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kilyung · 1 June 2012, 07:39 AM

So with the impending Rolex price increase, do you think this will lift interest in other brands such as AP?

Naples09 · 1 June 2012, 07:43 AM

Maybe, maybe not...I know AP raised prices recently as well.

S`` · 1 June 2012, 07:46 AM

not by much Mike.... probably more into Omega or Breitling territory

just waiting for others to follow Rolex and do a price increase as well

kilyung · 1 June 2012, 08:00 AM

I'm not necessarily talking about actual buys but interest.

singe89 · 1 June 2012, 08:00 AM

Yes. I've been a long time Rolex fan and recently picked up my first AP. Seeing the difference in AP quality first hand and with the recent rolex price increase I crossed my next rolex off my list and will be using that money for my next AP.

kilyung · 1 June 2012, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by singe89

Yes. I've been a long time Rolex fan and recently picked up my first AP. Seeing the difference in AP quality first hand and with the recent rolex price increase I crossed my next rolex off my list and will be using that money for my next AP.

I agree!

S`` · 1 June 2012, 08:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kilyung

I'm not necessarily talking about actual buys but interest.

I think AP's interest level been skyrocketing with the ROOs

this will push it over the edge

HL65 · 1 June 2012, 08:27 AM

I think the more people learn and explore the more interest will rise.

wrxsti · 1 June 2012, 08:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kilyung

So with the impending Rolex price increase, do you think this will lift interest in other brands such as AP?

To those buying rolex as a status symbols nope, but to wis that have tried Ap, Hell yes!

SaddleSC · 1 June 2012, 08:50 AM

I do think that Rolex is beginning to price itself in such a way that the value proposition is not as good as it used to be. Especially when compared to both the top-shelf brands like AP/PP/VC as well as other less-expensive brands, like Omega, who has improved the quality of their product (with the 8500) at a much lower price point.

It seems like Rolex may be setting itself up to be squeezed in the middle (by WIS), but to the average buyer, the name/image/marketing alone will keep it going strong. To a true WIS, once a Rolex watch gets above a certain price point, other brands become far more attractive either by virtue of quality (AP/PP/VC) or by virtue of price (Omega).

wrxsti · 1 June 2012, 08:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by singe89

Yes. I've been a long time Rolex fan and recently picked up my first AP. Seeing the difference in AP quality first hand and with the recent rolex price increase I crossed my next rolex off my list and will be using that money for my next AP.

Yup Ap quality and finish is outstanding. I have recently moved out all my remaining rolex and gave one to the wife. I am proud to say I am Rolexless! Looking to add more Ap and definitely want to add a carbon roo, they are just amazing.

Mike keeps enabling me with all that carbon chatter and pics!

closetothebrink · 1 June 2012, 08:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kilyung

So with the impending Rolex price increase, do you think this will lift interest in other brands such as AP?

I'd be really interested to see some data on how demand for Rolexes has correlated with price increases over the years. My gut feel is that in real terms prices have risen to as high as they've ever been right now, yet there has been little or no decline in demand.

So my answer is no!

dddrees · 1 June 2012, 08:55 AM

It couldn't hurt, that is as long as AP prices don't go up just as much. As Ken mentioned it can't hurt that more people are also becoming more aware of the brand as well.

mjclark32 · 1 June 2012, 09:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kilyung

I'm not necessarily talking about actual buys but interest.

I definitely have a growing interest in AP!

singe89 · 1 June 2012, 09:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wrxsti

Yup Ap quality and finish is outstanding. I have recently moved out all my remaining rolex and gave one to the wife. I am proud to say I am Rolexless! Looking to add more Ap and definitely want to add a carbon roo, they are just amazing.

Mike keeps enabling me with all that carbon chatter and pics!

Thats my thinking too.

I'm now thinking I might sell a Rolex or two and put the cash towards the 44mm ROO carbon...before AP gets more popular and starts raising prices as fast as Rolex.

B. Doggy · 1 June 2012, 09:09 AM

Good question. Big picture, I'd personally say no. Only maybe to guys like us. AP is still at a pretty good price point higher than Rolex, even on the grey market.

ocwatching · 1 June 2012, 09:15 AM

the sad thing is...WIS group is sooo small when you look at the entire Rolex buyer profile...
I have had a on and off relationship with Rolex but I shy away from buying full retail for Rolex...
I enjoy other watchmakers and will definately explore more with this impending price increase..I mean...$12k for Daytona?!?

wrxsti · 1 June 2012, 09:17 AM

this thread has turned into the trade in rolex for Ap thread!

whats not to love?

