This is a 1 and a million chance right here. The owner probably spoke to another VIP who turned it down because they probably already had one. The owner then probably got in contact with the Manager to see if anyone came in mind, and this guy was called up.
Just walked into the only AD in my region for the first time today. I had a good time and had a great conversation and got to play with one of the exhibition models. I’m not going after a GMT just yet, but I’m hoping I to get a call in 6-9 months.
This is facts. You have to be genuine when going to get your watch. I went in randomly to one location and told them why I wanted the watch and was very honest. I in inquired about a Hard to get sports model. AD said maybe 8 to 9 months if i get lucky. One thing is I noticed if they are asking you questions about your self, like a light interview is a good sign. But to drop by in a month. But i got my call back FIVE days after my first encounter and offered to buy the sports watch i wanted. I think main thing is be genuine and have a charm! Also sometimes bring your significant other with you.
Great choice! Easily those two watches could be a great two watch collection. Wish you the best! Thanks for watching and glad your found my video helpful 😃
The real reason is because he was a true watche enthusiast and not a flipper. Also has a social media presence which not only solidified him not flipping but also putting out a good word for the AD. No buissness likes to hand over a watch knowing that someone could sell it for 2 or 3 times what it is worth easily.
I have a 200K USD purchase history with my AD .. and they wouldn’t sell me any sport model, been on what they call a “waiting list” for a Panda since 2016, a blue sky dweller since 2017 .. and I haven’t received anything. Basically stopped buying Rolexes and shifted to Omega.. a brand that really values their customers
My dad bought a patek grand complication for 100k USD and they only offered him a submariner in black. Daytonas from AD is rarer than a unicorn. Try asking for a basic sub, u can prob get it in weeks if u have a relationship with them.
That’s amazing to hear there is still also genuine dealers out there that look out for passionate watch enthousiasts. I would however say it’s likely an one in a million shot going by my experience. Most only look out for people with purchase history as you already mentioned as well. Got my Pepsi as well but wished I had a better experience in acquiring it as you did; I really see it as something Rolex should be ashamed for.
Couldn't agree more on your last comment, Rolex literally should be ashamed of themselves. On my cynical side, my take is the markup within the gray market is more profitable for a Rolex AD, then dealing with their legit customer within the authorized/warrantied customer/retail market. I can so see the angle, goes something like this; I sell to you...of course knowing your going to flip it on the gray market, and of course without question, I am getting some kickback $$$ (preferably cash) from you (the gray market seller). Then? Don't be stupid and get greedy, and sell high volume of Rolexes to just one client, raising eyebrows/suspicion (if that's even possible, I literally don't think anyone at Rolex is looking at that). After visiting a local Rolex AD (and I did have a very positive experience and engagement on my end) but not even remotely helping me to make a purchase (didn't have it couldn't order it?), so take your contact information, then what...? Wait....a year or more? I have to check in...? What's next, sperm sample, offer them up your first born child! WTF....its comical how ridiculous it all is! Lol. After my experience and just gathering what I can from others, something is definitely not best business practice on Rolex's part. Not saying anything illegal per say, but when your on that edge? Now? Same in high end sports cars/vehicles. Preferred customers get the first dibs (if I recall if you bought a Ford GT they had customers sign a no sell agreement for a few years to prevent them from flipping the vehicle), exactly what Rolex isnt doing, and taking s blind eye to the gray market and looking the other way.
It happens, read my post. I walked in and a few weeks later got the watch I had waited years for. Not every store is the same. I feel the true Rolex stores are more likely to sell to first time buyers.
So, if I want a Rolex but the dealer doesn't think I'm a passionate watch enthusiast, I shouldn't be sold the watch your saying? Maybe I won the lottery and I want a Rolex. I shouldn't need to be an enthusiast to be honored with the gift of being allowed, or permitted to buy a damn watch. They should sell it to a person who has the money and wants it. Its watch snobbery, plain and simple.
