Getting in to watches is confusing as heck`

[dosman]

I've been spending a week or two now trying to find a good deal on my first watch - a rolex - with a maximum budget of $2k.
I've found a few candidates, but then I can never find any consistent or reliable information on the web about the watch itself or its value. Not on a single watch I've been interested in!
Any advice? Also, I'm wondering how durable/reliable a rolex is. If it's something I'm going to have to worry about keeping accurate time, or buy expensive accessories to adjust it, i'm not really interested right now.
sorry for the noobish questions. any help would be appreciated though

[Eric88]

Welcome to the forum. What Rolex model are you considering? The opportunities in the $2k range are somewhat limited, but options are available. Provide more info about the watch you are seeking and I'm sure many folks will help you.

[dosman]

I don't know where to start, honestly. I've also been considering an Omega.
I have mostly been searching the for sale posts here and also looking for deals on ebay. But, in the end, I end up feeling that I'm not informed enough of a buyer to make a good decision, especially when it comes to getting a good price.
That when I search for the watch model on google, I can NEVER find a watch that looks the same as the one I am considering, does not help!

Thanks for your help eric! I'm wondering, what do you think of this seamaster? See, it looks like it might be a snatch to me, but I feel so confused! Probably someone on here will see its a good deal and snatch it up before me :D

http://cgi.ebay.com/OMEGA-SEAMASTER-...item20b552511a

[dosman]

For example, I look up the seamaster, then I get dozens of different looking watches!

Edit: There was supposed to be a post before this one, but it said it needed to be approved by a moderator? Why some posts, but not others?

[Grissom]

As Eric noted, the more you share with us regarding what you are considering the better able we are to advise. I'm curious, given your professed lack of knowledge as to Rolex, regarding reliability, durability and such, what prompted you to want one versus some other brand?

Once again, welcome to the forum!

[Evergreen]

I would suggest looking into a Datejust or Air-king. You can find these models used, and well within your price range.

All high end mechanical watches bear a small cost of keeping them running properly. Buying a used piece will save you the loss, should you decide to sell it.

[dosman]

honestly, I am looking for some recognizable bling (what is more recognizable than rolex?) that I can enjoy wearing, own for a long time, and have it not lose value. I am also interested in watch collecting as a hobby when I enjoy it. I find the best hobbies are those which, if you buy used, you can basically trade things around and "rent" them without losing much money, if any at all.

[Eric88]

Originally Posted by dosman

I don't know where to start, honestly. I've also been considering an Omega.
I have mostly been searching the for sale posts here and also looking for deals on ebay. But, in the end, I end up feeling that I'm not informed enough of a buyer to make a good decision, especially when it comes to getting a good price.
That when I search for the watch model on google, I can NEVER find a watch that looks the same as the one I am considering, does not help!

Thanks for your help eric! I'm wondering, what do you think of this seamaster? See, it looks like it might be a snatch to me, but I feel so confused! Probably someone on here will see its a good deal and snatch it up before me :D

http://cgi.ebay.com/OMEGA-SEAMASTER-...item20b552511a

It takes time to become well-versed on watches. You can't expect to know all this and make a buying decision on day one. I recommend that if you like Rolex and Omega, join all the forums you can find and spend a few weeks SEARCHING THE ARCHIVES of those forums, reading about various models, looking at photos and deciding what strikes your fancy. There is so much valuable information published that you can give yourself a full-blown watch enthusiast education quite easily. But it will take some time and if you're wanting to spend $2k for starters, you should educate yourself.

Have fun and good luck!

P.S. I would steer clear of the eBay Omega you mentioned. If you need to make a decision tomorrow and $2k is your budget, you should look at buying a brand new Omega SMP.

[SLS]

For $2K, unfortunately there is not muuch in the Rolex area, especially for sport models. Omega, on the other hand, you can get a LNIB PO for under $2K.
Scott

[kyle L]

Originally Posted by dosman

For example, I look up the seamaster, then I get dozens of different looking watches!

Edit: There was supposed to be a post before this one, but it said it needed to be approved by a moderator? Why some posts, but not others?

The reason why you get dozens of different looking watches is that the Omega Seamasters have been around since the 50s, which means 60 years of production of different models. Take a look at a Planet Ocean if you're interested in Omegas, or the Speedmaster Professional.

