Has your opinion of Rolex changed over time?

[vubui]

I don't know when I first learned of the Rolex brand. I was pretty poor when I was young and probably heard it referred to in movies. No idea what I thought of it then.

Later when I started in the workforce, at 18, I knew that the owner of the company I worked for had a Rolex, and I coveted one without even knowing the name of a single model. I just knew I wanted to be successful, and owning a Rolex seemed to be a good way to mark that success.

Even later (mid twenties) I began to learn more about the different Rolex models, and started to dislike the brand. It definitely seemed like something to advertise (sometimes falsely) status and wealth. It was around this time is began disliking Mercedes cars as well. I worked for Oakley for a while and owned some Oakley watches (which I now look back on and shudder at the designs) and even had a Time Bomb (Oakley's first automatic).

In my early 30's I started buying watches again after abandoning them for a while, some Nixons and G-shocks and even an Invicta. By then I was completely against Rolex, thinking (without basis, really) that they were overpriced bling, and nothing more. A stainless watch for $6k+? No thanks.

A few years ago my girlfriend wanted to buy me a watch. I was coveting Omega at the time, specifically the Planet Oceans. To me Omega was like BMW and Rolex was Mercedes. And I was a BMW guy! But the Planet Ocean was a little out of budget, so I chose a Tag Heuer Heritage Calibre 6 with bracelet and black dial, and still love it. I also bought a Bell & Ross 03-92 and a Xetum Tindall.

This past year I was looking at getting a nicer watch, and started looking at everything fresh. I started reading about Rolex, the history and heritage, the innovation, the firsts, the durability and dependability especially of the sport watches, and reading a lot of blogs and posts and watching videos. And in November I bought a Rolex Explorer II Polar.

I couldn't be happier and I couldn't respect such an old brand much more. I'm not interested in PM pieces or the Cellini line, but the SS sport models are my favorite watches out there, mainly the Explorers (I'll be picking up an Explorer I soon).

Has anyone else taken a similar path, previously having such a disdain for a brand that you now respect so much?

[RUK]

Yes I was much the same as you a long time ago. I used to think the brand was too common and all about marketing.

I became a lot wiser over time and Began to appreciate the quality, history and longevity

[mike]

I bought my first in 1968, a GMT. Still have it and always will. I was drawn to the brand because of the ruggedness of the watches and the association they have had with people in this world that have made a difference.

That has not changed. Rolex is a classic design that has stayed the course over the years while others have chased fads.

Today, with the advent of the maxi-dial (which has been used in the past), the upgrades to the bracelet, etc.... Rolex again shows that may can copy, but only one can lead.

[Danny83]

Originally Posted by mike

I bought my first in 1968, a GMT. Still have it and always will. I was drawn to the brand because of the ruggedness of the watches and the association they have had with people in this world that have made a difference.

That has not changed. Rolex is a classic design that has stayed the course over the years while others have chased fads.

Today, with the advent of the maxi-dial (which has been used in the past), the upgrades to the bracelet, etc.... Rolex again shows that may can copy, but only one can lead.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by mike

I bought my first in 1968, a GMT. Still have it and always will. I was drawn to the brand because of the ruggedness of the watches and the association they have had with people in this world that have made a difference.

That has not changed. Rolex is a classic design that has stayed the course over the years while others have chased fads.

Today, with the advent of the maxi-dial (which has been used in the past), the upgrades to the bracelet, etc.... Rolex again shows that may can copy, but only one can lead.

Have to agree Mike but IMO Rolex has now almost lost there tough almost indestructible watch image,and now gone for a more bling watch jewelry image.

[Wesley Crusher]

Originally Posted by padi56

Have to agree Mike but IMO Rolex has now almost lost there tough almost indestructible watch image,and now gone for a more bling watch jewelry image.

Luckily, the watch image has no effect on actual performance. A modern Rolex is just as tough as an old one, if not more.

[fmc000]

Originally Posted by Wesley Crusher

Luckily, the watch image has no effect on actual performance. A modern Rolex is just as tough as an old one, if not more.

[domrusso10]

Yes, I was in a similar place as you. My first boss when I was 13 owned 4 different rolexes that he rotated. To me it was a status symbol after learning about them. Now I relate them to success on a certain level.


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[jshepard]

I used to think it was the epitome of luxury watches... But now know it's just the tip of the iceberg, and there are so many more as respected and even more respected than Rolex. Don't get me wrong, I'm not putting down the brand, it's still doing a fine job making billions think that it's the epitome of luxury watches.


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[Sublover2166]

I love the history of the brand and the timeless look especially the Submariners. The fact you can purchase one of these timepieces and wear it for a lifetime and then pass it down to your heirs. The part I don't like is the attached "stigma" in which these watches are associated with drug dealers, corrupt politicians and super rich wealthy elite. The media plays a big part in this negative connotation also.

