Horological Meandering

Here is the dilemma I'm currently having : Have put a deposit for new Cartier Santos Dumont Limited in Singapore boutique, at april 2020. Still can not go there to pick the watch up because of this pandemic. With the worsening situation here and very stri...  

Sorry but to each his own 😉 Cartier is better for any aspect. Movement, design, overall quality

That Panerai is not very appealing, it is not (because of the date/cyclops) representative of the classic Panerai look. If you were comparing to a simple Base model Panerai I would be much more enthused. It’s also a comparison of apples and oranges. One c... 

The Cartier Singapore do not do overseas shipping. Even if they do, once the watch pass the custom, I will have to pay 28% tax, which is nearly 1/3 of the watch price, its just make no sense. That is why I always fly to Singapore to get watches that are n... 

Citing the Singaporean lockdown situation. Rules like that can be flexed at the dealers discretion. And/or offer a bit more deposit if you have to. I vote Cartier as well Cazalea

I’m definitely curious to hear/see what instant collection you have parked around the world. I think this deserves it’s own post should you choose to divulge such information!

I respect Panerai, branding ethos etc....but it was never my personal taste.

And from what I understand from friends in Singapore, there's still no end in sight to the government lockdowns there, so you are almost guaranteed to go past the October deadline with Cartier. Hope you'll find something that you like soon, but also that ... 

You already have an elegant Cartier... 40mm is arguable, but if like for many it is the size fits you, it gets you into that style and Panerai history post Pre and Vendome versions. In 1940’s and till 1993 the Panerai watches were 47mm then smaller to 44m... 

Maybe they don't want to bear the risk of missing or damage. And maybe they know that I will refuse to pay the 28% tax,, which I really reluctant to do so. Much more make sense to buy 2-way air tickets and even stay 1 night at a nice hotel.

I am absolutely sure when you pay 50%, that Cartier will keep it for you. After all this is major problem for many of their clients. I can imagine that it gives you an insecure feeling, that you have to wait a few more months, to finally get the piece. Bu... 

transaction by wiring the funds, or by credit card, and having the watch shipped to you?

the watch is in who could pick it up for you and ship it?

He also feels Uncomfortable because all travel out and in is prohibited now, unless for government purpose and essential travels which must be sponsored by company. Shipping is very costly for me because of 28% tax.

Patience can be difficult, but the waiting is worth it (imho).

Listen to advices but make your own choice. It is not because the guy next door or others guys on forums have whatever it is that it means it is for you. I prefer you saying I take this one because this is the one I like, wanted, decided to own, wear, etc... 

I will hold on that Cartier, meanwhile i'm in process of getting more discount for the panerai, and thinking for trading it with one of my collections , which get least wrist time. We'll see...thank for your input. I know its the right thing to do...alway... 

and buy the stainless steel santos dumont with blue strap at a cartier shop in your country.

But the quartz movement is a dealbreaker. And a black dial + YG bezel Santos is rare bird, as far as I know. I guess I just have to wait and learn to be more patient. Hopefully the border will be opened at the end of year or beginning of next year.

Is the deposit in danger of being forfeited? I think the watch will be there for you whenever you are ready to pick it up. As an aside, if Indonesian customs laws are the same elsewhere, you would still have to declare and pay taxes on your Singapore purc... 

Regarding the tax, usually I don't declare the watch, I just wear it all the time and leave the box on the shop.

They will hold the watch for as long as needed. But they need me to fully pay before year end come what may. To lock in the price. Because there will be a price increase next year. Normally, deposit upon order and full pay upon pick up. But if travel stil... 

Cartier is under Richmont, which also runs JLC. I had a situation which may be a useful experience for you to handle this situation. When I wanted a JLC from the Sydney boutique, they sourced it from the Singapore boutique and did a transfer. Maybe you'd ... 

Oh well, never mind. As long as I have the deposit, I am sure they will keep it for me. The Singapore economy is tanking now, they really need sales, particularly for luxury items in times like this.

Hope u get the piece in due time.

Never been a huge fan of Panerai tbh . So easy choice if it was up to me

Stick with the Cartier.