Help a noob out.

[jldc]

I'm new to the forum and looking for my first Rolex. My wife (who's also on the forum) just ordered a watch from alex_collector (I think). I have several questions that I can't easily find answers to. My wife tells me that I'm "search impared" so I'm sorry if I should have found the answers by searching the forum.

1) Why do they delete the sold threads? I would like to see what the watches sold for to get an idea of the going prices.

2) How likely am I to get a counterfeit watch if I buy from somebody with lots of sales online (eg bodybump or davidsw)? What about somebody with good references, but not as many? I've read that sometimes you have to completely disassemble a watch to pick out a good fake, and I doubt that this is being routinely done by these sellers. I promise that I won't hold anybody responsible for their answer, I'm just trying to get a feel for this market.

3) When a watch is said to be "95%," what does that mean?

4) Is there a listing of MSRP for the various Rolex models?

That's all for now, but I'm sure I'll have more questions.

Thanks
Leonard


PS. I'm trying to decide between a GMT-IIc and an Explorer II.

[BGRINDEL]

I'll help you out...

1. I don't believe they delete the for sale / sold threads. Many times the initial for sale thread is directly below the sold thread. Some sellers create a new thread with different title indicating the item is sold.

2. From the sellers you have listed and many others here on TRF, it is highly UNlikely that you receive a counterfeit watch. These guys are top notch. I have bought from sellers here and have had great experiences. Like others say..."buy the seller first...then the watch." Also review the Who's Who section, there is a ton of feedback for sellers as well as buyers.

3. 95% means pretty close to mint. There may be slight scratches in bracelet or clasp, but no significant damage. For most people, if you buy a brand new watch, after a week or so of wear, it will be approx 95%. I believe there is an exact definition on time zone. The way I look at it is to make sure you ask all the appropriate questions, not all sellers 95% are the same. Make sure there is no significant damage that would be costly to repair.

4. Yes, I believe that data is in the reference library here on the forum. The GMTII C is $7,000 USD, and the Exp II is $5950 USD.

Hope this helps!!

[Kapture1]

Originally Posted by BGRINDEL

I'll help you out...

1. I don't believe they delete the for sale / sold threads. Many times the initial for sale thread is directly below the sold thread. Some sellers create a new thread with different title indicating the item is sold.

2. From the sellers you have listed and many others here on TRF, it is highly UNlikely that you receive a counterfeit watch. These guys are top notch. I have bought from sellers here and have had great experiences. Like others say..."buy the seller first...then the watch." Also review the Who's Who section, there is a ton of feedback for sellers as well as buyers.

3. 95% means pretty close to mint. There may be slight scratches in bracelet or clasp, but no significant damage. For most people, if you buy a brand new watch, after a week or so of wear, it will be approx 95%. I believe there is an exact definition on time zone. The way I look at it is to make sure you ask all the appropriate questions, not all sellers 95% are the same. Make sure there is no significant damage that would be costly to repair.

4. Yes, I believe that data is in the reference library here on the forum. The GMTII C is $7,000 USD, and the Exp II is $5950 USD.

Hope this helps!!

+1


Welcome to the forum

[nickriebe]

+ 2

[jldc]

Thanks for the good info and the welcome. I should add that we have had a very good experienceso far with alex. My wifes watch is supposed to arrive tomorrow. She is very excited. One of us will post some pics soon.

Thx again

[greygirl]

Yes she is! Great avatar, btw. . .

[2th Dr]

Originally Posted by jldc

Thanks for the good info and the welcome. I should add that we have had a very good experienceso far with alex. My wifes watch is supposed to arrive tomorrow. She is very excited. One of us will post some pics soon.

Thx again

Yep, bought one from Alex. He's one of the good ones.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by jldc

...I've read that sometimes you have to completely disassemble a watch to pick out a good fake, and I doubt that this is being routinely done by these sellers. I promise that I won't hold anybody responsible for their answer, I'm just trying to get a feel for this market.

Thanks
Leonard.

Except for some sophisticated fraud vintage pieces that use actual Rolex parts to create a counterfeit exotic, this is compete nonsense..

Nobody makes a replica Rolex movement.

[ed54]

I've seen a handful of comments about exceptional counterfeits, including one thread with a photo (now no longer available), but I have found no way to verify these claims. The only sure way is to send it to Rolex Service Center. If they agree to service it, then you've got proof it is the real deal. OTOH, if it's a fake they may hit it with a hammer.
I went with a physical inspection, and decided if it looks like a 3135, it IS a 3135. Larry has eased my mind on this issue.