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Is the WATCH HOBBY DYING thanks to ROLEX and YouTube HYPE ?
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- Опубликовано: 8 фев 2022
- Please don't forget to like this video, subscribe to the channel and check out my other videos. I welcome any questions or review requests via email to justmyopinionuk@gmail.com
In this video you will hear my own personal opinions for entertainment purposes only and if you don't like my content please don't let the door hit you on the way out. I welcome comments in the comment section and welcome any debate along with your views and opinions to widen my knowledge
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My grail watch is my Omega Ploprof in steel, at age 62, better late than never !, my sentimental piece, is my Oris TT1 diver , it survived a career in 🚒, 🔥 firefighting .Long live Mid tier brands !. Well said in this video !!
Looked it up and what a nice watch
I bought a rolex hulk on the grey market back in late 2017 probably £100 cheaper than rrp at the time.
This was my first Rolex, a mate got me into the hobby
I was comfortable knowing it’d just go up with inflation.
I used to wear it everywhere and loved it nobody even noticed it or knew what it was.
I fell in love with the hulk with its Rolex green shine at a time when i was new to hobby and youtube were debating wether it was ugly or not (can you imagine that now)
The irony is i have a great investment yet i didn’t buy it for that and i cant wear or enjoy it for fear of theft.
Rolex have lovely designs
Yes, the hobby is dying, at least from my point of view.
The scarcity is a killer, the available pieces are too expensive, investors/ speculators are adding their layer…. I am losing interest in buying watches.
A great topic, thanks for sharing.
There is still great stuff out there, just not in Rolex or steel trinity. I am developing a passion for Cartier and Omega is an all time classic
@@asura2545 Cartier, Nomos, Grand Seiko, FP Journe
Absolutely spot on!!!
I've been collecting for 22 years. I remember when there was zero prejudice expressed by most enthusiasts when we discussed and compared Rolex to a Doxa, an Omega to zenith and jlc to vulcain for example. I sense we are at saturation point. So many "newbies" only aware of or having experience of very few brands and that's without delving into tje beauties that exist on the vintage side. I hope this all changes and that new enthusiasts maintain an open mind going forward.
Love the content
James, right on point mate. Just about to pull the trigger on a blue Aqua Terra, tried getting an OP, but you can guess how that went. The Aqua Terra will join my Speedy, that will be my two watch collection for now. Keep up the good work. Cheers from NYC.
Exactly! I too looking at AquaTerra or Seamaster 300. As my one show piece. I have a boxfull of Casio, Citizen, Timex a couple of "Fashion Watches. Etc. It's not a hobby if you are buying to make a profit!?
Your tastes are very similar to mine. I had the first gen Aqua Terra and the 1861 Speedy too... however after plenty of time and wearing those, as well as getting to grips with the OP 36mm at an AD, I've converted to OP. They are just perfect watches...I don't own any watches apart from my G shock, having now sold the Omegas and I'm on the loooooooong waiting list for Green/ Black OP. I think it will be worth it even if they only call me in 3 years.. hopefully the Speedy which I bought at the AD a few years ago helps me in the queue.... enjoy the Aqua Terra. They are gorgeous. But I think the OP is worth the wait (for me anyway)
I got a Seamaster 300m blue wave dial and a speedy moon watch. That’s my luxury watch collection, the rest are seiko, timex and casio.
The Aqua Terra is twice the watch. Co-Axial escapement!
@Tony Risi they are great watches for sure. But I definitely don't like exhibition case backs. I prefer the simplicity and timelessness of the Rolex OP. I tried both on, and the OP was smaller, thinner and more elegant
Just personal taste
Edit: I'm not that bothered about co axial , or movements in general. A watch is so much more than just the movement. Rolex movements are very good too...omega may be better, but I prefer how the OP feels and sits on my wrist. To me that's much more important than the movement. Comfort and looks are more essential
Excellent video. I remember when you first started RUclips, and you put out a video where you said people made "mistakes" when you start with Tags etc and "it was best to not waste your money and save up for a rolex, ( I even remember the tone of your voice during that vid) so that you 'keep' having your money from not losing on depreciation, and now fast forward all these years after, and you say that you respect the purists who actually like the hobby and buy these tier watches for the love and for what they can afford. We all can't justify Rolex money, even if we saved for years and years. Many people were being brainwashed by that "Jewelers on time Ad" on AC3's channel about not losing on depreciation, rather than actually loving the hobby across all price spectrums. I also do remember many of the superchats (like 100 pounds one time and more) you gave AC3. My point is, I'm impressed with what you've said in this particular video.
