Offered 118235- Box, papers, 24 links, but is this enough?

[captain_rossco]

Good Morning Horologists,

I'm venturing outside of my usual list of preferred dealers, authorised stockists and known auction houses and have been offered a pretty charming 118235.

Its sensibly priced, based here in the UK and the watch has all of the necessary documents and paperwork.

The vendor has been forthcoming in providing images of the piece, band stretch angles and serial numbers etc, which tie in with the Y.O.M which in turn corresponds with the date stamp on the clasp.

Why are my feet at such a low temperature?

The piece seems bonafide, the buyer seems okay, but didn't fancy trecking into the biggest nearby city for an over the counter verification. Which, in fairness could have been a legitimate, time based concern.

The seller is also suggesting that i meet at his home and of his own volition, did NOT want to have the watch couriered to me.

They are a seller with 100% positive reviews.

I naturally chanced my arm with Rolex UK asking if the piece had been in for a service, they stated they had never seen it, my entirely leading question of "And is this watch on your lost or stolen register", was immediately met with "I couldn't tell you if it was, we suggest you bring it in"......Well i tried.

I'm out of reassurances, could it have been stolen in tact, with all links in tact and paperwork present? Of course. Would it be listed by a 100% seller and in invitation made to view and collect from their own home if it was? Less so.

So much ties up with this otherwise great watch, but this amazing brand's reluctance to allow bonafide collectors (whom can readily identify a genuine from a replica article) access to basic information, even on the premise that Rolex not be held liable for the legitimacy of the piece, simply a yes no to its 'stolen status', is stopping me from diving on this particular watch.

What would you fine people do in this position? I'd be hugely appreciative of all input.

Kindest Regards

Rossco.