So...the rumors are true

[trippinjimmy]

I've been trying to source a submariner from an AD for the past few months for my Dad. He was battling metastatic melanoma to his brain and both of his lungs and seems to have kicked it. I wanted to get him an anchor, something to remind him everyday that he is alive, as well as turn that piece into an heirloom, hence why I want the family name on the warranty card.

The AD that found my CHNR seemed optimistic that they could get one soon, but after quite a few weeks, I was starting to doubt that it would happen. I considered gray, changing to a blue Aqua Terra (Bond movies are kind of our thing, so I wanted him to have an updated version of the original Sean Connery bond watch as the heirloom).

I had my office manager call around to most of the ADs in the midwest trying to get this thing, but understandably, no one would help us out.

One of those ADs happened to be in my parent's city, and I popped into their store yesterday. After getting buzzed in, I proceeded straight to the Rolex case.

They had such a lovely collection of datejusts, one white OP39, two tone black submariner, two tone white daytona, couple of presidents...but no steel models in the case.

The SA asked if there was a particular model I was looking for...she replied they don't usually have any, and the ones they do are sold. I gave her my story, and she said 'LET ME GO CHECK THE SAFE.' Came back two minutes later with a coincidentally unallocated submariner.

I about crapped myself - no joke! I took it on the spot...since that time though, I've had some strange feelings...while I'm entirely grateful to have found and located the watch...I was so happy to hand over just shy of 8 grand. I can't tell you how many times I thanked her.

Shouldn't this have been the other way around, or at least mutual? It's mind boggling how happy I was that they were allowing me to purchase a watch.

Second, it is true - the stainless steel watches are in the safes of certain ADs...not readily available for purchase unless I guess you're A. VIP or B. Have a legit reason that they want to help you out.

Finally, it happened again: they photo copied my ID and warranty card together (3rd AD this year), and actually came out of the store as I was walking to the car to unwrap the gift and get the warranty card. Actually, come to think of it, she was going to hold on to the warranty card...but then decided to give it to me.

Yay though, I found the watch. It was worth the journey!


To all the people struggling to find yours...just be persistent...and maybe check out some out of town ADs. Be personable (I walked in in jeans, a tee shirt, and a packers hat).

[Bizcut1]

Screw them.

I'm happy for you and your Dad but to be truthful your story gets my blood boiling.

So sick of this bulls*t. Good thing I really, really love this brand. But being tested for sure.

Anyway, congrats - glad you were able to accomplish such a wonderful gesture for your father.

[Buckeye50]

Finally was able to score my JC DSSD from an AD........... They had it "stashed" in the back as well...... I was with a VIP CLIENT and was so happy to get it. I will not pay the Gray Market price.... Good Luck out there...The Rolex market will tank soon enough and prices will head south...... I see them coming down already.....

[mmaggi]

Great story. Thanks for sharing. God Bless your family.

[Bizcut1]

It just makes me mad that these watches ARE sitting in these safes and, somehow, someway we, the buying public must figure out a way to wheedle them out of there...the right story, the right "extra" purchase, the - oh, hell, I don't know what actually...

Meantime, there are how many poor suckers like me openly sitting on a list at these places while a Sub goes out the door to someone who was never near a list..or even near that AD before.

OK - sorry - rant over. Don't want to appear that I am not happy for the OP and his family -I am.

[BlueHeron]

Originally Posted by Bizcut1

It just makes me mad that these watches ARE sitting in these safes and, somehow, someway we, the buying public must figure out a way to wheedle them out of there...the right story, the right "extra" purchase, the - oh, hell, I don't know what actually...

Meantime, there are how many poor suckers like me openly sitting on a list at these places while a Sub goes out the door to someone who was never near a list..or even near that AD before.

OK - sorry - rant over. Don't want to appear that I am not happy for the OP and his family -I am.

“Openly sitting on a list...”
There is no spoon.

[teck21]

Originally Posted by Bizcut1

It just makes me mad that these watches ARE sitting in these safes and, somehow, someway we, the buying public must figure out a way to wheedle them out of there...the right story, the right "extra" purchase, the - oh, hell, I don't know what actually...

Meantime, there are how many poor suckers like me openly sitting on a list at these places while a Sub goes out the door to someone who was never near a list..or even near that AD before.

