How long does it take for a watch to make it to the AD?

[Cletus1]

Hi All. I have been a long time lurker on this forum, and I think I am now ready to take the plunge and buy a yachtmaster from a local AD. It is a Platinum/SS 40MM. The only thing that I am not liking is that the serial number starts with an M prefix. I believe that this is a 2008 serial number.

The question that I have is how long does it take for Rolex to manufacture the watch and send it to the AD? Is it possible that a M serial number just found its way to the dealer a couple of months ago?

I guess in the grand scheme of things it really doesn't change much about the watch. I am just thinking that if the random V numbers are out there, should I look for one and pass on the M? Which do you believe would be more collectable? But, after visits to 3 AD's, I have only found M serial numbers in their cases.

Thanks for the feedback.