I love the editing LOL an Incredible story. You are a TRUE watch enthusiast, so it's no surprise that you only waited a month to get the watch. Congrats
Had a pretty similar experience. I was on vacation in Vegas and decided to step into their boutique for the first time. Not sure if it was extra brownie points, but I walked in with my 2006 Explorer I got on the secondary market. Of course I was trying everything on, but the AD noticed I had a great interest in the Explorer line. I think he could tell I was very knowledgeable and a genuine enthusiast, not just someone that comes in and demands to buy the hype pieces. Just two weeks later, he gave me a call and let me know that a 2021 explorer came in. Really like the conversation tips. We were talking about G Shocks & all kinds of stuff. Just be cool and show that you’re invested in this hobby.
Has anyone heard of the tulip frenzy? This is ridiculous. Rolex has created an appearance of scarcity. I'm doubled over laughing thinking of someone having to undergo a background check to buy a watch.
Tired of hearing about the Rolex "Pepsi" and the games so many of you are willing to pay/play for the "privilege" of buying one. Background checks, fake relationships, buying things you don't want or need. Ridiculous.
It depends on the AD. My AD had a policy to sell to anyone who walked into the store. Once they realized you were a collector and knew the brand well, all of a sudden the doors opened to the Rolex world. If you went in and said "Do you have any Daytonas in stock?" or "I am looking for these models, and here are their reference numbers" the AD saw you meant business. The tire kickers are another story, and don't know what they want. That AD also gave discounts on Rolex watches. They also sold Cartier and Omega watches with no wait lists.
Where is your AD? I’m not trying to come across as a dick, but your story sounds like nonsense. ADs barely make any money on new Rolex sales. Demand is high and supply is low. They very rarely care how “serious” you are. Everyone is serious about buying the watches because you can turn around and sell them the same day and make thousands on the grey market. ADs with any sense are using new Rolexes as rewards for their most loyal and profitable customers.
I was on a "waitlist" at a Official Rolex Store in Honolulu for 3 years. BIG Named jeweler. Went in the store every few months. They never remembered me. I was told to purchase a woman's watch or some jewelry to get in their system. Literally told me to buy items I didn't want so that I might get "lucky". I was put on 3 "waitlists" because they most likely would throw my information away when I walked out. One day I was upset because the sales lady, who I was texting with for months, stopped responding when it became clear I only wanted a submariner and not a women's watch. I was outside the store, watching thru the window. I sent her a text, I could see her read it and then just put her phone in her pocket. Still standing there I called the store, asked if she was available. Watched as the sales lady shook her head at the person who answered the phone. The person then responded she was not working that day 😒 Never felt like a worthless invisible human being like that before. I knocked on the glass so she could see me, then I texted her again. So that she knew it was me. Gave her the middle finger. Lol. Gave up hope. Then one day I was in Waikiki. Walked into a ghost of a Rolex store. Zero watches on display 😂 Turns out it was a Tourneau store. Legit Rolex people here. I told them my story and they were literally ashamed for the way the Ben Bridge Jeweler store treated me. Said no promises but they wanted to make it right. Told me since I was local, they mostly get foreigners and tourists in the store, they wanted to help. I highly doubted them. About 5 weeks later I got a call. I happened to be on another island working that day. I am a blue collar guy. Surprise surprise it was Rolex. Apparently the got a batch of watches in and all the sales people put the names of who they wanted for the watches. I was the most recent on the list ..... but because I was local and mostly because the manager wanted me to have the watch I had waited for 3 years.... I don't know if it was pity or they could tell how much this meant to me. When he had asked 5 weeks ago what watches I had wanted, I told him I wanted the oyster steel in green or the classic steel and gold on blue.... I just said the classic because I didn't want to be set on one watch and knew the green was hard to get. It was a game to me then.... I felt I was just being teased. Waiting to be laughed at when I left, lol. Anyways, I told them I would be getting back at 5pm and would pick up my wife and rush over. They said no worries Braddah we got you. So I show up. The manager came in to be there, it was his off day. Still no watches on shelf. Then the guy comes out with gloves on carrying a box. My heart pounding. Best experience ever. These people were so happy to see my reaction. Like it meant the world to them just to see my excitement, came to work and waited for me, weird. So I am now the proud owner of a 41mm SUB Date Steel and Gold all blue. This watch is remarkable. I am very happy to spend the extra money the gold is really something far more then what I had expected. Goes to show you that not every store is the same. If you don't have luck, try another location. If you have a connection with the people that's all you need.
