Luxury Jewelry Maker Cartier Makes Mistake, Mexican Man Scores Big
A Rare Opportunity
Rogelio Villarreal was browsing Cartier’s website when he stumbled upon an offer that seemed too good to be true. Gold-and-diamond earrings were listed for 237 pesos ($14), instead of the correct price, 237,000 pesos ($14,000). Villarreal couldn’t resist and ordered two sets.
The Back and Forth
What followed was months of negotiations between Villarreal and Cartier. The company initially offered him a consolation prize instead of the jewelry, and then Mexican officials backed his position that the company should honor the advertised price. Villarreal finally received the earrings last week, and he posted a video online of himself unboxing the merchandise.
Public Attention and Criticism
However, Villarreal’s case soon became a lightning rod online, with some critics accusing him of taking advantage of Cartier’s mistake. Some claimed he should give the earrings back or pay taxes on them. Others called him a thief. Villarreal, a doctor doing his medical residency, said he had to fight for months to get the company to deliver and claimed that Cartier offered to send him a bottle of champagne instead.
The Outcomes
Villarreal was able to buy two sets of earrings worth $14,000 for only about $28. He says he gave one of them to his mother. Despite the public attention, he grew tired of being known only for the earrings and asked people to talk about something else.
Conclusion
Villarreal’s case highlights the importance of respecting published prices. Companies must ensure that their advertised prices are accurate to avoid confusion and disputes. In this case, Cartier’s mistake led to a rare opportunity for Villarreal, but it also caused him months of stress and public scrutiny.
FAQs
Q: Did Cartier comment on the situation?
A: No, the company did not respond to requests for comment.
Q: Did Villarreal have to fight for the earrings?
A: Yes, he had to negotiate with Cartier for months to receive the jewelry.
Q: What did Villarreal do with the extra earrings?
A: He gave one of them to his mother.
Q: Is it fair for Villarreal to keep the earrings?
A: Some critics say no, while others believe he has a right to the advertised price. Mexico’s consumer protection agency has supported Villarreal’s claim.
