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).