BLNR as first Rolex help

[chris296]

Hey guys first time posting on the forum. I plan to buy a Rolex (new) for my 21st and I think it’s best to get some advice. I’ve had my eye on the BLNR for almost 2 years now thinking its the one. It was that touch of blue completely turned me.

I’ve also considered the the 39mm Explorer and the SS SubC. The Explorer fits me slightly better (since I have small 17cm wrists) and it has a nice understated look to it, but I think it's more practical to have a date. I loved the glidelock on the Sub when I tried it on, but I honestly don't think necessary and I prefer the slightly thinner height profile on the GMT. I honestly don't mind having brushed or polished centre links.

When enquiring about the BLNR at ADs, I didn’t believe the stories I've been told to be true. Some ADs claimed to get a BLNR every 3 months, with already lengthy wait lists. Others wouldn’t even allow me on their wait list since I haven’t previously purchased from them. This included the Rolex boutique.

I’ve heard it’s easier to source the BLNR overseas and I don’t mind travelling if I can get a discount. I was in Tokyo a few months ago and most grey market dealers had a few but priced them $1-2k AUD above retail. Where would you guys go to get one with a good deal? One issue with purchasing overseas is the AUD is quite weak right now and I don’t want to spend in total more than MSRP ($11200 AUD). Despite really wanting the BLNR, do you guys think its wiser to settle for the Explorer or Sub since they're a little easier to attain and cheaper? I'm open to any other suggestions. Sorry for the long one.

Cheers guys.

[uncufunc]

Why not the black gmt? Easier to source

[brandrea]

Welcome to the forum.

Unfortunately sports models appear to be more difficult to obtain in certain parts of the world. In your case, I suppose you have to pay to play but I wouldn't expect to receive much of a meaningful discount on the BLNR as its still quite a strong seller.

[japenney]

You cant get a great deal on a blnr anywhere unless you are really lucky. You should pony up the extra 1-2k above retail if that is your only option and get the blnr because that is what you REALLY want by your own admission. I feel very strongly about this advice.

[Bobby Bushcraft]

If you really like the BLNR then get it. Don't settle for something else. You mentioned wanting one for a few years. I think if you are like most people if you got another model you may like it but in the back of your mind you are always going to be wishing you bought the BLNR. Go for it!!! You will love it.

[BigCFM]

Originally Posted by Bobby Bushcraft

If you really like the BLNR then get it. Don't settle for something else. You mentioned wanting one for a few years. I think if you are like most people if you got another model you may like it but in the back of your mind you are always going to be wishing you bought the BLNR. Go for it!!! You will love it.

THIS

[Rafael_DF]

BLNR was my first choice!

[TJModz]

I would try Hong Kong. With over 70 AD's I think that might be your best option? Although I am not sure how the exchange rate will affect keeping the price within your range?

[bodhipooh]

I am going to address the question you posed regarding where to source this watch in an overseas trip, as others have already addressed why stick with the BLNR.

If you are set on the BLNR and don't mind traveling to get one, I would suggest going to continental Europe. The euro is very weak at the moment, and the full retail price on a BLNR after VAT refund is about 10% lower than what you would pay at home. It seems like availability is good all over Europe, except for London. Over in Sweden and Norway, their currencies are also struggling and the prices are even lower than in continental Europe after currency conversions and VAT refunds. I got my first Rolex (DJ II) in April while traveling in Norway and my second one (Milgauss) while on holiday in London in November. Both times, the savings on the watch paid for my trips. So, no savings overall to my pocket, but I got to enjoy wonderful trips, and made some great memories, without additional cost compared to what I would have spent if I had bought at home in the US.

[TimeRookie]

Originally Posted by Bobby Bushcraft

If you really like the BLNR then get it. Don't settle for something else. You mentioned wanting one for a few years. I think if you are like most people if you got another model you may like it but in the back of your mind you are always going to be wishing you bought the BLNR. Go for it!!! You will love it.

This! You'll save money in the end as you won't take the losses on the watches you buy and then trade to eventually end up with a BLNR. Believe me I'm speaking from experience.....

[herts9]

agree. do not settle or you'll feel a void with something intermediate. it'll be worth the wait!

