What do you say when you check in?

[bmaier]

I just met my SA a few weeks ago after switching boutiques so its not a very personal relationship yet. I want to check in to remind them I'm alive and still want the piece, but worry about bothering them with the same old "wheres my watch" spiel.

I live a multiple hour flight away from the boutique so I cant pop in, plus what would I even go in to do? Bug them about a watch they've been asked about 10000 times just today and dont have displayed?

I get very anxious/nervous when speaking with SA's as they hold the future of my biggest passion in their hands and I dont want to mess anything up.

Any advice?

[Kirk19]

I feel your pain… same problem here. I live in a country without an AD and flew to Italy for a boutique. I really like AP and my Rolex collection is complete.
I had a good conversation with the owner and felt like he was willing to help me get a 15450 and maybe some other pieces. It has been 3 months now and feel like it is time to let them know I am still alive and interested… How to do it without annoying them, good question!

[msu_1972]

What I did in the past was I would email my SA from time to time just to say hello and check in with them so that way they don't forget me. At the end of my email I would just give them a friendly reminder that I would appreciate it if they reach out to me if any of the watches on my list comes in.

[dauster]

I work in sales so I am naturally annoying and I think once a month text/ email them or call them is perfectly fine.

It always worked for me to talk about pieces that might be out of my price range at the moment but might be in reach later, like the AP concept or something.

[bmaier]

Originally Posted by msu_1972

What I did in the past was I would email my SA from time to time just to say hello and check in with them so that way they don't forget me. At the end of my email I would just give them a friendly reminder that I would appreciate it if they reach out to me if any of the watches on my list comes in.

But what do you say when you "check in?" I guess I'm worried my email will read:
Hi,
Hope you have been well.
Let me know if the piece comes in.

[Potawatomi]

If you have found yourself here on TRF I assume you're an enthusiast and not a speculator. Unfortunately the game doesn't favor the enthusiast. I have talked to ADs and I have come to the conclusion that I'll never be called back considering a timepiece since I dont have an AD within 600 miles of me.

[dauster]

Originally Posted by bmaier

But what do you say when you "check in?" I guess I'm worried my email will read:
Hi,
Hope you have been well.
Let me know if the piece comes in.

dont email - text them or call them try to spark up a conversation about watches that you aspire to. talk about how you want to visit the museum/ factory or now the hotel

also, talk about how you love the avangarde pices like the concept/ same guys that make the RM pieces - Renaud et Papi:

https://www.timeandwatches.com/p/his...lle-brand.html

[bmaier]

Originally Posted by Potawatomi

If you have found yourself here on TRF I assume you're an enthusiast and not a speculator. Unfortunately the game doesn't favor the enthusiast. I have talked to ADs and I have come to the conclusion that I'll never be called back considering a timepiece since I dont have an AD within 600 miles of me.

I got my first piece VERY easily the first go around. Called the boutique, sparked up a quick chat and got my watch sent to me a few days later. Because the process was so fast and didn't require me checking in, I dont really know how to approach the waiting/checking in.
I have hope. I have to.

[Potawatomi]

Originally Posted by bmaier

I got my first piece VERY easily the first go around. Called the boutique, sparked up a quick chat and got my watch sent to me a few days later. Because the process was so fast and didn't require me checking in, I dont really know how to approach the waiting/checking in.
I have hope. I have to.

How recent was this experience? Maybe there is hope.

[bmaier]

Originally Posted by Potawatomi

How recent was this experience? Maybe there is hope.

Late 2020, it was a very pleasant experience. Since then, I've inquired about other pieces and was told purchase history is most important when trying to get those sought after models (which is every model these days). I even visited earlier this year and was told the above in person while i was wearing the watch i bought from the boutique I was visiting. And how am i supposed to build more history when i cant get a watch? The whole thing is very confusing, but once again, I have hope lol

[Potawatomi]

Originally Posted by bmaier

Late 2020, it was a very pleasant experience. Since then, I've inquired about other pieces and was told purchase history is most important when trying to get those sought after models (which is every model these days). I even visited earlier this year and was told the above in person while i was wearing the watch i bought from the boutique I was visiting. And how am i supposed to build more history when i cant get a watch? The whole thing is very confusing, but once again, I have hope lol

This describes the AP dilemma. It's not like we can purchase jewlery or less desired models to get in a better position. We just have to hope that the brief time we spend with an AD makes some kind of impression. I feel at a disadvantage because I look more like a flipper than an enthusiast. If I walk in by myself the will assume I'm some new grey market wannabe instead of someone that actually loves the hobby.

[bmaier]

Originally Posted by Potawatomi

I look more like a flipper than an enthusiast. If I walk in by myself the will assume I'm some new grey market wannabe instead of someone that actually loves the hobby.

