Purchasing From an AD - The Uninteresting but Important Questions!

[Bxtek]

Hello All,

Relatively new to the forum. I have been spending a lot of time here and I've learned A LOT so far! I've never purchased from an AD before and this will be my first experience. This will be my first Rolex too! I've read a number of threads and I was surprised some of the "games" and behind the scenes things that go on with AD's. Good stuff to know though and I'm definitely happy to have great members on this thread to discuss topics like this!

I am planning to make my rounds to the local AD's in search for a GMT BLNR. If I'm lucky, I may run into one that's available. I am seeing that it's not impossible, as there are a number of recent threads of people who have actually found one. I have no expectations but I'll hope for the best. However, I do need to be prepared to purchase on the spot and these are my questions:

1) How to pay? Do the AD's take a credit card or are they like a car dealership where they do not? If they do take a credit card, do they charge an additional percentage on top of the price to compensate for the fees on their end? Otherwise, how do you pay? I don't feel like carrying around $10K in cash with me.

2) Being that the BLNR is a higher demand watch, do some of the AD's mark up the price above MSRP? Would this be "legal" for them to do this? On the other end of the spectrum, is there any chance of price negotiation on a high demand model like this? I suspect not, but does it hurt to even try to ask?

3) Wait list - I suspect that I will be doing this. From other threads, I see that some have been put on a wait list for up to 1-2 years. I am thinking that I really don't want to be on one with that long of wait. What should be the reasonable time I should hear from them to put my name on their list? I've heard a few getting their watch in only 3-4 months which I would be happy with.

4) Wait list deposit - I've read some AD's don't require a deposit (Probably only from their previous clients), some ask for a partial deposit, and others ask for payment in full to get on the wait list. What is reasonable here? I read one thread in which people were totally against paying in full. I am also hearing that the deposit is fully refundable if let's say for instance, I find one in stock at another AD that I end up purchasing? Or, do some AD's charge a fee if you don't follow through?

5) Attire - Is there a certain way you need to dress before heading into these places, in order for them to help you and take you seriously? Of course, I won't be wearing my sweatpants, t-shirt and flip flops, but how much do you dress up? I would think just casual but nice clothing should be okay? Something you'd wear to go out to a Sunday afternoon lunch with your family would do?

6) Insurance - I will have never spent so much on a watch before. I haven't heard much about insurance on something like this. Do you guys insure your watches? Is there a special policy or coverage that you take out? If so, with whom? How much does it cost and what are the specific declarations? Or, is there no such thing and you just buy it, wear it and hope nothing happens to it? I don't have expensive jewelry, but I do hear that people do insure their collections if they have a significant one. I suspect watches can also be in the same group?

Sorry for the long winded post, but I just wanted to be prepared and these were the questions that were going through my head. Thanks very much in advance for everyone's help. This is a great forum and I've learned so much already just from being a member! Hopefully I will be an actual owner soon!

[fiendfx]

Originally Posted by Bxtek

Hello All,

Relatively new to the forum. I have been spending a lot of time here and I've learned A LOT so far! I've never purchased from an AD before and this will be my first experience. This will be my first Rolex too! I've read a number of threads and I was surprised some of the "games" and behind the scenes things that go on with AD's. Good stuff to know though and I'm definitely happy to have great members on this thread to discuss topics like this!

I am planning to make my rounds to the local AD's in search for a GMT BLNR. If I'm lucky, I may run into one that's available. I am seeing that it's not impossible, as there are a number of recent threads of people who have actually found one. I have no expectations but I'll hope for the best. However, I do need to be prepared to purchase on the spot and these are my questions:

1) How to pay? Do the AD's take a credit card or are they like a car dealership where they do not? If they do take a credit card, do they charge an additional percentage on top of the price to compensate for the fees on their end? Otherwise, how do you pay? I don't feel like carrying around $10K in cash with me.

