My Rolex buying experience.

[East Bay Rider]

I have been shopping at the same jewelry store in Barrington, RI for almost 20 years. I would comparison shop elsewhere but always came back to the same store due to the superior quality of their items compared to others. They are reputed to be expensive in the area but you just can't compare a real jeweler to the places at the mall. You understand.
Understand that I'm strictly small potatoes at that place. I've seen folks buy Patek Phillipe watches, Rolex's and even a $18,000 clock. I usually buy a charm to add to my wife's bracelet a couple of times a year and occasionally a bracelet, a nice ring, earings or a necklace but nothing really HUGE.
The owners and their salesman were always very friendly. Whenever I shopped there I would take some time to drool over the Rolex display and they would indulge me and answer questions about Rolex, Patek and other automatics. In fact on occasion they would give me a trade magazine or some pamphlets to study. When I walk in the store they always say "Hi Bill" even if they are waiting on other customers. I've always appreciated that.
Well last month my wife went there and bought me a GMT-II. I had always told her that if she ever went there just to tell them who she was and they would take care of her. They did.
The next day I went back to the store to fill out the warranty and check the sizing. When I walked in the guys there were all excited to see me, laughing and joking that now that I was an owner they needed to teach me the secret Rolex handshake etc.
I know it's only a watch but that store is the only place I know of where all the residents understand and appreciate the mechanical nature of the watch and aren't hung up on the cost of such things.
So it really was a great experience overall.

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Nice to hear about a pleasant experience at an AD!

We have heard so many reports about "toffy-nosed" staff, or staff that simply knows NOTHING about Rolex

So good for you! And congrats on getting such a nice present!

[yachtsales]

Originally Posted by East Bay Rider

I have been shopping at the same jewelry store in Barrington, RI for almost 20 years. I would comparison shop elsewhere but always came back to the same store due to the superior quality of their items compared to others. They are reputed to be expensive in the area but you just can't compare a real jeweler to the places at the mall. You understand.
Understand that I'm strictly small potatoes at that place. I've seen folks buy Patek Phillipe watches, Rolex's and even a $18,000 clock. I usually buy a charm to add to my wife's bracelet a couple of times a year and occasionally a bracelet, a nice ring, earings or a necklace but nothing really HUGE.
The owners and their salesman were always very friendly. Whenever I shopped there I would take some time to drool over the Rolex display and they would indulge me and answer questions about Rolex, Patek and other automatics. In fact on occasion they would give me a trade magazine or some pamphlets to study. When I walk in the store they always say "Hi Bill" even if they are waiting on other customers. I've always appreciated that.
Well last month my wife went there and bought me a GMT-II. I had always told her that if she ever went there just to tell them who she was and they would take care of her. They did.
The next day I went back to the store to fill out the warranty and check the sizing. When I walked in the guys there were all excited to see me, laughing and joking that now that I was an owner they needed to teach me the secret Rolex handshake etc.
I know it's only a watch but that store is the only place I know of where all the residents understand and appreciate the mechanical nature of the watch and aren't hung up on the cost of such things.
So it really was a great experience overall.

Congrats on the ROLEX, that is a nice choice!
I wish I had a dealer around here like that, you are lucky. You also have an awesome wife!!!!

[kcmo]

Congrats on the GMT II Bill! It's so nice to hear positive AD experiences!

[Attila]

Congrats on the new watch!

The story reminds me of the dealer I goto, other Australians or people living in Asia area would have heard of them; The Hour Glass. I get a similar feeling as you do with your experience, always a nice welcome and take their time with me, even if I am not buying in that visit.

[DS/B MINI S]

Originally Posted by East Bay Rider

They are reputed to be expensive in the area but you just can't compare a real jeweler to the places at the mall. You understand.
they would indulge me and answer questions about Rolex, Patek and other automatics. In fact on occasion they would give me a trade magazine or some pamphlets to study. When I walk in the store they always say "Hi Bill" even if they are waiting on other customers. I've always appreciated that.
When I walked in the guys there were all excited to see me, laughing and joking that now that I was an owner they needed to teach me the secret Rolex handshake etc.
I know it's only a watch but that store is the only place I know of where all the residents understand and appreciate the mechanical nature of the watch and aren't hung up on the cost of such things.
So it really was a great experience overall.

When your local AD offers service like that...you don't mind paying a few extra dollars

Enjoy your new toy

[marshallr47]

Congrats on your new GMT Bill. It sounds like you've got a great woman there. That jewelry store sounds like a down to earth place. Enjoy your watch.

[keschete]

My local jewelry store is like that! 2 years ago I purchased a Tag and 12 years ago I had them reset my wedding ring/diamond. I have not spent an incredible amount there, but they know me. My husband has purchased a few sets of diamond ear rings for me...etc..

They even came off the "sticker price" to compete with some of the larger dealers in the New Orleans market. Then when the watch came in the owner came and checked the fit. They showed me the different positions to set the watch. They joked and laughed and I really spent more time talking to everyone....more than ever before. It was like I was a good customer before...but now, it's like I joined a private club.

I am very pleased I purchased the watch with them, rather than getting a better deal. I am sure I made the right decision.

Congrats on your new watch and good for you that you have a great AD like I do...

[Wolfgang427]

Congrats Bill and enjoy your new GMT Glad to hear it was a great experience

[Robb]

Congrats Bill!

[ashu2289]

Glad to hear that Bill
really good for you!!!!!!!!

[ROGU808]

Congrats on the new GMT Bill!!
A good staff always makes you feel you got the best value for your purchase!