To add I didn't pay a cent over the listed cost. Could make 50% profit just by reselling it. This watch is going to stay in my family. Also the start of my collection, I hope.
Incredible story! As you said, if one boutique is giving you a hard time, just move on to another! So excited you're able to pick up your dream watch and pass it down for generations to come. Wear your watch in good health and thank you for sharing your long awaited journey in acquiring your special piece.
Congratulations brother, I own the same piece, absolutely stunning. And the relationship continues to grow and receiving watches becomes easier and more frequent. I’ve had the opportunity to grow my collection pretty impressively over the past 2 years with my AD, and I’m sure you will too.
I had a similar story with my local AD. I visited the AD and told them what I was interested in: a 126610LN. At that moment, they offered me a DSSD black dial the same day (March 2022). I did try it on but I honestly found it too bulky for me to enjoy it. I told them thank you for the offer, but I do want to wait until a Submariner comes in. That weekend, I decide to go in again and take a look at the DSSD just incase I changed my mind. I found that once I got a decent fit on the watch, it was able to wear a bit better than during my initial try on. So, I told them that I would take it. We were getting ready to ring up my credit card when I noticed there were a few scratches on the watch. There was a bit of a mishap, but at the end of the day...they made it right and sent the DSSD back to Rolex. 3 weeks later, I get the call for the Submariner Date. I was over the moon!
Fantastic! I can always appreciate above and beyond service. Frankly, that is what I really expect from all Rolex boutiques. Glad you had a great experience and walked away with a lovely watch! Thanks for watchingb
Congratulations for the purchase of the GMT Pepsi, I have the same watch and also the history with my AD but it was difficult lately to acquire one so I went last February and meet the store director and started a conversation about watches and my interest to acquire a Submariner and he pulled my history and added in the list, I went few times to say hi and talked about watches and my interest of the Submariner and I showed some of my watches on my collection just to have nice conversation and after I left, the AD called me the they have the Submariner, I guess that the AD do have the timepieces in stock somehow and they don’t offer the watches to everybody that’s my impression, anyways I’m happy that I got the Submariner and hopefully to get the Daytona as a ultimate timepiece for my collection, congratulations once again for your GMT Pepsi and thanks for sharing your story 👍👊
You're right! I feel the same way as you do. I think they do have these watches in stock but are just looking for the right person to offer them to. I'm hoping to acquire a Daytona for myself as well. Best of luck and thanks so much for sharing and watching my video!
Congrats Clicky! I've experienced this crazy Rolex environment since 2017. I believe your story, but also know that you are one lucky dude! Question please, did you work with a regular SA? Was he a more senior sales associate or a newer, younger one? Or, did you work with the sales manager, or the actual owner (if it's a single family owned AD)? Thanks!
Congrats. But… you got lucky. Nothing you did was new. The only other thing I can think of is that you’re in a city already getting hammered by the Joe Potato economy.
From my perspective as a former AD employee, this is obviously a sales technique from his side. From the first encounter he knew you collect watches and so he told you to bring in some of the "rare" watches for him to see the next time you visit him, so he could verify you're not all talk but a collector. Through the 2nd visit which you had fulfilled he confirmed that you are really a collector and that is why he gave you a chance to purchase it, in hope that you will buy more from him in the future. He knew you are not a 1 time buyer which they will always avoid, they want continuous purchases. Sometimes old VVIPs just don't have any watch to buy anymore so ADs will have to fish and build new VVIPs clientele. Which kind of person got the highest chance to be a VIP then? The ones who has a higher chance to make consecutive purchases, a reseller or a fresh and rich collector. Being a watch content creator helps too, given if you have told him you are one. Btw, heard an insider said Rolex is boosting up their production volume by 25% this year, a target of 2 million watches. So good luck everyone.