2) Being that the BLNR is a higher demand watch, do some of the AD's mark up the price above MSRP? Would this be "legal" for them to do this? On the other end of the spectrum, is there any chance of price negotiation on a high demand model like this? I suspect not, but does it hurt to even try to ask?

3) Wait list - I suspect that I will be doing this. From other threads, I see that some have been put on a wait list for up to 1-2 years. I am thinking that I really don't want to be on one with that long of wait. What should be the reasonable time I should hear from them to put my name on their list? I've heard a few getting their watch in only 3-4 months which I would be happy with.

4) Wait list deposit - I've read some AD's don't require a deposit (Probably only from their previous clients), some ask for a partial deposit, and others ask for payment in full to get on the wait list. What is reasonable here? I read one thread in which people were totally against paying in full. I am also hearing that the deposit is fully refundable if let's say for instance, I find one in stock at another AD that I end up purchasing? Or, do some AD's charge a fee if you don't follow through?

5) Attire - Is there a certain way you need to dress before heading into these places, in order for them to help you and take you seriously? Of course, I won't be wearing my sweatpants, t-shirt and flip flops, but how much do you dress up? I would think just casual but nice clothing should be okay? Something you'd wear to go out to a Sunday afternoon lunch with your family would do?

6) Insurance - I will have never spent so much on a watch before. I haven't heard much about insurance on something like this. Do you guys insure your watches? Is there a special policy or coverage that you take out? If so, with whom? How much does it cost and what are the specific declarations? Or, is there no such thing and you just buy it, wear it and hope nothing happens to it? I don't have expensive jewelry, but I do hear that people do insure their collections if they have a significant one. I suspect watches can also be in the same group?

Sorry for the long winded post, but I just wanted to be prepared and these were the questions that were going through my head. Thanks very much in advance for everyone's help. This is a great forum and I've learned so much already just from being a member! Hopefully I will be an actual owner soon!

Some AD will not take $10k cash. Some on CC and rest on cash is ok. So if you got good credit, then just bring CC.

[chad362wiley]

1. cc is fine, rarely any fees on top
2. not in the US
3. put down a deposit and it will be sooner
5. wear whatever you want
6. i dont insure them, but jewelers mutual is good. if you travel a lot with it its worth it. JM will cover any kind of damage or loss. I keep mine in a safe and wear them carefully. if you only have one watch, i think it would be worth it to insure it if its worn everyday :)

[zjd168]

In the US, most AD take credit card without extra charge.
Few if any AD sell above MSRP.
BLNR waiting list shouldn't be too long, a few months is reasonable or maybe shorter.
Up to the AD for deposit but most won't require it.
Over thinking about the clothing. It doesn't tell anything about if you are seriously to buy. Search old threads on insurance discussions

[Fleetlord]

1) How to pay?

You can most certainly pay with a credit card. Due to the merchant agreement with the credit card company, the dealer cannot charge you MORE to cover their fee. Sometimes depending on dealer and the watch you could get a slight discount if you pay in
HARD CASH.

Just make sure your credit card will allow you to make largish purchases without declining based on out of character transactions. I would call them ahead to inform them.

2) A Rolex AD in the United States will not upcharge a new BLNR from their inventory due to market conditions. Rolex doesn't like that in the least and the dealers in the USA won't do it.

3) Wait list depends on the dealer and your demeanor. If they are cool and you are cool, they will put you on the list. If they are mean and nasty and don't want to deal with another "list" customer, they will tell you the wait is 15yrs. This also applies if you come across as needy, neurotic, boorish or other annoying personality types that the AD would prefer to avoid, so in that case you would be handled with no spot on list and dismissed.

4) Deposits depend on the dealer and your comfort level. I wouldn't pay in full in case the dealer goes belly up with your cash. 20% is common. Some do no money. But then you might not get on a list at all....or maybe you will stumble upon one read for you to buy????

