A long story - first real visit to Rolex AD

[carlhaluss]

Hi folks,
This is a post I made on Breitlingsource.com. I have been a member there for a few years, having owned many Breitlings. As the post title suggests, I made a visit to a Rolex AD today, and left very impressed. Here is the contents of that post that I would like to share with you:

Well, folks, for the first time in my life I paid a visit to a Rolex AD, with the serious intent of buying one of their watches. I don't know what has held me back for so long, from taking a serious look at what they have to offer. But that is one of the joys I find in life: There is always some new pleasure in store, even when I think that I have exhausted all the possibilities.
Anyway, I was really looking forward to this visit. I had been in the shop - Monte Cristo in Vancouver - about six months ago, with a buddy who was looking at the Deep Sea Dweller. I was very impressed with the knowledge, the time taken with my friend, and the utter professionalism shown without a hint of pretense. This is definitely one of the higher end jewellers and watch dealers in Vancouver, and I would have no hesitation of recommending them to anyone.
Lately, I have really been into the smaller size watches, and am finding great pleasure in my Omega Seamaster Pro 36mm, and my Railmaster, also 36mm. However, as I mentioned in one of my other posts, I am less than impressed with the elitist attitude of Omega of late. I truly believe that it has a lot to do with their own lack of self confidence in the fact that Rolex is indeed that largest producer - by far - of watches that are given Chronometer Certificates, in the world. This was more than evident to me today, when I saw the wide selection of models - and price ranges - that Rolex has to offer. And bear in mind, that all of these watches have in house movements, and are therefore in the long run probably more reasonably priced than many competitors' watches. One good reason that we feel we are being "stung" by the price increases by Omega and Breitling with the introduction of their own inhouse movements.
Monte Cristo had every single model of Rolex in their showcase that I wanted to see! I was literally like a kid in a candy shop, only without the necessary funds! The models were: the new GMT-Master II (at 40mm with ceramic bezel, adjustable bracelet, anti-magnetic hairspring), Milgauss ( also at 40mm with the beautiful green saphire crystal ), the Explorer I ( very simple dial, much like the Omega Railmaster, also 36mm) and numerous Perpetual and Air King models, simple dials with no calendar, at 34mm and 36mm. Like I say, a paradise for people with small wrists or who just want smaller watches.
The build quality is great, but I have to admit overall, not better IMHO than Omega or Breitling. There are, in fact, some smaller details on the Omegas and Breitlings that I like better. However, they are all built like tanks, and you get the feeling that they will last forever.
The GMT IIc (the c stands for ceramic bezel) is absolutely, drop-dead gorgeous. It has a beautiful presence without being too blingy, and is pretty good on the wrist at 40mm. The Milgauss is another masterpiece unto itself. The green saphire crystal is itself a work of art. It almost gives the black dial a brownish look. Some of the markers are orange, like the "thunderbolt" second hand, which is a marvel itself. It really is a most unusual watch, but done with such class that it defies description. Now for my real loves of the whole lot, and the pleasant surprise: the simplistic Perpetual and Air King models, with no date, ranging from 36mm to 34mm. For $4100-$6000CAD, you can get some beautifully crafted dials, with everything from retro simple markers to blue and silver dials with orange numerals.
The gentleman I dealt with was amazing. He gave me a brand new catalogue, updated with the lastest 2009 models, and left me with a totally wonderful feeling about the Rolexes.
I did happen to mention that, at some point in my life, I would like to own a simple, classic yellow or red gold watch. They just happen to deal in Breguet watches, and he gave me a short history as well. They happened to have a "Traditional" with a small off-centre dial and if I remember correctly, a retrograde second hand. I didn't even ask the price. They have an amazing selection of those as well, my favourite being a smaller 38mm yellow gold with traditional blued Breguet hands and a small second hand dial at 13 grand. I digress.
Anyway, I wanted to share my afternoon with you folks. Also, for you naysayers about the Rolex line of watches, they really are worth a look. Especially, when I see what some of the manufacturers, who recently had only ETA-modified movements, are now charging for their own inhouse movements. Not for everyone, but definitely worth a good look with an open mind.
Sorry for rambling, but I hope you enjoy my little story.
Cheers,
Carl

_________________
Omega Railmaster 2403 36mm
Omega SMP 1120 36mm
Omega Aqua Terra 8500 41mm

[Colnago]

Nice read Carl......been an owner for 23 years this month.....half my lifetime.......welcome to TRF!!!!

[Porsche]

Hi Carl

thanks for sharing. No worries about the "rambling", that's what these forums are useful for. I think many of your comments will resonate with many people here.

Look forward to seeing pics once you decide which model to buy!

[Deyn Man]

welcome carl!
as the saying goes, "better late than never".. hope the bug bites you soon

[ROLEX MAN]

Good on you love to read your story!

Welcome to TRF the best rolex forum.

[Nods]

Welcome Carl, I think you will find that although this a Rolex Forum, the majority of the regular posters are watch lovers, in general, with a strong bent to the Rolex brand.

[3 Rings]

Welcome, sir. I'm certain we'll be seeing more of you.

[Dan 07]

I agree with Monte Cristo as good and fair Rolex dealers. I was there last week pricing out an Explorer 1, going to Brinkhaus this week to see if they can match the price...then I'll make up my mind who's going to take my hard earned cash!