S`` · 1 June 2012, 09:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ocwatching

the sad thing is...WIS group is sooo small when you look at the entire Rolex buyer profile...
I have had a on and off relationship with Rolex but I shy away from buying full retail for Rolex...
I enjoy other watchmakers and will definately explore more with this impending price increase..I mean...$12k for Daytona?!?

6.7% increase really... i think it's overblown by a little... weren't people paying those prices back in the heyday when Daytona was hard to get by?

dalip · 1 June 2012, 09:29 AM

The increase is in line with what the major markets can respond to. Most of those current markets equate expense with prestige.

Rolex have lifted their prices towards the territory of other more exclusive watchmakers such as AP.

I think it will Mike. If you walk into a store selling a few key watch brands....Rolex, AP being on the list.....you're likely to look at what else is in range of the Rolex model you're interested in even if you know nothing about them at that stage. I think this will apply even if they are not in the same store.

Let's see how other brands react. They may want to stay a percentage ahead and if they think they can afford tondo that why wouldn't they. It's simply good business IMO.

texex91 · 1 June 2012, 09:45 AM

In the past year I have migrated to learning more and buying other brands, AP & Patek.

As to a watch being stainless for $12K like Daytona, yes it was a price increase, but a ROO stainless can cost $25K, so all into perspective.

Rolex will continue to keep their market share, but I think other great brands are getting attention due to great marketing and brand awareness--especially in Asia.

And yes, AP will have a price increase this year, but so will every watch brand, so we are back to square one.

ktam · 1 June 2012, 11:25 AM

IMHO, as in my 30s, Rolex Sub/GMT tool watches were great, but they are not special anymore as they are flooded on the street everywhere. I am now more focussed on AP and they are stunning watches on hand.

Yes the iconic designs haven't changed much, but I think AP and PP and even Omega, TAG!!! (YES, TAG) are getting more creative by releasing new design watches with superb quality and justified price than Rolex

fabini · 1 June 2012, 11:55 AM

most popular and most sold rolex watches are 11k and below. AP's start at 12k and above so I don't know if this factor will play a role. a fact is that years ago most of those Rolex lost more than half their value for Rolex was whoring the brand out until they consolidated most of their distribution network and prices started to hold up more. I remember I bought a Yachmaster in 1998 at 30% off retail and this was a recently launched new style. Those days are long gone. nowadays for example I wanted to buy a rose gold daytona and after doing a thorough research I found out that the best price I could get for a brand new was $26500 ( retail is $34700 ) which is about 25% off and this is through very good connections ( most people ask for $28000 and above ) whereas a used one will not sell for less than $25000!!!!!. so Rolex is doing something right.

ydna808 · 1 June 2012, 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kilyung

So with the impending Rolex price increase, do you think this will lift interest in other brands such as AP?

Headed that way Mike...in due time, in due time

gwalker · 1 June 2012, 12:36 PM

I was able to get my AP for a good deal (1payment left before I pick up) but would much rather pay $25k for a ROO than the $12.5 for a DSSD. I'm sorry but the AP is a much better finished watch. Rolex cannot match this fit and finish while producing ~1 million watches a year. Sorry but something about PP VC ALS AP watches just seem to have better fit and finish and more "soul". Rolex was a bargain when the RO was 10x more. Now it's 2x the price of a sub. I love Rolex but I'm not buying another for a long time. Rolexes are no longer worth it to me. If I want the same quality the PO8500 is looking better and better to me everyday. I've always tried to look at the watch first then the brand. Way too many are brand blind IMHO.

SaddleSC · 1 June 2012, 12:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gwalker

If I want the same quality the PO8500 is looking better and better to me everyday. I've always tried to look at the watch first then the brand. Way too many are brand blind IMHO.

I agree with you 100%. The PO8500 was so intriguing that I have one incoming tomorrow morning:) I will be sure to post a review and some pics for you.

(I am also getting close to buying my first AP as well!)

psv · 1 June 2012, 01:01 PM

Well, yes and no. I've been trying hard to warm up the Omegas designs but they just don't sing to me.

