New to Rolex

[phow]

Originally Posted by cbalster

I wish I could go to a store with my wife, try on a bunch of different Rolex watches, pick one out I like and wear it out of the store. Apparently for Rolex this is too much to ask, as a visit to the 3-4 authorized dealers in my area will yield fewer than 6 watches in stainless steel to even look at. Rolex only makes a few different models in stainless steel but I've only been able to try on a datejust 36 (too small), an Oyster Perpetual 41 (i want a date), and a Seadweller (too big). I could go grey but I want the warranty and a new watch and the buying experience. I have a Tudor Fifty Eight but I want a date. What does Rolex suggest, buy another Tudor?

I get where you are coming from. I'm in the Los Angeles area and I had to purchase a number of watches from my AD before I ever got any real consideration as far as my placement on "the list". I still have to wait but the wait is usually days and not months.

This is the new Rolex buying experience for those that are new to Rolex. It is what it is. Demand is higher than supply and customers that have a history with the brand get preference when it comes to new/desirable models.

I honestly think it's pretty fair. If you are spending 5, 6 or even 7 figures with a brand and/or AD, you would expect some form of special treatment.

The fact that you even touched a Sea-Dweller (I'm assuming SD43) at an AD is honestly pretty surprising. That watch has at least a 4-6 month wait from any of the AD's around here with no previous buying history. In fact, if you aren't interested in the watch, I know several buyers actively looking for a 126600 right now if you want to PM me the AD's information.

My suggestion is to start a relationship with an AD. If you are in the Los Angeles area, PM me and I will send you a recommendation. If you make a couple purchases from them (my first watch from them was a Tudor BB Bronze), the SA will text you when new inventory comes in. My SA knows what I like and even if the piece is already spoken for, I get invited to come down and check it out and see if I want on the list.


Whatever you do, avoid the grey market if you truly are interested in getting into Rolex. Yes, the grey's can get you what you want now for a premium but you will not be starting a relationship with an AD that will ultimately get you access to what you want tomorrow.

This is just the price of admission into the Rolex club. Welcome. We have all been there at one point or another :)