Funny you say this. I walked in wearing my 38mm chrono and after chatting for a bit one of the SA's asked: "Where did you get your watch," to which i replied "Here, I worked with (name of SA)." They then asked "Do you know how much you could sell that for?" To which I replied, "More than I bought it for, but I would never sell it."
They smirked and thats when they pulled a notepad out and wrote my name down so the SA I worked with could call me. Before that she definitely thought I was a hype buyer or flipper.

[Potawatomi]

Originally Posted by bmaier

Funny you say this. I walked in wearing my 38mm chrono and after chatting for a bit one of the SA's asked: "Where did you get your watch," to which i replied "Here, I worked with (name of SA)." They then asked "Do you know how much you could sell that for?" To which I replied, "More than I bought it for, but I would never sell it."
They smirked and thats when they pulled a notepad out and wrote my name down so the SA I worked with could call me. Before that she definitely thought I was a hype buyer or flipper.

Just having the watch doesn't mean much these days. There's dozens of time piece gentlemen wearing their stock around town on their wrist. The fact that my APs came from a grey over retail should show the SA that I'm serious enough about the brand to get screwed by the system just to own an AP. Maybe the move is to promise the SA some kickback when you sell a few to the greys so they keep calling your number when the good stuff comes in. I just want to spend an honest 25,000 USD on an obsolete time telling device, is that too much to ask ?

[NYG1121]

This is like dating advice. Just be natural and talk about your mutual passion for watches. I talk to my SAs about everything from market conditions, different brands, new releases and vintage watches. So much to talk about all the time!!

[VogelPhoenix]

Originally Posted by Potawatomi

Maybe the move is to promise the SA some kickback when you sell a few to the greys so they keep calling your number when the good stuff comes in.

I know you're joking, but the decisions regarding the "good stuff" are not made by the boutique SAs.

[VogelPhoenix]

Originally Posted by NYG1121

This is like dating advice. !

Yeah, most important is not to appear desperate; that's never a good look

[dauster]

Originally Posted by bmaier

Funny you say this. I walked in wearing my 38mm chrono and after chatting for a bit one of the SA's asked: "Where did you get your watch," to which i replied "Here, I worked with (name of SA)." They then asked "Do you know how much you could sell that for?" To which I replied, "More than I bought it for, but I would never sell it."
They smirked and thats when they pulled a notepad out and wrote my name down so the SA I worked with could call me. Before that she definitely thought I was a hype buyer or flipper.

I feel you, but don't overanalyze this. keep checking in and be natural and nice. buy another watch if you love it and they offer it to you and that's about all you can do.

I am trying my luck with PP now. Don't own one yet but recently bought a couple of rolexes and cartier watches and trying to get status at mutiple ADs, much easier of course. maybe even some jewelry doww the line. AP is really tough with no supply and boutique only.

[Potawatomi]

Originally Posted by VogelPhoenix

I know you're joking, but the decisions regarding the "good stuff" are not made by the boutique SAs.

You are correct, I've never sold a piece as a flip. Matter of fact I've always lost on sales due to the softer market a few years back. I think the "good stuff" is actually code for "anything" these days.

[RolLee]

I just text usually. Or I let my person know I'm coming into town and that I wanted to stop in and say hi and see what's going on. Then, when I get there, we just chit chat about life, covid, whatever.... the shelves are usually empty so not much to do but help them kill some time.

[cascavel]

Originally Posted by NYG1121

This is like dating advice. Just be natural and talk about your mutual passion for watches. I talk to my SAs about everything from market conditions, different brands, new releases and vintage watches. So much to talk about all the time!!

Good point, it is like dating advice, except for the talking part. SAs don't want to listen to your BS, they want you to leave so they can go back to updating their Facebook page.
Just like a date, if you want to be successful you have to look successful, especially if you're punching above your weight, and you know you are, or you wouldn't be asking this question.
Here's what to do if you can muster the resources: borrow or rent the most expensive car you can, Ferrari is perfect. Double park it in front of the Boutique as noisily as possible. Wear a trendy brand name track suit with sneakers, a man's ring with a good size very white diamond (remember, these people know jewelry) and the most expensive Patek that you can borrow. Tell the first SA who pays attention to you that you want 2 watches, a gold 15500 and a stainless 15500. If they won't take your contact info, leave and never go back. If they do take your contact info, leave and never contact them again.
Remember, the goal is to make them want you.

