In Reply to: A gentle rip off posted by Bruce NZ on Tuesday, 1. June 2021 at 08:40 Bali Time:
I have bought a fair bit of genuine and copy maritime brass pieces over the years.
One trip I spotted a full size fake divers helmet on display, and went inside to negotiate.
No problem, and arrived at a suitable price, but "that helmet only display, we have another in our shop in Sanur".
Not only that but "helmet is damaged, and we have better". (No damage was apparent)
The fact that they don't have a shop in Sanur was a minor detail.
I turned up back there a couple of days later and asked for the helmet "from Sanur".
Lo and behold, a fully wrapped and sealed parcel was presented with a smile and a comment "all ready for shipping".
Naturally, I requested that the parcel be opened......I can pack myself.
A few nervous looks and one of the lads disappeared out back to hide, and the replacement helmet was revealed.
Totally different type and this time ACTUALLY damaged.
I instructed the guy to go out front and get the "display" and watched while he wrapped it, paid the original agreed price and was on my way.
The helmet makes a nice display at home and reminds me that a smiling face does not always guarantee an honest deal.