There are definite exceptions to this as well I think. I myself enjoy "hype" watches but I also have some that people would call shitters as well. I have citizen and casio as well as Rolex and now Lange. I just buy what I personally like and try not to be influenced too much by the hype. Glad you are back James. Great vid
Couldn’t agree more James. I love all my watches from my Omegas to my Casios, but consider them worthless, I took a long time choosing each one and would never sell them, hence why they are worthless, or priceless.
I agree I have a casio and a modded Vostok Amphibia
You nailed it. I've reduced my collection down to a G-Shock and a Speedmaster Pro.
As a watch collector /purist I agree 100 percent with your thoughts. This is the reason most of my new pieces have been Tudor and Breitling. Omega is next! I'm so glad you're back!!
Couldn’t agree more. I recall the days walking into a gray market dealer and finding the Batman for a couple grand under retail, good old days. Purchasing because you loved it and not necessarily as a potential ‘investment’. Glad to see you producing more content James.
I hope you’re right man. This hobby needs a correction. Get rid of the speculators.
Appreciate your honesty regarding the Rolex hype. You and Federico are the only people that has called out the BS with Rolex. Great content. 👍
I am completely agreeing with you! And want to see more content about the watches you mentioned. I have a Speedy, Tudor BB but also a nice Tissot, Longine, CW in my collection. Some people on youtube call them shitters just because they don’t present the hipe. To me they are destroying the love for watches with there comments. There are beautiful watches offered by these brand, these people just don’t get it, because there are in the hobby for all the wrong reasons.
Every so often the RUclips algorithms lead us to a good suggestion and that was the case for me this evening finding your channel. I've always owned one watch, usually an inexpensive Timex or Casio, but over the last few years have begun a low/mid level budget collection and find I really enjoy watches. I look forward to watching your content and learning more..
I have a Casio AE-1000 and Lume mod Vostok Amphibia 710379.
Your spot on . I’m sick to death of the same odious conversations on Rolex prices and growth in the market . In many ways the explosion of prices has forced owners to either sell or view Rolex as a commodity. I bought Rolex sports to wear and enjoy however I now have to keep them in a vault due to market value prices I don’t want them at home , this is a 50 mile round trip and inconvenient so they are virtually never worn . By default they have become commodities something I never wanted it has been forced upon me . The upside is i discovered omega which unquestionably are now my number one brand to wear and enjoy .
Right on point James . I collect most brands but like vintage best. And yes the new RUclipsrs are just in it as a business for subscriptions and super chats. They don’t even know anything about watches!
James I couldn't agree with you more, this is a topic that has been on my mind for sometime, to a point that I want out of all this, there is an omega I want then I'll call it a day.I don't know any other channel that has said all the comments that you have, and that speaks volumes.
Absolutely correct. I miss the old days of the hobby.
I've been watching watch review channels for years. Can't believe I missed this one! Great content. Glad I found your channel. Carry on the great work!
YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY spot on!!! I’ve been in this for 30+ years - “NEW”Rolex GMTs, Submariners, Explorers were NOT “collector” pieces, they were terrific professional watches that we knew we could wear with pride for a lifetime and then pass along to our kids… Today, all I hear is “what a great investment” and “you can’t go wrong with this purchase”. I know I sound like an old fuddy duddy….