[dauster]

Originally Posted by cascavel

Good point, it is like dating advice, except for the talking part. SAs don't want to listen to your BS, they want you to leave so they can go back to updating their Facebook page.
Just like a date, if you want to be successful you have to look successful, especially if you're punching above your weight, and you know you are, or you wouldn't be asking this question.
Here's what to do if you can muster the resources: borrow or rent the most expensive car you can, Ferrari is perfect. Double park it in front of the Boutique as noisily as possible. Wear a trendy brand name track suit with sneakers, a man's ring with a good size very white diamond (remember, these people know jewelry) and the most expensive Patek that you can borrow. Tell the first SA who pays attention to you that you want 2 watches, a gold 15500 and a stainless 15500. If they won't take your contact info, leave and never go back. If they do take your contact info, leave and never contact them again.
Remember, the goal is to make them want you.

lol

[Nav01L]

Originally Posted by cascavel

Good point, it is like dating advice, except for the talking part. SAs don't want to listen to your BS, they want you to leave so they can go back to updating their Facebook page.
Just like a date, if you want to be successful you have to look successful, especially if you're punching above your weight, and you know you are, or you wouldn't be asking this question.
Here's what to do if you can muster the resources: borrow or rent the most expensive car you can, Ferrari is perfect. Double park it in front of the Boutique as noisily as possible. Wear a trendy brand name track suit with sneakers, a man's ring with a good size very white diamond (remember, these people know jewelry) and the most expensive Patek that you can borrow. Tell the first SA who pays attention to you that you want 2 watches, a gold 15500 and a stainless 15500. If they won't take your contact info, leave and never go back. If they do take your contact info, leave and never contact them again.
Remember, the goal is to make them want you.

That is excellent advice, but tell me, what do the gorgeous Ukrainian escorts you date this way do when they realize you can’t pay their bill?

[VogelPhoenix]

Originally Posted by Nav01L

That is excellent advice, but tell me, what do the gorgeous Ukrainian escorts you date this way do when they realize you can’t pay their bill?

[maecenas]

Keep up with brand news, and then once in a while just check in (in whatever format) saying “oh, I just saw this… what do you think… are you getting a lot of attention on that” whatever. New releases, events, whatever are great conversation starters and show that you’re passionate about the brand overall. No need to over mention what you’re waiting for, they either know or will ask if you’ve finally convinced them to pay attention to you when they previously haven’t…

[Nav01L]

As for the Op,

I assume your an adult

I assume you’ve been successful enough in life to afford that AP you’re coveting

So how is this a challenging situation?

Fly in, say hi, tell them why you’re there. Something like: „Hi, how are you, I bet things are crazy at the moment so instead of bugging you with emails I decided to fly in, say hi, see how you were doing and find out how my watch request is going, because you know, this is very serious to me, I really want this watch. Also do you have anything cool you can show me? I know it’s probably sold and waiting to be delivered to someone, but you know I‘m just really passionate about the brand. Oh, cool, a perpetual, you know I really like the week indication they added to the rehaut when they updated this one, also the contrasting subdials look really cool in person, I had only seen this new model in pictures…“

How is this difficult?

So comme on, go get your watch now.

[Tanuki]

Originally Posted by bmaier

But what do you say when you "check in?" I guess I'm worried my email will read:
Hi,
Hope you have been well.
Let me know if the piece comes in.

The holidays are a great time to check in via email or text with Happy New Year and an interesting picture or meme. When COVID cases spike you could text in saying "it's getting crazy out there with COVID, please stay safe and keep your distance from customers, especially those wanting the same reference I do" haha.

That way you're talking to them as people rather than just asking about your watch. I feel it's a lot more personal.

[cascavel]

Originally Posted by Nav01L

That is excellent advice, but tell me, what do the gorgeous Ukrainian escorts you date this way do when they realize you can’t pay their bill?

Oh, Fred, that is hurtful. I'm trying to give constructive advice to a naif in how to accomplish what is, likely, an impossible task. We all know that the "engage and be genuine, show a real interest" approach is never going to work, it's time for fresh ideas.

[911AP]

Bribery is always a good strategy.....not even illegal in this case lol. Then you don't have to say anything.

[TomCarter]

Originally Posted by cascavel

good point, it is like dating advice, except for the talking part. Sas don't want to listen to your bs, they want you to leave so they can go back to updating their facebook page.
Just like a date, if you want to be successful you have to look successful, especially if you're punching above your weight, and you know you are, or you wouldn't be asking this question.
Here's what to do if you can muster the resources: Borrow or rent the most expensive car you can, ferrari is perfect. Double park it in front of the boutique as noisily as possible. Wear a trendy brand name track suit with sneakers, a man's ring with a good size very white diamond (remember, these people know jewelry) and the most expensive patek that you can borrow. Tell the first sa who pays attention to you that you want 2 watches, a gold 15500 and a stainless 15500. If they won't take your contact info, leave and never go back. If they do take your contact info, leave and never contact them again.
Remember, the goal is to make them want you.

respect

[TunaTuna]

Originally Posted by bmaier

I just met my SA a few weeks ago after switching boutiques so its not a very personal relationship yet. I want to check in to remind them I'm alive and still want the piece, but worry about bothering them with the same old "wheres my watch" spiel.

I live a multiple hour flight away from the boutique so I cant pop in, plus what would I even go in to do? Bug them about a watch they've been asked about 10000 times just today and dont have displayed?

I get very anxious/nervous when speaking with SA's as they hold the future of my biggest passion in their hands and I dont want to mess anything up.

Any advice?

Have a glass of wine or take a Valium before you go in. Deep breaths... then just be yourself kido