OK - sorry - rant over. Don't want to appear that I am not happy for the OP and his family -I am.

It is perfectly reasonable to be happy for OP and unhappy with the fact that you can’t get something similar.

It is true that it can be quite grating to see that some people, in some parts of the world with some ADs seem to be able to get what they want while ‘we’ have to suffer at having to play by ‘different rules’.

This arguably causes more unhappiness than merely being unable to obtain the watch.

Such is human nature.

I would say a lot of the unhappiness and anger would disappear (and turn into plain old boring resignation) if Rolex insisted on a clear method of distribution by ADs. ie first come first serve, VIPs only,serve the very rich only or whatever. So long as it’s the same for everyone.

It’s like how economists get it wrong constantly by saying everyone getting richer should make everyone happier.

People can actually be unhappier being twice as rich when everyone else is four times richer. And happier when everyone is poor, especially relative to themselves.

Extreme inequality, or the perception of it fuels anger in human beings like very few things outside of one’s control can. Or that one has to work harder and yet get less than our neighbours.

Happening all over the world, even in a luxury product like Rolex lol.

Good on you OP. But stories like yours do fuel resentment, albeit subconsciously for many.


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[Bizcut1]

Originally Posted by teck21

It is perfectly reasonable to be happy for OP and unhappy with the fact that you can’t get something similar.

It is true that it can be quite grating to see that some people, in some parts of the world with some ADs seem to be able to get what they want while ‘we’ have to suffer at having to play by ‘different rules’.

This arguably causes more unhappiness than merely being unable to obtain the watch.

Such is human nature.

I would say a lot of the unhappiness and anger would disappear (and turn into plain old boring resignation) if Rolex insisted on a clear method of distribution by ADs. ie first come first serve, VIPs only,serve the very rich only or whatever. So long as it’s the same for everyone.

It’s like how economists get it wrong constantly by saying everyone getting richer should make everyone happier.

People can actually be unhappier being twice as rich when everyone else is four times richer. And happier when everyone is poor, especially relative to themselves.

Extreme inequality, or the perception of it fuels anger in human beings like very few things outside of one’s control can. Or that one has to work harder and yet get less than our neighbours.

Happening all over the world, even in a luxury product like Rolex lol.

Good on you OP. But stories like yours do fuel resentment, albeit subconsciously for many.


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It's the random lying and high-handed behavior that grate. God bless the OP's dad, etc etc but he never even walked into this AD before..it totally puts the "invest in a relationship" approach where it belongs...in the fairy tale book.

But, enough - onward- I have an amazing incoming tomorrow via a fantastic Grey seller...have a good night....Ben.

[trippinjimmy]

Originally Posted by Bizcut1

it totally puts the "invest in a relationship" approach where it belongs...in the fairy tale book.

Hey man, I'm with you...that's kinda what I was getting at with 'allowed' to buy the watch. It's somewhat off-putting for the brand in my opinion. Yes, I should feel excited that I'm getting something meaningful and thoughtful, but shouldn't it be like any other purchase - no ass kissing required? Should I really feel so lucky that they allowed me to buy the watch?

It's such a weird feeling...I may look to Oh-mee-gah for my next piece.

[illiguy]

Originally Posted by trippinjimmy

I've been trying to source a submariner from an AD for the past few months for my Dad. He was battling metastatic melanoma to his brain and both of his lungs and seems to have kicked it. I wanted to get him an anchor, something to remind him everyday that he is alive, as well as turn that piece into an heirloom, hence why I want the family name on the warranty card.

The AD that found my CHNR seemed optimistic that they could get one soon, but after quite a few weeks, I was starting to doubt that it would happen. I considered gray, changing to a blue Aqua Terra (Bond movies are kind of our thing, so I wanted him to have an updated version of the original Sean Connery bond watch as the heirloom).

I had my office manager call around to most of the ADs in the midwest trying to get this thing, but understandably, no one would help us out.

One of those ADs happened to be in my parent's city, and I popped into their store yesterday. After getting buzzed in, I proceeded straight to the Rolex case.

They had such a lovely collection of datejusts, one white OP39, two tone black submariner, two tone white daytona, couple of presidents...but no steel models in the case.