Numbers don’t add up. Sounds like someone BS’ed you. All estimates were 900k to 1 mil annual output so 2 mil is not possible. Also dubious due to supply chain issues. Thirdly, even though Rolex has a lot of automation there’s still a lot of human touch labor. No reports of Rolex hiring/training any more watch makers.
@@WestCoastAce27 If the watch industry is so transparent and all reports can be read online then nobody is going to buy them watches anymore. You don't have to trust me, but i do trust my former colleague who is currently working in Rolex HR, and i'm not going to give names. Cheers.
Maybe? The only relationship I had with them at the time was the few times I popped in to talk watches. A lot of these videos might be BS but what happened in my video was what happened to me. You don’t have to believe me, I just wanted to document and share my story. Thanks for watching and wish you the best in your watch collecting journey!
Congrats it took me 7 months to get my Pepsi with a significant purchase history. The area I’m in is super competitive, that may be one of the many reasons for us waiting longer. Enjoy it, I sure as hell do. I’m a pilot, and for me this was a significant piece.
Super cool experience! Also cool to be here before you get huge because you 1000% will with the effort you're putting into these videos. Huge congrats on the Pepsi too, it's a proper grail watch - anyone would be thrilled to own one. What's your take on trying to foster these relationships at a younger age? I have decent income, drive a nice car ('20 Supra), etc. but I'm a pretty young looking dude so I feel like ADs just don't even give me the time of day unless I walk in with my handed-down Luminor Marina.
Thank you! This means a lot to me. In terms of building a relationship, just be yourself and embrace your passion for watches. Try striking up a conversation with an associate. If they give you the cold shoulder, I’d say it’s best to move on either to a new associate another day or even a whole other boutique. From the experience that I had, the associate I was speaking to asked what I do for a living, I guess to gauge your potential income to see if you are a serious buyer? It all seems like an interview in the beginning, but I felt they begin to trust you the more they get to know who you are a bit. Give it a shot! Also, love a good Supra, older or new gens 😃
Luckily bought my GMT back in 1978, still have it and just got it serviced at twice what I paid for it. I haven’t gotten tired of the red/blue bezel or the oyster band which I prefer over the jubilee band. I don’t wear it much as I fear loosing my arm. I’ve been able to purchase most of the watches I’ve wanted before they became famous- like my Speedmaster for $94.00 new back in 1967. Good luck with your site and 👍on your review.
I’ve been on the list for the Pepsi for two years and the AD recently informed me that there “is no list”. I’ve bought over $20,000 of merchandise from this AD and they don’t seem to care at all 😊
Many congratulations, that is the quickest I've heard of anyone getting a Pepsi on a jubilee. I've had both good and bad experiences at ADs, but I was able to get a Datejust 41 in the exact configuration I wanted (black dial, smooth bezel, oyster bracelet) from an AD only 3 weeks after meeting her for the first time. Would love to see your review of the Pepsi.
I'm sorry to say this is probably the most pretentious, nonsense video involving Rolex I have ever seen. With all due respect,this is the reason serious watch collectors and enthusiasts are moving away from Rolex,having bought and owned a brand new submariner from an AD I can tell you my personal experience is Rolex sports steel mode are completely overhyped and overpriced, to the point where after having the experience I sold it and moved on.dont get me wrong, they are good well built nice looking watches but to insinuate that they are worth being background checked and basically treated like 3rd class citizen by some schmuck who works in a Rolex shop is worth going through to overpay for an overhyped product is downright insulting. If I had been in that situation I would have been so disgusted just out of principle I wouldn't have given them my money. Normalising sucking up to an AD under guise of building a relationship so they can act like they have done you a favour by dropping huge money on a watch they want you to think is rare and scarce is exactly what they want if you knew how many watches were actually available that they hold back just to bump up demand and price you would feel sick.guarunteed this guy was laughing to himself all the way to his sales commission. Its all an act
I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy my video. I appreciate you sharing your thoughts on this touchy subject and hope you stick around and watch my other videos and find an ounce of value. If not, thanks for stopping by!
