Buying pre-owned - does year matter

[yogini]

I am looking at buying a pre-owned Ladies Jubilee Datejust. The model number changed in the mid-2000s and I was wondering whether it makes a difference to get the older one vs the newer one? I am looking at reputable dealers and the ads seem to say that the older ones are in "showroom" condition. Thoughts?

[s14roller]

Think of it like buying a car...unless it's a vintage you have to have, buy the newest you can afford.

[Culley22]

Older MIGHT mean a quicker initial service time. No warranty, ect... But if Gently owned, and you trust the seller...then go for it.

[kilyung]

Some of the clasps are different.

[68camaro]

Originally Posted by s14roller

buy the newest you can afford.

What I did

......I wanted newest clasp, movement etc... and then looked for best price around latest year I had for budget.

Chuck

[karmatp]

You have to consider servicing, which can cost you many, many hundreds of dollars into the price.

I would never buy a watch that was 5 or 6 years old that has not been serviced. You take that price plus the cost of servicing and you are close to buying a new or near new watch.

[SteveFromNY]

I almost bought a mint condition 1995 Seadweller! In the end, a one year old SubC just felt like a better deal at about $2k more.

[yogini]

I can afford the full priced watch, but hesitate to spend that much when almost 2x the price.I am leaning toward brand new or newer, though...thx for the advice!

[JohnBoy]

All above true. If you are looking at models from 5-6+ years ago, it depends more on how much you like the specific watch. In this range, unless they are collectible (rare and/or very popular) they typically don't increase in value with age, and, likewise, don't depreciate at a very fast rate either. Of course, condition is most important. Its true that most Rolexes can be reconditioned, but 'makeover' parts are costly. Secondary in importance, is the last service date - at this age, if the watch is for sale, chances are it hasn't been recently serviced, perhaps losing its appeal, or just not worth the expense to the owner. A recent service probably adds $500 to the asking price, but, sadly, an overdue service won't get you that much discount. Thus, if you want a specific model or year, get the one in the best condition you can - and plan on having it serviced in the very near future.

If you want a vintage project watch at a nice discount, do some research on the costs to rehab before you jump in. Look out for water damage - its deadly to the internals. Rebuilt bare movements, alone, are almost worth the cost of a clean and operating watch w/ bracelet. Genuine replacement bracelets are also quite costly, but you can always wear the watch on a custom leather strap and Rolex buckle for 10-15% of the cost of bracelet and clasp replacement. Dials are not so bad (many available, but avoid repaints); hands, and crowns/crown tubes and crystals (almost expendables for vintage) are relatively cheap for non-collectible models. Hope this helps.....

[TempoKing]

I would buy the oldest and least expensive but with a good fairly tight bracelet.

Then I would spend 200 for service so I know it is running properly.
keep it for 2-3 years and then buy a new one... with part exchange this watch
for what you paid... plus cash... - painless and simple really

Let me know what they are asking - some charge new prices for old watches
the 26mm ladies Rolex watches are not in demand.

I know you can afford brand new ...but no need

[Mephist]

Originally Posted by yogini

I am looking at buying a pre-owned Ladies Jubilee Datejust. The model number changed in the mid-2000s and I was wondering whether it makes a difference to get the older one vs the newer one? I am looking at reputable dealers and the ads seem to say that the older ones are in "showroom" condition. Thoughts?

Buy a 1-3 year old watch from one of the trusted sellers here on TRF. You can get it to a good price and you know it is in good condition.

[Ray T]

i recently picked up a z serial watch, dated 2006, but watched looked brand spanking new! keeps perfect time too. For me age did not matter, i paid less then 50% of msrp.

[yogini]

Thanks Ray. I am a first time buyer and was planning to but new. I actually got the idea to buy a pre-owned when I was looking at Rolex's at an authorized dealer (Tourneau). They have a pre-owned 2005 version of the watch I want for about 30% off. The salesperson put it next to the new one and there is zero difference. Since Tourneau is expensive in the first place and charges sales tax, I'm thinking I can get an even better deal through someone else. I just have to find someone I can trust and make sure the watch in perfect condition.

[drainaps]

Originally Posted by s14roller

think of it like buying a car...unless it's a vintage you have to have, buy the newest you can afford.

+2

And buy the seller, especially if you are less familiar with Rolex watches. Small changes in condition, not necessarily evident to you, can make a substantial price difference.

In general, second hand lady watches sell at a much bigger discount than boy's models. Especially precious metal ones.

[yogini]

Thanks drainaps. I am learning a lot. So glad to read this thread because it shows how much i dont know. Do you have an example of a small change in condition that would affect the price?

[drainaps]

Originally Posted by yogini

Thanks drainaps. I am learning a lot. So glad to read this thread because it shows how much i dont know. Do you have an example of a small change in condition that would affect the price?

Case polishing, especially if heavy. Replaced and /or aftermarket dials/ hands. Many lady watches come with diamonds on dial as well, for instance as hour markers. It would not be the first time that dial has been replaced and stones are fake.

If you are not familiar w Rolex watches, never never never buy alone over the counter, buy from a trusted source. Post closeups of case, dial and movement here first if in doubt.

[yogini]

Thanks! I will definitely post pictures if I go that route....

[Dan2000]

I just bought a 19 year old GMT. Has a new dial, new hands, new crystal, new bracelet and recent service. Most people would have avoided but I jumped on it at less than 2/3 what others are selling. Geez, it's all new!!! Put on a new insert and boom, new watch! People can't believe it's almost 20 years old.

I prefer used... Cheaper and money left over for more toys!

[nauticajoe]

Definitely a a servicing a factor to consider.

Good luck!

[mmmk604]

I think service history is more important than the actual age of a pre-owned watch.

[Ray T]

you should definitely look into buying off a trusted dealer on the forum, instead of Tourneau. I only bought one watch from Tourneau, that was before i knew any better!