Never knew buying a Rolex would be this difficult

[cchukan]

Hello all,

First post here - hoping to learn more about Rolex on this forum.

I'm originally from the US but currently living in Melbourne, Australia for work. Will be returning to US summer this year and I'm hoping to buy my first Rolex soon and get duty free. I own a Tag Heuer and Mont Blanc watch but thought it was time to get a Rolex.

Today my wife and I visited a Rolex boutique and was shocked to find out I may have to wait a year to buy the watch I want.

I asked to see either GMTII (Pepsi) and the Submariner in Green or Black. I was informed that I would be waiting a very long time for the Green Submariner and there's a long waiting list for the black...

Questions:

1. The lady informed me that they have no idea when and how much of each model they will get in each month due to security reasons. She hinted that I may have to wait more than a year to get my hands on a green submariner. I will check out the other authorized dealers here but was told it will be similar situation. Is this true?

2. I was informed that the GMTII Pepsi no longer comes in stainless steel; only white gold which makes it much too expensive for purchasing. How come Rolex doesn't give option of stainless steel? Is it possible to maybe get a previous model that's new in stainless steel? If so, where? Yes, I can google websites but just don't know if there are validated websites Rolex enthusiasts utilize. Obviously, very concerned about authenticity and how to prove it's actually brand new?

3. Is it actually really this hard to buy Submariners? The lady said it's because the model is "somewhat" affordable price for Rolex (price wise) which is why it's so popular/sold out.

Look forward to hearing from you guys. Thanks in advance.