Dallas Area AD Stripped

[SMD]

Originally Posted by Vipes

Really? I’m surprised cause I haven’t seen a U.S. AD sell above retail. I’ve visited the location in Grapevine and had a nice conversation with the SA. I was told this location may carry Rolex later in the year.

Bought a PP from them. Asked about another unique piece they told me had just come in. List was about 7500 at the time, they wanted 15K and said they had an offer from a dealer at 15 so if I did not want it they would sell to them. This is was a brand new piece.

Real turn off so I have bought elsewhere ever since.

[RobearH]

I have no idea as to the inner working of any business I am not directly connected to. I may have over spoke when I said definitely...I guess I didn't mean it in its truest sense.

What I do know for the area they are located, financially speaking I am a little fish in a really deep pond. Yet I have been called on several hard to get references that go for over msrp and not once was I shaken down or asked to pay more.

The person I dealt with was kind and the only watch I was not able to acquire from them that I wanted is the aforementioned white Daytona. I like to be a trusting person, I spend my descretinary $ with those business I trust and make name feel welcome.

When they lost there Rolex account my first thought was how it would impact the employees livelihood I have come to know and like. I never thought about the Daytona I had yet to acquire.

I guess we may learn more to the reasons if and when they get their Rolex AD account back in the future...I wish them luck!

[dwjez14]

That’s crazy. I stopped in grapevine a month ago and saw that. They had sold Rolex as long as I can remember

[Vipes]

Originally Posted by SMD

Bought a PP from them. Asked about another unique piece they told me had just come in. List was about 7500 at the time, they wanted 15K and said they had an offer from a dealer at 15 so if I did not want it they would sell to them. This is was a brand new piece.

Real turn off so I have bought elsewhere ever since.

Crazy for them to admit they sell to grey dealers.

[RobearH]

Originally Posted by SMD

Bought a PP from them. Asked about another unique piece they told me had just come in. List was about 7500 at the time, they wanted 15K and said they had an offer from a dealer at 15 so if I did not want it they would sell to them. This is was a brand new piece.

Real turn off so I have bought elsewhere ever since.

You already called them out so who did you speak with there that admitted to such and how long ago?

[xspect]

This is the reason I won’t buy with a ad just to build a relationship. My last ad lost their dealership


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[platinum574]

Originally Posted by xspect

This is the reason I won’t buy with a ad just to build a relationship. My last ad lost their dealership


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I agree with you, lost my AD with over 20 years of buying last year.. Sorry, but I just will not go back to that relationship building, aka buying jewelry and other watches to be on the list for desirable models

[txaggie9307]

Originally Posted by SMD

Bought a PP from them. Asked about another unique piece they told me had just come in. List was about 7500 at the time, they wanted 15K and said they had an offer from a dealer at 15 so if I did not want it they would sell to them. This is was a brand new piece.



Real turn off so I have bought elsewhere ever since.

This doesn’t surprise me. I’ve had negative experiences too.

[inadeje]

Although I prefer to not get into my profession, on a purely business perspective, I think that Rolex may be committing the cardinal sin of a mega corporation that loses its touch with economic reality and, the human aspect of business. Invariably, it appears that the roll-out of an exclusive Rolex area with a separate entrance (store within store) has been ill timed to coincide with a drastic lack of inventory. Luxury watch brands have tried and failed to procure DTC sales (direct to customer), mainly because the brands failed to recognize that the buying experience and, the consumers sentiment of “30 mins of exclusivity” and feeling “special” face 2 face with staff, is a massive component of recognition/justification in high dollar luxury goods sales. Rolex may shoot themselves squarely in the foot for alienating ADs through a corporate hardline, which is ill synchronized with current economic ability of its ADs. The daunting financial outlay to meet rolex’s new desire of unique sales venues, may simply be economically unworkable during a product draught that is being imposed upon these very ADs. We just assume that Rolex knows what it is doing, I mean we love the brand so we surmise that there is some masterplan at play, however, my synopsis is that Rolex may well have planned some of the things we are seeing at a time when the current phenomenon wasn’t brought into the equation and, like any corporate behemoth, reacts lethargically but, in this particular scenario, it could actually provide the opposite of what the corporation initially desired. It could end up being a very, very, expensive mistake if my assumptions are correct.

[dardeca]

Originally Posted by RobearH

I know this store well and have done business with them...really nice people there.

