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) couldnβt 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. βIs $395 your best price?β The sales associate didnβt even flinch. βNopeβ¦ I can do $340.β At that point I was already beating the online price, so I smiled and said, βDeal!β As we continued talking watches and swapping stories, a little rapport developed. While she was boxing up the watch, I casually asked, βDo you happen to offer a military discount?β βYes, we doβand thank you for your service.β Just like thatβ¦ 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