5) Wear a tuxedo to the store. Well...maybe not that....Just dress like a normal person. Don't dress like a swamp slob just for the "gotcha" thrill of them underestimating you and all that #$%. Just look like a normal person.

6) Insure the watch for sure. You can go through your homeowner insurance provider with a separate policy. There are others that are specialized companies just for stuff like this. Shop around for the coverage terms and cost that you are comfortable with.

Happy Hunting. Hope you get one soon.

[blown5.0]

Welcome to the forums! I am relatively new here as well, and its been a great resource! I will answer these questions as best as I can, and i'm sure someone with more knowledge will chime in.

1)I believe they will take CC or cash. If you pay with cash, you may have more leverage for a discount? Other ADs may have a different policy.

2)From reading the forums, it sounds like ADs are not allowed to markup prices. They may play other games, like trying to entice you to buy other things to get on or move up "the list".

3)I think this depends on the AD. Some wont let you get on the list for popular models unless you are a client. Others will allow you to get on the list. I am not a fan of the former and don't plan to give business to those who play that game, but if someone is willing to put me on the list and I actually get the watch, I will more likely continue to give them my business.

4)I can't speak for all ADs, but my AD won't accept a refundable deposit until I am way up the list- Position 3 or higher.

5)I really hope not. I would view that as a negative if they cared. I wear a t-shirt and jeans. I've even gone in my gym attire.

6) Sorry don't have much info on this.

OP, where in CA are you? PM me if you would like to know who my AD is. They have been great and allowed me to get on a list prior to any purchase, which I appreciated.

[Nikrnic]

I own a car dealership and I take credit cards and paid for my last two AD purchases with my cc. Just be yourself and don't worry about it. I'm sure you'll have to pay MSRP for that one. You should also get an appraisel from the AD for the full MSRP price at no charge, on my last purchase I had to ask and was told no problem they'll mail it, if not I'll follow up. I've never took out a separate insurance policy for any of my jewelry but I was covered once by my homeowners for a diamond ring that was stolen. Anyway I hope as you should have a good experience on your BLNR quest..

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[ferrissteve11]

Alternatively, if you don't wish to play AD games one could shop from the comfort of your favorite chair sipping a comfortable beverage while checking out the Trusted Sellers on this forum.
Just another option you might consider. YMMV

[lucevan le stelle]

First, good luck. My comments reflect when I started with a Rolex AD and do not reflect where I am currently as a well-established customer. If an AD asks you for more than the Rolex web site provided M.S.R.P. walk away, they are not a source or resource for future purchases or a buying/customer relationship. My suggestion, although others may disagree, is that I would avoid doing a CC transaction which involves a charge to the seller, and either do a bank check or cash. This accomplishes two things, first it establishes that you can well afford to buy future items from the AD, which adds to your first consideration for incoming and desirable purchases, and second, it allows you to ask the AD for a bit of consideration on reduction on your purchase price. All ADs want solid potential future buyers for their product and not lookers or telephone query types with whom they have no positive or real experience. Many of the posters here who complaint about how their buying queries are handled don't seem to consider the seller's side on this, which is to be able to sell a watch as easily and timelessly as possible, and with a minimal of carry time.

[05carbondrz]

Originally Posted by lucevan le stelle

First, good luck. My comments reflect when I started with a Rolex AD and do not reflect where I am currently as a well-established customer. If an AD asks you for more than the Rolex web site provided M.S.R.P. walk away, they are not a source or resource for future purchases or a buying/customer relationship. My suggestion, although others may disagree, is that I would avoid doing a CC transaction which involves a charge to the seller, and either do a bank check or cash. This accomplishes two things, first it establishes that you can well afford to buy future items from the AD, which adds to your first consideration for incoming and desirable purchases, and second, it allows you to ask the AD for a bit of consideration on reduction on your purchase price. All ADs want solid potential future buyers for their product and not lookers or telephone query types with whom they have no positive or real experience. Many of the posters here who complaint about how their buying queries are handled don't seem to consider the seller's side on this, which is to be able to sell a watch as easily and timelessly as possible, and with a minimal of carry time.

