The victim, a man aged in his 30s, had arranged to meet what he thought was a legitimate buyer for his UK Swiss replica Rolex watch and was waiting at a café in Plaistow Road on Thursday, 28 April at around 19:00hrs.

However, on arrival, he was confronted by at least three masked suspects who came into the café and threatened him. They demanded the copy watch before fleeing on foot in the direction of Plaistow Underground Station.

The victim was unharmed but shaken following the incident.

No arrests have been made at this time.

Detectives are appealing for any witnesses who saw the men to make contact.

They are also keen to hear from any jewellery sellers who may have been offered the watch for sale. It is a cheap fake Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Rhodium Dial 116622 Serial number EX740501 worth around £1,600.

Anyone who has information that can help police should call 101 Swiss movement replica Rolex reference CAD 6371/28Apr.