Once you are willing to spend $10k on a watch you might as well spend $15k or $20k, I have certainly paid a lot more attention to APs over the last year or two, as well as Patek, but in reality they don't fit my needs and lifestyle as well as a Rolex. So as bummed as I am about the latest increase (come on, over $12k for a Daytona or DSSD...) I don't see myself with many other options out there.

eric23 · 1 June 2012, 01:25 PM

12K for a Daytona is a lot! AP is still a lot more, but the gap is getting smaller.

kilyung · 1 June 2012, 01:46 PM

I think I have a mental threshold. If I'm going to spend $9k on a Rolex, I'd rather pony up a little more and get a used AP like a 15300. I think $10k is my threshold before I start looking at other luxury brands.

ktam · 1 June 2012, 01:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kilyung

I think I have a mental threshold. If I'm going to spend $9k on a Rolex, I'd rather pony up a little more and get a used AP like a 15300. I think $10k is my threshold before I start looking at other luxury brands.

agree, when DJ 41mm hits 10k, then I will spend my 10k plus more for RO15400

1 June 2012, 07:39 AM	#1
kilyung 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Cave Watch: Sundial Posts: 33,940	Shift in purchasing So with the impending Rolex price increase, do you think this will lift interest in other brands such as AP?

1 June 2012, 08:27 AM	#8
HL65 TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Ken Location: SW Florida Watch: One on my wrist. Posts: 64,005	I think the more people learn and explore the more interest will rise. __________________ *SPEM SUCCESSUS ALIT*

1 June 2012, 08:50 AM	#10
SaddleSC "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Real Name: Charles B Location: GMT -7 Watch: Hulk 116610LV Posts: 6,131	I do think that Rolex is beginning to price itself in such a way that the value proposition is not as good as it used to be. Especially when compared to both the top-shelf brands like AP/PP/VC as well as other less-expensive brands, like Omega, who has improved the quality of their product (with the 8500) at a much lower price point. It seems like Rolex may be setting itself up to be squeezed in the middle (by WIS), but to the average buyer, the name/image/marketing alone will keep it going strong. To a true WIS, once a Rolex watch gets above a certain price point, other brands become far more attractive either by virtue of quality (AP/PP/VC) or by virtue of price (Omega). __________________ Hulk 116610LV + GMT II 126710 BLNR + Explorer 124270 + Air King 126900 + Submariner 16613LB

1 June 2012, 08:55 AM	#13
dddrees "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2010 Real Name: Dan Location: USA Watch: This N That Posts: 34,253	It couldn't hurt, that is as long as AP prices don't go up just as much. As Ken mentioned it can't hurt that more people are also becoming more aware of the brand as well. __________________ When it captures your imagination, that's when you know you have found your passion. Loyal Foot Soldier of The Nylon Nation. Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons

1 June 2012, 09:09 AM	#16
B. Doggy "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Real Name: Bryan Location: Oregon Posts: 7,399	Good question. Big picture, I'd personally say no. Only maybe to guys like us. AP is still at a pretty good price point higher than Rolex, even on the grey market. __________________ Rolex / Panerai / Omega

1 June 2012, 07:43 AM	#2
Naples09 "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Real Name: Jim Location: Naples, FL Posts: 1,795	Maybe, maybe not...I know AP raised prices recently as well.

1 June 2012, 07:46 AM	#3
S`` "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Not Mars Posts: 1,004	not by much Mike.... probably more into Omega or Breitling territory just waiting for others to follow Rolex and do a price increase as well

1 June 2012, 08:00 AM	#4
kilyung 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Cave Watch: Sundial Posts: 33,940	I'm not necessarily talking about actual buys but interest.

1 June 2012, 08:00 AM	#5
singe89 "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2011 Real Name: Jim Location: Orange County, CA Watch: Rolex, AP & Patek Posts: 3,747	Yes. I've been a long time Rolex fan and recently picked up my first AP. Seeing the difference in AP quality first hand and with the recent rolex price increase I crossed my next rolex off my list and will be using that money for my next AP.

1 June 2012, 09:15 AM	#17
ocwatching "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Phil Location: CA Posts: 5,374	the sad thing is...WIS group is sooo small when you look at the entire Rolex buyer profile... I have had a on and off relationship with Rolex but I shy away from buying full retail for Rolex... I enjoy other watchmakers and will definately explore more with this impending price increase..I mean...$12k for Daytona?!? __________________ too much into watches...

