A Canadian Idiot's guide to buying a Rolex ?

[Tim Plains]

Everybody and their brother wants that watch. Best of luck but I think your odds of getting a BLRO in Toronto with no prior purchases is below 1%. My wife and I spent about $20,000 in the GTA to get offered a Sub Date and that wasn't enough to get me a BLNR. That's just how it is at the moment.

BLROs seem to sell grey/used for about $40,000, you would probably need to spend roughly that much before a dealer offers you one, and that is why so many say to just go grey and get it over with.

No affiliation, and I would never pay grey prices myself, but I can put you in touch with a few trusted grey dealers in Toronto if you chose to go that route.

[sleepydoc]

Thank you for your service.
I am hoping you can connect with the member offering to help and it is productive. Barring that, if you are dead set on a Pepsi I agree with the suggestion of going grey for the WG.

[Kerwi]

Good Morning folks

I wanted to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and the the wonderful kind messages. I really appreciate it.

With the advice and response I've seen I gather that the innocent watch i fell in love with in a window is actually an unobtainable monster.

So while I've spent years checking the Rolex website and fantasizing using that msrp something all together different has been happening in the market.

There is not much chance that i am going to pay 1.5x - 3x msrp for a used watch. I'd rather just walk away from the idea. specially not with duties customs and tax applied on top of that. As much as I love the GMT Master 2, I am not a collector nor am I a horologist and financially the government doesn't pay 3x msrp kind of salary.

I saw advice here to write the AD an e-mail explaining the situation with some sort of proof.

Though i don't understand whether they mean proof of service or proof of funds.
and if they mean proof of service do they mean a picture of my military ID with my medals or my retirement letter ?

Regardless

I think i will put together an E-mail explaining my situation for an AD Toronto so that in the future I can tell myself i gave it the good old college try.

If anyone here is feeling kind enough to connect me with an AD or to recommend someone that may have more volume I'd appreciate it.

[mountainjogger]

Welcome to the forum OP. Congrats on your milestone, and you service.

Yes, finding the watch you want can appear daunting, but I encourage perspective. This goal pales when compared to what it took to complete your career. And what you deal with on a daily basis with PTSD.

I also encourage you to step back and take the pressure off. This is now April 4. If you want to complete your purchase in 2022, you have about 9 months. If that does not work, you can reset your goal to getting a watch by the end of 2023. The only pressure, is what you put on yourself.

You may want to try the AD route. But only you know if you are up to and would enjoy trying this avenue. If you do, I would try it without any expectations and without any apologies. Explain your situation. And see if it hits with an AD. If it does not, move on and go Grey.

But bottom line, take the pressure off. This is not a test. It is a reward.

You have worked hard and saved hard for this watch. So, enjoy the hunt. If it ceases to be enjoyable, go Grey.

Best of luck. And again, welcome to the forum.

[buffetwarren]

I live in Toronto and have done the rounds at ADs in recent months. Here are some thoughts:

1) Yes it is a very competitive market here but there are some good ADs that want to help. You need to give yourself a chance by going in person and expressing interest. Lets put it this way: Your chance of not going in person and getting a Pepsi is 0%. Even if your chance of going in person is 1%, you still have a chance. Leave early one day and go to as many ADs in the GTA. I'd focus on these ones:
-Raffi Yorkdale (friendly and they will interview you and take your story into consideration). Largest allocation in the GTA. Must visit.
-Damiani (very friendly and great service). Must visit.
-Humbertown (try to meet with the owner and explain your situation). I recommend you go there.
-Royal de Versailles (friendly but prioritize high rollers). I'd skip them if you are pressed for time.
-La Difference (not friendly and prioritize high rollers). I'd skip them if you are pressed for time.

2) Some of the ADs will interview you. Namely to see if you are local, a flipper, etc. They want local buyers since they can sell more to them in the future. I would just tell them you live in the GTA (just pick an area of the city you are familiar with). They'll only ask you 1-2 questions about where you live and then move on. Standard questions include why you want the watch, what it means to you, would you consider settling for another watch, etc. I'd also tell them your story which is quite compelling and unique. Maybe note you have an upcoming anniversary. Take the cellphone numbers of your sales associates and follow up with them once every 1-2 months. Just check in and make small talk so they remember to keep you in mind.

