on 22-05-2013 12:32 PM
I very very VERY stupidly bought a Chanel perfume from a new eBay member thinking - I should give them a go as they say it's 100% authentic, support the local little people, they offer inspection and pickup, the price is not unusual for a tester bottle which I have bought from another seller in the past (which was authentic). I would have inspected it if they were in the same state. My usual online supplier didn't have this in stock and I really needed another bottle - OK, I didn't need it that fast as it is hardly a life threatening need!
What arrived was a fake. There is no question, the packaging is fake, the bottle is fake, the perfume is nothing like the real thing. I have a number of Chanel perfumes here, I KNOW the real thing and when it is not. This one was so obvious. David Jones Chanel Counter confirmed this. But won't put it in writing.
I asked the seller for a refund gently telling them that I understand if this is a genuine mistake. They refused a refund. I raise a Paypal dispute but get asked '
To continue with our investigation, we need documentation that verifies the item you received is not authentic. This document must come from an unbiased third party, such as a dealer, appraiser or other organisation (other than yourself) that is qualified to assess the item’s authenticity.
The document must specifically state how this item differs from an authentic item. The person or organisation evaluating the item must also explain how they determined the item is not authentic.
The document must also be on letterhead that includes the name, address and phone number of the business or organisation'.
Easy to ask, but here in Ausralia the only Chanel stores are David Jones and Myer. There are some online sellers but nobody wants to get involved and the seller KNOWS this. The seller has another eBay account (I have since discovered selling more fakes) and know the loopholes. They say the same 'prove it is fake and that it is what was sent in the package'.
I have been on eBay for many many years and have spent thousands as a no-problem fast paying buyer. Palpal has classified me as a Type 2 Account holder, meaning I have spent a lot!
Does anyone know of any place that will provide such documentation? I know it's a really stupid mistake on my part, but is there any way out so I can get a refund? Oh, and the seller has sent me a feedback revision if I want to get my money back, but Paypal have advised I ignore it.
Any advice?