@ClickyBezel I apologise if it sounded like I was critical of you personally, nothing could be further from the truth,your video was incredibly professional and well presented, so let me just get that out there,I didn't intend to come across as though I was irritated with you,you are obviously enamoured with Rolex and I get that,I was there once,I still like their products,alot less but there are some,that gmt is a beautiful watch,and I'm happy for you,I just really dislike thd hype around Rolex which I feel has wrecked alot of people's perception of the brand,and I feel its wrong for a company to treat paying customers as though you have to get on your knees and beg to spend alot of Money. That's all I was saying. But enjoy the watch I hope your experience with the brand remains positive. Will definitely check out your videos
I have realized one thing with ADs after buying several rolex watches (I have never bought a single watch from the secondary market) There are 2 types of ADs, the corrupt ones, who expect bribes to give you an out of turn watch. And the enthusiast who is sick till his bowels at rich effers splashing their money only to start a conversation. I zeroed in on the latter, showed him how I treat an El Primero and a Hamilton vis a vis a Daytona (just an example) When the AD found out that I am a watch enthusiast and not a Rolex hoarder, he offered me a Datejust (my first Rolex) on the second visit to the store (next week....)
Looks like a replica with the following tells: blue sheen on date magnifier, R's are misaligned with the indices on the rehaut at the 8 and 10 o' clock positions at 6:39. ruh roh
This is an anecdote... not a "How to" video. Fact of the matter is: ADs want to maximise the "real" value of each and every SS Rolex and they know that for every Sub, they need to get another 3-4k profit from another less desirable product.
A background check?! I bought my GMT 2 fifteen years ago in Geneva. I went in once, looked at three or four models and returned a few days later. I don't think I gave my details until I bought it.
Fantastic story, and fantastic editing. You've earned a new sub and I am surprised you aren't well above where you are. As for the rolex experience, I have been trying to get my hands on a rolex for around 1.5 years and I have a purchase history with my local AD already (not a massive one, but around 10k) but I am batted around by every employee when I go in, never dealing with the same person. They have absolutely no interest in talking watches with me, I'm not even sure they like watches. I feel like a number when I go in the store, and it in fact dampened my entire outlook on watches for some time. It has driven me away from rolex completely. Maybe I'll get the call for my 36mm explorer, maybe I won't. Who knows? In the meantime I'll keep admiring my seamaster 300m and set my sights on something else. Maybe a Hamilton or the new Christopher Ward.
Awesome video and congrats! My AD experiences have all been great. I always come straight from work in my work clothes looking pretty shabby to be honest. The first time I went to the Rolex ad, I was expecting to not being taken seriously. To my surprise, they treated me like royalty and saw I was a watch enthusiast right away! They showed me every model I wanted to see and then some! Ended up talking watches with the guy for about an hour and had a great time. Hoping to get the call soon
The excavator with concrete on his boots often has $50K to spend on awatch while the dashing young lawyer with a Brioni suit and driving a shiny BMW can barely afford the rent on the waterfront condo he's living in. If you are a good salesperson, you know this intrinsically. Broke construction laborers don't even slow down to look in the window of an AD. Go to your local mall and observe, don't take my word for it.
It’s not for everyone especially if you have to beg. I wouldn’t say it’s mid tier finishing though but definitely not the highest grade for sure. Thanks for watching!
@@ClickyBezel I enjoyed the video. You shared some great ideas,. My issues are with Rolex and the way they fabricate supply and demand problems. Not fair to someone who might be interested in a watch that wants 1 watch, not to have a collection of watches.