3) Be patient and wait. The Pepsi GMT is highly coveted and even if an AD wants to help you, it'll take them a while to source it. Determine how long you are willing to wait. I'd personally give it one year. If after this period you still want it, consider buying it from a grey seller in the GTA. You can get a brand new one in the $30,000-$40,000 CAD range.

Don't let the negativity affect you. You still need to try. Drive over the GTA one day and meet with 4-5 ADs. Hopefully one of them will come through. Good luck and thank you for your service to Canada.

[edisonstar23]

Originally Posted by Kerwi

Good Morning folks

I wanted to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and the the wonderful kind messages. I really appreciate it.

With the advice and response I've seen I gather that the innocent watch i fell in love with in a window is actually an unobtainable monster.

So while I've spent years checking the Rolex website and fantasizing using that msrp something all together different has been happening in the market.

There is not much chance that i am going to pay 1.5x - 3x msrp for a used watch. I'd rather just walk away from the idea. specially not with duties customs and tax applied on top of that. As much as I love the GMT Master 2, I am not a collector nor am I a horologist and financially the government doesn't pay 3x msrp kind of salary.

I saw advice here to write the AD an e-mail explaining the situation with some sort of proof.

Though i don't understand whether they mean proof of service or proof of funds.
and if they mean proof of service do they mean a picture of my military ID with my medals or my retirement letter ?

Regardless

I think i will put together an E-mail explaining my situation for an AD Toronto so that in the future I can tell myself i gave it the good old college try.

If anyone here is feeling kind enough to connect me with an AD or to recommend someone that may have more volume I'd appreciate it.

I see you liked the email idea let’s give it a good ol’ college try hahaha I like that. I just sent you a private message to see if I can help you a bit.


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[Roger Lococco]

Originally Posted by Kerwi

Good Morning folks

I wanted to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and the the wonderful kind messages. I really appreciate it.

With the advice and response I've seen I gather that the innocent watch i fell in love with in a window is actually an unobtainable monster.

So while I've spent years checking the Rolex website and fantasizing using that msrp something all together different has been happening in the market.

There is not much chance that i am going to pay 1.5x - 3x msrp for a used watch. I'd rather just walk away from the idea. specially not with duties customs and tax applied on top of that. As much as I love the GMT Master 2, I am not a collector nor am I a horologist and financially the government doesn't pay 3x msrp kind of salary.

I saw advice here to write the AD an e-mail explaining the situation with some sort of proof.

Though i don't understand whether they mean proof of service or proof of funds.
and if they mean proof of service do they mean a picture of my military ID with my medals or my retirement letter ?

Regardless

I think i will put together an E-mail explaining my situation for an AD Toronto so that in the future I can tell myself i gave it the good old college try.

If anyone here is feeling kind enough to connect me with an AD or to recommend someone that may have more volume I'd appreciate it.

Good luck and I hope that it works out for you. I'm interested in seeing if you're able to get one of those watches at retail and looking forward to seeing pictures when you pick it up.

[Cigars&Watches]

Originally Posted by Kerwi

Good Morning folks

I wanted to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and the the wonderful kind messages. I really appreciate it.

With the advice and response I've seen I gather that the innocent watch i fell in love with in a window is actually an unobtainable monster.

So while I've spent years checking the Rolex website and fantasizing using that msrp something all together different has been happening in the market.

There is not much chance that i am going to pay 1.5x - 3x msrp for a used watch. I'd rather just walk away from the idea. specially not with duties customs and tax applied on top of that. As much as I love the GMT Master 2, I am not a collector nor am I a horologist and financially the government doesn't pay 3x msrp kind of salary.

I saw advice here to write the AD an e-mail explaining the situation with some sort of proof.

Though i don't understand whether they mean proof of service or proof of funds.
and if they mean proof of service do they mean a picture of my military ID with my medals or my retirement letter ?

Regardless

I think i will put together an E-mail explaining my situation for an AD Toronto so that in the future I can tell myself i gave it the good old college try.

If anyone here is feeling kind enough to connect me with an AD or to recommend someone that may have more volume I'd appreciate it.

