real or fake SMP (i know, these threads must be getting old)

[burnsy]

i just purchased this SMP today w/o papers (should be getting the case and papers in 2 weeks or so)
purchased from a local seller

researched on all the tell tale sign to identify fake from authentic
i am 99% sure it is authentic, but would like the opinions of others

here are some pictures






thought it was kind of awkward to see the 825 bracelet ID in the middle as opposed to the side

also, the serial is 8103XXXX (was told this was purchased in 2006)

thanks

[MTBer]

If that's fake, then I'd definitely be fooled. I'm no expert, but that looks like a keeper

[Russ77]

looks pretty legit.

[burnsy]

thanks for the response
more comments welcome

any idea about the bracelet ID or serial number?

[henryjbird]

I think it is fake.

I understand your disappointment.

Send me the watch and I'll send you $20 bucks.

[burnsy]

hahahaa
send money to fakesmp@hotmail.com and ill ship over the watch asap
btw, hows the Heuer Regatta treating you?
almost purchased one a while back, but ended up picking up a carrera

[erico]

It's real.

[Dixan]

It looks real to me. I have the same watch. I absolutely love mine. Congrats.

The anti-counterfeiting globe and the larger, laser etched bracelet end-link numbers are indicative of a late-in-the-run example of the 2531.80. What I mean is, it is a newer watch than the ones with the smaller stamped numbers to the side (which also lack the globe). Your watch was likely first sold in 2005 or 2006. Hope that helps.

[OzO]

looks fine to me champ, wear it in good health!

[animusolus]

Looks legit to me as well. I've yet to see a fake with the correct placement of the HEV, anticounterfeiting globe on caseback, serial, AND red dot. Congrats...great watch.

Btw, these threads NEVER get old to me, because they give me another opportunity to say that we need a fake busting/counterfeits subforum (continues equine beating)...