Art of the Deal · Real Men Real Style Community

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Art of the Deal

While visiting a local jeweler, my wife spotted a watch she absolutely loved. The sticker price was $395, but my inner WIS (Watch Idiot Savant) couldn’t resist doing a little reconnaissance first. Sure enough, I found the exact same watch online for $350.

Armed with that bit of intelligence, I returned to the store and launched my opening salvo.

“Is $395 your best price?”

The sales associate didn’t even flinch.

“Nope… I can do $340.”

At that point I was already beating the online price, so I smiled and said, “Deal!”

As we continued talking watches and swapping stories, a little rapport developed. While she was boxing up the watch, I casually asked, “Do you happen to offer a military discount?”

“Yes, we do—and thank you for your service.”

Just like that… another 10% vanished from the total.

Final score:

* MSRP: $395

* Negotiated price: $340

* Military discount: 10%

* Final price: Just over $306 before tax.

Not bad for a few minutes of friendly conversation.

Watch collecting teaches patience, research, and timing. This time, all three paid off. Better yet, my wife walked away with a watch she genuinely loves, and I got the satisfaction of knowing the only thing sweeter than a new watch is getting one without paying full retail.

I guess you could say this purchase was right on time

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Art of the Deal