The Sellers side? 3yrs ago would they have ever DREAMED of forcing someone to buy a Dog before being put on a LIST for a Watch they came in for? Hell no,They are taking advantage of Buyers and laughing at You once You leave....Great experience.The Rich Guys who can afford these Games are the Ones sucking up all the hard to get Pieces and immediately listing them on TRF for a profit.....So what are the AD’s really saving? They act like they are the Gatekeeper of the Market knowing damn well their “VIP” Customers are flipping the Pieces later but they don’t care as they already got their pound of flesh.

[Bxtek]

Originally Posted by chad362wiley

1. cc is fine, rarely any fees on top
2. not in the US
3. put down a deposit and it will be sooner
5. wear whatever you want
6. i dont insure them, but jewelers mutual is good. if you travel a lot with it its worth it. JM will cover any kind of damage or loss. I keep mine in a safe and wear them carefully. if you only have one watch, i think it would be worth it to insure it if its worn everyday :)

Yes, I have no problem putting down a deposit if it'll get me the watch sooner since I am serious about buying. This will be my one watch for now, but hopefully I will buy another in the future. I won't be wearing it everyday.

Originally Posted by zjd168

In the US, most AD take credit card without extra charge.
Few if any AD sell above MSRP.
BLNR waiting list shouldn't be too long, a few months is reasonable or maybe shorter.
Up to the AD for deposit but most won't require it.
Over thinking about the clothing. It doesn't tell anything about if you are seriously to buy. Search old threads on insurance discussions

From reading other's recent experiences, the BLNR's are out there and people are able to actually purchase one with a short waiting time. Yeah, I may be overthinking the clothing, but I thought I'd ask anyway, just to be prepared! :)

[Bxtek]

Originally Posted by fiendfx

Some AD will not take $10k cash. Some on CC and rest on cash is ok. So if you got good credit, then just bring CC.

I'd prefer not to have to carry around $10K cash anyway when going around to different AD's.

Originally Posted by Fleetlord

1) How to pay?

You can most certainly pay with a credit card. Due to the merchant agreement with the credit card company, the dealer cannot charge you MORE to cover their fee. Sometimes depending on dealer and the watch you could get a slight discount if you pay in
HARD CASH.

Just make sure your credit card will allow you to make largish purchases without declining based on out of character transactions. I would call them ahead to inform them.

2) A Rolex AD in the United States will not upcharge a new BLNR from their inventory due to market conditions. Rolex doesn't like that in the least and the dealers in the USA won't do it.

3) Wait list depends on the dealer and your demeanor. If they are cool and you are cool, they will put you on the list. If they are mean and nasty and don't want to deal with another "list" customer, they will tell you the wait is 15yrs. This also applies if you come across as needy, neurotic, boorish or other annoying personality types that the AD would prefer to avoid, so in that case you would be handled with no spot on list and dismissed.

4) Deposits depend on the dealer and your comfort level. I wouldn't pay in full in case the dealer goes belly up with your cash. 20% is common. Some do no money. But then you might not get on a list at all....or maybe you will stumble upon one read for you to buy????

5) Wear a tuxedo to the store. Well...maybe not that....Just dress like a normal person. Don't dress like a swamp slob just for the "gotcha" thrill of them underestimating you and all that #$%. Just look like a normal person.

6) Insure the watch for sure. You can go through your homeowner insurance provider with a separate policy. There are others that are specialized companies just for stuff like this. Shop around for the coverage terms and cost that you are comfortable with.

Happy Hunting. Hope you get one soon.