[Brenngun]

If you really want a Rolex keep saving. If you want a Rolex but buy another watch the longing won't go away. If you can get your budget to $3K or $4K your Rolex options will improve. I would not buy on ebay. Work with the trusted sellers on this site. Contact a couple of them. Give them your budget and preferences and ask if they can keep an eye out for something that might work.

[Danand]

Even for current model omegas there are many variants of seamaster including Planet Ocean(PO) aquaterra, railmaster, etc. As noted above there is too much to learn to come to grips with in a short time.
I think you are better off buying yourself something new for now since you don't have to worry about condition, servicing, etc. Look at something like a tag aquaracer automatic- looks good, respected watch but not too pricey then spend time learning as much as you can before entering the used/ vintage market. If you buy something for 2k and it ends up needing a full service or worse then you can end up upside down so to speak. And whatever you do don't assume you will not lose money trading/ flipping watches. A lot of the people on this forum that do have success flipping watches have a LOT of knowledge and experience, as well as spending a great deal of time on this. Good luck.

[zhiunit]

dont buy from online sites EVER, come to TRF here or go visit ur local AD and work something out, best of luck =DDD

there arent that many current rolex models, but just enuff to satisfy everyone's needs =D
just google the following terms:
rolex daytona
-yatchmater
-submariner
-seadweller/deep seadweller
-datejust
-daydate
-milgausss
-gmt
-explorer

wow...thas actually a pretty long list >.<

[Tek]

Originally Posted by brenngun

if you really want a rolex keep saving. If you want a rolex but buy another watch the longing won't go away. If you can get your budget to $3k or $4k your rolex options will improve. I would not buy on ebay. Work with the trusted sellers on this site. Contact a couple of them. Give them your budget and preferences and ask if they can keep an eye out for something that might work.

x2

[rxonmymind]

All good advice up there. Check into this forum and do research in the various watch reviews section, watch tech sections and the like. Also do some historical searches on this forum to get a feel for the language of watches, their various movements, 3135 vs 3136, etc. Good luck & welcome!

[Dilemma]

Originally Posted by dosman

honestly, I am looking for some recognizable bling (what is more recognizable than rolex?)

You may not wanna hear this, but NOBODY is gonna recognize your watch, Rolex or otherwise.

Unless you stumble upon a WIS, forget it.

[derekloimer]

For $2K your options in Rolex are likely to be limited to second hand Air King. You might find Omega or Tag Heuer have better options in this price range. I bought a Capeland chronograph for $1 800AUD which is a great watch.

[t e x]

Welcome to TRF. As noted it takes DD in all facets, i.e.to become a flipper, etc and also as mentioned above forget about the bling factor.

I would add Tudor to your growing list amongst others.

[Trev]

If they type in all-caps, you probably don't want to buy a watch >$20 from them!

Originally Posted by dosman

I don't know where to start, honestly. I've also been considering an Omega.
I have mostly been searching the for sale posts here and also looking for deals on ebay. But, in the end, I end up feeling that I'm not informed enough of a buyer to make a good decision, especially when it comes to getting a good price.
That when I search for the watch model on google, I can NEVER find a watch that looks the same as the one I am considering, does not help!

Thanks for your help eric! I'm wondering, what do you think of this seamaster? See, it looks like it might be a snatch to me, but I feel so confused! Probably someone on here will see its a good deal and snatch it up before me :D

http://cgi.ebay.com/OMEGA-SEAMASTER-...item20b552511a

[Alcan]

Originally Posted by dosman

what do you think of this seamaster?

I think you'd better factor a trip to your watchmaker into the overall price. Might not be such a good deal then:


"FOR SOME REASON THE DATE DOES NOT CHANGE AUTOMATICALLY"

[xjeeunitx]

For the two grand, I would spend my money on a used Omega Speedmaster Professional 3570.50.00 or the Seamaster Professional Planet Ocean.

I wouldn't settle for a used AirKing or a really old DateJust.

[dddrees]

Take your time and conduct some more research. As recomended previously with your current budget you will probably find it quite difficult to get the brand you currently want.

However after taking a bit more time you probably then will be better able to tell whether you should take a bit more time to save for the one you truly want or purchase something else given your current budget.

