Is Rolex still shipping G-series LN Sub-Cs?

[Richmond1958]

First time starting a thread, so please be gentle.

The basic question: does anyone knows if Rolex is still shipping Sub-C LN watches with G-serial numbers?

I've had a LN Sub-C on order from an AD in the upper midwest for a while now ... about six weeks. I've never dealt with them before. Asked the Rolex buyer at the AD, at the time of the order, to confirm that it would be a random serial number watch. Yes I understand that there is no difference at all between the watches, but it was my preference. He confirmed that it would be a random serial number watch.

What came in was a G-serial number watch in the range of G32XXXX. AD claims that watch came directly from Rolex in New York and was one of about 100 that was shipped out to ADs right before the Christmas. I don't want to get obsessive over the serial number, but I haven't worked with this AD before and I want to make sure that story makes sense to you guys and gals.

Thanks!

[smallcandle]

Story makes sense, don't worry. Now go grab that bad boy and enjoy it!

[jimbones43]

I understand your OCD on this but at the end of it all it means zero.
Get it, strap it on and enjoy!

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Richmond1958

First time starting a thread, so please be gentle.

The basic question: does anyone knows if Rolex is still shipping Sub-C LN watches with G-serial numbers?

I've had a LN Sub-C on order from an AD in the upper midwest for a while now ... about six weeks. I've never dealt with them before. Asked the Rolex buyer at the AD, at the time of the order, to confirm that it would be a random serial number watch. Yes I understand that there is no difference at all between the watches, but it was my preference. He confirmed that it would be a random serial number watch.

What came in was a G-serial number watch in the range of G32XXXX. AD claims that watch came directly from Rolex in New York and was one of about 100 that was shipped out to ADs right before the Christmas. I don't want to get obsessive over the serial number, but I haven't worked with this AD before and I want to make sure that story makes sense to you guys and gals.

Thanks!

If it was a plain G it would have 6 digits after, the random is a total of 8 digits all these can tell you is.First a lump of metal was stamped sometime between the latter part of 2010 till present time nothing more.Now how old the movement thats in the lump of metal case well only Rolex knows that one.And in any particular case the movement could be older or newer or visa versa, a say random case is just perceived newer by some but this is not always the case.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by smallcandle

story makes sense, don't worry. Now go grab that bad boy and enjoy it!

Originally Posted by jimbones43

i understand your ocd on this but at the end of it all it means zero.
Get it, strap it on and enjoy!

Originally Posted by padi56

if it was a plain g it would have 6 digits after, the random is a total of 8 digits all these can tell you is.first a lump of metal was stamped sometime between the latter part of 2010 till present time nothing more.now how old the movement thats in the lump of metal case well only rolex knows that one.and in any particular case the movement could be older or newer or visa versa, a say random case is just perceived newer by some but this is not always the case.

x4

[GradyPhilpott]

Personally, I would get that watch and not think about the serial number.

However, if it is that important to you, then you can wait a little longer before you make the purchase to insure that you get the random identifier.

If the AD ordered this watch at your request, then your choices may be more narrow.

[opaline460]

Rolex is still shipping out G n random serials, my AD got a couple Gs after randoms.

[petesjag]

My splinter new daytona Is a G and im Proud of her!!!

[Speed]

So what do you think??

[hbu]

I just bought the sub 2 days ago from AD. Its G serial number.

[nauticajoe]

G's (perhaps V's as well) are still out there in the marketplace. At the end, if they're bnib, it's a moot point.

Wear it.....Enjoy it!!!!

[cparks555]

I would wait until they got a random if thats what you really want.

[Richmond1958]

Thanks guys. I think the AD story makes sense, but its a bit more complicated:

The Rolex buyer at the AD was insisting that it was a random number watch, and it is certainly possible that it could have a random number/letter starting with G. However, it defintiely was a 7-digit number with no other letters.
When I explained that to the buyer, he didn't seem to understand that and left to call Rolex in a bit of a huffy mood. When he returned, he was more, shall we say, circumspect and said that he thought the only watches shipping now were random number watches. In fairness to the buyer, he seemed genuinely surprised as well.

