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This is really sad news. He seemed like a reasonably nice man when I met him.
I guess when purchasing online and not seeing the goods in the flesh prior, the seller can send anything and hope that this would be accepted by the buyer as CC has mentioned before.
The good thing is that there is no denial and that he is refunding your money. However, it is very frustrating to not receive what you had paid for.
The pics are not very clear first and foremost. Also, the pearl looks suspect so I would certainly be careful.
Also, I would ask the question if the seller can afford a 9k watch then why are the quality of his pics lousy? Can he not afford a decent camera?
Gong Xi Fa Cai to all my Chinese Friends. To a great healthy and prosperous year to come for all of in this year of the Snake.
For the new year I have been wearing this