Rolex Thunderbird Valuation

[Javi_]

Hi All,

New poster here. Have really learned a lot about Rolex watches over the last several weeks, thanks to the collective knowledge of the members here.

I have been debating between a DJII or DD and getting a sense for available options and price points for pre-owned. During my search of these watches I came across a Thunderbird, which really appealed to me as well. I have not seen this watch discussed much here and a search doesn't yield too much info on them.

So I come asking for your expertise. Is this watch valued appropriately? Any considerations I should make or opinions for or against this particular model?

It is priced at $3725.00

http://www.watchestobuy.com/images/R...rbird1987b.JPG

Thank you all in advance!

[RolexPete]

About $1000 too much. That is a Datejust with a thunderbird bezel, but that price is way high. Look around.

[lavaman]

I am a fan of the thunderbird, but in my opinion that one is a bit high.

Bernard watch has an excellent one for sale right now that I just saw. Actually they have two. Both are among the nicest I have seen in several years of looking.
http://www.bernardwatch.com/Rolex/Da...d'/RLX5959

But that one that you mentioned appears to be mid 80s vintage, and I would be very hesitant at that price point (it may not retain resale value and those bezels of that vintage seem to weather funny, ie at different rate than the rest of the watch). if you just want a first Rolex, there are many reputable sellers here from whom you could purchase a TBird or something similar for around same price point or lower, in better condition.

TBirds are a bit rare and I think their values are at the bottom. I think they are overdue to be granted cult status. the last ones they made, with the black face and the red date window were really striking. I have seen several for sale here, around 5k mark or so, but these are recent vintage, ie no more than 10 years old, so you are buying newer quality, boxes, papers, better materials. someone with far more expertise than I could tell you what the last of the line was. they only disappeared a few years ago, though there are no plans at last word to bring them back.

good luck

[RolexPete]

That one from Bernard is stainless and $2000 overpriced IMHO. There is a salmon colored dial model on the SC for $3400. Still on the high side, but offers are being accepted. The two most recent stainless sold on EBay for $2830 and $2750.

[lavaman]

I beg to differ, but I would agree its prob about $500-$1k high. these days it seems even the most inexpensive DJ line (pre-owned) retails for at LEAST $3k anywhere you look, regardless of condition or documents. Oh well, I just thought it was in very good shape. Certainly better than the first one we looked at. TBirds are rare though. I hardly ever see any, maybe 1 for every 75 DJs....

[Javi_]

RolexPete and lavaman,

Thank you very much for your input. I knew I could trust on getting some solid advise here. I will have a look around the TRF classifieds to see if I can find a better deal. I haven't seen many so it may be a while before something I like shows up. If all else fails, I am not too worried as I am still heavily leaning towards a DD or DJ with a fluted bezel.

Again, thank you both for your help.

[Rolex40mm]

I see a two tone watch as a 'would be if it could be'. Either get a steel DJ, or go all in on a DD. That watch is also priced too high.

[lavaman]

the last of the Tbirds had a fluted bezel....but if you are looking at a DJII, then you are looking at differences in case size, bezel function (fixed vs rotating), clasps (newer EZ Link, et cetera).....

bottom line: try them all on, identify what you want (just a pounder, a first purchase, or something to start a collection with, best quality, or is price the driver?) and what makes you happy (and how long you need to be happy with the purchase)

good hunting

[RolexPete]

Originally Posted by lavaman

I beg to differ, but I would agree its prob about $500-$1k high. these days it seems even the most inexpensive DJ line is $3k anywhere you look, regardless of condition or documents. Oh well, I just thought it was in very good shape. Certainly better than the first one we looked at. TBirds are rare though. I hardly ever see any, maybe 1 for every 75 DJs....

The least inexpensive DJ tend to be 70-80s era stainless and two-tone selling from $1800-2500. I just picked this up for under $2000 locally:

[lavaman]

that's nice! pie pan?

then I guess it's a good thing for my wallet that I don't live near you!

I agree there are bargains to be had, but few I see are good values (TRF sellers aside), let alone as solid as that one you have. Well done.

[azguy]

Like everything it depends on condition and if the watch has any service history. I think you'd be hard pressed to find one less than $3k, unless it's never been serviced or the bracelet is trashed...

I use to own this one, still undecided as to if I should have sold it or not. Sometimes I see a TT in the wild and kick myself...

[RolexPete]

Originally Posted by lavaman

that's nice! pie pan?

then I guess it's a good thing for my wallet that I don't live near you!

I agree there are bargains to be had, but few I see are good values (TRF sellers aside), let alone as solid as that one you have. Well done.

No not a pie pan. It is a 1986 DJ with quickset and 3035 movement. I got a good deal on mine but DJ bargains can be had if you look around.