After-market vs. Fake

[abigsecret]

Please explain;

It is my understanding that it is "illegal" to discuss fake Rolex's on TRF,
yet on so many threads I see the word after-market...
People are giving recommendations on where to go when you want to alter
your Rolex and what to search for on Ebay if you want something not
original. Or where to go and have repairs done on these watches that aren't
considered "real" anymore due to alterations.

Why is that OK?

[I_WANT_YOU]

The key distinction is that aftermarket purchases occurs after you've already purchased a legitimate Rolex. It has nothing to do with purchasing an illegal fake.

[Jocke]

Originally Posted by abigsecret

Please explain;

It is my understanding that it is "illegal" to discuss fake Rolex's on TRF,
yet on so many threads I see the word after-market...
People are giving recommendations on where to go when you want to alter
your Rolex and what to search for on Ebay if you want something not
original. Or where to go and have repairs done on these watches that aren't
considered "real" anymore due to alterations.

Why is that OK?

Aftermarket is a nicer word for fake that make those that buy those things feels better.

Rolex should have genuine parts, maybe strap is the only thing that is accepted as
not orginal. Aftermarket bracelets is a no, no IMHO.

Jocke

[DSJ]

I agree, I don't think that someone who puts on a non-Rolex diamond bezel or has AR coating put on the crystal turns it into a fake, but merely modifies the genuine article to personalize it. I have no problem with a watch like that being sold, as long as there is full disclosure.

It can be confusing though!

[Jimbits76]

My opinion which is probably worth about zilch is...

I always see aftermarket and think of cosmetic modifications.

As "Hollywood" above me suggests...diamond bezel or flashy new strap.

It doesn't turn the watch into a fake but will detract from it's value when sold.

J

[Tools]

I think that we have to look at a Rolex the same as any other product in the market place...

If you want a Diamond bezel on your SS DJ and Rolex doesn't make one, you have to buy aftermarket...

This doesn't automatically make your DJ a "fake" any more than putting Firestone tires on your car does when it came from the factory with Goodyears.

I think the same holds for an aftermarket bracelet or strap.. Rolex doesn't come with a NATO, and Sub's aren't offered with Crocodile.

This all rolls around to the idea that Rolex USA may refuse service if your personal watch doesn't fit their vision.. there is no reason why anybody should have to return their watch to Rolex vision just to get it cleaned and oiled....there has to be alternatives..

Some like PVD coatings.
Some like diamond dials and bezels.
Some like more modern clasps
Some like Crocodile and Kevlar.
Some want a Blue insert in their SD.

None of these things make their Rolex "fake", but RUSA may not work on them...

[Letsgodiving]

Originally Posted by tools

some want a blue insert in their sd.

Who would they be and where do they live.

[Timekiller]

Once you buy a watch, you can do whatever you want to it. Most of the aftermarket adds are reversible so if you do decide to sell/trade at a later date, give someone the option to buy it like it left the AD.

Now, if someone attempts to defraud or hold up aftermarket/fake products as legit, different story. If I remember my Dante correctly, there is a special inner circle for people who try to cheat WIS'..

[Z-Sub]

the after market parts does not have Rolex logo to "pretend" to be genuine Rolex parts and the seller discloses it has some after market parts, cosmetically wise, it is not a Fake.

[marshallr47]

I like to have options. If i can't find something through Rolex then after market is the next best place. Some RSC don't service older models, so that leave us no choice but to take it somewhere else.

And there is the "lookout" section here that discusses fakes. I think that great and keeps buys aware. Just my 2 cents.

[toph]

aftermarket is fake- it is a non rolex made part that is stamped with the brand. it is illegal- that is a fact

[Welshwatchman]

My view is if any aftermarket cosmetic part is branded as Rolex then it is fake or counterfeit, no mincing with replica, homage or similar terms.

Whilst fitting an unbranded bracelet or diamond encrusted bezel is somewhat tasteless there is nothing for anyone to get too worked up over such decisions, providing that there is no element of deception involved, eg; passing the watch off as 100% original.

As far as straps are concerned the Rolex branded croc straps are not of the same quality as the higher end specialist strapmakers.

[scottschoe]

Originally Posted by Welshwatchman

My view is if any aftermarket cosmetic part is branded as Rolex then it is fake or counterfeit, no mincing with replica, homage or similar terms.

Whilst fitting an unbranded bracelet or diamond encrusted bezel is somewhat tasteless there is nothing for anyone to get too worked up over such decisions, providing that there is no element of deception involved, eg; passing the watch off as 100% original.

As far as straps are concerned the Rolex branded croc straps are not of the same quality as the higher end specialist strapmakers.

+1

[Jason Spring]

For me, an aftermarket part, can be used only on vintage watches, like when I was looking for a vintage rivet bracelet.
I was using a cheap aftermarket rivet bracelet like here :


This is the only way to use aftermarket for me

[Sparky CRNA]

I bought my wife's LDJ on the pre-owned market and have been very happy with it. The only thing about that is that when you take it to an AD to get it serviced, you might have to "bend over" if there are some parts that are not from the factory. I say that because her's had a "custom" diamond dial that proved to not be a Rolex part. So, about $1200 later, it has the appropriate dial so that the next service will only be $500.

IMHO, if you stay with reputable sellers, pre-owned market can be great if you have specific thing you are looking for but don't want to take the depreciation on a fresh showroom model!

Sparky

[Hatchet]

Aftermarket may fit on Rolex, but not be marked Rolex. Fake says Rolex, but is not made by Rolex. Nothing wrong with aftermarket bezels, bracelets, etc. Especially since Rolex won't sell you the original without a trade in.

[superdelsol]

I bought my wifes Lady-Datejust before I knew much about the watches, and Rolex policy. This is just the one that smiled at me. I like the blue dial and the bezel with small diamonds. I know that if it goes to Rolex for service, I'm going to be buying a new fluted gold bezel. I don't think that Rolex offers a diamond bezel without a diamond dial, or ever did. I am happier with an aftermarket bezel than an aftermarket dial. The bezel is ornamental, and doesn't have "Rolex" printed on it.