Certainly don’t give up. Getting your watch will take some time and patience. Attend some ADs and keep in touch afterwards and go from there

[Nairn1980]

Originally Posted by Kerwi

Good Morning folks

I wanted to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and the the wonderful kind messages. I really appreciate it.

With the advice and response I've seen I gather that the innocent watch i fell in love with in a window is actually an unobtainable monster.

So while I've spent years checking the Rolex website and fantasizing using that msrp something all together different has been happening in the market.

There is not much chance that i am going to pay 1.5x - 3x msrp for a used watch. I'd rather just walk away from the idea. specially not with duties customs and tax applied on top of that. As much as I love the GMT Master 2, I am not a collector nor am I a horologist and financially the government doesn't pay 3x msrp kind of salary.

I saw advice here to write the AD an e-mail explaining the situation with some sort of proof.

Though i don't understand whether they mean proof of service or proof of funds.
and if they mean proof of service do they mean a picture of my military ID with my medals or my retirement letter ?

Regardless

I think i will put together an E-mail explaining my situation for an AD Toronto so that in the future I can tell myself i gave it the good old college try.

If anyone here is feeling kind enough to connect me with an AD or to recommend someone that may have more volume I'd appreciate it.

The fact you’re not prepared to pay 3x MRSP (and I don’t blame you), means it’ll be ‘virtually’ impossible for you to get a Pepsi. I have a Pepsi which I paid MRSP for and I absolutely love it, but I too would grit my teeth at the idea of paying 3x retail.

Everyone has a “story” to appeal to the ADs, but sadly they’ve heard every one (many genuine and deserving of course), and demand is hugely over supply.

I’d consider the datejust line. The 41 especially is a superb watch. It wears beautifully, and there are some lovely dials, my favourite being the blue Azzurro (which I also have). These are still a challenge to get but much more obtainable than a Pepsi. Also consider the Explorer 2. It has. GMT function and is gorgeous, especially in the striking white dial. It will also be a challenge to get from an AD, but on a diffeeent level to the Pepsi.

Good luck

[worldofoyster]

go grey

[2nastie]

Thank you for your service.

Given the current market, it is quite hard to obtain a piece from an AD. I typically would say, don't spend your time with these ADs especially from the stories I've heard about the Toronto network, but with your background perhaps they will open up to the idea.

However, if you want the most stress-free way and it appears you do have the funds saved up. Just go grey.

I've purchased several pieces from DistinctiveTime - Dave (and I believe he has a business partner in Toronto). He can probably have that bad boy on your wrist the next day!

Good luck!

[Phrank]

I sent you a PM regarding a few Trusted Seller on TRF and my hassle free experience with shipping/duty to Ontario.

[GB-man]

Honestly if you did land a new Pepsi from a Toronto AD as a first purchase it would be nothing shy of a miracle. 7-8 years ago you would have got 20% off. Times are different.

[subprimero]

Not exactly on point, but you might consider a 16710. A mint example could be purchased in the mid to high teens. With three different interchangeable bezels and two bracelets, it is an amazing watch. I would never trade mine for the newer references.

[Rick_Nashville]

Originally Posted by subprimero

Not exactly on point, but you might consider a 16710. A mint example could be purchased in the mid to high teens. With three different interchangeable bezels and two bracelets, it is an amazing watch. I would never trade mine for the newer references.

Fantastic suggestion, I was going to say the same thing. You absolutely cannot go wrong with a 5-digit GMT Master II. They were produced from 1990 to around 2008.

Another thought. If it doesn't have to be a Rolex, the Tudor Pepsi GMT is a solid alternative. It's a great looking watch.

Regards, -Rick.

[Bigbertha]

I managed to buy a two tone Sub and an Explorer at two different Canadian ADs, without previous purchase history and without having to wait. It is possible.

[htrap2294]

OP says he does not want to pay 2-3x MSRP..yet people keep saying go grey.

[shwingus]

Originally Posted by Bigbertha

two tone Sub

^Very different proposition than getting one of the most desirable references currently in SS. Most two tones can be had without history and a little bit of a wait in Canada.

[Buckaroo Banzai]

Originally Posted by Kerwi

Good Day everyone,

I am sure this topic has been discussed ad nauseam however my search has turned up dry.