Absolutely spot on, James. What a refreshing 20min that was! It’s clear who you’re talking about and I’m in complete agreement, not least because these superchat hungry types often know very little about watches. They’re in Rolex for the money as they are RUclips. For background, I own 2 Explorers as I agree they’re the best in the Rolex catalogue; 124270 and 214270 Mk2, and a new OP36 Green, all at retail from AD having bought just a Tudor BB58 blue and BB36 beforehand. My love is Sinn and Breguet. I’ve been harassing Sinn for a blue dial U50-t for a very long time now! I’m from Lancaster… sounds like you’re just down the road? Subscribed with no hesitation. I’ve seen you on the livestreams but didn’t realise you had a channel! Binge watch time😉👍
I really appreciate your content, James. You are saying things that really need to be said. I don't much care for most watch content on RUclips any more, because the hobbyist element is simply missing from most of them. The investment/trading/flipping crowd need to stop pretending to be hobbyists and leave those of us who simply enjoy our watches in peace.
Glad you are back. I have been collecting over 40 years. Yes I have Rolex's, but as my collection evolved I learned the true meaning of high horology. I moved on to Breguet, ALS, V.C.,J.L.C., H Mosier and Cie and yes even F.P Journe. But that does not stop me enjoying Omega( Have all 3 Seamasters) and Seiko.
Certain watches have now become like stock; hyped and traded. What collectors need to learn is simply don't play the game. Are you really trying to tell me that the Rolex OP 41 Tiffiney dial has the same value as a Breguet 7337 Classic? Are you kidding me. This is what the herd has been programed to believe. When the smoke clears it will not be pretty. LOL
I have now gone a different direction. Instead of the herd mentality, I ordered a bespoke watch that is built just for me. A D. Dornbluth and Sohne. I picked the hands, dial, material, etc. I was told by other collectors that this watch would never go up in value. So what. To me this watch will be priceless.( The wait is 14 months. A lot less than a steel Rolex.)
God Bless you and your family.
I find what you said here to be the truth. It's exactly what I've been ticked off about for the last 2 years. First the hype and then the investment class collectors who seem to get first shot on anything at the AD's. If we are watch enthusiast's we should be staying away from Rolex. Let the guys who know nothing about horology and collecting, the bankers, lawyers, and Wall Street scum have them. I'm no longer looking seriously at Rolex anymore because it's gone too far.
I agree Nomos, Cartier, Stowa, Grand Seiko, Omega, FP Journe, JLC, Sinn, Fortis etc are better luxury watches than Rolex.
Please keep your channel going, you bring the watch hobby back to the basics!
Liked the piece so subscribed. I love a load of microbrands and a load of Swiss/German too. I am on the list for Pepsi GMT (at a jewellers I have bought a few Tudors from) because I love the watch - six months ago, I got a call to ask "Which bracelet do you want?" - Rolex, not the AD, had told them to 'split their list' that way.
I am now thinking bollocks to it, I don't want to be a part of this crap! Firstly, I agree with you about list publication (not data - just the number, like they do with the MCC)
But, here's a thing. If all the dealers on West 38th Street in Manhattan all agreed to drop their used prices of Rolex by 25%, they'd shift the lot and the market would change. Kid you not, there is at least 20,000 steel Rolexes on that street!
Anyway, Rolex (who get their cases made in China BTW!!!) are moving towards precious metals and Tudor is occupying the 'tool watch excellence' space Rolex grew their brand on.
Anyway James, cheers - OOI interest, what do you think of Christopher Ward?
I thought Rolex cases were made in Switzerland
@@oscarosullivan4513 That's what they want eveeyone to think
Right on point. I remember way back 2013 when I walked in to the authorized Rolex AD and was offered a Sub date. Really want it but with no extra disposable income I had second thoughts. Finally got a Rolex SD 50th 5 years later at retail. Will never buy Rolex at the gray market. Would rather choose other brands at retail/discount.
You are spot on in this video. Agree 💯. Though I have a few Rolex, I have others including Breitling, IWC, Hamilton, Bangalore Watch Company, etc. In fact, one of my favorites is my Ulysse Nardin dual time limited edition watch. Love your talks. Glad you are back. Cheers from Dallas!
speaking about subs this was one sub that I didn't have to think twice about. Looking forward to future videos.