Thanks for the write-up! I have no problem and will be happy to get a BLNR at MSRP. I feel I'm a pretty cool and friendly person, so I should have no problem on my end. I don't know about the AD, but if I get an attitude, I'll probably just go to another AD. I'm really humbled to be able to finally make a purchase like this, so I guess I'm feeling a little out of my element. I've always wanted a Rolex, and I'm finally gonna make it happen. I know it's no big event to a number of people who buy watches on a whim and also own several, but to me this is a BIG deal! :)

Thanks for the tip on contacting my credit card beforehand. I'm already on top of that since it would be REAL embarrassing to find my dream watch and ultimately be declined on the purchase! Thanks for the info on the insurance. I was planning to ask my current home insurance provider about this, but I thought I'd throw it out here on the forum to see what other people are doing as well and what is recommended.

[Bxtek]

Originally Posted by blown5.0

Welcome to the forums! I am relatively new here as well, and its been a great resource! I will answer these questions as best as I can, and i'm sure someone with more knowledge will chime in.

1)I believe they will take CC or cash. If you pay with cash, you may have more leverage for a discount? Other ADs may have a different policy.

2)From reading the forums, it sounds like ADs are not allowed to markup prices. They may play other games, like trying to entice you to buy other things to get on or move up "the list".

3)I think this depends on the AD. Some wont let you get on the list for popular models unless you are a client. Others will allow you to get on the list. I am not a fan of the former and don't plan to give business to those who play that game, but if someone is willing to put me on the list and I actually get the watch, I will more likely continue to give them my business.

4)I can't speak for all ADs, but my AD won't accept a refundable deposit until I am way up the list- Position 3 or higher.

5)I really hope not. I would view that as a negative if they cared. I wear a t-shirt and jeans. I've even gone in my gym attire.

6) Sorry don't have much info on this.

OP, where in CA are you? PM me if you would like to know who my AD is. They have been great and allowed me to get on a list prior to any purchase, which I appreciated.

Hmmm, cash discount would be appealing to me if in fact they would do something on that. Good to hear that the consensus says that most AD's are not allowed to mark up beyond MSRP. I will be happy to get one at MSRP! I suspect this will not be my last Rolex and it would be good to establish a relationship with a local AD. I am located in the SF Bay Area in CA. Near San Mateo. If I cannot get anywhere with my local AD's, I will definitely move onto others out of my area.

Originally Posted by Nikrnic

I own a car dealership and I take credit cards and paid for my last two AD purchases with my cc. Just be yourself and don't worry about it. I'm sure you'll have to pay MSRP for that one. You should also get an appraisel from the AD for the full MSRP price at no charge, on my last purchase I had to ask and was told no problem they'll mail it, if not I'll follow up. I've never took out a separate insurance policy for any of my jewelry but I was covered once by my homeowners for a diamond ring that was stolen. Anyway I hope as you should have a good experience on your BLNR quest..

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

Thanks for the info. I have my credit card "locked and loaded", ready to charge! Lol! Thanks for the tip on the appraisal too. Good idea and I never thought of this.

[Bxtek]

Originally Posted by ferrissteve11

Alternatively, if you don't wish to play AD games one could shop from the comfort of your favorite chair sipping a comfortable beverage while checking out the Trusted Sellers on this forum.
Just another option you might consider. YMMV

Yes, I constantly am on the for sale section looking at what's available. I am really tempted to go for the BLNR that Takuya has for sale since he has nothing but spotless reviews. However, I do believe that this is not going to be my last Rolex and it would be good to start a relationship with a local AD. Also, I have never actually tried on or held a BLNR yet, so I would like to do that if possible. Even if they only had an LN or a two tone GMT, it would be nice to actually hold one in the metal, try it on and see how this size of watch feels. 99% I know I want one, but it would be nice to confirm that last 1% for myself! :)

[Bxtek]

