New Rolex

[Mtn Biker]

I am trying to buy a new Rolex explorer II from my authorized Rolex dealer, but he will not budge from the retail price of $8100. When I bought my steel and gold Submariner new in 2001, I received a 20% discount from the same dealer. Obviously, it is a different salesperson. I also have a steel submariner bought new in 1979, also had a discount of around 10%. Have things changed that much in the past 20 years? Authorized dealers no longer discount?

[CrazyMD]

Yes things have changed. Try a trusted seller on this forum like Takuya or DavidSW. Otherwise expect to pay MSRP in most cases from an AD

[c41006]

5-10% is common on SS pieces unless they are in high demand. TT and PM pieces will usually be more aggressively discounted.

[swils8610]

You can buy a new one here from a trusted seller for about $6800. I'd go that route.


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[wrist_watcher]

While an Explorer2 is not in high demand, Ads know they can fetch list price for these pieces. Looks like a seller here might be a viable option for a better price.

[Boaters]

Trusted Seller for sure

[henrylee]

I would buy AD if you plan on keep this piece for a very long time.

[brandrea]

Discounts have come way down from back in the day

[watchwatcher]

To answer your question, yes, times have changed in the last 20 years.

Discounts are going to vary from AD to AD, depending on model and metal. For this particular model, you are going to regret paying full MSRP, as its secondary market is soft.

[No SUBctitute]

Originally Posted by Mtn Biker

I am trying to buy a new Rolex explorer II from my authorized Rolex dealer, but he will not budge from the retail price of $8100. When I bought my steel and gold Submariner new in 2001, I received a 20% discount from the same dealer. Obviously, it is a different salesperson. I also have a steel submariner bought new in 1979, also had a discount of around 10%. Have things changed that much in the past 20 years? Authorized dealers no longer discount?

Discounts seem more accessible at non-chain, family-owned ADs not in populated or high traffic areas.

[kilyung]

Tougher to get a discount on steel sports models these days

[fskywalker]

Originally Posted by CrazyMD

Yes things have changed. Try a trusted seller on this forum like Takuya or DavidSW. Otherwise expect to pay MSRP in most cases from an AD

+1 for one of our trusted sellers, you will get a better price on a brand new or mint piece

[TickTockChuck]

Indeed ADs are not offering the deals of 10 or so years ago and it takes more effort to get one now. Often if you're a repeat customer they can scratch up something. If it's a hot model you might get the "privilege" of buying it. If you have good chemistry with the salesperson there can be more wiggle​ room. The local economy and whether it is a large chain versus a Mom & Pop store play into it. That said, the Explorer II should have more of discount since they are a bit slower selling than a Daytona or such. I did get a decent discount of over 10% on my Explorer I last year from an AD. Good luck in your search. Don't be afraid to shop around. Cheers!

[rodneygt3]

Try a different AD. When I purchased my BLNR many AD's were MSRP. However, I did find one that gave a 7% discount. I think in some cases it is good to not have purchased anything from an AD this way you are their new best customer.

[No SUBctitute]

Originally Posted by henrylee

I would buy AD if you plan on keep this piece for a very long time.

Why would it be better to buy from an AD if he plans on keeping it a long time?

[No SUBctitute]

Originally Posted by rodneygt3

I think in some cases it is good to not have purchased anything from an AD this way you are their new best customer.

This can work in your favor, just as being a regular can actually work against you. I recall a recent post of an individual who asked his regular AD for a discount on a model that it would be normal to get some discount on. The AD was firm. Of course he was, because you've proven you will pay MSRP and come back.

[Uppersouth]

Visit some AD's in a small markets. You'll be surprised what you can get if you're there in person with CASH in hand. I prefer this approach.