Just picked up a Tudor Ceramic from my AD and had a great conversation about different Omegas and tudors. Got my name on the list for a Deep Sea. He said that a lot of people pass on that one because of the size so I'm cautiously optimistic. When I asked to see the Rolex I did see some hesitation as I wear black band shirts and jeans and sneakers but they spent some time with me. Overall a very positive experience. Time will tell though
Is buying from a Rolex store less expensive than these gray market Rolex's? I am looking for a Batgirl (to treat myself for my retirement from FDNY 27yrs in Manhattan). Online retailers want 17-20K.. What would I expect to pay if I were to get on a wait list? This is my first Rolex. Thank you. Joe I'm in NYC
The Rolex dealer (6 hours away from me) never seems to have available stock, I just want an Explorer ll to own, the last watch I'd ever buy. If I go in again after 4 attempts and no luck, I just ask the AD where the closest Grand Seiko store is and buy an in-stock watch there and be done with Rolex. 😆
I almost wana call bullshit on this story... based on what I know of this watch.. I mean I got a Meteorite dial GMT last year, after a 2 year wait and I went to high School with the owner of the AD... But I believe you .. more over, I hope you know how lucky you are.
I don't mean to be offensive, but this is riddiculous. I walk into a boutique, with money in my pocket to buy a WATCH (not a firearm or explosives, but a WATCH) and i have to do interview and get my background checked?! It's hard to belive, i went to Oxxxa boutique, and purchased Seaxxxxxr 300 Diver with card, just like that. No iterview, no wait, no background checks. Just "which one do you like?"
My very first watch was the submariner hulk. Walked in to my AD Rolex, they asked me what I liked, but at that time, I didn’t know anything about Rolex. I just told them, I want a green face watch, but didn’t know what model it was.. long story short, they called me 1 week later and there it was… it was meant to be I guess? lol I also had no history with the store.. they took my info and luckily I waited only 1 week. This was back in 2018.
I have a fabulous AD, who I pop in and see every month. I take some of my watches in at times regardless of brand, and we just chat over a coffee. I introduced a friend to them who wanted to start collecting. He got the call for a DeepSea within a month. I then popped in to see them with him but also followed up with a thank you call to them for sorting my friend out. It’s all about genuine personality and a willing to engage and chat about life in general. Good job well done and congrats for joining the Pepsi gang 😉
@Lee so fucking true man. I live in Melbourne, Australia and there’s certainly no shortage of people here who want Rolex. I don’t believe reps in any of the local boutiques have time to “chat about watches over a coffee” or are willing to do it. They got 100 dudes coming in every day with the same strategy lol 😂 I’ve been lucky enough to obtain a few models through spend history over the last few years. It’s getting worse and worse though. These days, when I try to “drop in to build the relationship”, I usually end up being told by the door man that my rep is busy in an appointment and that I need to book one to see him or call him. The calls are usually pretty awkward and after sufficient small talk it goes something along the lines of “Hey how’s that hard to get watch I asked for looking?” “Yeah still haven’t had any come in yet, but we’ll keep an eye out” “Cool thanks man, talk soon”. So yeah, don’t know of any Rolex reps who are sitting around waiting for you to come in off the street and tell them how much of an enthusiast you are and how you watch a Pepsi as your first purchase lol.
Im 24 and I work in M&A (finance) at a very prestigious firm. It completely pisses me off the atitude of some of these ad’s. I used to walk in from time to time and talk to them and ask them how they were etc and they would immediately tell me that they were not taking any ROIs because Rolex told them not to. Which is laughable since I know how these things work. Then one day I decided to go during my lunch break. I was suited up and the treatment I got was night and day. And on that day I left my ROI for a Rolex explorer 1. As much as I love the explorer I can’t help but think truly want the Pepsi gmt and I don’t know how to go about it in the ad since they will basically think I don’t have the funds for it cuz I look young…
I'm sorry to hear that and can totally understand that frustration! The Explorer is a great watch and could be a stepping stone with that AD towards your future Pepsi. I'd usually say purchase the watch you want, rather than going for the alternative but that isn't really the case with Rolex if they won't sell you one haha. I say pop in from time to time at that AD and just express interest in the Pepsi and have a conversation with them. I know it's a weird game to play, especially if they aren't watch enthusiasts. I'm sure you did your research on the history and tech of the GMT. I say try showing them your knowledge on the Pepsi and maybe that will leave a good impression on them. At this point, it's worth a try. Best of luck and thanks a lot for watching my video!