[zama]

Rolex make a lovely stylish watch and I have 4 so I certainly not anti them, but my only issue and I know it is shared by many of TRF, is that while many particularly here admire their heritage, rugged design etc it is still the watch you buy someone as a symbol of wealth/achievement. Rolex is a brand where many people have just one and it was purchased by someone who did not know much about watches and the recipient may not either.

While it is nice that they are given as sales awards or for graduating etc, it does for me show that marketing is the driver for the Rolex brand. It is why I prefer wearing my AP or PP you actually need to know what you are looking at to pass comment. Next watch most likely will be FP Journe or ALS for that reason.

Does not detract as a brand for me but it is something that does set Rolex apart from any other watch maker selling watches north of 10K routinely.

[Rolex addict]

Definitely admire them for the ruggedness and durability while still being a nice piece of jewelry. Unfortunately, the latest issues with the Cyclops magnifier is concerning. Their reputation is too good to let this type of quality control issue slide. Even with just a quick glance, my 116613LB looks fake because of the low magnification.

[AK797]

Originally Posted by Rolex addict

Definitely admire them for the ruggedness and durability while still being a nice piece of jewelry. Unfortunately, the latest issues with the Cyclops magnifier is concerning. Their reputation is too good to let this type of quality control issue slide. Even with just a quick glance, my 116613LB looks fake because of the low magnification.

It shouldn't look fake, I'm sure the very best fakes have exact 2.5 mag these days. It's the gold and the real feel of quality and depth that they can't ever replicate.

[Rolex addict]

Originally Posted by AK797

It shouldn't look fake, I'm sure the very best fakes have exact 2.5 mag these days. It's the gold and the real feel of quality and depth that they can't ever replicate.

True. I haven't seen a fake that looks as good and the weight would be extremely tough to duplicate. The magnifier is just so different from my other 4 subs and yachtmaster. Maybe I'm just being too picky.

[Rolexbiker]

Originally Posted by Rolex addict

Definitely admire them for the ruggedness and durability while still being a nice piece of jewelry. Unfortunately, the latest issues with the Cyclops magnifier is concerning. Their reputation is too good to let this type of quality control issue slide. Even with just a quick glance, my 116613LB looks fake because of the low magnification.

One of the reasons I chose the non Date. I wanted the new clasp but noticed at the AD the cyclops was only 1.5X...Well much less than 2.5X. Looked like a Rep. They had nothing to say about it. The other reason was I did not expect to wear it every day and did not want to deal with setting the date every time I want to wear it. .

[tkerrmd]

My opinion has never changed because I don't make false assumptions about anything
I educate myself on things that interest me and then make intelligent decisions
When first interested in obtaining a nice watch, the history, heritage and quality of the Rolex line really spoke to me, and now love and appreciate the look, feel and quality combined with the history behind these amazing watches really impressed me and now a Rolex guy for life

[AK797]

I stayed away from them for a few years because of the stigma etc and so got to try out Omega, Breitling, UN, Zenith and a few other brands but in the end I decided Rolex really was overall the best brand for me and I haven't looked back.

[Sammk]

I used to think the same. I used to think the brand was too common and all about marketing. Any person who has money and knows nothing about watches jumps to buy a Rolex (which is true till date). For that reason I said no ROLEX for me... I wanted something different, something less common, something a guy just wouldn't buy coz he has money rather someone who has taste and know how of watches.

After I started researching.. Got to know the history of the brand, the timeless look, the durability, the resale..I knew I had to get a ROLEX.. I only liked the sports model initially and not the DD or DJ look.. For some reason I never liked the fluted bezel look.. But soon when I got into watches it started to grow on me, I even started to like the fluted bezel look.. It's like the watch is the same but seems different to me.. Ended up buying a DDII & a SUb in the span of 2 years

[GB-man]

At first I did not want one. Didn't like the stigma or the designs. I wore tags and Breitlings. Then I educated myself and bought a gmt...loved it. Now I have a hulk as well but often would prefer to have my AP or PP on simply because they fly below the radar.

Part of me wants to sell both my rolex and towards another HH watch, the other part says helllllll no the sub is a gorgeous icon and nobody really cares.

[Srhdad]

Started with a DJ in my late 20's. Loved the watch but honestly, knew nothing about horology, Rolex or other brands. Wore it for 15 years and only parted with it as the watch bug hit.

Like many of you, got away from Rolex due to poser/marketing/etc reputation. Had since been through several Omegas, Breitlings, even a JLC, Tag Heuer, etc...and none stuck.

Bottom line, the fit, finish, feel and refinement of every Rolex is simply a step above them all. As much as I didn't want to like Rolex, the brand just simply earned its place in my winder. I now have a DJ2, a Sub-c and a Tudor THC.

Have to add that I really like the Tudor line as the sport/value end of the lineup. Again, Rolex fit and finish is definitely there as well.

[redsubby]

Love since day one.
Did start out with Omega due to budget but then flipped it for a Sub and have had at least one Rolex in my collection since then.

[engin33r]

Definitely... I used to think Rolex is a very expensive watch brand. Now I think Rolex is a very very expensive watch brand.