Originally Posted by lucevan le stelle

First, good luck. My comments reflect when I started with a Rolex AD and do not reflect where I am currently as a well-established customer. If an AD asks you for more than the Rolex web site provided M.S.R.P. walk away, they are not a source or resource for future purchases or a buying/customer relationship. My suggestion, although others may disagree, is that I would avoid doing a CC transaction which involves a charge to the seller, and either do a bank check or cash. This accomplishes two things, first it establishes that you can well afford to buy future items from the AD, which adds to your first consideration for incoming and desirable purchases, and second, it allows you to ask the AD for a bit of consideration on reduction on your purchase price. All ADs want solid potential future buyers for their product and not lookers or telephone query types with whom they have no positive or real experience. Many of the posters here who complaint about how their buying queries are handled don't seem to consider the seller's side on this, which is to be able to sell a watch as easily and timelessly as possible, and with a minimal of carry time.

Very good tips and points to consider. Thanks! I would like an AD that I'm comfortable and have a good experience with in case I would like to buy another in the future.

Originally Posted by 05carbondrz

The Sellers side? 3yrs ago would they have ever DREAMED of forcing someone to buy a Dog before being put on a LIST for a Watch they came in for? Hell no,They are taking advantage of Buyers and laughing at You once You leave....Great experience.The Rich Guys who can afford these Games are the Ones sucking up all the hard to get Pieces and immediately listing them on TRF for a profit.....So what are the AD’s really saving? They act like they are the Gatekeeper of the Market knowing damn well their “VIP” Customers are flipping the Pieces later but they don’t care as they already got their pound of flesh.

From the short time that I've been on TRF, I've learned about some of the games and BS that goes on behind the scenes at AD's. I had no idea it was like this and was a bit of a shock to me actually. In the beginning, for some reason I thought it was as simple as like shopping at Best Buy or similar.....walk into an AD, see if they have what you want in stock. If not, order it and buy it when it comes in. I'm learning that it's not so simple!

[ferrissteve11]

Originally Posted by Bxtek

Yes, I constantly am on the for sale section looking at what's available. I am really tempted to go for the BLNR that Takuya has for sale since he has nothing but spotless reviews. However, I do believe that this is not going to be my last Rolex and it would be good to start a relationship with a local AD. Also, I have never actually tried on or held a BLNR yet, so I would like to do that if possible. Even if they only had an LN or a two tone GMT, it would be nice to actually hold one in the metal, try it on and see how this size of watch feels. 99% I know I want one, but it would be nice to confirm that last 1% for myself! :)

Trying it on can make all the difference. Whatever you end up doing the BLNR is a very cool piece.

[kauffee]

Exciting to be able to purchase your first Rolex and the BLNR is an amazing watch. It's fun to be able to walk into a store and walk out with it, so I agree with trying that route first. And like you said, establishing a relationship can be worthwhile.

There's a member on here who's an insurance adjuster and recommends Jewelers Mutual just to keep your house and your watch completely separate in case you need to file a claim. That seems like sound advice. May be too precautious, but I like the idea. I've found JM easy to deal with on the setup side. Luckily never filed claim.

[Drake3287]

Seeing that your from here in California do yourself a favor and find a good local dealer and get on his list for the BLNR you want. From there you need to stop by every few weeks or so just to say hello and reassure them your a true local customer looking for a watch.

I played the game of stopping by dealers all over Northern California and Las Vegas and everyone basically told me the same thing. It wasn't until my local (and closest) dealer understood I was a serious local buyer and in the end got me a BLNR in just over a month and without a down payment.

These California dealers get phone call's ALL DAY LONG asking to be put on a BLNR list but in the end local customers typically win out simply because they become possible long term customers unlike someone living 100 miles away that they'll never see again.

And don't let these long list's scare you. I was number 7 on my list but most of the people ahead of me had either changed their mind, already found a watch or simply didn't have the money.

No dealer here in California has a BLNR sitting around unclaimed so getting on a real list is the only way. Just to show you how bad the supply is, I recently stopped off at 6 Rolex dealers in Europe and asked about BLNR's and each one almost laughed at the possibility of having one.

