What’s most important to retain value?

[Ck__]

I’m looking to buy my first Rolex but was wondering what is most important to have in order for it to retain value? Is it the original clasp and paperwork?

As soon as you buy a Rolex that only comes with a leather strap ... is that a no no?

[TimeToWatch]

The most important factor is that demand for the watch is greater than supply. A variety of factors influence this. Rather than focusing on this secondary factor, focus on buying a model that you truly like. That way, you'll never have to worry about selling it.

[Noonan]

Originally Posted by Ck__

I’m looking to buy my first Rolex but was wondering what is most important to have in order for it to retain value? Is it the original clasp and paperwork?

As soon as you buy a Rolex that only comes with a leather strap ... is that a no no?

If you buy a watch with the only concern being its potential resale value, just buy gold instead. Watches are made to be worn and enjoyed; not stuffed in a safe.

[beshannon]

Originally Posted by Ck__

I’m looking to buy my first Rolex but was wondering what is most important to have in order for it to retain value? Is it the original clasp and paperwork?

As soon as you buy a Rolex that only comes with a leather strap ... is that a no no?

Welcome to the forum

I am not sure how to help as most of what you wrote has nothing to do with owning and appreciating watches.

Good luck!

[Ck__]

There are oyster perpetuals I really like that have had leather bands but I have been told to avoid. Also I have been told to avoid certain sellers that refurbish vintage watches too much.

It’s all very daunting for a newbie!

[Mr. K]

If you are looking to buy vintage, you might try posting on the vintage forum. They might have some better advice.

[904VT]

Just buy new from an AD if you have any concerns. SS retain value better than PM and Professional better than Classic. That said value retention etc etc should never be the determining factor in buying a watch. You should buy one you expect to keep a lifetime.

[kieselguhr]

Originally Posted by Ck__

what is most important to have in order for it to retain value?

Demand.

Market and popularity trends. Even if you keep your watch pristine, have all the box and papers, stickers, etc; If the watch is not in demand value will take a hit. Note however that historically Rolex typically stays above inflation in the long term at the very minimum. Finding a buyer for the price you want is a different story altogether.

[Seibei]

Originally Posted by Ck__

I’m looking to buy my first Rolex but was wondering what is most important to have in order for it to retain value? Is it the original clasp and paperwork?

As soon as you buy a Rolex that only comes with a leather strap ... is that a no no?

All things being equal a leather strap is a no no. It should come with the correct bracelet. The original paperwork and anything else that is unique to your watch is good to have and important to collectors.

[Mystro]

Full box set. And I mean every little tag, card, etc.... I couldn't believe how much resale value is a factor when I traded in a 20 year old Rolex watch in perfect condition but lack one card. The bottom line:Its either a “full box set” or it isn’t. It’s all nonsense but it’s the reality we live in.

[Seibei]

Originally Posted by Ck__

There are oyster perpetuals I really like that have had leather bands but I have been told to avoid. Also I have been told to avoid certain sellers that refurbish vintage watches too much.

It’s all very daunting for a newbie!

Vintage Rolex is a minefield where fools rush in and angels fear to tread.

[Seibei]

Originally Posted by Mystro

Full box set. And I mean every little tag, card, etc.... I couldn't believe how much resale value is a factor when I traded in a 20 year old Rolex watch in perfect condition but lack one card. The bottom line:Its either a “full box set” or it isn’t. It’s all nonsense but it’s the reality we live in.

I could not have said it better myself. It does not matter a seller thinks. It is the buyer who has the money and he is the one who makes the rules.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by Ck__

There are oyster perpetuals I really like that have had leather bands but I have been told to avoid. Also I have been told to avoid certain sellers that refurbish vintage watches too much.

It’s all very daunting for a newbie!

You should be concerned about these things. There are certainly some shops, even ones that seem to be regarded here on the Forum, that refurbish watches with aftermarket parts, or omit important facts. You should do research on the particular watch you are looking at.

As to leather straps, some vintage Rolex came on leather, as did some very expensive models such as the gold Datejust and Daytona.

If you are interested in a certain model, and it is on leather, if the price reflects this, and it is one that you intend to continue to wear that way, I don't see the problem.

[Chadridv]

it varies watch to watch and it will take years of experience and research to hone in on what is for the most part still a series of estimated guesses.

Generally speaking, you want a complete set, a watch that's either unpolished or polished professionally and within original spec. But again it will vary watch to watch, reference to reference. Look up the antique roadshow guy that had his original GMT evaluated. Without the original paperwork, packaging and receipt, the value difference was tens of thousands.

You won't see that type of difference in a modern submariner today or most likely ever.

That said, the value of those things appreciates with the watch. Meaning today the value of original box and papers on a 16610 might be the difference of $500. If the value of the watch in general increases by 25% in the next 10 years, the value of the box and papers will likely see the same increase.

Again, too many factors to give you a single answer.

[Ck__]

Thanks for all the responses!

[Watchflair]

I'd try to buy a watch as original and complete as possible.

Depending on the watch this can be relatively easy. In certain instances it becomes a balancing act deciding on what is most important. My personal concern would be having the head(case, dial, bezel, movement, etc) of the watch be original, then the bracelet, and then everything else - box papers etc.

[Ragna]

Originally Posted by Ck__

[...]was wondering what is most important to have in order for it to retain value?

Dont take this the wrong way my friend..

But.. im thinking from your post youre not gonna be happy with your watch.

It will bring you distress and concern.

Come back when youre ready.

[Fat_ninja]

Originally Posted by Ck__

I’m looking to buy my first Rolex but was wondering what is most important to have in order for it to retain value? Is it the original clasp and paperwork?

As soon as you buy a Rolex that only comes with a leather strap ... is that a no no?

More buyers than sellers. Same as stocks :)

I am actually being serious

[joli160]

Best way not to loose money is not to spend it, certainly not on watches as a new WIS