Buying a pre-owned Sub in Australia

[Blubarb]

Hi all. This is my first post of what I hope will be many on my way to learning as much as I can about Rolex watches as well as exploring all that the Rolex Forum has to offer.

I have a small collection of Omegas started by my father and expanded by myself over the years along with some early Pilot watches of which my most valued is an an IWC RAAF issued Mark II (1957). But now I want to jump into the world of Rolex.

I have been a longtime fan of the iconic Submariner and the Sea Dweller. Anyway, the itch to have my own was born the moment salesman had me try on a Submariner at an AD Some years ago. I am sure it was the 14060m. I didn't have the extra money at the time but still walked out with an Omega Speedie which has been a great timepiece. However, the quality, comfort and fit of the Rolex has stayed with me like no other watch I had ever worn. Just stunning and I knew I would be owning a Sub at some point. So now is the time. A new 114060 or pre ceramic is my current thinking.

Ok, so along with this being my first post I also want to start the search for my Submariner (most likely the 14060m) but I am still researching. I have not ruled out a new 114060 or one a couple of years old if I can get the right one. Anyway, I need to find a reliable and reputable dealer in Australia that can guarantee me that the sub I end up with is all genuine and no frankenwatch. I figure the best seller For me would be one who repairs and restores Subs and relies on quality and reputation to make a living. If I can't satisfy myself of genuineness then I will pull the trigger on a newbie.

If anyone can PM me or reply with some suggestions I'd be grateful for the start. I am sure there are more than a few Aussie Sub owners on the Forum. This is NOT a wanted to buy post but a request for direction on sourcing the right Sub for me.

I know that this forum is much more than about buying and selling watches and the historical research and great tips I have gained to date had been invaluable, so thanks to all members for that.

BTW will a ceramic dial ever grow old gracefully with some patina? Not sure if I like the idea of a shiny Bezel for life.

Cheers from Aus.

[Chewbacca]

use the search function in the classifieds.

key words 'australia' and the rolex you're looking for.

alternatively a local vintage buyer-seller with a storefront or local pickup reputable auction sites.

good luck.

[Bakasana]

Buy from Archie Luxury!

[ArcticMoose]

You can try Nick Hacko, although he doesn't appear to have any Subs at the moment.

http://clockmaker.com.au/rolex.html

Regardless what some may have to say about his personality or his prices, I'm sure everyone would agree that the risk of getting a watch that is not entirely authentic is very low.

[Psmith]

In Perth you have the Swiss Watch Box, although I've not dealt with them myself.
Prices will be high in Aus (new and used) - perhaps consider one the forum's trusted sellers instead.

[Numberjack]

Andrew at Swiss Watch box in Perth is a good guy, I had a nice BNIB sub from him at a good price.

[watchwatcher]

If you're looking for the bezel to grow old gracefully, maybe the ceramic one isn't for you. You could save a bunch of money with the older style aluminum ones...which will definitely age like you want.

[Blubarb]

I'd have to buy from trusted Seller in Australia given the exchange rate, duties, shipping and GST(?) the government will add to the cost at customs for an item over $1,000. How do I go about finding a trusted seller on the forum?

[dkmajm]

I've bought off Michael at watchcollector.com.au and Bruce at watchgallery.com.au, both high $$ transactions there both based in Melbourne and I'm in Townsville so miles apart from me, easy quick deals, negotiable as well.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[zama]

I have bought from the first 3 and recommend all of them. Just about all will have Subs for sale, no excuses for not joining the TRF Rolex club. If you can find a legitimate way to claim tax back you can save a further 10% if leaving the country inside 60 days of purchase. As indicated always good feedback on swisswatchbox in perth.
http://www.watchgallery.com.au/Watch...hes/Rolex.aspx
http://www.vintagewatchco.com.au/watches/CategoryID/2
http://watchtime.com.au/brands/rolex.html
http://www.theswisswatchbox.com.au/
http://www.thewatchgallery.com.au/sh...watches/rolex/

[johnbeth]

I strongly recommend Swiss Watch Box in Perth. I have bought and sold through them many times. I fully trust them and their prices are great!! They can source new and sell pre owned.

[Andad]

X2

Andrew will look after you 100%.

[swatty]

Originally Posted by Bakasana

Buy from Archie Luxury!

[CAL3135]

Originally Posted by ArcticMoose

You can try Nick Hacko, although he doesn't appear to have any Subs at the moment.

http://clockmaker.com.au/rolex.html

Regardless what some may have to say about his personality or his prices, I'm sure everyone would agree that the risk of getting a watch that is not entirely authentic is very low.

I've found that unless you pay his $100 AUD fee per year to get on his mailing list, he'll never have anything in stock for you. He sells to his subscribers first and there's usually nothing left for anyone else.

Armadale Watch Gallery in Melbourne is well regarded, from what I've heard and read. I've heard good things about The Swiss Watch Box in Perth, too.