Good luck and stick with it.

[Bxtek]

Thanks kauffee! Yes, I kinda want that experience of walking into an AD, looking at their selection and buying in person. Even if I have to get on a list and pick up the watch later, I guess I would like to have that face to face transaction experience. Hopefully when the day comes that I purchase another watch, that relationship connection will come in handy. Thanks also for the insurance info.

Drake3287 - Thanks for the reply and for the info. Yes, I hope by the face to face interaction, one of those scenarios you mentioned will work out for me. It seems that California is even hotter than the rest of the states for the high demand models.

ferrissteve11 - I'm sure I'll like the BLNR and I suspect trying one on will only make me like it more! Just from looking at pics and videos.....it's a beautiful looking watch!

-- Thanks to everyone on this thread for replying to my questions! VERY VERY helpful to me! I really appreciate it! --

[clb521]

The watch your looking for is a popular watch which means it will be hard to find in an AD. Not impossible but hard.

I have found calling ADs doesnt do much good unless they know you personally. If you call they give you the typical we dont have it and its a 6 month wait to get one. Even going in person may not do much either if you havent bought much there.

I would suggest trying the classifieds here. Most of the TS are nice people. The watch you want will become available much quicker than it will going thru an AD. Plus once you make the deal and send them your money they overnight you the watch. And its all included in their price.

Go thru TS here. You wont regret it I promise.

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

[RolexComplex]

Originally Posted by Bxtek

From reading other's recent experiences, the BLNR's are out there and people are able to actually purchase one with a short waiting time. Yeah, I may be overthinking the clothing, but I thought I'd ask anyway, just to be prepared! :)

Welcome to the Forum. Yes, BLNR’s are definitely out there, and wait times vary with your location (where in CA are you?) and your relationship with the AD. Less that 6 months should be doable for someone with no prior AD relationship.

Regarding dress, any good luxury sales rep will take note of your shoes and watch. Fair or not, they are qualifying you. It’s quite ridiculous. When I wear a DD, they are so much more welcoming and accommodating, it’s laughable.

Good luck! You’ll never forget your first Rolex purchase!

[EmilA]

I have brought 3 Rolex’s while wearing sweat pants and hoody, places shouldn’t judge you on your dress IMO but they will. Don’t stress about it though, I didn’t and I have a BLNR & Hulk in my small collection

[Ravager135]

1. Most ADs take any payment. I don't use a credit or debit card because I keep spending limits on mine to avoid fraudulent purchases so I typically use a check even if they don't like it. I've always found that the price is the price and I've never been given a discount or marked up because of the method in which I paid. I also never laid out 10k in cash so I could be wrong.

2. Most US ADs do not price pieces higher than MSRP. Again, I have never seen it, but I could be wrong. I do not think you will get ANY discount especially at this time. The best you could likely do is skim the tax off if the AD has a shop in another state and can mail it to you.

3. My AD is always very honest with me when it comes to wait lists. I know this is not the norm especially at larger chain ADs. It doesn't hurt to ask what the wait list is. I personally wouldn't wait over a few months for the BLNR. I'd rather pay a small premium and get it from a grey dealer if the AD told me it was going to take years.

4. Depends on the AD. If they tell you the wait list isn't too long, it's reasonable to put a deposit down. I've paid full price for a Milgauss that was ordered for me specifically, but I knew it would be in in two weeks. If an AD told me a piece might take months or a year to get, I'd rather not part with that cash.

5. Wear anything you want. Just be clean if you are trying stuff on. That goes without saying I think. I drive by my AD on my way to and from jiu-jitsu, but I am not going to stop in there all sweaty.

6. I have a jewelry rider on my renter's insurance. I put my watches and my wife's expensive jewelry on that. If you do purchase, ask for an appraisal. Most ADs will do it for free. You can provide that to your insurer.