Has your opinion of Rolex changed over time?

[vubui]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[RUK]

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

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

[domrusso10]

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


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[mike]

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

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

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

[jshepard]

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


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[Sublover2166]

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

[zama]

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

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

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

[Rolex addict]

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

[tkerrmd]

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

[AK797]

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

[AK797]

Originally Posted by Rolex addict

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

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

[Sammk]

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

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

[GB-man]

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

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

[Srhdad]

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

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

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

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

[redsubby]

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

[engin33r]

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

[sickened1]

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

[kilyung]

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

[sturgeon123456]

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

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

[fmc000]

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

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

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

[Danny83]

Originally Posted by mike

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

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

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

[aleeboy]

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

[MrSimba]

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

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

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

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

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

[wdin]

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

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

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

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

I was sold. Literally sold.

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

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

Didn't happen.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[greggsiam]

Yes, for the better.

I thought Rolex was just a status symbol and luxury brand because of name only. Then one day I read the history of the submariner and was simply blown away. It was not just a name brand luxury item, but a watch that was simply excellent in diving and time keeping accuracy. It could back up every iota of its legendary name with real world performance and function.

Then I read about the Milgauss, Sea-Dweller, Yacht-Master, and GMT. They too not only had exceptional Rolex movement, but also had specific functions in which they were designed for. Rolex went from luxury brand to a mfg that produced fully functional amazing watches in mere seconds.

I've always admired manufacturers like Porsche and Ferrari. They are not a luxury paper-tiger brand, but products tht back up everything they represent with performance and real world function. In my mind, Rolex is exactly the same.

[joli160]

I had similar thoughts here when I did not know any better

[ct.matt]

I came back around full circle and am now on the fence between a gen daytona white face or gmt 2 master batman :D

I found this article very interesting in this context http://www.forbes.com/sites/jackfors...ognized-watch/ especially the last part

With that basic proposition in place it is possible to characterize three basic levels of Rolex appreciation.

1. Rolex Is The Best (New Guy Version.) The fact that Rolex designs evolve so slowly has done something very important –it’s ensured that if you have one on, a disproportionate number of people are going to know you are wearing (a) a Rolex and (b) an expensive watch. The upside is that it can and does say you’re a person of means (there is nothing wrong, per se, with conspicuous consumption if that’s what you know you want) but the downside is that a certain percentage of observers will conclude, rightly or wrongly, that advertising your affluence is the only (or at least the main) reason you bought the watch. You may have bought a Rolex simply because you’ve decided you like watches, and you’ve heard Rolex is a good watch –unfortunately, that’s not going to stop some people from assuming you had more ignoble motives. Sooner or later, though, the new owner may wonder why so many self-styled watch experts are sneering, which leads to . . .

2. Rolex Is For Suckers (New Connoisseur Version.) This stage of appreciation –well, of recognition, anyway –is usually the result of one’s first exposure to the enormous range of other luxury watch brands, and the onset of suspicion that what you get when you buy a Rolex is an overpriced, uninteresting watch from a company that is too lazy to update its own designs, too rich to risk change, and is generally happiest resting on its generously proportioned laurels. This stage is often marked by a discovery of, and fascination with, the vocabulary of hand-finishing of movements, largely absent in Rolexes; one swoons to the alluring exoticism of côtes de Genève, anglage, oeil-de-perdrix, and the whole rich world of finissage. The awareness that Rolex, rightly or wrongly, is associated with a certain kind of person in many minds –generally male, American, McMansion-owning, loud, golf-obsessed, sartorially challenged and gastronomically undiscriminating, and fond of unnecessarily large and inefficient automobiles –merely serves to confirm the prejudice that unless one wants to be taken for an illbred, reactionary lout, Rolex and all it stands for is best avoided. This stage can persist indefinitely, potentially, but if one continues to inquire one may arrive at . . .

3. Rolexes Are Actually Pretty Good Watches (Grizzled Veteran Version.) There are several paths that can lead to this stage. One observes bemusedly that it is, oddly enough, one’s Rolex –usually in the context of being worn when you don’t want to wear one of your “good” watches –that seems to keep time best. One observes bemusedly that it is, oddly enough, one’s Rolex that seems to be the most free of irritating and expensive prima donna temperamental behavior. One finds, bemusedly, that it is –quelle surprise –one’s Rolex which seems to be migrating more and more frequently onto one’s wrist, like a faithful Jeeves tolerant as the years go by of the mad whims and fads of its master. One may even find, as I did, that Rolexes are worn by a rather surprising number of watch industry executives working for other brands (on their days off, of course!) and are preferred, for their extremely reliable engineering, by an awful lot of watchmakers. And one discovers that what one thought was lack of personality was merely a refusal on the part of the watch to impose one on you –its very simplicity is what lets it become, as it develops its palimpsest of scratches, marks, and nicks through the slings and arrows of daily use, your watch, and not a brand billboard.

The beauty of this last level of Rolex Appreciation is that it is a temperate one; you are not wearing a Rolex (or refusing to) because of what other people think –good or bad –but because you have made up your own mind, and for your own reasons. You like the watch largely for what it is, not what other people think it means, and you have the very special pleasure that comes from being well informed and doing what you damned well please anyway.

Not everyone gets to this stage, of course –Rolex is not for everyone, first of all –de gustibus non est disputandum –and many want a watch that is rarer, or the subject of more hand-finishing, or any number of things that a Rolex is not. But a surprising number of watch veterans reach Stage 3 in the fullness of time, and find in Rolex a watch that rather refreshingly seems to have been designed to not “emphasize the heritage and integrity of the brand’s DNA” (as one particularly awful press release I’ve recently read put it; using “brand DNA” in what’s supposed to be a consumer oriented press release should be a hanging offense) but rather, to be a good watch.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by mike

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

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

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

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

[brandrea]

I guess for me I can sum it up by saying I just like how wearing a Rolex makes me feel

[HL65]

For me always held Rolex in high regard and for me they are the very best at what they do. Along with Patek no need for any other watch brands - Patek and Rolex best in their class!!