If possible I would recomend saving a bit longer for the one you truly want. There is nothing like setting the bar high, working long and hard, and then finally achieving your goal.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Dilemma

You may not wanna hear this, but NOBODY is gonna recognize your watch, Rolex or otherwise.

Unless you stumble upon a WIS, forget it.

Have to agree and IMHO buying a Rolex should not be for any bling factor.But on buying a Rolex you know that watch with a little bit of care from its owner will last a lifetime and beyond.

[JimSnyder]

Originally Posted by dosman

honestly, I am looking for some recognizable bling (what is more recognizable than rolex?) that I can enjoy wearing, own for a long time, and have it not lose value. I am also interested in watch collecting as a hobby when I enjoy it. I find the best hobbies are those which, if you buy used, you can basically trade things around and "rent" them without losing much money, if any at all.

In your price range of 2K you can't lose. You could buy a nice older Datejust or a newer Airking and it will always keep it's value.

[HL65]

I can tell you wearing Rolex for 23 years plus now--I can count on one hand the times someone has recognized or commented on my watch. In fact-personally I wouldrather they did not know what it is. On the other hand I look at what people are wearing because watches are my thing--we on the froum are a unique community of watchaholics. I think 2k is also a tough entry point. I personally would wait a while-save a bit more and be able to step into a nice SS sports model-like a Sub, GMT or an SD. To me--no Omega will compare with the joy of owning one of those 3 watches! Best of luck on your hunt!

[BuffaloRolex]

I imagine that many people who call their watches "bling" likely make sure that others notice their timepieces by throwing them in people's faces.

But I agree. I've been wearing a Rolex for three years and have only had three people notice it. One was a retired jeweler. The second was a salesman in a clothing retailer, clearly trained to notice these "tells" of spending power. And the third was my boss--"am I paying you too much?" In the latter two instances, the attention was unwanted.

[dosman]

Lol I knew I was gonna catch flack for calling it "bling". No, I am not that type of guy.

Anyway, I think I'll probably postpone my plans to be honest. Maybe save up some more money. frankly, I'm not yet so committed to spending 2 grand as to warrant dozens of hours of research. thanks everyone for the advice

[phantom357]

Originally Posted by dosman

Lol I knew I was gonna catch flack for calling it "bling". No, I am not that type of guy.

Anyway, I think I'll probably postpone my plans to be honest. Maybe save up some more money. frankly, I'm not yet so committed to spending 2 grand as to warrant dozens of hours of research. thanks everyone for the advice

The more you keep hanging out here the more committed you will be to getting your first Rolex. The good thing is that you will become more educated in the process and hopefully your savings will increase and thus, more options. When I first got into watches, I initially swore off Rolex because of the price tag. Over time, I ended up buying Omegas, Hamilton, Oris, etc. and wish I had saved the money instead. I do love the aforementioned watches, but I always seem to go for the Rolex first.

Good luck in your quest my friend. Oh, and welcome to TRF!!

[BarkMaster]

As stated previously, some pre-owned Datejust models can fit your budget and they are instantly recognizable as a classic Rolex. Make sure you get one that was recently serviced. Used Rolexes hold their value (way) better than new ones, but it would probably be a mistake to assume you can get one in that range that will gain value (as an investment).

Your post makes it sound like you may want to act pretentious about it. If that is the case, then you will most likely lose more respect than gain any. If you can wear a Rolex like you'd wear a $10 Timex (meaning without purposefully drawing attention to it), then you'd be fine. People who need to "show off" come across as pretenders.... wannabe's.

If you take my advice and don't draw attention to it, you can expect that almost nobody will notice; let alone comment on it.

If you are trying to elevate your social standing amongst your peers, consider whether it's even believable. As an extreme example, suppose you were a minimum wage earner and drove a piece of junk and lived in some really crappy housing. People would assume it is a fake or worse: stolen. Neither of which will make anyone think more of you.

I'd recommend you take a little time and determine what watch will make YOU happy; not impress others. If it is with your budget, great! If not, save until you have enough to get it.

Nothing wrong with wanting something that looks nice that you are happy to own.

[Cabaiguan]

Your budget has Omega written all over it. A barely-used PO, as mentioned above, can be had for just about this amount. A Speedmaster PRO...same thing, about $2000 for anise example.