The only reason I was focused on the random serial number issue is that it might, somewhere down the road, make the watch slightly more valuable as the perception would be, if the market, that those were produced after the G-series watches.

Also, they brought out the plastic shipping case with the watch (good sign, right?) and it had the right model number on it, but no serial number on the shipping case. Also, there was no protective plastic on the watch except around the clasp, but the watch looked brand new. Do the plastic shipping cases usually have serial numbers listed? In short, I was worried that, between the G-serial number and the lack of plastics that they had grabbed a watch from somewhere else and were trying to sell that to me as fresh from Rolex. Guys, this is a monster purchase for me ... there was just enough uncertainty that I initially walked but on very amiable terms. The AD was not at all angry and had been waiting to get one in stock anyways. I will call them back shortly.

I hope that makes sense ... thanks for the comments so far.

[Mickey®]

Originally Posted by Richmond1958

Thanks guys. I think the AD story makes sense, but its a bit more complicated:

The Rolex buyer at the AD was insisting that it was a random number watch, and it is certainly possible that it could have a random number/letter starting with G. However, it defintiely was a 7-digit number with no other letters.
When I explained that to the buyer, he didn't seem to understand that and left to call Rolex in a bit of a huffy mood. When he returned, he was more, shall we say, circumspect and said that he thought the only watches shipping now were random number watches. In fairness to the buyer, he seemed genuinely surprised as well.

The only reason I was focused on the random serial number issue is that it might, somewhere down the road, make the watch slightly more valuable as the perception would be, if the market, that those were produced after the G-series watches.

Also, they brought out the plastic shipping case with the watch (good sign, right?) and it had the right model number on it, but no serial number on the shipping case. Also, there was no protective plastic on the watch except around the clasp, but the watch looked brand new. Do the plastic shipping cases usually have serial numbers listed? In short, I was worried that, between the G-serial number and the lack of plastics that they had grabbed a watch from somewhere else and were trying to sell that to me as fresh from Rolex. Guys, this is a monster purchase for me ... there was just enough uncertainty that I initially walked but on very amiable terms. The AD was not at all angry and had been waiting to get one in stock anyways. I will call them back shortly.

I hope that makes sense ... thanks for the comments so far.

It's never good when you worry this much about serial numbers and value down the road on a NEW Rolex.

Monster purchase I understand but if it is NIB your fine...enjoy it!

[HL65]

G's are still shipping. There is no serial number on plastic casket/case. G vs. random serial makes no difference nor will it. Enjoy the watch as that is what it is all about.

[Richmond1958]

Thanks guys ... that's all really helpful. I'll get back there soon and then (assuming the watch is still there) post a follow up.

This is a perfect example of someone (namely me) exercising message board "analysis paralysis." (smile)

[lawyerwatchfan]

Personally, if the watch otherwise checks out OK, I would make the purchase. After all, if you wait, you might get a random serial number but with a flaw of some sort. It seems to me that if you are able to get a pristine G series sample, I'd take it. Let us know what you decide.

[GradyPhilpott]

Actually, I'm a little confused, but I hope it all works out well.

[Richmond1958]

Sorry if I was confusing anyone. The watch looked perfect in every respect. It started up nicely ... it hadn't been wound, and it took about 12-15 turns of the crown to get it going, but it started very smoothly. I recall reading many years ago on Timezone that a brand new Rolex can take quite a few winds to get going, and that's exactly how it felt.

There was just enough confusion/uncertainty in my mind to not get the watch at that time.

What the heck was I thinking?



I will call and talk to the sales manager tomorrow. Thanks again guys.

[Chipmunk]

Congrats! Wear your new watch in good health.

[MortgageGuy]

You are absolutely fine and I would also say putting too much weight on a silly number on the case. Buy and enjoy. Rolex appears to be shipping G and Random serials for whatever the reason may be

As for a higher value with a serial, this I do not see as G and Random are being shipped the same however maybe the G will be a limited run??? Just playing devil's advocate here but what if I still do not believe this would add value however with all the internet hype over serial numbers who knows anymore.

Hope it is still there for you tomorrow and do not forget some pics

[gwozhog]

I don't think you should buy it. If you are this concerned about a serial number wait until you get your first gouge on the case and realize the watch is no longer new anymore. If you are buying this watch to only resell it I would invest your money elsewhere.