I can’t agree with you more James. I bought my first Rolex in 2004 (a white dial Explorer 2) that had been with the AD for 2 years and they gave me a discount and a “thank God he bought it” as I walked out of the door. But the market has changed for the worse. Normal buyers trying to break into certain brands have no chance unless they have loads of disposable income. Real collectors have been priced out. But it is not just Rolex, it is AP and Patek etc. That said, there are some great brands out there that we can all enjoy, we just need to look wider
Love this video. So very true. I have had Omega’s for many years and had a 34mm vintage manual wind Tudor since university. Also owned many a Seiko etc and have G-Shock square.
You are spot on, and I think more and more people are getting fed up with the whole silly AD games. Like you, I have had several steel Rolex models over the years and now I only have the one - the 16570 Explorer II polar dial which is in amongst a collection ranging from Christopher Ward to Tudor to Breitling. I've definitely become jaded by the Rolex/RUclips thing. Keep up the great content. Regards John
I'm in this hobby because I buy what appeals to me, whether it be a Doxa 300, Lorus Ana-digi, or a Seiko. I'm certainly not in the position (or mindset) to spent thousands upon thousands of dollars on a wristwatch, and I certainly wouldn't do it for speculation purposes if I did. I buy stocks, which is bad enough. 😆
I'm very new to the hobby. I consider myself a purist, most of my watches are fairly inexpensive watches. I have some heirloom pieces that I could never part with due to sentimental reasons. Most of my watches are 300 to 500 range. Some vintage pieces that I adore but they are relatively cheap. I love them just the same as some people love their Rollies. Maybe one day I'll own a Roller, Omega, Sinn, if not I'm still happy for what I have. Most people don't have my tastes in watches.
I don't remember the Batman being idle at the AD's... the SS craze began before the release of the Batman... I remember the discount days as well, bought my first Rolex in 1988, and again in 1994... I think with the wealth in Asia now and world wide demand, we're not going to see these watches sitting at the AD for some time... if ever.
James you're spot on. However as somebody who's only been into the hobby for 3 years, I've never owned a Rolex and after trying several, I'm still very drawn to the classic 36mm size Oyster Perpetual... I have owned the 1861 Speedy and Aqua Terra (first gen Black), a seiko turtle and Hamilton Khaki field 38mm... I've sold everything, lost some money but it was worth it for the experience.... I'm looking for one versatile watch to wear daily in every scenario and to me, a collection of G shock square for all the really outdoorsy stuff and one OP for everything else will be fantastic. Really hate the Rolex game and all those flippers and investors. I will keep my OP. It will never see the inside of a safe and it really is annoying how hard I'll have to try to get one... but that's totally my choice based on loving the watch, not the hype ... end of the day its first World problems. We don't really need a watch the g shock does everything and more ... great vid matey
I have a Casio AE-1000 and lume mod Vostok Amphibia 710379. Love your collecting ethos
I agree, most “Preferred” customers are flippers with contacts within grey market, so many 2021/ 22 unworn pieces for sale on these new-ish grey market dealers who are possibly the preferred customers in several AD’s
Thanks for your objective PoV! You ‘tubed my thoughts fairly. Horological love…my first watch I thought was momentous and the gradual movement in appreciation. Thanks man!
Thanks James. you always make and talk sense I got so fcuked off with ac3 not watch him for over a year is he still shouting like a mad man as always xx from London
How well put!! I listened carefully and I agree. The hypothetical point to just put aside Rolex and all that comes with it these days-and make the hobby a happier place for us watch enthusiasts- SO true!
My AD offered me in 2016 to buy both the ceramic and pre-ceramic at retail and I turned my back as I always saw it small on my rest size then the readability and the locked chronograph buttons , do I regret it ? From a market price now and the ability to make a profit sure yes , did I grow to like it surprisingly yes too , so looks like the hype got me .
I couldn’t agree more. I have 1 Patek and 3 Rolex timepieces. I also have about 4 Invictas. I purchase what I love and calls to me. I believe investors are taking the fun out of the hobby.
not seen your vids before but i have now subscribed, nice to hear someone talking common sense!