[armen34]

Get what you like... Blnr is a great choice.

[AK797]

Originally Posted by TJModz

I would try Hong Kong. With over 70 AD's I think that might be your best option? Although I am not sure how the exchange rate will affect keeping the price within your range?

I would have thought best deals are in HK in Asia. Also be prepared to buy almost new.

Maybe a trip to UK would be good currency and VAT-wise, altho plan on paying more than retail from a trusted seller, but it could still work out cheaper, and hey you get to come to London, just like the rest of you have.

[mike]

Originally Posted by Bobby Bushcraft

If you really like the BLNR then get it. Don't settle for something else. You mentioned wanting one for a few years. I think if you are like most people if you got another model you may like it but in the back of your mind you are always going to be wishing you bought the BLNR. Go for it!!! You will love it.

Yep. Cry once and be done.

[natosub]

Originally Posted by bobby bushcraft

if you really like the blnr then get it. Don't settle for something else. You mentioned wanting one for a few years. I think if you are like most people if you got another model you may like it but in the back of your mind you are always going to be wishing you bought the blnr. Go for it!!! You will love it.

+1

[superstarmar]

Originally Posted by Bobby Bushcraft

If you really like the BLNR then get it. Don't settle for something else. You mentioned wanting one for a few years. I think if you are like most people if you got another model you may like it but in the back of your mind you are always going to be wishing you bought the BLNR. Go for it!!! You will love it.

I also agree with this!!!
Get the one you really want...
I have a BLNR and Love it!!!

[Sydny2]

Sounds like you prefer BLNR. Just go for it :) I'd buy it from AD since its your first one.

[chris296]

Thanks for the advice guys. I think I've decided what to do :)

[yunach]

Originally Posted by chris296

Thanks for the advice guys. I think I've decided what to do :)

and?? What is it?

[5Matches]

I've been told in HK you can find BLNRs quite easily. Don't think they charge above msrp or level of discount.


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[Iloreyix]

Do - not - compromise - in - what - you - want.
The honeymoon won't end if you get exactly what you want.
The difference in price will be forgotten. You can always save and get another model, but start with your grail, since your choices are totally reasonable.

[thejerseyrock]

BLNR is a fantastic watch. One of the few I have no plans to part with. Love it.

For whatever its worth, I got the runaround / waiting list spiel too, but, in New York City, both the Rolex boutique and the AD up the street (Wempe) said there was a waiting list, but i got a call from them both in less then two weeks.

This was in late 2015 - not sure how the supply/demand has changed since then, but hope this is helpful .

[Watchwah]

I got mine from an AD in Aust, waited 3 weeks in total despite a 6-12month 'waitlist'. Just go to Hong Kong if you don't want to play that game, plenty available at AD's over there when I was there 3 weeks ago and cheap return flights at the moment.

[brucethemanlee]

don't settle get the BLNR

its a fabulous watch

[LuminousMaximus]

Originally Posted by bobby bushcraft

if you really like the blnr then get it. Don't settle for something else. You mentioned wanting one for a few years. I think if you are like most people if you got another model you may like it but in the back of your mind you are always going to be wishing you bought the blnr. Go for it!!! You will love it.

+1

[Shichinin]

Originally Posted by brucethemanlee

don't settle get the BLNR

its a fabulous watch

I agree 100%. Great shot btw

[toneafficianado]

I have had my Blnr for a year now and can't recommend it highly enough.
If you don't want to travel then try DavidSW or a few other Trusted Sellers here on trf.
David has his own site these days too. It won't be a bargain but a real Rolex rarely is.
At least you will get it fast and cheaper than at an AD price.

[chris296]

I'll probably head over to HK to see if I can get a deal. I have relatives there that know some dealers so that should help.

[Nairn1980]

My advice is that there is only one BLNR.
I am a flipper and it's the one that has remained.

It genuinely is an incredible watch in every way and you shouldn't settle for second best.

Price wise the UK is probably the cheapest however getting one will be a big problem as they aren't available in AD windows. You'd have to be on a list and wait. GOOD LUCK!!

[elcoyoote92]

yoda said : do or do not , there's no try

Go for the BLNR ! well go on a quest the find one first ;)