probably had an effect on other buyers too. Just glad my greed didn't play out as "buy three and save 15%"!!! It will certainly be interesting to see how Paypal reacts; I don't really think Facebook will be bothered they have bigger problems!!! But I won't waste money sending the watch back; they will probably be demanding a tracked shipment and that will cost up to to 50% of the buy price!! And it would be throwing good money after bad. Anyway, the way China is treating Australia many people are starting to think seriously about boycotting Chinese goods; I am with them. Depending what happens in Hong Kong I don't think I will be alone.
JAoneWait... So that Curren watch is what they sent instead of the Geckota? They didn't even try to make us think that they shipped what we ordered? Damn.
JAoneI think they've f*ed up sending something like as its not going to be hard for watch folks to provide clear and quantitate evidence that they're running a switch and bait scam here. This thread + reviews + the warnings from Geckota etc make it impossible for PayPal not to mark this up as a fraud case and just return the cash. And if we can circulate this info to enough customers we can get PayPal to freeze their account and hopefully reverse the transactions made. How does one go about prosecuting a Chinese company selling outside of mainland china anyway? I'm feeling vindictive.
seiko_killerHi guys, Rayf, patrickjmq, antonalbert, etc. Just had an update from Paypal, the case is escalated ,they will ask for an explanation from "Libellcca" ,or whoever the paypal seller is! If no good reply in the time allowed they purchase price will be refunded from paypal, they do have the right to ask for a return: Paypal cover the cost. If still an issue then Paypal will still refund and attend to "Libellcca"; so they have said. They don't take these complaints about scam sites lightly and have instigated an enquiry!! If nothing else this is keeping me amused/busy!! A good reason to use Drop; whenever there has been issues; so far, I have even if a little delayed at times, I have had good service.
JAone
Glad to hear that! Good on PayPal and agree completely with your comments regarding MD’s Customer Service—not the fastest, but always fair.
Good luck with the refund.
AntonalbertThat's how they operate, each different company request paypal, and appear independent of the others. I don't think Paypal have the investigation prowess to deal with them. Anyway the way China is proceeding they won't be able to operate in Australia within a few years; they just continually keep on with "economic bullying". The public feeling toward China here is about the same as the way we feel toward "Libellcca"; it must be a modern cultural pandemic within China. I feel really sorry for the decent folks over there, they are probably just the same as the poor persecuted folks from Hong Kong.
AntonalbertGuess what!! They have offered me a partial refund...............$7 usd. LOL. They are now adding insult to injury! I have heard of a "class action" when people get together and sue others. What about a "class hitman fund" ???
JAoneYou might know the youtube videos of the hacker who broke into premises of indian callcenters and uncovered a scam gang, all the way just handing them over to police, I beliewe somehow he could be able to connet these companies and trace them back to the same center they are operating from including gathering footages of surveillance cameras... :D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=le71yVPh4uk
patrickjmqI dont need to, I did not order from libellca or the newly set up site of whoever stands behind this scam, however, what I already managed to do, is to report their instagram ad yesterday...
RayFHi Rayf, seiko-killer, anyone want to buy a high spec. Curren watch? LOL. Just to update you Paypal just made notification on my account of a full refund; and said I could keep the Curren watch!! I think they are not too impressed with this company; hopefully they can cause them some problems. But I am not buying the current Aragon offering, they do have a 42mm diver which is worth looking at though!!
JAoneGlad to hear it—you dodged a bullet on that one, but more importantly, you probably kept quiet a few folks from becoming victims—that makes you the HERO of the story!
JAoneI got notification that I received the delivery at my work today. I'm heading down there later on so if it's that delivery I will open up the package and let everybody know! I'm actually kind of excited to see what is in this box!
seiko_killerGot the full refund on my credit card today. Hope you got yours. 7 weeks and all I have to show for all of the effort is a $10 Curren watch!! Oh well better than nothing!!
JAoneI actually received both my watches. The bubble wrap packages even said Geckota on the labels! Then I got two lovely Jlanda Emmanuel watches!
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At least I was prepared for this! I submitted a complaint with paypal. It's only been I think two or three days so hopefully they get back to me soon but I'm expecting the full refund.
The only Silver lining to my day that day, was that I also received my brand new Yema Rallygraf!
seiko_killerGood news to anyone who wants a PayPal refund from the Geckota incident, PayPal arent even challenging claims, just submit an issue with a few lines and a picture and they'll refund before you can refresh. Clearly a notice set up for pass through refunds on the merchants account :)
patrickjmqHey everybody, here's an update: FYI, I JUST today received an email from Paypal saying they will refund me the full amount.
It got a bit dicey there with the back and forth though. I'm glad I went through Paypal, but now obviously I realize that we all should have listened to @RayF from the get-go! Lessons learned. Now I really want one of the REAL Geckota's though. I already have a G-01, but that Green version was pretty sweet!
RayFI sent PayPal a message through their complaint form and a photo of the ridiculous item these crooks sent me. There were no follow-up questions, just an e-mail the next day saying that they were giving me a full refund. Day after that the money was in my PayPal account.
JayU
Good for you!
I have to believe PayPal is on a first name basis with those bastards by now. Would be interesting to find out what if anything has happened to them, legally or otherwise.
Anyways--stay out of trouble going forward!
RayFOld enough to know better. Now I do!
Has anyone here had any experience with the Marchand brand? They have a "classic driver" on sale here. Looks great but I'm wondering if they're any good.
JayU
Looks very similar to the watch that started on this in the first place (the Geckota C-01 Gen 2 Racing Chronograph).
I don't know much about the brand, but anything one buys on Amazon is pretty easy to return if things don't work out.
JayU
I don't think it's a terrible watch; MD's price of $159 appears to be the lowest you'll find. Looking over the reviews on Amazon, a few people complained about the strap, but there were no negative comments about the watch. The movement, a Miyota cal.0S21, is one of the most popular/common engines for quartz chronographs in this price range and nobody's complaining about them.
I say if you like it, buy it--you're not risking much, even if you do have to replace the strap down the line.