They still have Rolex in their 3 other store locations. Probably more about display/location then anything else.

Nope...just 2 stores have Rolex now. Downtown Ft. Worth and Camp Bowie location.

I live in Southlake and have bought several Rolexes over the years from Haltom's Grapevine. From what they told me, seems the outgoing Rolex USA president didn't like their location...so the line was pulled. Apparently they are trying to get it back...and are willing to move locations if that's what it takes.

Who knows what will happen...time will tell.

[dardeca]

Originally Posted by Fleetlord

Odds on they wouldn't pay for the upgrades to their fixtures or a fresh build out.

Rolex will react in kind by eliminating the door.

That is not the case...the owner is willing to move the store to a new location and do a completely new buildout if needed to get the line back.

[csaltphoto]

Originally Posted by inadeje

Although I prefer to not get into my profession, on a purely business perspective, I think that Rolex may be committing the cardinal sin of a mega corporation that loses its touch with economic reality and, the human aspect of business. Invariably, it appears that the roll-out of an exclusive Rolex area with a separate entrance (store within store) has been ill timed to coincide with a drastic lack of inventory. Luxury watch brands have tried and failed to procure DTC sales (direct to customer), mainly because the brands failed to recognize that the buying experience and, the consumers sentiment of “30 mins of exclusivity” and feeling “special” face 2 face with staff, is a massive component of recognition/justification in high dollar luxury goods sales. Rolex may shoot themselves squarely in the foot for alienating ADs through a corporate hardline, which is ill synchronized with current economic ability of its ADs. The daunting financial outlay to meet rolex’s new desire of unique sales venues, may simply be economically unworkable during a product draught that is being imposed upon these very ADs. We just assume that Rolex knows what it is doing, I mean we love the brand so we surmise that there is some masterplan at play, however, my synopsis is that Rolex may well have planned some of the things we are seeing at a time when the current phenomenon wasn’t brought into the equation and, like any corporate behemoth, reacts lethargically but, in this particular scenario, it could actually provide the opposite of what the corporation initially desired. It could end up being a very, very, expensive mistake if my assumptions are correct.

I don't disagree with this but not sure about the customers. I live in a very expensive place (Bay area, CA) I mean, you can buy anything. New McLaren? No problem. We have a dealership. Any level of gemstone or luxury item, no problem. Want to buy a new SS Rolex Submariner? Good luck. Get in line.

So maybe it's the ultimate status symbol. Going into an AD and actually buying one. I know that is what the people here with more money than sense want. They don't want to mess with grey, they want the experience. On the other hand there is something to be said for having to buy your way into the experience. Ferrari does this and so do some other luxury brands. People here want other ways to show off status since such common items like clothing and grooming don't count for much, if at all. Or not even status, just a way to enjoy their $$ if they don't want to buy a 5M dollar house that is worth 250K. Even if you are making 120K a year, that won't dent the down payment on 5M house. So they buy toys and save the rest. And maybe want to walk into work on monday with something that other people haven't been able to get.

[Johngalt1]

Originally Posted by RobearH

All remaining stores are still Rolex AD’s...I was in Camp Bowie 2 weeks ago looking for a DJ.

Confirmed - I was there on Saturday looking at necklaces for the wife and had to glance at the Rolex cases, just in case.

[southtexas]

Originally Posted by Flyfisher

Build out for what?

To highlight an empty case?

Haha, good point. Build out to house 1 milgauss, 13 OPs, a DJ, and some TT yachtmasters? Sad.


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[HogwldFLTR]

I was hoping for some kind of AD burlesque (thinking, "there's something you don't see everyday). So disappointing!!!

[BT1985]

Originally Posted by HogwldFLTR

I was hoping for some kind of AD burlesque (thinking, "there's something you don't see everyday). So disappointing!!!

That was before the shortage, when they really had to work for a sale....


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[tyler1980]

Originally Posted by Flurry101

Stopped in my local AD (Haltoms) in the Grapevine, Southlake, Collyville area today just to see what sports models we’re in stock. As of two months ago Rolex pulled out and the display cases were restocked with traditional jewelry. I’ve read on here several times of AD’s getting stripped, but to actually see it!? According to the AD their stores 2018 sales were up 140% YOY. Made it sound like Rolex pulling out could be temporary. Not sure about that.

saw yesterday apple is moving out too that was Plano though... is it in the eastern district court jurisdiction? Many companies are pulling out of the eastern district because of the aggressive patent claims bought up there. They move just over the county line into Dallas and a different court. Trying to limit physical presence in the eastern district helps prevent someone from having standing to bring a case there.

