Should my first Rolex be a vintage?

[cis11]

After looking for almost a year I have been thinking about getting a vintage rolex to start my higher end collection. That being said I would like the input of much more experienced watch collectors like yourselves. I just joined this forum and I'm excited to be further educated from what I have tried to learn myself. How do you go about choosing your vintage watch?

Thanks everyone Im interested in hearing your opinions!

-Ian

[jdmi32]

Welcome to the forum! While I truly enjoy focusing on vintage Rolex at this point in time, I don't think I would appreciate it as much had I not started with more current models first. But if you're set on one as your first Rolex, you are off to a good start simply by being here.

As to how I chose my first vintage watch, I read, read and then read some more. Through all this reading I became fascinated with the history and development of the Sea Dweller and decided that it would be my first vintage Rolex. I figured it would satisfy my need for a classic and timeless watch...boy was I wrong.

Good luck in your search and don't hesitate to ask questions here, especially before buying.

[omitohud]

Why not? Many people do including me. There is a sense of nostalgia n originality that come with vintage. Unless u r a professional diver, it will last u a lifetime with proper care. The other thing with vintage, no two r alike. As suggested, ask here if in doubt. The vintage market is a minefield filled with many fakes but do net let that deter u. When finding that special watch, it makes it so rewarding. Good luck.


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[The_Walrus]

This is not really a question anyone of us can answer for you.
Which reference speaks to you? Modern, vintage or otherwise- you should go with your gut feeling and which ever watch it is make you ask questions and then ask some more.

[Vincent65]

Clearly, you already like the idea of vintage, so I'd say skip the trip to the AD for the shiny new ceramic sub, and jump right in. Look at hundreds of them and you'll soon find out which ones you like. Look at hundreds more and find out more about them. Look at hundreds more until you find the one you want and you now know it's right for you to acquire. Enjoy the hunt and the journey! And welcome here.

[joli160]

Originally Posted by Vincent65

Clearly, you already like the idea of vintage, so I'd say skip the trip to the AD for the shiny new ceramic sub, and jump right in. Look at hundreds of them and you'll soon find out which ones you like. Look at hundreds more and find out more about them. Look at hundreds more until you find the one you want and you now know it's right for you to acquire. Enjoy the hunt and the journey! And welcome here.

Wise advice, but still go to the AD to handle a few new ones

[steptoe]

Your question is like trying on a pair of shoes and then asking someone else if they fit you..

First pick the watch that appeals to you and you would like to wear.

It could be vintage or it might be modern. Then take it from there..

[Jiggo]

A risti who cares less about MR but VR? Now that's a different story
Tips from my personal experience?
Lots of reading, asking questions, talk to experts, find the right seller, that should get you one in no time! All the best and enjoy hunting, I sure know...I will

[mike]

Originally Posted by The_Walrus

This is not really a question anyone of us can answer for you.
Which reference speaks to you? Modern, vintage or otherwise- you should go with your gut feeling and which ever watch it is make you ask questions and then ask some more.

Agreed. Vintage is not like modern. Seek knowledge of the reference as well as the brand. Vintage speaks to a golden era in the history of Rolex.

[cis11]

Thanks for all the advice guys. I appologize for my question I guess I didn't know exactly how to dive into the vintage market, but this forum is very helpful. What are some good places I can find the history behind diferent models? Besides of course just doing a Google search ;) hopefully some of you could direct me to a few sites. Thanks!

As far as my search for the watches I think I'm searching mostly for vintage date justs because the fluted bezel reminds me of a watch my dad has from my great grandfather. I also look at some subs because well, who wouldn't.

[Kabayan]

My experience, I started with modern Rolex, purchased my Rolexes from the AD. after a while, honestly, I got bored with my Rolexes easily, then I was introduced to Rolex Vintages, then I fell in love. I have sold my modern Rolexes, and now my youngest Rolex is made in the late 80's.

For the vintages, I need to lear so much more details, and still learning more and more each day. Buying the vintage has much more knowledge needed compare to the brand new Rolex of the shelf.

Once you got hooked with vintage, it will be difficult to escape. hehehehehe

For modern Rolex, when you are ready, the watches are always available.
for Vintage, the art of Hunting is the most joyful part. I was chasing a vintage Rolex for more than 6 years, finally I got it.

Happy hunting…
cheers,

[slcbbrown]

Once you have looked at Rolex models enough to know what type you want, I always advise buying the newest, best condition Rolex that your budget will allow. However, if a true vintage watch is what you want (rather than a used watch), I think Rolex is the best brand to buy because so many replacement parts and watch repair guys are available.

Rolex makes worthwhile, small changes to their models over the life of the model, and most are worth having, though individual improvements usually aren't enough to make folks rush out to update their watch.

[themaninblack]

Go for a vintage but for your first purchase go to a really reputable vintage dealer so you can be assured of what you are getting, no Ebay, or private sellers. In the long term it's not about the price but the satisfaction with your purchase. Buy yourself a few interesting straps to swap around and you get even more enjoyment.

[Frogman4me]

Welcome to the forum! I am happy you came here first to inquire and study before purchasing. I can't tell you how many threads we see of someone buying first then asking questions afterwards. Stick around and try to learn first and it becomes all the more enjoyable to find the right piece you truly want. The process of learning and finding is half the fun, enjoy :)

[fluoro]

Vintage first,why not,caught the bug with a 1961 6564 with a 1030 movement.got sucked in to the whole hobby. Bought a 11460 next and now looking for an explorer 1 to compliment my non date theme.Its a contagious addiction of quality and beauty and possibly time.

[Vincent65]

Yes, go for it.