First off, the easiest way to NOT get scammed? Buy from, like, a *real* store. I mean, an authorized retailer. Duh. That’s the safest bet, no brainer. But hey, sometimes you find a deal online that’s just too good to pass up, right? That’s where things get tricky.
I saw this video (somewhere… I can’t remember exactly, maybe on YouTube or something) that talked about spotting fakes. They were all about the details! Like, scrutinize that dial logo! Apparently, the fakers sometimes kinda…mess it up. The font might be off, or the spacing, or SOMETHING. Real subtle stuff, y’know? You gotta really squint. Think of it as a fun game! “Spot the Difference: Casio Edition!”
And the back! Oh man, the back of the watch is a goldmine (pun intended! Ha!). Check the engraving. Is it crisp? Is it centered? Does it *look* legit? I’ve seen pics where the fake engravings are all wonky and uneven. Like someone did it with a dull butter knife. Also, this one dude was saying that the crown can be a giveaway? I dunno, I didn’t really understand that part, but I guess check it out?
Then there’s the strap. A lot of people complain about the hard resin band on the F-91W. I heard that if the resin is too hard, that’s probably a fake. But also, some people just don’t like the feel of resin, regardless. So, take that with a grain of salt, I guess.
Here’s the thing though, I even saw some stuff online (like, on Reddit, maybe? Or was it a forum? Ugh, I can’t remember!) where people said their *genuine* Casios were made in different countries (China vs. Malaysia, specifically). And they were comparing them, trying to figure out which was fake! It was all very confusing. So, even if it says “Made in China” or “Made in Malaysia,” it doesn’t automatically mean it’s a fake. Just adds to the chaos, doesn’t it?
Oh, and the beep! Supposedly, fake Casios have a harsher, more annoying beep sound. Like, a digital mosquito buzzing in your ear. But honestly, who even *uses* the beep anymore? I haven’t heard a beep on mine in years.