I can’t say I have experience because I’d be embarrassed to interact with any salesperson. My budget doesn’t allow me to afford one.. it’s more of a dream to afford a Rolex so I’m starting my watch collection with more affordable brands. Right now luxury brands are unattainable, but maybe one day with perseverance I’ll have one!
Something don't smell right. You are claiming a Rolex AD, liked you so much and cared you were a "real watch collector" he said "forget about selling this to my cousin vinny and flipping it for double the price" "Instead I'll sell it to this complete stranger. Dude!!! I was born at night, but not last night.
Rolex AD's are a scourge within the watch business. I would never even visit an AD. It's an old and irritating sales model that they use. Either they have watches for sale or they don't. Since they very often don't, I won't even go in their stores. I have a LOT of pieces too. I would encourage anyone to support their local "gray market" dealers. They are a good bunch of people for the most part.
Apart from leaving my (middle eastern) friend on a wait list for three years my local Rolex AD told me Rolex don't want "customers like me". Well, fuck them then!
So, what I'm learning from your video is that the ADs are selling to who they like, or who they think deserve a Rolex. Lucky for you that you were liked and they decided you deserve a Rolex, but that's a shitty way to treat people and a shitty way to do business.
I purchased my first Rolex from the AD in 2016 watches galore at the time, the concept of having to beg or plea to buy something bothers me to a small degree. My last convo with my AD involved a waiting list in their data banks. Holding my breath for the Batman GMT.
This is a feel good story for some of the people not familiar with the process of obtaining a fine Rolex Timepiece. I too had finally let myself come to the conclusion that I wanted to own a Rolex timepiece. So I had been torn between the Submariner Date and GMT-Master II. I like the GMT for the look of the extra hand (although I really wouldn't have a need for it but just because I wanted it) and I also like the Submariner Date just was much for it's features (plus I'm not a diver so the depth didn't matter much). My Wife and I had started out with our local High End jewelry store that handled Rolex timepieces. They had a Black on Black Sub Date that someone sold to them (it turned out to be a Anniversary gift from his company with engraving on the rear) but it was at a second hand markup. We looked at it and then asked if they were an Authorized Dealer of Rolex watches. Well, they weren't and that ended that deal, just to find out that for retail we could get it for almost $8k less. What we didn't know was the whole come in, develope a relationship with the AD Salesperson, leave your information to show true interest and random pop up visits. We've graced the AD at least 4 times in a month and kept in touch via several text messages as well plus emails and still no call back .... yet. I'm happy that you were able to get the opportunity sooner to gain access and complete your ownership of the very nice Timepiece. Cheers to you.
Been going to my AD for two years. Bought 5 different watches and 1 datejust because that’s all they offered me. It sucks. Congratulations for you tho.
I'm new to watch collection, subscribe to you channel now by the way. Can I ask you how much is that watch is? I know I can just google it but I just want to know how much is that 'it watch' is? 😁
My experience istead is that it’s just impossible to get ANY Rolex ANYWHERE. At 1 AD in my region, I’m on list for GMT 2-tones, and a OP 36mm for my wife for 1 year already. I went with my wife last weekend to see if I could get a datejust 31mm 2-tones for her as a gift for a special day: the answer of the AD was 3 years waiting list 😂 and we cannot be in a waitlist for more than 1 piece each, so we had to choose 😂 At another AD I’m on the waiting list for the same pieces for longer than 1.5 years and the answer for the DJ 31 was: waiting list 2 months to 1.5 years depending on the model. If I want to buy a present to celebrate something special, I will not wait 1.5 years. At other ADs lists are closed. It’s really a shame.
This is the best advice on getting rolex. Being that I get service from Rolex, and Several other hype brands, This is exactly how I got service. Basically im a total watch nerd. Be a real watch nerd.
I have a pretty good relationship with my local AD here in San Diego, but it hasn't led to anything at all. I want a Sea-Dweller and have been told repeatedly it is "reserved inventory." Basically, I would have to buy a bunch of slow-moving stock before they will sell one to me. No thanks.
Ah… that’s too bad. If I were you, like any relationship, it’s time to move on and find an AD that treats you right. Good luck and thank you for watching!