I am a month away from my military retirement and I thought it would be an opportune time to treat myself to my first Rolex. (Don't let my account age fool you. I made this account very ambitiously in 2011)

The obstacles that stand in the way seem a little daunting because I do have PTSD and am no longer the sweetest and most outgoing person, specially in public.

I have called one AD in Toronto who told me to come in to try on a watch for the exhibition program but made it very clear that they do not have any watches for sale.

I live a little outside of Toronto (Prince Edward County) and as much as i'd love to just drive 4 hours to look at a watch I've known i wanted since 2011 it isn't really feasible to just get told that i can't put money down for one or have a chance at purchasing it.

A lot of the information here is geared at someone capable of going into multiple AD's and building rapport and those aren't things I'm going to become good at.

So i guess my question is.

Is there a point in further pursuing this ?

Or is the idea of purchasing a new Rolex in 2022 just too complicated for an idiot's guide ?

Thank you for your service. Your retirement is well deserved. I have called an AD and was told about meeting in person developing a purchase history etc. I could tell that the Sales Associate was well versed in turning away casual inquires.

I also emailed a different AD and was explained my desire as well. That email received almost immediate response asking that I come in and see what they had to offer. I developed a relationship with this AD because they didn't pre-judge.

I see that some have provided guidance on emailing and then perhaps visiting. I would suggest that you email a few ADs and explain your situation and state what you are looking for, I think it could not hurt.

I wish you luck in your hunt for the BLRO, and again thank you for your service.

[Cigars&Watches]

Originally Posted by Bigbertha

I managed to buy a two tone Sub and an Explorer at two different Canadian ADs, without previous purchase history and without having to wait. It is possible.

Those are no where near a pepsi

[Reelandy]

Originally Posted by buffetwarren

I live in Toronto and have done the rounds at ADs in recent months. Here are some thoughts:

1) Yes it is a very competitive market here but there are some good ADs that want to help. You need to give yourself a chance by going in person and expressing interest. Lets put it this way: Your chance of not going in person and getting a Pepsi is 0%. Even if your chance of going in person is 1%, you still have a chance. Leave early one day and go to as many ADs in the GTA. I'd focus on these ones:
-Raffi Yorkdale (friendly and they will interview you and take your story into consideration). Largest allocation in the GTA. Must visit.
-Damiani (very friendly and great service). Must visit.
-Humbertown (try to meet with the owner and explain your situation). I recommend you go there.
-Royal de Versailles (friendly but prioritize high rollers). I'd skip them if you are pressed for time.
-La Difference (not friendly and prioritize high rollers). I'd skip them if you are pressed for time.

2) Some of the ADs will interview you. Namely to see if you are local, a flipper, etc. They want local buyers since they can sell more to them in the future. I would just tell them you live in the GTA (just pick an area of the city you are familiar with). They'll only ask you 1-2 questions about where you live and then move on. Standard questions include why you want the watch, what it means to you, would you consider settling for another watch, etc. I'd also tell them your story which is quite compelling and unique. Maybe note you have an upcoming anniversary. Take the cellphone numbers of your sales associates and follow up with them once every 1-2 months. Just check in and make small talk so they remember to keep you in mind.

3) Be patient and wait. The Pepsi GMT is highly coveted and even if an AD wants to help you, it'll take them a while to source it. Determine how long you are willing to wait. I'd personally give it one year. If after this period you still want it, consider buying it from a grey seller in the GTA. You can get a brand new one in the $30,000-$40,000 CAD range.

Don't let the negativity affect you. You still need to try. Drive over the GTA one day and meet with 4-5 ADs. Hopefully one of them will come through. Good luck and thank you for your service to Canada.

Great breakdown of local AD’s. I can vouch that RDV in Toronto prefers to sell to clients with deep pockets. I had spend history with them and it’s been 2 years of waiting for a watch.

Raffi at Yorkdale is much better, especially since they are Rolex only. There is no pressure to buy other brands and build up your profile. I have been able to get 2 watches from them since October so it’s definitely possible(just not for a Pepsi)

I second writing an email to a number of ADs but nothing beats visiting them in person. If you are ever near Yorkdale, do stop by and visit, just make sure you book an apt beforehand.

Good luck with your search!!!