I think that you have given an accurate assessment of the watch collection hobby, or hype, to some people. Like yourself, I love Hamilton, Certina, my beautiful grail....the SMP and some Seikos, including my prized, original one owner, (me) Cpt. Willard. I even enjoy some lovely quartz pieces such as Tissot and Hamiltons. The history is also an important factor in my choices. Thank you for a wonderful, truthful and entertaining assessment of our addiction. 👍😀
I really got into watches about 6-7 years ago and I have definitely noticed a drastic change. I too remember Explorer IIs in windows, I remember a second hand Submariner available in a window for £7,000. I'm thankful that I've never really felt drawn to Rolex. So I stick with my TAG Heuer collection, mostly 90s/00s.
The likes of Austin Daniels are sound. Buying Rolex for the love of the watches
Good info thanks. New to this hobby. You’ve gained a subscriber 👍🏻
Most You Tubers, or self-acclaimed watch celebrities, talk about one thing and one thing only - INVESTMENT WATCHES... and the content becomes more and more repetitive. Hence I do appreciate content like yours, or for what matters, some proper watch reviews, e.g. from Bark & Jack or The Watch Guys. This is enjoyable content for real hobby collector. Thank you James.
Bang on the money mate, sad that they’ve become stocks n shares to high rollers.
I’d like to hear your thoughts on the blancpain fifty fathom collection. It would be great if you did a video on them. 👍
Every collector, enthusiast and RUclipsr needs to see this! I'm one of your guys and will be reaching out in the near future! Welcome back!
30 years ago, I walked into an AD in Zurich and walked out with a Sub. It was a shock when I tried to upgrade to the current Sub at an AD recently. Upgraded to a Superocean instead and am very satisfied.
Do you still have your original sub
@@oscarosullivan4513 Still keeping it for sentimental reasons. Perfectly fine watch even today, actually.
@@tarjazz1 Glad to hear. Personally pre ceramic subs look nicer
FINALLY!! i was beginning to think that I was the only one that thought this, spot on.keep up the good content
You nailed it, and that's why I subscribe to your channel.
I have a small collection, of Rolex, Omega, IWC, Hamilton, Casio...and I love this hobby to the core.
I'm sick to death of the hype.
I hope to see interesting talks like this one.
Thanks
Hi Jim. Found this video and decided to subscribe. You talk complete sense. I can afford to go grey and get my favourite Rolex ( like you Explorer 1). But won't. I would rather buy, as I did my last watch in Nov 2021. An Omega Seamaster AT. White dial 41mm on the rubber strap with the Orange accents. It's frankly stunning. The 8900 movement has to be about the best out there IMO.
I wear it daily, and its dressey and sporty all in one. In 2.5 months it's running +2 seconds.... Overall!!!
I am considering. Cartier Santos mid next. I love the style. But I know the movement although in house isn't going to do what the 8900 does for me. But it's a class watch IMO with great history etc.
Anyhow. I like your style. Seem in it for the right reasons, and unlike for example Paul Thorpe. Don't just see every watch with a doller value attached.
Good on you mate, and be interested how you see the Santos?
You really hit the nail on the head with every point. Great video!
Spot on 👌
Superb video, buddy. I suggest that all of us who consider ourselves enthusiasts need to do our part, and flat out refuse to give any financial advice to these investors, because all we’re doing is giving free advice to people who don’t care about the hobby, nor care if they price all of us out of it.
Tim Mosso said, why would you pay £20,000 for a Submariner when you for that money you could buy a Vacheron? He has a good point. I guess 'investors' who don't actually care about the watch they are buying see it that way...
Wish I could like this video more than once. You earned a subscriber today.
Totally agree with your train of thought, i would definitely come in the lower tier of collector's seikos, orient, etc when i was younger i aspired to one day owning a rolex now i can honesly say given unlimited funds if i was looking for a nice sports watch it would be omega all day long, ive stopped buying lower end watches now in the hope of getting a ( for me) grail watch in the 1k to 1.5k range. Watches like every other consumer product are subject to the law of diminishing returns , and i couldnt see me going above this amount.
