Rookie questions

[G_Anders]

I see a lot of used Rolex watches on the for sale section, does it matter if they don't have the paperwork or the box? Im still trying to figure this all out.

This is my first big watch purchase and Im new to the game

Cheers

[Memphis]

if your new, stick to AD

[sleddog]

Most important is the watch. Condition and function are always paramount!

As for the 'bits and pieces', it depends on your stance as a buyer.... Are you going to be an OCD collector that wants everything, or a watch enthusiast that simply just wants to wear and enjoy? These 'extra pieces' do add a value, but your intention for buying plays a role.
Buy the best watch you can, and worry about the paperwork last IMO.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by G_Anders

I see a lot of used Rolex watches on the for sale section, does it matter if they don't have the paperwork or the box? Im still trying to figure this all out.

This is my first big watch purchase and Im new to the game

Cheers

No, it does not matter if it doesn't matter to you. You can't wear a box.

There are a number of newcomers to Rolex who hear about the high value vintage watches that command 6 figures or more if they have original boxes and paperwork (extremely rare), but with modern references that stuff really isn't worth much. It's purely a personal decision, but you should never pass up a mint condition watch without for another in poorer condition just because it has them.

If it's still under warranty, it should come with the original warranty card

[G_Anders]

So its best to find a watch thats under warranty ??? Is thats what every is saying. What can possibly go wrong or need to be fixed on it and typically how much?

[unclesallie]

start with the above video. gives you and idea of the complexity. there can be a variety of problems with the movement, including, but certainly not limited to:
1) you drop the watch, the balance beam staff brakes or the balance beam pivot is damaged 2) you put the watch in water and the seals leak 3) the winding stem breaks or pulls out 4) the oils become caked onto the movement because of lack of service......and a zillion other things. Just have the watch checked out by a
competent watchmaker(rolex certified or at least rolex trained) BEFORE you buy, unless you know the seller personally and you are aware of just how he has treated the watch and whether he has had it serviced on a regular basis. Absent that, always add the price of a service(approx. $500) to the purchase price. If you buy from a trusted seller on TRF they will be able to tell you the service history of the watch, and most of the watches they sell have been fully serviced prior to sale......have fun!!

[77T]

Originally Posted by G_Anders

So its best to find a watch thats under warranty ??? Is thats what every is saying. What can possibly go wrong or need to be fixed on it and typically how much?

It doesn't need to be under warranty. If you're buying a pre-owned Rolex from a reputable, trusted seller here that was recently serviced, then you should have as good of a watch as a new one at a good savings. If the watch needs a service, perhaps negotiate a discount that compensates for an overhaul.

[nsumner]

PM sent

[peticks]

Like alot of questions in this world...it depends... :)

try to buy from a TRF trusted seller...or buy from a AD...at the end of the day, the box, hang tags and paperwork will not make it to your wrist...

good luck and hope you enjoy your first R!

[68camaro]

My first Rolex was purchased on this site from a trusted reseller. Since I was a rookie, still am, I was comforted by having the box and papers and was willing to pay a bit more for it. Also, for spending this type of money I wanted all the paraphernalia that one would get if new.

My spouses Datejust was a gift so I went new for her, but if I get a second for myself it will be from trusted seller here......with box and papers of course.

[ltmgeller]

I bought plenty of watches both with and without boxes and papers. The boxes and papers are good to have if you plan to flip the watch, you will get a little bit more. I originally intended on flipping my watches but discovered I couldn't let them go. I just keep adding more. When you take your watch to a Rolex Service Center they will hive you a new warranty card and warranty as well. This is the next best thing to having the original paperwork. It's ultimately about what watch appeals to you and you will never go wrong buying from a TRF trusted seller. Good luck and welcome, great bunch here.

[T. Ferguson]

As for the package - if you are not planning on selling then who cares if you don't. If you do sell then having the package is worth something, but not double the money. If the price you pay reflects whether it did or didn't come with box and papers then there is probably zero effect when you sell.

If you are buying a real vintage piece, so few have packaging that most collectors don't care, it's all about the watch. If you are buying a fairly recent reference I'd say get one with a package. Everyone keeps that stuff now so sometime down the road if you want to sell, it will be harder to interest a buyer since in the future most watches will have at least the original box. Again, while condition trumps package every time, there are so many fairly new watches recently serviced and in great condition with box and papers that are competitively priced it shouldn't be too hard to find one that comes with everything at a decent price.

As for the warranty, just like with anything else, it's nice to have. If you can find a used piece just serviced by Rolex, the warranty is good for the same two years (from date of service) a a new watch.

A full service by Rolex on a Sub starts at $600, so figure that into the equation.

[thomaspp]

I like collecting"full sets" (aka box, papers, etc) but not necessary

[rmurphy]

Good answers and a good thread for new and experienced buyers. Welcome and as has been said before, you cant go wrong with this bunch here in TRF. I hope you find "your" watch!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[jjnd08]

Buy a watch with paperwork and you pay a little more. Sell a watch with paperwork and you get a little more. Simple.