Fake Rolex Scheme Spreads Online as Superclone Watches Flood the Market
The sale of counterfeit luxury watches—particularly Rolex—continues to surge across online marketplaces in the Philippines. This spike is largely driven by the proliferation of Rolex Superclone watches manufactured in China.
Rolex Superclone units are high-grade replicas engineered to mimic genuine Rolex models with near-perfect precision. Made using advanced machinery, these counterfeits replicate the weight, movement, engravings, and even micro-details of authentic Rolex pieces. Some Superclones use imitation Swiss movements and sapphire-like crystals, making them difficult to detect even for trained verifiers. In the Philippines, these replicas are often sold for hundreds of thousands of pesos—far below the original retail value, which ranges from ₱400,000 to millions of pesos.
What makes these scams more alarming is that some sellers also forge receipts, fake store certifications, and use legitimate business names to deceive potential buyers. This growing problem has recently been highlighted on the Facebook page “Philippines Most Wanted Criminals,” where two alleged scammers—Carl Miguel Rosal and Archie Balasbas—were publicly exposed.
🚨 WANTED ALERT: CARL MIGUEL ROSAL 🚨
Notorious Seller of Fake Rolex Watches
A wanted notice was issued for 21-year-old Carl Miguel Rosal, accused of selling counterfeit Rolex watches amounting to a total of ₱2.5 million from multiple victims.
- Name: Carl Miguel Rosal
- Age: 21
- Last Known Address: Biñan, Laguna
- Crime: Estafa / Investment Fraud
- Status: Arrest Warrant Issued – Suspect At-Large
Authorities are urging the public to report any sighting of Rosal. He is considered a high-risk scammer known for using social media to transact with unsuspecting buyers.
Emergency Hotlines:
- PNP Hotline: 117
- PNP–CIDG: 0951-059-3843
This information was shared publicly for public awareness and safety.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122156639366914853&set=a.122110434710914853
🚨 NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: ARCHIE BALASBAS 🚨
Quezon City Man Accused of Using Forged Receipts to Sell Fake Rolex Watches
Another case circulating online involves Archie Balasbas, also identified as a seller of counterfeit Rolex watches. Reports from at least five victims reveal losses amounting to approximately ₱3.5 million.
Victims claim that Balasbas uses tampered and forged receipts supposedly from known watch stores—particularly YourTime Watch Repair Services—to make the watches appear legitimate. He reportedly continues to approach potential buyers online.
Victim Testimony
“Do not transact with this person. He sells fake Rolex watches and replicates official receipts of YourTime Watch Repair Services and other legitimate stores. I trusted him because of his page Time Palace PH—he posted checks, had many followers, and looked credible. He even claimed the watch was authenticated at YourTime and gave me what looked like their receipt.
After I inspected the watch, I became suspicious and went to YourTime myself. That’s when I found out the receipt was fake and the authenticity of the watch was tagged ‘questionable.’ YourTime said many scammers now duplicate verification receipts from reputable stores.”
Lesson Learned
When buying from the gray market, always verify in person at a trusted watch authentication center. Never rely on receipts alone.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=122164838612914853&set=a.122110434710914853
Why These Scams Succeed
- Superclones closely mimic genuine Rolex features
- Sellers use professional-looking Facebook pages
- Fake receipts and forged authenticity cards mislead buyers
- Scammers use rapid transactions and high-pressure tactics
- Victims often rely on online “proof” such as photos, videos, and fake store documents
How to Protect Yourself: Rolex Verification Tips for Buyers
Before buying a luxury watch—especially from the gray market—follow these steps:
1. Meet at a Reputable Watch Authentication Center
Choose trusted establishments like:
- Rolex-authorized dealers
- Certified watch service centers
- Long-time watch repair specialists
2. Do Not Rely Solely on Receipts or Certificates
Scammers now use:
- Digitally forged receipts
- Scanned QR codes
- Fake warranty cards copied from real stores
Always verify authenticity independently.
3. Inspect the Watch Movement
Genuine Rolex watches have:
- Smooth sweeping second hands
- High-quality internal engraving
- Solid, weighty components
Only experts can fully confirm this—get a proper teardown inspection if needed.
4. Check Serial and Model Numbers
These should match:
- The watch
- The bracelet
- The accompanying documents
Counterfeiters often misalign or mismatch these numbers.
5. Be Wary of Prices Far Below Market Value
A Rolex priced too good to be true almost always is.
6. Research the Seller Thoroughly
- Check for verified business permits
- Look for a consistent online presence over the years
- Avoid pages created recently with suspicious growth
- Beware of sellers who refuse to meet in person
The cases of Carl Miguel Rosal and Archie Balasbas highlight the growing threat of luxury watch scams in the Philippines. As counterfeit technology improves, buyers must exercise greater caution and always prioritize in-person verification.
Protect your money. Protect yourself.
If you suspect a scammer, report immediately to the authorities.