I really wish more RUclipsrs were talking about this topic. I've become so jaded with watches. I own two watches now: a G-Shock and a Speedy Pro. What more do I need?
Fantastic video. Agreed with the sentiment and I appreciate the deep dive into this topic, which is important to all of us who have collected for 10+ years
Bought watches that I like that I can afford. The fact they are also gaining value is great but not the motivator. I don’t see them as investments, it’s just a bonus that they aren’t depreciating (yet!)
It's freaky how each point you've made is exactly what I've been thinking for some time now. The only difference is you have been in the hobby a lot longer than I, I never experienced Rolex watches being sold in the window there and then. I think another factor is the world of Instagram, the so called flexing.
This goes on with other hobbies as well, Gibson Les Pauls recently and in the 90's it was Harley-Davidson. Hopefully it comes back to reality. It's nothing new, it's just the watch hobby's turn.
Excellent Video. Totally agree with you Showcase.
I couldn’t agree more, I’ve not get excited about Rolex for nearly two years, how can you if you can’t get one at retail. I remember the days you say, buying my first Submariner in 2012 where every model was available from the AD apart from a steel Daytona. Even these were only selling used for a couple £100 more than list.
Good to see you back online man
You really nailed it with this comment. It’s sad how everything evolved. But seriously, the watch market is just a reflection of the entire market. Prices are ridiculous for many goods. People are having the fear of missing out and it’s fed by the volatility of other markets. Too much money on the accounts of few... that’s why a dream watch (for example a simple 5513) costs 20k euros instead of a healthy 4 or 5k. ...but I guess that’s how the economy works. It sometimes blows things out of proportion. Buy an old IWC and keep it forever:).
I started also early, but this year I got rid of those that have an incredible price tAk. Sold hulk, AP.RY …. (never wear them anywAy) This prices can’t stay. I only kept 5 watches. And I actually bought a breitling b09. So I kept the jaeger moon in gold for occasions n 3 Rolex
I totally agree with your points. I went into AD and they had no interest in putting me on the “list”. The AD did try to offer me a refurbished submariner for $25,000. These AD’s have no interests with the list given they are selling these into the grey market. Consumer loses either way. This brand has lost my loyalty. Bad branding in my opinion
A very honest view of what is going on. all the best.
I really wish that Rolex was not so hyped up. That way it would be easier for me to add another one to my collection. I picked up a Submariner a few months ago. I also have an Omega SMP300 incoming. I am looking forward to spending time with both of them.
For me it is just staring to die, i was watching the last episode of CRM jewelry, and on the same day they was asking for a submariner date $19500 , and was offering to a client $10000 for the same model , $9k profit wich is insane
The best rambling I have heard for a long time👍👍👍at last somebody who isn’t obsessed with Rolex. Looking forward to your next vid
Great insight. You are totally on point.
I started the hobby fairly recently. I am definitely in it for the love of the watches. I refuse to pay stupid money for a Rolex on the gray market. If things normalize and I manage to find one at an AD, sure I’ll get it if I’m able. But until then I am quite content with what I have. And there are so many great watches by other brands besides Rolex. Like that Seamaster 300M you are wearing. I have the same one and it is fantastic.
Many hobbies have gotten ruined for me by those that choose to try to profit off of something.
And regarding RUclipsrs, there are some that I like and have good information. But sometimes you have to take their information with a grain of salt.
Keep up the good work! Cheers!
When both the guys who are selling and the guys who are buying high-end watches have to look over their shoulders literally 24-7 for fear of violent criminals....maybe it's time to move on from this hobby?🙁 I'm really starting to ask myself this... I mean, why make yourself a great big target? Paul was saying recently about Rolex (allegedly) being better to buy than property; well I guess low rent thugs can't turn up at 3am and steal a house from you, can they? So there's that...
One more thing, about how I view the hobby:
You CAN buy a cheap watch, and come home with a real POS. But you can buy an expensive watch, and also come home with a dog.
