800.663.4533 ~ 905.250.8880 ~ ocp@oldchinapatterns.ca

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Inventory Condition & Discount Codes

All our inventory is in EXCELLENT CONDITION unless otherwise specified.

We guarantee the condition of what we sell. If you are not satisfied with the quality of an item you may exchange it within 30 days according to our terms of sale. If a replacement item is unavailable, you may return it as per our return policy.

In order to offer such a guarantee we have very strict guidelines about condition. At the same time, we must keep in mind that since there is no source for older discontinued patterns even items considered to be in excellent condition may show "signs of use".
Items with flaws are clearly identified

If we have not specified the condition of the item following it's "description" the item is considered to be in excellent condition. Example: 1 Dinner plate

An example of an item that has been discounted due to a minor flaw could be a dinner plate that has a couple scratches, but otherwise is as good as new. Example: 1 Dinner plate very minor wear -5%.

Occasionally, we receive new items. Generally, we do not charge more for these pieces, but will include the distinction "NEW/UNUSED" for your convenience.

We try not to stock damaged items unless they are hard to find or the damage is very minor. If we do, we prefer to err on the side of caution.

Many customers have commented that they can't see why we discounted items, until we show them. Several others have said, even our 20% off discount items "fit in just fine" with their own sets.

Not everyone agrees with this "no surprises" approach, but we want you to be happy with your order!

Are we being too strict? Maybe. But consider the following ;

Customer satisfaction with the condition of our stock is over 99%

Repeat clients represent the largest part of our business!

Returns and refunds are at the lowest levels ever!
If you don't use your pieces and you consider your items as "showpieces" then you probably shouldn't buy items that have been marked down without seeing them first. In which case we'd be happy to show you an item in our showroom and/or note your preferences in our client files here.
If you feel that a minor (5-10%) reduction for a couple scratches or trim wear is reason to not purchase an item that you want/need, then we agree with you.
If you haven't dealt with us before, and you're still not sure about our condition guidelines, let us assure you, our 40+ years in this business has taught us what is and isn't acceptable. You will not be disappointed. We guarantee it!

The following translations are meant to help you clarify and understand
the different reasons for discounts applied to items in our inventory.

For item description clarification, please click here.

 Damage codes

English translation

MKM or min knife marks -10%

Minor knife marks; Often only a few scratches. Usually very minor.

KNIFE WEAR or KM -20%

Knife marks; More scratches than minor but still quite complimentary with most services.

GOLD or PLAT WEAR -20%

Metallic decoration worn; Noticeable but not offensive

MIN GOLD WEAR or MGW -10%

Minor gold wear; Not very noticeable, definitely not offensive.

MFGR FLAW -10%

Manufacturer's flaw; Met with manufacturer's quality control guidelines but we feel needs mention.

MEDIUM WEAR -20%

General wear; Includes two or more of the following, minor scratches, gold wear, stacking wear, dishwasher wear.

MEDIUM WEAR -30%

General wear; Obvious wear from use. Not recommended for purchase unless you are local.

MINOR DWD or D/WASHER USE -10%

Minor dishwasher use; Evidence of exposure to a dishwasher. Probably not noticeable to an untrained eye.

D/WASHER USE -30%

Dishwasher use; When compared to excellent items, noticeable fading of enamel or dulling of glaze.

OVERSTOCK

We have enough of this item in stock that a Special Price is warranted.