First Rolex purchase- Kind of nervous about it...

[skhan007]

After learning quite a bit from reading on this forum, speaking to some kind forum members via PM and phone, I've collected a good amount of information on my pending first Rolex purchase. I've decided that my first will be a Datejust as 1) I like them; 2) More "affordable" (relative term) than most other models; 3) Plentifully available.

I've opted to buy from a reseller and have identified several folks with excellent feedback and who have corresponded with me. To prepare for my purchase, I decided to not use out-of-pocket expenses, but rather to sell off musical gear (my other hobby) to fund the purchase. This way, there's zero impact on family funds, bank accounts, etc. and basically, I'm swapping one hobby for another.

So here's where I'm at currently: I've found a Datejust that ticks all the boxes for me. I love the dial, numerals, band, etc. It comes with box, booklet, and hangtag (no other papers) and is priced in the mid $4K range. The seller is local and I can meet in-person to see the watch and close the deal. I've also found on this forum, a checklist of all the questions I should ask (original parts, service history, etc.).

I think, given the above, I've done all the right prep work: Saving funds, not involving any family finances, reading/researching, talking to forum members and sellers, finding a local sale, etc. My nervousness stems from this being my first and largest watch purchase (I know many of you will laugh, as I see forum members buying three at a time from AD's and spending 6 figures. I'm but a mere lowly non-wealthy guy).

Any first-purchase feedback, reflections, suggestions, reassurance, etc. is most appreciated.

[zjd168]

all I can say is you need to take the 1st step to experience everything with this hobby, and be able to tell good or bad, right or wrong in the future by yourself

[playford]

Don't do the " its relatively affordable" justification.

Either it, its REALLY what you want or it isn't.

If it isn't keep saving and get what you want.

Other wise you either end up with someone your not that excited about and end up reselling to get what you want!

If its a date just you really want I'd also consider what price you can get one for new with a bit of haggling.

[Mr Kram]

I agree with the above. don't settle because of price. I've been through enough watches to know. good luck in any case and congrats if you do close the deal.

[skhan007]

Definitely not settling on price. The Datejust is indeed the one I want. A new one is $6800. The fact that a preowned one is over $2K less sits very well with me.

[playford]

Originally Posted by skhan007

Definitely not settling on price. The Datejust is indeed the one I want. A new one is $6800. The fact that a preowned one is over $2K less sits very well with me.

This isn't a hot model that is walking out of a case, with cash and ready to buy, 15% I don't think is undo-able. Say around 5800, plus no service for quite a while.

If the first AD says no, go to the next one.

Just a thought, If you are getting a great deal pre-owned and your happy, great!

[skhan007]

Originally Posted by playford

This isn't a hot model that is walking out of a case, with cash and ready to buy, 15% I don't think is undo-able. Say around 5800, plus no service for quite a while.

If the first AD says no, go to the next one.

Just a thought, If you are getting a great deal pre-owned and your happy, great!

Thanks mate, I had no idea one could conceivably get 15% off at an AD. That certainly is noteworthy. The current pre-owned one can be had in the low $4K range, but perhaps saving up a bit more for new at 15% off is wise.

[playford]

Originally Posted by skhan007

Thanks mate, I had no idea one could conceivably get 15% off at an AD. That certainly is noteworthy. The current pre-owned one can be had in the low $4K range, but perhaps saving up a bit more for new at 15% off is wise.

Steel sports models walk out the door, steel datejusts don't. AD's have to take both in order to get the good stuff.

Most AD's have a cabinet full that are slow inventory, ready to buy, politely ask for discount and throw them a realistic number. Never mind the fancy showroom, its no different to buying a car.

[skhan007]

Originally Posted by playford

Steel sports models walk out the door, steel datejusts don't. AD's have to take both in order to get the good stuff.

Most AD's have a cabinet full that are slow inventory, ready to buy, politely ask for discount and throw them a realistic number. Never mind the fancy showroom, its no different to buying a car.

Thanks- Just called my AD and asked about the SS Datejust and offering a price at 15% off MSRP, and he said "Those days are long gone." So, my local AD has no interest in discounting. I can keep looking/asking elsewhere, however!

The AD also said the new vs. a 10-year old one, would be the movement is newer today- 70 hour power reserve, etc. So I suppose it's not apples-to-apples when comparing an older to a newer. By the way, I'm looking at ref. 116200.

[Benjamin Choi]

grow a set :D enjoy the journey

[dhknola]

I would go pre-owned unless you can get a smoking discount.

[abozz]

buy it!!!! and enjoy one of the most beautiful piece of jewlery made for mens.

[lamnyc]

I would recommend buying new from AD for your first Rolex. I'm sure you'll find the price difference is worth the peace of mind. Specially if you find an AD that's going to discount the Datejust.

[captain_NEMO]

Want advice? RUN far away from this place!! Soon, you'll be boring your family to death on the dinner table, spouting off terms like amplitudes, escapements and rattrapante chronos, while funding your 11th piece and wondered how you got there.

Seriously though, you've done your research, you've responsively lined up your funds and prepped yourself for the purchase. Take a deep breath, and buy the DJ with no remorse! My experience with this hobby has been euphoric, and yours, I'm sure, will not be so different.

[derekhayden]

Since you are only mentioning price and not the year of this model (I see you have now) it's hard to give the best advice.

I will take a stab at it in another direction since you mentioned this will be your first large watch purchase. I traded hobbies to complete my first large watch purchase, a Tudor BB that was around $3K. At the same time I was offered a BLNR at MSRP but could not wrap my head around wearing a $9K watch (even though the funds were there).