On the other hand, you can buy an expensive watch that is worth what you paid, AND you can find some real gems down in the inexpensive segment. And my friends...
...THAT is the "sport" of this hobby. I have expensive watches and cheap watches, but ALL of my watches are nice. You have to do the homework. You have to do the reading. You have to look deep into what is being offered, and not let the price set your perception of value. DOING all of that is what makes this fun!!
Just today I looked at the winder that houses my two Rolex, while watching this video. Then I went in the other room and opted for my $150 Steel Dive Subby. I love this watch! All day when I wear it, it reminds me of a day that I WON in the hobby, by finding something OUTstanding that was being offered for next to nothing.
Like I say: This is FUN! Enjoy the hunt! If you are doing it to impress people, that won't be fun for you. In that case, find another hobby.
Totally agree about the super chat thing. I watch some really good streams, where the talk gets genuinely interesting, and then has to stop for a 1.99 question about what the panel think of something off topic! So frustrating.
I watch Marc from Long Island Watch and his Watch chats
I found a datejust TT for $49 at a local pawnshop, I sold for $2k, Rolex doesn't establish market value on their watches,if you can't get one then it is what it is. I've been collection for over 30 years and I have no complaints against Rolex because the gray market is going crazy with pricing. Rolex was there 30 years ago and it will continue to be there regardless of popularity or aftermarket pricing.
Hi pal
I 💯percent agree
Because to it’s not just about Rolex
Firstly I ❤️a watch for what it is
Now that’s my hart talking
Once I feel it I’m locked in
Love your show an keep up the great works an welcome back😎
Don’t feel sorry for those recently finding the watch hobby. There are great watches readily available from a much wider range of manufacturers than any other time in recent history. One effect of the exposure/hype/price increase (on a relative handful of pieces) is an increase in competition. Ignore the hype pieces, dive in, and enjoy the hobby 👍
Great video 👍🏼 . A lot of good observations and comments. I’m also not a fan of the rise of live stream with superchats etc .
Spot on James. I have the same Omega as you, but with the blue rubber strap. I think it’s a far better watch than the Sub. More comfortable to wear and certainly easier to read whilst diving in the Red Sea.
I do follow TGV, whom I find to be a gentleman, with a wide taste of watches, much like yourself. However, I find Archie to be annoying and the opposite spectrum to TGV.
Paul Thorpe gives some useful information, but I’m suspicious of a few of his trusted dealers and their motives.
A very good appraisal of the Watch situation. Well done.
It's all fun to me, including watching how other people view the world.
I am retired. The Department of Veteran's Affairs saw fit to give me FULL retirement at age 50. That's when I picked up the hobby, 18 months ago when I was 50 and freshly retired.
Sure, I own a couple of Rolex. I used my credit cards and paid for them over time. But the purpose is to wear them and enjoy them. I also own a couple of Pagani design cheapos because they are masterfully spec'd out and really nice watches that one can add to his collection for pocket change. I also own very cheap Vostoks...because I appreciate the engineering that goes into them.
Price is not what attracts me. Of them all, my HONEST favorites are my 600-800 dollar Hamiltons. I won't write a long paragraph about the "why's," it just is.
Man, I am a retired Veteran. Here at age 52, I have already impressed everyone I saw a need to impress in this life. Everyone else can see me on a day when I am wearing a $100 watch I like, and think what they want. If they happen to see me on a day when I am wearing a Rollie...it isn't going to make any difference. I won't care what anyone else thinks either way, so let them think whatever they want.
My point: Enjoy the hobby for YOU! If you are doing it for anyone else, it will not be fun for you.
***PS: I bought both of my Rolex on the Grey market. Absolutely NO ONE is going to treat me like they are doing me a favor, when I am trying to spend 10 grand or more. Hell, I am not going to be spoken to that way when I am spending $10.00. Rolex AD's can kiss my Navy Blue balls. There is a way around them, and I use it!
Outstanding. You are spot on.