1 June 2012, 09:17 AM	#18
wrxsti "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Earth Posts: 1,695	this thread has turned into the trade in rolex for Ap thread! whats not to love? __________________ PP Geneva

1 June 2012, 09:29 AM	#20
dalip "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Real Name: Dalip Location: Mumbai and Perth Watch: Rolex PAM Omega Posts: 18,656	The increase is in line with what the major markets can respond to. Most of those current markets equate expense with prestige. Rolex have lifted their prices towards the territory of other more exclusive watchmakers such as AP. I think it will Mike. If you walk into a store selling a few key watch brands....Rolex, AP being on the list.....you're likely to look at what else is in range of the Rolex model you're interested in even if you know nothing about them at that stage. I think this will apply even if they are not in the same store. Let's see how other brands react. They may want to stay a percentage ahead and if they think they can afford tondo that why wouldn't they. It's simply good business IMO. __________________ ------------------------------------------------------------ *"The liar's punishment is not in the least that he is not believed, but that he cannot believe anyone else." George Bernard Shaw*

1 June 2012, 09:45 AM	#21
texex91 "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: . Posts: 17,898	In the past year I have migrated to learning more and buying other brands, AP & Patek. As to a watch being stainless for $12K like Daytona, yes it was a price increase, but a ROO stainless can cost $25K, so all into perspective. Rolex will continue to keep their market share, but I think other great brands are getting attention due to great marketing and brand awareness--especially in Asia. And yes, AP will have a price increase this year, but so will every watch brand, so we are back to square one.

1 June 2012, 11:25 AM	#22
ktam "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Sydney, Australia Watch: GMTIIc 116713LN Posts: 198	IMHO, as in my 30s, Rolex Sub/GMT tool watches were great, but they are not special anymore as they are flooded on the street everywhere. I am now more focussed on AP and they are stunning watches on hand. Yes the iconic designs haven't changed much, but I think AP and PP and even Omega, TAG!!! (YES, TAG) are getting more creative by releasing new design watches with superb quality and justified price than Rolex __________________ Life is short, just enjoy it or be slaved it. _____________________________________________

1 June 2012, 11:55 AM	#23
fabini "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Real Name: Fabio Location: miami Posts: 120	most popular and most sold rolex watches are 11k and below. AP's start at 12k and above so I don't know if this factor will play a role. a fact is that years ago most of those Rolex lost more than half their value for Rolex was whoring the brand out until they consolidated most of their distribution network and prices started to hold up more. I remember I bought a Yachmaster in 1998 at 30% off retail and this was a recently launched new style. Those days are long gone. nowadays for example I wanted to buy a rose gold daytona and after doing a thorough research I found out that the best price I could get for a brand new was $26500 ( retail is $34700 ) which is about 25% off and this is through very good connections ( most people ask for $28000 and above ) whereas a used one will not sell for less than $25000!!!!!. so Rolex is doing something right.

1 June 2012, 12:36 PM	#25
gwalker "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Real Name: Gunter Location: AL/NJ Watch: DSSD; 116610LN Posts: 5,509	I was able to get my AP for a good deal (1payment left before I pick up) but would much rather pay $25k for a ROO than the $12.5 for a DSSD. I'm sorry but the AP is a much better finished watch. Rolex cannot match this fit and finish while producing ~1 million watches a year. Sorry but something about PP VC ALS AP watches just seem to have better fit and finish and more "soul". Rolex was a bargain when the RO was 10x more. Now it's 2x the price of a sub. I love Rolex but I'm not buying another for a long time. Rolexes are no longer worth it to me. If I want the same quality the PO8500 is looking better and better to me everyday. I've always tried to look at the watch first then the brand. Way too many are brand blind IMHO.

1 June 2012, 01:01 PM	#27
psv 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: USA & France Posts: 11,078	Well, yes and no. I've been trying hard to warm up the Omegas designs but they just don't sing to me. Once you are willing to spend $10k on a watch you might as well spend $15k or $20k, I have certainly paid a lot more attention to APs over the last year or two, as well as Patek, but in reality they don't fit my needs and lifestyle as well as a Rolex. So as bummed as I am about the latest increase (come on, over $12k for a Daytona or DSSD...) I don't see myself with many other options out there.

1 June 2012, 01:25 PM	#28
eric23 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Real Name: Eric Location: Calgary Posts: 9,595	12K for a Daytona is a lot! AP is still a lot more, but the gap is getting smaller.

1 June 2012, 01:46 PM	#29
kilyung 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Cave Watch: Sundial Posts: 33,940	I think I have a mental threshold. If I'm going to spend $9k on a Rolex, I'd rather pony up a little more and get a used AP like a 15300. I think $10k is my threshold before I start looking at other luxury brands.

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