First Time Rolex Buyer

[ccarothers]

My wife has informed me that she would like to give me a new watch for our anniversary. After a lot of research, I have narrowed my choices down to a new or almost new datejust. Having never purchased a Rolex before, I would appreciate some guidance from those who have, especially on the differences between ADs and trusted resellers.

1) Are AD's the only ones allowed to sell direct from Rolex? Does that then mean that all BNIB sales on this or other sites were first purchased from an AD?
2) If you purchase a watch from other than an AD, does that mean that you void the warranty?
3) Are ADs typically open to negotiating price, and if so what kind of discount should I look for from an AD on a blue datejust with fluted bezel and oyster bracelet?
4) Would an AD give a greater discount on a watch in stock or one ordered from Rolex?
5) What other insight did you wish you had before purchasing your first Rolex? What would you do differently now, with the benefit of hindsight?

I really appreciate any input. I'm looking forward to making the right purchasing decisions.

[horseco]

1. yes
2. no
3. not often... & not much
4. in stock or ordered, really doesn't matter
5. I would buy from a truster TRF seller or use a reputable grey dealer

I hope this helps

[handsfull]

Originally Posted by horseco

1. yes
2. no
3. not often... & not much
4. in stock or ordered, really doesn't matter
5. I would buy from a truster TRF seller or use a reputable grey dealer

I hope this helps

+1

Adding to the above:
#5. I would buy (again) from a trusted seller (I just did today ) and save ALOT of money/have the same warranty as I would from an AD. All with the piece of mind knowing it's 100% genuine Rolex. YMMV.

[bcor]

I agree with all of the above responses, except # 2 is debatable. Some people have said the rsc would service their watch without their name on the warranty while others would not. I bought my sub c from an ad cause the best grey market deal I could find was 200 off msrp. For that little difference I thought the ad was a better choice.

[JustABreathAway]

I agree with a lot of the above points. It seems as though AD's have less room to negotiate as Rolex recently reduced their margins, meaning now AD's can offer less discount to clear the same profit.

I personally went with BNIB from an AD because the price difference wasn't enough for me to have lingering doubts about my watch or the warranty. Also, I wanted personal service after the sale locally, and I certainly have that.

Good luck, I wish you the best!

[floater156]

I chose an AD because their price was about the same as the sellers on here. My AD gave me the same discount offer even though they had to order mine. I'm not sure how many ADs are in your area, but you should go to each one to see who can give you the best price. I also liked the peace of mind of buying from an AD knowing that my watch is 100% Rolex.

[ersnyder]

I can personally recommend DavidSW as a reputable and dependable reseller. You won't be disappointed.