AD Selling out the back door? - Here’s pictures!

[minute_man]

Originally Posted by 0nly5iv3Digits

This is very very very old news. Has been happening since (at least) 2019.

Exactly.

And in my neck of the woods, up until recently you could practically ORDER almost any hot piece from certain grey dealers with a warranty card dated the day of YOUR purchase.
And that has been their main point of contention when you got lowballed for your 2-3 year old but otherwise pristine time piece you brought in for sale or trade.
As for the ADs, their best client isn't some imaginary rich guy with an insatiable appetite for anything Rolex, but your local grey. Families who have traditionally purchased Rolexes from various ADs over generations have been treated much the same way as walk-ins the past few years. The tide is definitely turning though as the profit margin in 2ndary market is shrinking partly due to reduced demand and partly due to MSRP increase. Certain models and not just PM or TT ones now sell for under MSRP on the grey market.
Most greys are also thinning their stock now and the "ask for price" signs have largely been replaced by reduced prices and offers. I'm currently holding out for a further price drop before I make my next purchase.