First time buyer - advice needed!

[PaulD76]

Hi All,

I have no experience with Rolex watches at all, but would like to buy my wife one as a gift for her 40th birthday. My budget is around £2,500. I have some questions which I hope people can help to answer. I have looked at a number of threads but its a little overwhelming!

My questions:

1. Best place to buy?: I always assume that shops will be vastly more expensive than an internet seller, although you will get a little more peace of mind from a shop. I have found some on Ebay which seem very reasonably priced. Below is a link to a particular example which fits my price range and it looks a beautiful watch. I have read some favorable feedback about this company but am still nervous.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/LADIES-ROL...item53f094a4f5

I would prefer to buy from a shop for the peace of mind HOWEVER it seems I will just get a more reasonable price online, and hence a better watch, so im leaning this way.

2. Payment methods: I usually pay via paypal for online items which has the added benefits of having quite a bit of consumer protection, either that or a credit card. Any advice?

3. Authentication: Once I receive any watch I would like to get it authenticated. Are there any trustworthy places within the South of England? Id like to 100% confidence in the watch.


Thanks in advance for any words of wisdom..

PS I have time on my side, I am just trying to plan ahead so its not a last minute rush!

Paul

[RRGHOST1]

Hi Paul,i take it you are in Dorset,anyway its a welcome from the Wirral in Cheshire. PM sent.

[kilyung]

1. Buy from one of the many trusted sellers on TRF (look at the Who's Who section) like DavidSW, Mosco, Justrolexes, etc... You'll get a great deal and no issues.

2. You'll have to wire but these sellers will do right by you. They won't risk their reputations on a single transaction.

2. As for authentication, really no need with them but you can take it in to your RSC for a "timing check" and they'll tell you if there are any issues.

Good luck!

[nauticajoe]

Welcome!

Definitely browse thru the FS section here. Take your time. You'll find great deals with a lot a of the reputable dealers.

Happy Hunting!

[77T]

Originally Posted by nauticajoe

Welcome!

Definitely browse thru the FS section here. Take your time. You'll find great deals with a lot a of the reputable dealers.

Happy Hunting!

+1
The trusted sellers here focus on 100% authentic Rolex.
Some take PayPal - most do a wire transfer and that saves you up to 3% in fees.

[77T]

Actually that is not an original dial - it has been customized and would invalidate RSC service without buying a replacement genuine dial.

At least they divulge it in their auction listing:

THE ROLEX DIAL HAS BEEN PROFESSIONALLY REFINISHED

IT IS A CUSTOM AFTERMARKET BEZEL

[PaulD76]

Hi All and thanks for your advice. For some reason I didn't get any email notifications so have only just seen your responses. I will be checking out the trusted sellers after this.

I have decided to try and look for a UK seller so I can view it before I part with any cash, or at least see a few examples. Being new to this I feel incredibly naive at the moment but this forum is really helping.

I have found a company called "Items of Beauty" that seem to have quite a good selection and the prices don't seem that different to the ebay watches I had found. They are only around a 2 hour drive away so certainly within range. This company looks reputable and has been established for 25 years plus, so good signs.

The below watch really ticked every box and I was really set on buying it, had to planned to head up on Tuesday however its now showing as sold. This is exactly the sort of thing I am looking for. It looks like it has some modifications but does that really create an issue?

http://www.itemsofbeauty.co.uk/rolex...ejust-b-p-1156

Thanks again, even though this is quite a lot of money for me to spend right now, it just gives me good vibes and I know its a good decision. I just hope she returns the favour one day :D

[Speed]

Welcome.

Sorry. Not a fan of the diamond bezel etc. However, if your wife would like it and you intend never to sell the watch, no issues on aftermarket add ons...although in my view they take away from the classic beauty of a Rolex. A real disservice - but again, just my opinion. Beauty is in the eye...you know the rest.

Good luck.

[AK797]

These guys are quite near you and have a good reputation.

http://www.dream-watches.co.uk

[Sam Philip]

You can also try Blowers Jewellers in Hull

[PaulD76]

Hi Speed..

I do understand your view, to be honest I think it's best that I take a look myself. Perhaps when I see the watches in real life I will get a better idea.

I found the below which is under an hours drive and am going to take a look on tuesdsy. Will report back...

Thanks for the other suggestions, will certainly take a look..

http://www.watchesofdistinction.com/...l%20No%2068273

[PaulD76]

Hi Guys

OK today I looked at two watches, one with the diamond bezel and one without, to be honest they both looked beautiful. The diamond bezel one is just out of my range though at £3.5k. The non diamond one is £2.75k and comes with original paper work (was 2.9k but he knocked a little off)

Its a tough choice between the watches (ignoring money) although they guy said i can add the diamond bezel in the future if i wanted. My family who came with me all sided on the non diamond version.

Does that price sound reasonable? I am looking around to see if the price is fair. Having no experience its quite tough but it doesnt seem that far off from the prices ive seen previously. Any feedback is appreciated!!!!!!!!

Gonna give it a couple of days and if im keen, buy it on Friday.

Cheers!!