All this being said after about a year of wearing the Tudor BB I found out that I didn't even think about the cost of the watch and it really wasn't that big of a deal. This Tudor is long gone but did serve a purpose to testing my comfort level. If you truly want a Datejust then by all means go for it but if you have other watches in mind and it's only a cost reservation I would go for what you really want and can afford.

[envuks]

Welcome to the forums. Please don’t take this the wrong way, but a $4,000 datejust doesnt sound like a great buy. It must be quite a bit older with some miles on it.

I’d recommend saving a bit more and going with something that will have more staying power as you learn more about this hobby.

Good luck and be sure to post the incoming with photos of whatever you decide.

[TswaneNguni]

DJ ...buy new from an AD.

[Calatrava r]

If you want a DJ 36 I would wait and get the new model just out with the new movement and bracelet. You should be able to obtain a discount except on the blue dial. Much better to me than an older used version if this is a special watch you will wear and keep for years. If you wanted sports, many used models would make more sense given the brutal new Rolex market now.

[scooter1307]

I too bought a DJ for my first purchase and did it because it was affordable. After 6 months of not really liking the watch it stopped running and I needed to send it in for service. ($1100) Wore it for another year and never really felt it was the watch! I traded it for my Sub, which I really love. Never settle, I lost 2k settling and looking back would have waited for the piece that I wanted.

[MariettaMike]

Suggest you get serial number of Datejust you are interested in and compare it to a list of ready available Rolex serial numbers published on the internet. With this information you can determine when the watch was made and see if the price is a good price. For example, a seven year datejust would be close to needing Rolex service that would cost $800+ depending on service estimate, plus shipping and insurance.

It would be good if the seller had the watch Rolex certified as being 100% Rolex — and not having after market parts.

Buying new from a Rolex AD would give you peace of mind knowing that the Rolex Datejust is genuine and warrantied for five years. Also, buying from an AD would give you service that you would not get buying second hand.

Initially, buying a second hand Rolex will save you money but the expense may come after you’ve worn the watch for six months and notice that the watch is not keeping time or staying charged long enough when worn infrequently.

It’s your decision and you have done the right thing in asking advice from Rolex enthusiasts. Good luck with whatever way you go in obtaining your first Rolex.



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[derekhayden]

A Z Serial of 2006-2007 would be close to if not needing a service already. While some say they haven't serviced in 30 years you still need to take that into consideration when looking at purchase price. If you figure $4,500 for the watch plus maybe $800 for service (this is a guess), you are already at $5300. Even putting in the extra $1500 for brand new at this point would be my choice. You get the added bonus of making a day out of it and getting the "AD" experience for your first purchase too.

[t65tampa]

I'm not sure if I can help with specifics on your purchase as those are details that must be handled in person. Finding a trustworthy seller, buying what your heart truly desires, and being responsible with your personal finances are the only pieces of wisdom I can offer.

Buying a Rolex watch isn't always a rational decision. Most people would think spending more than $250 on a wristwatch is silly. Emotion has to play into it. If you stay true to the three points a brought up above, allow yourself to enjoy the purchase process and come away with a wristwatch that will be able to last you a lifetime.

[Mr Kram]

or just get a "new" model from a trusted seller. can't imagine a DJ selling for full retail on the grey market.

[iheartrolexx]

date just is a great option

[OTWT]

Another advantage of purchasing through an AD if you get the price where you want is that you start to establish a relationship which maybe helpful if you get the sickness that many of us here have caught and desire more and more watches.

[Bigblu10]

Have you considered new and just saving a bit more? It will be more satisfying to have a brand new watch. Not sure what ADs you have contacted. There is King in Alexandria. Finks in Dulles town center. Liljenquist in Fairfax? Area. A SS DJ should be available in many configurations without much hassle or effort. Or, you could go the TS route and buy from one of the big reputable sellers here on forum.

[skhan007]

Thank you so much everyone! I really appreciate all the considerate thoughts and guidance. I'm going to continue to consider all points raised.

Great/valid point: If I bought the Z-serial DJ and paid around $4-$4.5K and then realize it needs service and/parts during said service, I might be close to the price of a new one! Yikes! I know there are some sellers on Chrono24 that service their watches in house and offer some warranty. That's a bit more peace of mind.

Originally Posted by Bigblu10

Have you considered new and just saving a bit more? It will be more satisfying to have a brand new watch. Not sure what ADs you have contacted. There is King in Alexandria. Finks in Dulles town center. Liljenquist in Fairfax? Area. A SS DJ should be available in many configurations without much hassle or effort. Or, you could go the TS route and buy from one of the big reputable sellers here on forum.

Thanks- Yes, I called Liljenquist at Tysons, as I was there in-person recently talking about these watches. I've visited Finks before and they're very accommodating, but can also reach out to King, who I have not heard of before.

[derekhayden]

DavidSW has one on his site right now for a little over $6K

https://davidsw.com/watches/rolex-wa...ial-on-oyster/

[RJRJRJ]

Davidsw has one on his site, but with stick markers instead of romans, for $5975 brand new. And in case it hasn't crossed your mind, remember that the romans are not lumed, whereas the sticks are, if that matters to you.

Also you would save on tax.

https://davidsw.com/watches/rolex-wa...er-stick-dial/

Edit: or that one in the post above as well.

[scoot4nat]

Reading your story it’s clear that you’ve done a lot of valuable prep. My advice to you is that it’s time to pull the trigger!

I have a similar story in terms of building up to my first purchase. When I was in a position to buy though the availability was poor so I had the luxury of a 4 month wait! It was a great experience though and I’m glad I finally did it.

In terms of Datejust availability, the problem I see would be sourcing the exact specifications, given the variables. If you have the opportunity to buy the exact model you want then just go for it.


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