Could be related. but my dallas area geography isn't good

[platinum574]

Originally Posted by dardeca

That is not the case...the owner is willing to move the store to a new location and do a completely new buildout if needed to get the line back.

Rolex never reverses the decision to close a door. This is just wishful thinking.

[SMD]

Deleted. Off topic and no interest in going down this path.

[Rolexbrah]

Originally Posted by Fleetlord

Odds on they wouldn't pay for the upgrades to their fixtures or a fresh build out.

Rolex will react in kind by eliminating the door.

Although its true they will cut you off if you refuse a build-out, I have seen some be closed after very recently spending the money for the build-out as well.

Originally Posted by anksagr

For what it is worth, i was on their list for a SS Daytona since last one year and the AD kept on telling me that they have not seen one in a year - either black or white. Did not sound right for a dealer with multiple locations. My sales person has been super nice and has always told me that she has checked with other locations often but they haven't received one. Hard to believe and i always thought that something was not right

I worked for a Rolex AD in Texas and we had one black Daytona come in after the two year mark. With multiple doors it would seem unlikely for them, but its highly possible one or more of their other doors could have received one without him ever knowing about it.

Originally Posted by Easy E

There could be construed an inherent conflict in these posts. According to my preferred AD, and yes I know what that's worth, any AD getting dropped right now has either refused to do something Rolex required or violated some Rolex policy.

They will not tell you a reason. I knew of two other stores who were closed but were pretty certain they knew why and Rolex would not confirm the reason. They were sent letters instructing them to cease sales the day after they made out of state sales to people over the phone. The store I worked at was sent a letter stating it would no longer be a dealer as of a certain date (which was a couple months down the road.) Our rep stated he did not know why and encouraged us to appeal, which we put together a letter stating our case. To my surprise they did respond saying our appeal was well written and although we made valid points, sometimes tough decisions had to be made. Our sales were up over 200% on the year, and although we were a smaller door we had a beautiful store that carried designer lines such as Simon G, Verragio, etc..., Tag and Rolex were the only higher end watch brands we carried (which according to our rep they don't want to be sold alongside other watch brands), we offered to do the build-out, and were the only Rolex dealer within 100 miles of us. That was the biggest complaint was that pulling us was really doing a disservice to our customers which would have to drive several hours to even look at a Rolex.

Originally Posted by RichardF

Rolex is currently pulling dealerships all over the world. Their decision is not just based off sales. It has more to do with the quality of the jewelry the AD carries and sells alongside their product, location of the AD and in some cases whether they have a Rolex tech on site. The number of dealerships per city appears to be also coming into play. A lot of AD’s over time have had to lower the quality of their jewelry to make sales because of the declining area of where their business is located. Rolex also appears to be targeting mall AD’s now more than ever. Rolex does not seem to care for their product being displayed and sold from mall environments unless we are talking extremely upscale ones like in Vegas or in International Airports. Rolex has proven to be a master at marking their brand and I believe based on their current ever changing strategy they are just making some adjustments that will continue to keep them on top.

Regardless of what they say they are trying to go all boutique with a streamlined look and presentation.

[RichardF]

Originally Posted by Rolexbrah

Although its true they will cut you off if you refuse a build-out, I have seen some be closed after very recently spending the money for the build-out as well.







I worked for a Rolex AD in Texas and we had one black Daytona come in after the two year mark. With multiple doors it would seem unlikely for them, but its highly possible one or more of their other doors could have received one without him ever knowing about it.







They will not tell you a reason. I knew of two other stores who were closed but were pretty certain they knew why and Rolex would not confirm the reason. They were sent letters instructing them to cease sales the day after they made out of state sales to people over the phone. The store I worked at was sent a letter stating it would no longer be a dealer as of a certain date (which was a couple months down the road.) Our rep stated he did not know why and encouraged us to appeal, which we put together a letter stating our case. To my surprise they did respond saying our appeal was well written and although we made valid points, sometimes tough decisions had to be made. Our sales were up over 200% on the year, and although we were a smaller door we had a beautiful store that carried designer lines such as Simon G, Verragio, etc..., Tag and Rolex were the only higher end watch brands we carried (which according to our rep they don't want to be sold alongside other watch brands), we offered to do the build-out, and were the only Rolex dealer within 100 miles of us. That was the biggest complaint was that pulling us was really doing a disservice to our customers which would have to drive several hours to even look at a Rolex.







