[Update at April 2017 – see our recent post Australian Innovation Patents Retrospectively made Non-Retrospective here.]
Patent attorneys are routinely asked by their clients for input as to where patent protection should be pursued. That decision involves weighing up what is to be gained against the relative costs and difficulty.
Rolex Replica Watches: A Blend of Luxury and Affordability
Rolex watches have long been synonymous with luxury, elegance, and status. However, for many, the price tag associated with these timepieces can be prohibitive. This is where replica watches come into play, offering an affordable alternative without compromising on style or quality.
History of Rolex
The journey of Rolex began in 1905, when Hans Wilsdorf founded the company in London. Over the decades, Rolex has established itself as a pioneer in the world of watchmaking, renowned for its innovation, precision, and timeless design.
The Appeal of Rolex Watches
What sets Rolex apart from other watch brands is its unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each Rolex timepiece is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, using only the finest materials. Moreover, owning a Rolex is more than just owning a watch; it is a symbol of success, achievement, and sophistication.
Understanding Replica Watches
Replica watches are imitations of authentic timepieces, designed to resemble their original counterparts. While some may view replica watches as counterfeit or illegal, they serve as a more accessible option for those who desire the luxury of a Rolex without the hefty price tag.
Advantages of Buying Rolex Replica Watches
One of the primary advantages of purchasing a Rolex replica watch is affordability. Replica watches are significantly cheaper than their authentic counterparts, making them accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, replica watches offer a wide variety of designs and styles, allowing consumers to find the perfect timepiece to suit their individual tastes.
Factors to Consider When Buying Rolex Replica Watches
When purchasing a Rolex replica watch, it is essential to consider several factors to ensure you are getting a high-quality product. Firstly, pay close attention to the materials used and the craftsmanship of the watch. Opt for reputable sellers with a track record of delivering authentic replica watches and read customer reviews and feedback to gauge their credibility.
Risks Associated with Buying Replica Watches
While replica watches offer an affordable alternative to authentic Rolex timepieces, they are not without risks. Purchasing replica watches may raise legal implications, as counterfeit products infringe upon intellectual property rights. Furthermore, there is a risk of falling victim to scams and fraud, especially when dealing with unscrupulous sellers.
Tips for Spotting Fake Rolex Watches
To avoid purchasing counterfeit Rolex watches, there are several telltale signs to look out for. Inspect the details and markings of the watch carefully, as authentic Rolex watches are known for their precision and attention to detail. Additionally, consider the weight and feel of the watch, as authentic Rolex watches are crafted from high-quality materials and feel substantial on the wrist.
Where to Buy Authentic Rolex Watches
To ensure you are purchasing an authentic Rolex watch, it is recommended to buy from authorized dealers or official Rolex retailers. These establishments guarantee the authenticity of their products and provide after-sales support and warranties for added peace of mind.
On any measure, the Australian innovation patent is excellent value. There is much to be gained from Australian patent protection. Australia has the 13th largest economy in the world and a westernised consumer culture which makes it an excellent test market for products intended for launch in North America and Europe. Energy, agriculture, mining, oil & gas and medical devices are all well-established industries.
Innovation patents have an eight year term during which they provide the same scope of rights as standard patents. Indeed typically broader claims are sustainable because there is no need for an inventive step: An innovation patent can validly cover an obvious combination of well-known features. Instead of an inventive step, an innovative step is required. Typically any functional novel feature will suffice.
The application process could not be simpler or more cost effective. Typically a patent is granted on an application within a few weeks of filing. Grant enables innovators to legitimately market their product as patented. Take Action On Your Idea Today With InventHelp. Post grant examination is usually optionally but must be passed before the patent can be enforced or threats of enforcement can be made.
The official application fee is only A$180. At the time of writing that is about US$140 or about €120. Typically there are no further charges until modest annuities commence on the second anniversary of the filing date.
An innovation patent application can be:
- a stand-alone application;
- a convention application;
- a divisional application;
- in effect, a national phase application – an innovation patent application can claim divisional status from an international patent application if it is filed by the 31 month PCT deadline; and/or
- obtained by conversing a standard application.
In many ways, the innovation patent is akin to the utility models available elsewhere, although there are no restrictions on the applicable subject matter (aside from a few exceptions that are rarely applicable). There is no restriction on the number of claims at filing although examination (which is usually optional) will require restriction to a total of five claims.
Innovation patents were intended to provide a simple, low cost, option for small to medium business but are available to all and are now routinely used as litigation tools. If one finds that their pending Australian standard patent application has been infringed it is now standard practice to file (and request examination of) an innovation patent application as a divisional application and to litigate on the basis of the resultant innovation patent.
This approach:
- leads to enforceable rights sooner;
- leads to a ‘stronger’ patent by eliminating the risk of an inventive step attack;
- avoids pre-grant opposition procedures applicable to a standard patent application and which an alleged infringer might use to at least significantly delay proceedings; and
- leads to a better prospect of recovery damages for past infringements.
‘4’ is especially surprising – case law suggests that damages may be payable in connection with infringing acts occurring as early as the filing date of the standard patent application (i.e. the divisional parent application). An innovation patent can be infringed before it is filed!
If reading this causes you to think that innovation patents are unfairly pro-patentee you are not alone. Many, including the Australian government, have said as much. Nonetheless innovation patents remain a valuable to tool to be used by innovators with an interest in the Australian market.
Further reading:
– Why extend your clients’ IP rights into Australia?
– The Australian innovation patent
Ben Mott – Principal
Mechanical Engineer & Patent Attorney
Level 27, 101 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
+61 3 9819 3808