The SA asked if there was a particular model I was looking for...she replied they don't usually have any, and the ones they do are sold. I gave her my story, and she said 'LET ME GO CHECK THE SAFE.' Came back two minutes later with an a coincidentally unallocated submariner.

I about crapped myself - no joke! I took it on the spot...since that time though, I've had some strange feelings...while I'm entirely grateful to have found and located the watch...I was so happy to hand over just shy of 8 grand. I can't tell you how many times I thanked her.

Shouldn't this have been the other way around, or at least mutual? It's mind boggling how happy I was that they were allowing me to purchase a watch.

Second, it is true - the stainless steel watches are in the safes of certain ADs...not readily available for purchase unless I guess you're A. VIP or B. Have a legit reason that they want to help you out.

Finally, it happened again: they photo copied my ID and warranty card together (3rd AD this year), and actually came out of the store as I was walking to the car to unwrap the gift and get the warranty card. Actually, come to think of it, she was going to hold on to the warranty card...but then decided to give it to me.

Yay though, I found the watch. It was worth the journey!


To all the people struggling to find yours...just be persistent...and maybe check out some out of town ADs. Be personable (I walked in in jeans, a tee shirt, and a packers hat).

Congrats and good story. What was the last part about? Confirming rumor that certain ADs will hold on to the warranty card to try and quell flipping?

Also, what state/area was the AD with the Submariner?

[Psijason]

Fantastic story. So happy you found it!!!! I'm sure your dad will love wearing it. Sending healing thoughts your way.

[djgallo]

Thanks for sharing your experience...and glad it had a happy ending for you!

[SemperFi]

Good for you and your Dad,,,especially your Dad.
I hate that many AD’s pull these type of shenanigans but very happy that your quest was successful.

[JoseR]

Originally Posted by Psijason

Fantastic story. So happy you found it!!!! I'm sure your dad will love wearing it. Sending healing thoughts your way.

+1..

[Rado63]

I am very happy your story ended with you getting the Submariner. Perhaps, you also answered the question many already have guessed to be true, yes they do have Steel Sports in the safe.

[Odie-r]

A lovely gift. I hope your dad enjoys wearing it as much as you do your CHNR. Congrats!

[pauljuhn]

Originally Posted by trippinjimmy

I've been trying to source a submariner from an AD for the past few months for my Dad. He was battling metastatic melanoma to his brain and both of his lungs and seems to have kicked it. I wanted to get him an anchor, something to remind him everyday that he is alive, as well as turn that piece into an heirloom, hence why I want the family name on the warranty card.

The AD that found my CHNR seemed optimistic that they could get one soon, but after quite a few weeks, I was starting to doubt that it would happen. I considered gray, changing to a blue Aqua Terra (Bond movies are kind of our thing, so I wanted him to have an updated version of the original Sean Connery bond watch as the heirloom).

I had my office manager call around to most of the ADs in the midwest trying to get this thing, but understandably, no one would help us out.

One of those ADs happened to be in my parent's city, and I popped into their store yesterday. After getting buzzed in, I proceeded straight to the Rolex case.

They had such a lovely collection of datejusts, one white OP39, two tone black submariner, two tone white daytona, couple of presidents...but no steel models in the case.

The SA asked if there was a particular model I was looking for...she replied they don't usually have any, and the ones they do are sold. I gave her my story, and she said 'LET ME GO CHECK THE SAFE.' Came back two minutes later with an a coincidentally unallocated submariner.

I about crapped myself - no joke! I took it on the spot...since that time though, I've had some strange feelings...while I'm entirely grateful to have found and located the watch...I was so happy to hand over just shy of 8 grand. I can't tell you how many times I thanked her.

Shouldn't this have been the other way around, or at least mutual? It's mind boggling how happy I was that they were allowing me to purchase a watch.

Second, it is true - the stainless steel watches are in the safes of certain ADs...not readily available for purchase unless I guess you're A. VIP or B. Have a legit reason that they want to help you out.

Finally, it happened again: they photo copied my ID and warranty card together (3rd AD this year), and actually came out of the store as I was walking to the car to unwrap the gift and get the warranty card. Actually, come to think of it, she was going to hold on to the warranty card...but then decided to give it to me.

Yay though, I found the watch. It was worth the journey!