Regardless of what they say they are trying to go all boutique with a streamlined look and presentation.

That also appears to be a factor as well.


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[Cabinetman]

I was on the list for a BLNR at the Grapevine store. I got the call to collect my watch about 7 months later, which was last December. It was my third Rolex from Haltoms.

I wonder if the new Rolex AD going into Clearfork has something to do with it? I was at Clearfork on Tuesday and the new Bachendorfs was stocking the Rolex case ahead of their grand opening.

[EDL7]

Rolex is shooting themselves in the foot..
They don't see the bleeding yet..
With the AD's are hobbling around on the other foot..the AD's that still exist that is..
This will come to bite them in the a** in the end..
And they will deserve 100% of it..

[MSchott]

I’m not sure why Rolex is pulling some AD’s but there is no way they are in any trouble other than a global depression. Rolex is one of the best run and most famous companies in the world with impeccable marketing strategies.

[goodolejr]

Originally Posted by Cabinetman

I was on the list for a BLNR at the Grapevine store. I got the call to collect my watch about 7 months later, which was last December. It was my third Rolex from Haltoms.

I wonder if the new Rolex AD going into Clearfork has something to do with it? I was at Clearfork on Tuesday and the new Bachendorfs was stocking the Rolex case ahead of their grand opening.

I bet this has a lot to do with it.

[Johngalt1]

Originally Posted by Cabinetman

I was on the list for a BLNR at the Grapevine store. I got the call to collect my watch about 7 months later, which was last December. It was my third Rolex from Haltoms.

I wonder if the new Rolex AD going into Clearfork has something to do with it? I was at Clearfork on Tuesday and the new Bachendorfs was stocking the Rolex case ahead of their grand opening.

Bachendorfs has been opened for months there.

[MrCowboy99]

went into Peter Andres also, and their cases were empty of SS sports also.

[TswaneNguni]

We all know 1% ,so if we ad 100 opinions ,we still dont have 100% of the truth,we still have 100 1% opinions.Here's mine ...

Rolex knows exactly what the inventory is in each retail store.
ADs stocking up on unobtainiums in the rear cupboard to use as leverage for "Spend so much before you can buy one" or "buy a PM first because we do package deals "
Obviously Rolex would know that a Daytona that sits and does not fly immediately is quite strange .
Also,ADs supplying Grey.Surely its quite easy to track ADs on that .

I am afraid that Rolex ADs play the game and being caught and therefore are losing the privilege to be an store ambassador for Rolex.
Because of high demand that may also mean displaying emptiness for the AD.They cannot sell what they cant get .Which may lead to the practices mentioned above.

Its an interesting situation for the buyers especially .My wife is currently in Dubai .She said she didn't even go into the AD store because there were lines of people inside.Far East clientele mostly.

I am now also looking at a Sea-Dweller M serial 2007 ,with 2019 RSC service papers .Very fair price.This is the first pre-owned Rolex I will buy .I like to see what I buy .

At the AD its a situation of I may get one and I have no idea when .... Difficult to plan ahead in such a situation.

[wfc3]

I was in Dallas last week and stopped by Govindjis to have my Sub bracelet cleaned and they had zero sports models - SS or otherwise- in the cases. Only DJs & DDs. And a number were pretty iced out. Just out of curiosity I asked about the BLRO (don’t want one) and she said they got a whopping 2 last year. She also said they didn’t get those till November & December. I realize there may be a safe full in the back that I would never see but in their defense they don’t know me from Adam. It’s a sad sight to see huge Rolex displays with nothing but filler plates as others have mentioned. Half of the bottom floor of the store was dedicated to the non existent Rolexes.



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[amh]

Originally Posted by EDL7

Rolex is shooting themselves in the foot..
They don't see the bleeding yet..
With the AD's are hobbling around on the other foot..the AD's that still exist that is..
This will come to bite them in the a** in the end..
And they will deserve 100% of it..

No it won't. They'll end up with fewer stores but will have a stronger brand and firm pricing.