[D-train]

I had the same issue. I bought a GMT in mid December and it was a G. The rolex dealer had to wait for rolex to ship it. When I saw it I was curious why it wasnt random and if he was pulling a fast one. It seems that alot of G serial numbers are being sold by AD. So I doubt they are all pulling fast ones and Rolex is actually still shipping Gs.

If you think about it, they wont be making G serial numbers anymore so it may be worth more given it is the last letter being produced. they will all now be random and make it more rare...do I personally think it will sell more in the future...probably not, but it may make you feel better....either way you need to be happy and if it takes a few more weeks to get the number you want than just wait...there are other dealers to go to....just dont regret buying and not waiting if it puts your mind at rest...in a couple of weeks your not going to care as much...

[Andad]

Originally Posted by padi56

If it was a plain G it would have 6 digits after, the random is a total of 8 digits all these can tell you is.First a lump of metal was stamped sometime between the latter part of 2010 till present time nothing more.Now how old the movement thats in the lump of metal case well only Rolex knows that one.And in any particular case the movement could be older or newer or visa versa, a say random case is just perceived newer by some but this is not always the case.

Originally Posted by SteelerFan65

G's are still shipping. There is no serial number on plastic casket/case. G vs. random serial makes no difference nor will it. Enjoy the watch as that is what it is all about.

X2 on Peter and Kens comments.

However, you are spending the $$$'s and at this price point you can have a M, V, G or random number or wait until one spells out your name and birthdate if that is what you want IMO.

[AbqRolexFan]

I just picked up a new SS GMT-II C and it has a G serial number. I could care less about whether or not it has a random serial number. It looks and feels great on my wrist, and that's all that matters to me.

[gregvisser]

I'm seeing a blend of G's and randoms. I think it will probably slowly transition over the next 6-12 months. I'd pick it up if I was you. The only thing that seems a little odd is the lack of plastics on a new watch. Just about EVERY surface on the watch should have a plastic. It may be a case that they are stuck down well and you can't see them. I deplastic'd my sub carefully and 2 weeks later was still finding plastics on it.

Greg

[Singslinger]

Originally Posted by SteelerFan65

G's are still shipping. There is no serial number on plastic casket/case. G vs. random serial makes no difference nor will it. Enjoy the watch as that is what it is all about.

x2. My new Sub LV purchased at the end of Sep has a G serial. It's brand new - just enjoy it!

[bondtoys]

My 11610LN (not from the US) from April 2011 is a random serial.
I am guessing, that Rolex produces certain batches for certain markets and maybe the batch with the G-serials has not been completely sold yet.
Or they probably moved a certain batch from another country to the US?

However - like previously said, the serial numbers say more or less nothing.
Enjoy your watch!

[Richmond1958]

Guys --

Just to make one point clear, I'm not buying the watch to resell it by any means. When I went to another AD a few months ago, my son was with me and I told him that this was a watch I have admired for a very long time and its would be his someday.

I just want to make sure I get the freshest possible item ... usually that means the one with the most recent serial number. And I wanted to make sure that the dealer wasn't taking advantage of me. You guys have given me a lot of comfort in that regard, and I really appreciate it.

I have an e-mail in to the sales manager ... I'm going out of town in a day or two for about a week, but if the watch is still available, I'll put a deposit down.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Richmond1958

Guys --

Just to make one point clear, I'm not buying the watch to resell it by any means. When I went to another AD a few months ago, my son was with me and I told him that this was a watch I have admired for a very long time and its would be his someday.

I just want to make sure I get the freshest possible item ... usually that means the one with the most recent serial number. And I wanted to make sure that the dealer wasn't taking advantage of me. You guys have given me a lot of comfort in that regard, and I really appreciate it.

I have an e-mail in to the sales manager ... I'm going out of town in a day or two for about a week, but if the watch is still available, I'll put a deposit down.

Well seeing that the Subc was not launched till Basel 2010 and they were not around to retail till around latish 2010.You can safely say no matter what the case stamp is its just weeks or months old but how old the movement is well only Rolex knows that.