To all the people struggling to find yours...just be persistent...and maybe check out some out of town ADs. Be personable (I walked in in jeans, a tee shirt, and a packers hat).

I like your story but I hate AD’s way of selling Rolex watches.



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[HK Islandboy]

Great looking watches. Congratulations!

[bp1000]

I’m glad you got your watch but sorry to hear of your current situation.

I totally agree that the current situation with Rolex means they likely have a few pieces in the safe waiting to go out, but seem to tell customers they don’t know when they get them in. I think it’s their way of avoiding the lie. Technically true but dodging the fact they probably have several hot pieces in the safe at any one time. Just waiting to go out.

In your case I suspect you got lucky and they had allocated the sub already but hadn’t called and confirmed the first customer on the list

[dddl]

What a wonderful story... Congrats with best wishes!

[Dougiebaby]

I am so happy for you and your Dad. Your story touched me as my Dad & I shared a love of watches together. Interestingly, I gave my Dad a Skyfall (we like JB movies too ).

Here’s my Dad wearing his Skyfall and me with my Sub.





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[trippinjimmy]

Originally Posted by mmaggi

Great story. Thanks for sharing. God Bless your family.

And yours as well.

Originally Posted by Bizcut1

It just makes me mad that these watches ARE sitting in these safes and, somehow, someway we, the buying public must figure out a way to wheedle them out of there...the right story, the right "extra" purchase, the - oh, hell, I don't know what actually...

Meantime, there are how many poor suckers like me openly sitting on a list at these places while a Sub goes out the door to someone who was never near a list..or even near that AD before.

OK - sorry - rant over. Don't want to appear that I am not happy for the OP and his family -I am.

Hey man, I feel you. I'm "on lists" as well, and that was part of the point of sharing the story. It was a strange feeling, obviously jubilant at finishing the adventure...but it was a hassle...and should I really be that thrilled that they "allowed" me to purchase the watch? It does mean more than I had to search in multiple states and it required quite a bit of effort, but, I don't know, it's just kinda weird.

Originally Posted by illiguy

Congrats and good story. What was the last part about? Confirming rumor that certain ADs will hold on to the warranty card to try and quell flipping?

Also, what state/area was the AD with the Submariner?

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=693754

"The Good Land"

Originally Posted by SemperFi

Good for you and your Dad,,,especially your Dad.
I hate that many AD’s pull these type of shenanigans but very happy that your quest was successful.

It sure did feel like a quest...I guess it does make it more satisfying.

Originally Posted by Dougiebaby

I am so happy for you and your Dad. Your story touched me as my Dad & I shared a love of watches together. Interestingly, I gave my Dad a Skyfall (we like JB movies too ).

Here’s my Dad wearing his Skyfall and me with my Sub.

[woof]

This is a fantastic story. Thank you for sharing and congrats!

[bonovox]

Nice job at navigating these odd times. Enjoy!

[trippinjimmy]

Thanks for all the kind words. I'm really quite honored and humbled to have been able to do this for my Dad. I mentioned in a previous post, but both he and his Dad, my grandpa whom I was very close with, always loved the brand but never had one...a couple of fakes, but never the real deal. I'm pretty sure my Dad was in shock - he just stared for a few minutes, then let out a quiet tearful "wow." I'm very grateful and truly blessed to be in the position to even have done this, and I never would have been able to without his help through school.

[justjay82]

So thrilled to hear your dad is doing well and that you were able to gift him this special watch. Congrats.

[TruthBalance]

Excellent story, thanks for sharing, congrats on both the watch and your fathers full recovery. Positive motivation is a great thing.

[FireballXL5]

I’m now under the belief that AD safes are magic safes, and the watch a buyer wants magically materializes, but only if they are worthy.

You are worthy. Glad to hear your dad is doing so well, and has such a thoughtful son and gift.

[Pw92676]

Great story. Best wishes to you both.

[greeneyedguy]

Think about it like this. If there is a super big run on trendy hot watches like steel Rolexes they can lock them up and play this game while you buy an Omega, Heuer, Longines, and your wife a rolex. Once you've spent 20 grand at the store then they call you up and say, hey, the watch you've been waiting for for three years is in! LOL! I seriously hope this isn't the case, but it would for sure work to sell a bunch of watches. I enjoy all my watches so I don't care either way.