Great to hear about your experience, and congrats on the piece. I recently went into the Rolex shop in downtown San Francisco and had a very positive experience at that location, so I can recommend it to other NorCal/Bay Area folks.
I have a great relationship with my AD. I call them monthly for a chat at update. I pop in to see them and occasionally i take other watches to show them. It enforces my passion for collecting and strengthens a relationship. With a number of AD recently being axed from the network, it also re-enforces your own AD reputation and positive standing.
I’ve been on the waiting list for 4 years now. Serviced 3 of my Rolex watches with this AD. Still no call. Very frustrating experience. Still trying to get the Pepsi.
Walked into the AD for the first time this January. We chatted, I let her know I always wanted a Rolex and was coming in to see them in person for the first time. I tried on all the models she had. Expressed that the Sub was my favorite. I texted a thank you the next day. 23 days later I get a text from her asking if I was still interested in the Submariner. 3 Hours later I purchased my first Rolex.
Amazing story! This is how interactions should be. Glad you were able to acquire your Submariner :) Thanks taking the time to watch my video and sharing your experience!
I bought the Seadweller 43mm 2 months ago by walking in a dealer. This was at an airport. Just talked to them a bit. What I did, where I was going etc. And if I had ever owned a Rolex watch. Explained that I got some money off my parents that I wanted to spend on something special instead of wasting it on something else or just adding it to my account. They had a exhibition model. I said that I wanted a Seadweller, they offered to me to fit the exhibition model but I declined at first since you usually can't buy them anyway. At that point they said but then you have at least fit one. It fits just right for me. They said at what time is your flight? We can check if we have something in stock. Came back an hour later and was able to buy it. In was wearing a Seiko SQ100 watch at the time. It has sentimental value to me because I got it from my parents 24 years ago but otherwise worth probably $20 lol. When I fit the SD43 I had never worn a watch that expensive. And they can read that reaction off you instantly lol. What helps in my opinion is if you ask for a specific model. If you ask for any steel toolwatch, they will see you as a wannabe watch flipper and turn you away. If you have a genuine story and ask for a specific model you have a much higher chance.
-There is no wait list. -Not all ADs are created equal. -The "you got to buy 100k before we consider you for a sub is bulls**t" and if your salesperson makes that statement- walk away. Happy you were able to get that piece. You were genuine and honest. He remembered you, and boom! Watch!
A great inspirational presentation. Owning a Rolex has only recently been made a reality to me, now that I'm semi retired. I attended my nearest Rolex dealer, expressing an interest in two Rolex time pieces, the GMT master ll and the Air-king. The staff at the dealership were first class, very knowledgeable and looked after my wife and I. Initially we were greeted by a more senior gentleman who handed us over to a younger gentleman who explained the process. I registered an interest in both time pieces. Rolex availability of new time pieces, It looks like you were extremely lucky, glad for you. In all honesty, from the heart, do I actually believe that I will be offered a new Rolex... I very much doubt it. Thank you very much for the presentation. Andrew
Thank you! I wish you the best on the process. Hopefully, you’ll here good news upon full retirement. Hope you stay tuned for my next set of videos for 2023.
In my experience it depends entirely on the salesperson as well as how personable you are and what drives them, and you. You happened across a true enthusiast in that store, I have been lucky enough to experience the same situation, which is why I have 2 Rolex at list. However my dealer is very fair, which works out badly for me, his approach is 'well you already have 2 sports steel models' in other words he won't give me anymore. Part of me says 'well, that's fair, 2 is 1 too many really' but off course I want more! So I have tried other dealers over the last 6 months and my experience varies from frustration at generic answers, to a gobsmacked realisation that many of the salespeople are not enthusiasts but Rolex snobs to utter disrespect and cold elitism
I’m still on the waitlist for one. They offered me a deep sea and a Sky dweller in the past (I have history with them) but they were far too big for my wrist so I had to say no which did seem to shock them lol but I’m a collector not a flipper. Maybe someday the call will come in lol. Enjoy the Pepsi they are a great looking watch!