I've always liked watches - but really ramped up a couple- few years ago, and covid / you tube added to it for me . lucky to have purchased a few rolex models from a few AD's. I wear the rolex I purchased. I never knew the time when there were many models in shops to choose. if covid didn't happen , and we were not all kept inside, would this all have happened ? - good video . ~ JDS/CT
Most important is to enjoy the watch journey
Dude you hit the nail right on the head.
I wonder if the Luxury Bizarre Tay Ban lawsuit will rock the grey market?
These grey dealers hold the market prices in their hands…
I guess ur right the rolex hype is going all bad… whats u recommendation between the blackbay 41 burgundy or blue seamater300 41 lollypop sec hand?!! Would love to know ur opinion
Finally someone saying what I have been thinking for a while, there seems to be an elitist group on RUclips just going around on each other’s channels and basically blowing smoke up each other’s holes whilst asking for people to send in donations.
Only if you are Rolex, AP and Patek obsessed. I'm quite happy with how my watch collection is progressing
Well said.
I already stop collection rolex and pp which are the only two brand I collect
If it comes, I will buy it at msrp
Otherwise I’m ok with not buying any watch
Hey James, You just mentioned every average and normal timepiece enthusiast and collectors thoughts and beliefs. We all couldn’t care less about the “Luxury Archiebalds” of the world buying their Rolex’s and Patel Philippe’s.
James, couldn't agree more. The last 2 years were pretty special. This situation has to cool down when things get back to normal again. If Rolex will become more available again depends a lot on Rolex themselves and how they deal with the AD issue. Good to have you back, keep up the good work!😎👍
Its modern day tulip mania
Nice video. I have a collection of 1960s black-dial sports pieces. Behind them it is not watches, but reaching for my childhood years and being able to feel it on my wrist, like a connection with the past, with very precious memories. The more patina and scratches, the better. That would be the 321s, the 5513s, the Seamaster300 or the Heuer Autavias. Bakelite, tritium, hesalyte. Watches made of aging materials - some call them "organic". Modern Rolex does not give that emotional connection that I seek, it is like a dead object. Other modern pieces also, even if technically they're far better engineered, but there's no magic in them, no life. None. Not in a modern Daytona, not in a RM, not in Nautilus. Dead metal. It is like comparing the city of Dubai - no history, no soul - and the awe you feel when you walk in the city of Venice.
Excellent commentary on the current state of play in the watch collecting game.
Thanks James!
Great points especially about the You Tubers a bit too full of themselves. I’d add one category of enthusiast however to your list. I am a collector -of all brands- that is infatuated by the beauty and mechanics of specific watches; but I also buy them to wear and enjoy for awhile then pass them on at a modest profit. I learned this about myself after buying my fifth grail!! Rotating 50% of the collection and using profits to buy a new grail is the only way I could afford to enjoy the hobby.
Rolex does own are part of the responsibility. They surely know what is going on. However, I believe social media (RUclips, Instagram, to a lesser degree Twitter) have created a hype machine that is so powerful that it is unlikely that the Average Joe will be able to buy a steel Rolex at MSRP within his lifetime. This is a bold statement, but I do not see things returning to pre-2010 levels. It would take something extraordinary for the watch-collecting community to lose enough interest in the brand for it to return to "normal". I can't think of any situation where that would happen. As always, another good video.
The hobby is NOT dying, and there is NO reason for it to die regardless what kind of approach some people decide to take. I have collected watches for 30 years, in the beginning it was mainly just an interest in watches and not so much the financial aspect, but of course it was always a desire to buy something that would keep value instead of buying something that would go down in value and in the end be worthless. Now the money aspect is even more at focus, but the passion has not died down one bit, it`s just that the financial aspect has grown. So no, passion has not died. I have always had more interest in vintage watches, this has not changed either. I got some very valuable watches, but the cheaper ones still gets my attention just as much. This week I bought a vintage Grand Seiko from Japan, price around £440, plus import duties, so not horrendous expensive, but the excitement I get when I open the parcel is just as high as if the watch was £5000 or £20.000, honestly. And who cares that someone is "only in it for the money"? Let them do what they want, and you can do what you want, everyone wins.