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[BillA]

Originally Posted by buffetwarren

I live in Toronto and have done the rounds at ADs in recent months. Here are some thoughts:

1) Yes it is a very competitive market here but there are some good ADs that want to help. You need to give yourself a chance by going in person and expressing interest. Lets put it this way: Your chance of not going in person and getting a Pepsi is 0%. Even if your chance of going in person is 1%, you still have a chance. Leave early one day and go to as many ADs in the GTA. I'd focus on these ones:
-Raffi Yorkdale (friendly and they will interview you and take your story into consideration). Largest allocation in the GTA. Must visit.
-Damiani (very friendly and great service). Must visit.
-Humbertown (try to meet with the owner and explain your situation). I recommend you go there.
-Royal de Versailles (friendly but prioritize high rollers). I'd skip them if you are pressed for time.
-La Difference (not friendly and prioritize high rollers). I'd skip them if you are pressed for time.

2) Some of the ADs will interview you. Namely to see if you are local, a flipper, etc. They want local buyers since they can sell more to them in the future. I would just tell them you live in the GTA (just pick an area of the city you are familiar with). They'll only ask you 1-2 questions about where you live and then move on. Standard questions include why you want the watch, what it means to you, would you consider settling for another watch, etc. I'd also tell them your story which is quite compelling and unique. Maybe note you have an upcoming anniversary. Take the cellphone numbers of your sales associates and follow up with them once every 1-2 months. Just check in and make small talk so they remember to keep you in mind.

3) Be patient and wait. The Pepsi GMT is highly coveted and even if an AD wants to help you, it'll take them a while to source it. Determine how long you are willing to wait. I'd personally give it one year. If after this period you still want it, consider buying it from a grey seller in the GTA. You can get a brand new one in the $30,000-$40,000 CAD range.

Don't let the negativity affect you. You still need to try. Drive over the GTA one day and meet with 4-5 ADs. Hopefully one of them will come through. Good luck and thank you for your service to Canada.

This is the best advice I have seen.

Yes, go in person, and I would tell them you are going to be a Veteran, etc, I think some AD’s will really try to help.
Good luck.

[mg18]

Originally Posted by Bigbertha

I managed to buy a two tone Sub and an Explorer at two different Canadian ADs, without previous purchase history and without having to wait. It is possible.

Congrats, although much much much easier to obtain!

[Kinnakeet]

I will pm you the cell number of a salesman at a large AD outside of Toronto. Tell him your story and see. I have purchased several hard to find Rolexes from him. Good luck. I hope it works out.

[Tdorb32]

Going gray seems like the best option for your at the moment, the luck needed for you to get a GMT without a good relationship with an AD is very rare now, moreover, you also need to spend a good money purchasing stuffs you won't probably need to create a rapport that will earn you a good position on any AD's wait list.

[Roger Lococco]

I would not go grey market. And I certainly would not settle for anything different than what he wants - a Pepsi. I actually think one of the Canadian ADs will come through, potentially with the help of a TRF poster.


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[nr1416]

Only advice I can can give the OP, DO NOT go to Humbertown. They are the shadiest AD in the GTA, and you have zero chance at getting a steel sports Rolex without cash under the table to the owner or buying thousands in jewelery from them first. The owner is old and doesn't give a xxxx about anyone.

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[Tommy Smokeshow]

Originally Posted by nr1416

Only advice I can can give the OP, DO NOT go to Humbertown. They are the shadiest AD in the GTA, and you have zero chance at getting a steel sports Rolex without cash under the table to the owner or buying thousands in jewelery from them first. The owner is old and doesn't give a xxxx about anyone.

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ohhhh the great stories over at humbertown FARRET is it the owner my well said my man!

[Nairn1980]

Originally Posted by Bigbertha

I managed to buy a two tone Sub and an Explorer at two different Canadian ADs, without previous purchase history and without having to wait. It is possible.

Yeh, these are miles off a Pepsi

[buffetwarren]

Originally Posted by nr1416

Only advice I can can give the OP, DO NOT go to Humbertown. They are the shadiest AD in the GTA, and you have zero chance at getting a steel sports Rolex without cash under the table to the owner or buying thousands in jewelery from them first. The owner is old and doesn't give a xxxx about anyone.

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Care to share some stories?

I went in for the first time in January and it was a crappy experience. The sales rep I met has stopped responding to me entirely. What a joke.