Politicians wearing a Rolex?

[Poor]

Because I'm currently a political science and history major, I've done immense amounts of research into the effects of political policies decades after their implementation. In doing research, I've found pictures of congressmen and Presidents wearing Rolex watches. I'm all about free enterprise and being able to spend your earned income any way you see fit, HOWEVER do you believe politicians should outwardly flaunt expensive items such as a Rolex in a public venue?

On one hand, politicians have risen through the ranks and drudges (or had the "right" last name) to become successful members of society. If they so feel inclined, they should be able to spend their money on an expensive watch. On the other hand, politicians are elected by constituents who see this person as being "like them" and I'd be willing to bet that most constituents don't own anything nearly as expensive as a Rolex. Because the taxpayers are paying the salary of their elected leaders, should a politician refrain from wearing something that many constituents would feel excessive particularly in our current atmosphere?

[toph]

Politicians hide enough money and take enough backhanders.. they take second mortgages on places nearer to 'parliament' and do it up all paid for by the tax payer and you think a $7000 watch is an issue. They may get a salary but the perks are usually at least double in expenses and priviledges. They waste millions on reports telling us nothing! Sack half the usless technocrats and a leader, governor, senator, is saving us a fortune and can wear any watch he likes IMHO.

[Tools]

Most people wouldn't know if a politician was wearing a Rolex or a Timex unless somebody purposely pointed it out...

In the luxury watch market, a Rolex is not considered an "expensive" watch.

[SS Oyster]

Last President of the United States to wear one?

[Poor]

Originally Posted by Tools

Most people wouldn't know if a politician was wearing a Rolex or a Timex unless somebody purposely pointed it out...

In the luxury watch market, a Rolex is not considered an "expensive" watch.

I'm speaking in relative terms, a Rolex is considered an "expensive" watch. I understand that it's not a Patek as in the same way a Mercedes is an "expensive" car but not in the same league as a Bentley.

And while the general public wouldn't likely know if a congressman was wearing a Rolex, I've read various articles in newspapers that have pointed out the fact and tried to make the candidate appear to be out-of-touch with the infamous "Joe the Plumber".

[Poor]

Originally Posted by SS Oyster

Last President of the United States to wear one?

I believe it was Gerald Ford?

[chiko323]

Just because the taxpayer pays his salary shouldn't mean he can't spend it the way he wants. If he wants to spend his EARNED money on a Rolex, it's not our business

[sherwin]

They are free to wear whatever they like, however, you would hope that the politician practises self restraint so as not to offend the pockets in the community that deem rolex to be "showing off"

[toph]

Originally Posted by Poor

I believe it was Gerald Ford?

and he couldnt even walk and chew gum at the same time

[Tools]

This is clearly an attempt at a political discussion and not a Rolex Watch discussion..