[sickened1]

When I was younger, older folks around me (uncles, bosses, etc) were wearing Rolexes so I associate the brand with older folks. Now that I'm older, I'm starting to appreciate the brand and the history behind it more and more. Still have Omega, Breitling, Tag, etc and now I just added a few Rolexes to the collection.

[landroverking]

The only thing that changed in my mind was when it dawned on me that Rolex was not at the top of the watch food change.
Don't get me wrong it's still my favorite brand, but I now know there better watches.

[kilyung]

I used to hate PM Rolex models but now I only want PMs.

[sturgeon123456]

I didn't have an opinion either way about Rolex before I got into watches and fell in love with them once I bought my first one. Now I find myself venturing into other brands. Rolex has been a gateway watch for me so to speak.

I will always love and respect Rolex for their storied history as well as the impact they have had on watches and watchmaking. But until they release something that catches my eye I find I have no options left and have moved in a different direction for now.

[fmc000]

Rolex for me has always been the top, probably because my father bought this first one as a gift to himself after a promotion at work, and he was very proud of it. I was 8 at the time.

This started my watch obsession that during the past 30+ years has changed in many ways, letting me appreciate many different brands and having me own a fair number of them.

But, in the end, the crown was always calling me and thus I came back to Rolex. I'm not rich, not at all actually, and for me to be able to buy a Daytona has really meant a lot, even if I had to sell all of my other watches to be able to get one: as for now i really can't imagine myself without it on my wrist, every day, regardless of what I'm doing and where I'm going.

[aleeboy]

Always liked Rolex. Tough workhorses and completely waterproof. Perfect daily wearer and travel watch. My preferences have shifted somewhat - surprise, surprise ;). However, To me, Rolex remains the toughest and best value watch in production.

[MrSimba]

Yes defiantly for me, My first 'quality' watch was a classic SeaMaster which I adored & whilst I never liked the TAG / Breitling's 'bling' look also never was drawn to the understated Rolex look either so was very much an 'Omega' man.

About two years ago decided I needed a step up on the watch front and after huge deliberation looking at but not trying on any Rolex's went for a Planet Ocean Chrono which was a big old lump but I could not have been happier :)

As I was now quite matey with the AD who also was a Rolex AD I popped back in a few weeks later wearing the PO & they were quiet & I was just having a coffee with them they said with me asking "try this on see how it compares?" and handed me a DSSD...

On my wrist instantly I 'got it' the quality, the simplicity, the bracelet, the classic case, everything just clicked, a week later I bought it.

It was like going from a BMW to a Rolls Royce and I appreciated everything about it & still do, the POC lasted another six months with me during which I don't think I wore it once before flipping for an Explorer II which again I smile everytime I wear.

[wdin]

Introduced by my dad when I was somewhere at the age of 10? He got himself a 16710 (coke). I was with him, mum and brother to an AD in town where he purchased one.

Back home, I started asking so many silly questions... "why is it so expensive? what does it mean by it's automatic?"... and so on...

He just handed me the booklets/instruction manual/catalogue and asked me to read and he said something like he don't quite know? That is his way of making me thirsty for answers and working hard to get it quenched.

And so, I read about the Oyster.. how the Trieste went down the mariana trench and survived... saying the oyster case is akin to a submarines ... the hatch closure and so on.
The way the Cyclops lens does what it does...

I was sold. Literally sold.

I even opened the catalogue and thought the TT sub (blue dial/ blue bezel) was the one I would go for when I grow up. (no idea about costs as it didn't mention any).

When I was 13, I thought I had enough in my bank to actually buy a rolex. I wanted a 16710 - coke so badly. I wanted to be like dad. To be as successful and as decisive and overall excellent figure of a man to me.
Yes, the money is enough but that means i'll have a few hundreds left (LOL!).

Didn't happen.

As I grow older, I learnt about other brands... PP, AP, Breguet, ALS, GO, Omega, Tag, Breitling ... so on and many more...

I started to be a rebel. I decided that no, I shall not buy a rolex watch because it looks old. Granddaddy/daddy-like. Besides, for the same price, I can buy a few TAG or omegas and breitling!

Each time I tried to grab those other brand, I kept comparing it with my dads 'coke'. No where near it. It's like a proper watch for men, these rolex.
The looks of the others (when compared to the 'coke') looks like a kids watch all of a sudden. It looks cheap. Feels cheap.

Going further with brand heritage, history, achievements, worlds 1st, design strength (more like sticking to their classic look for decades and not affected too much by time/trend)...

When I finally had the money to buy a "proper" watch, I was torn between the Omega Seamaster 300 and Planet Ocean VS a rolex.
Trying them on in AD and having the knowledge about the rolex branding and pedigree, it was a no brainer for me. I got the rolex.

To this day, i'm still glad I took the rolex over the omega as my 1st "proper" watch... There's just something special about rolex that it's hard to explain. One has to want it... and actually own it to really understand...

<if my post offended anyone or any brand, it never was my intention. I was purely stating my opinions as and when the chronicle of my life were at the time>