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Why I’m Done with Rolex in 2023
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- Опубликовано: 14 авг 2024
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This was a hard one to come to terms with! Rolex make some of the finest mechanical watches in the world and I have handled many that have made me a big fan. What I don't love is all the rubbish that surrounds this historical brand. What does Rolex mean to us in 2022? How do you view Rolex?
Here's my views and I'd love to know how you feel about Rolex in the comments below.
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I walked into my local Walmart and saw a G-Shock I wanted behind the glass. I pressed the call button and an attendant came over. I showed her the watch I wanted so she opened the case and retrieved it for me. I tried it on and it felt and looked great so, I told her I'd like to purchase it. She rang me out and I was on my way with a new G-Shock. No waiting list, no being laughed at, no being told I have to buy something else, just a simple transaction for a great watch that will keep better time than a Rolex anyway.
Love it!
Real watch enthusiasts have a G shock in their collection 💪
I did it yesterday with G-Shock. Just went to the store. Love it and got it
I have noticed that the Rolex bashing comes often from frustrated people who cannot get any of their watches. I understand that and I personally get frustrated as well time to time in that matter but it doesn’t take away the fact that Rolex is an incredible brand victim of its success. But when I succeed to purchase my watch, what a thrill. With this attitude we could be bashing about tons of other brands in any categories of goods. Your transaction went just as it goes with about everything that has no special values in the eyes of the most. When I go to a store to buy a pair of shoes, I just walk in and walk out with it as well. But if I’m interested of a very popular model and brand, things can get more complicated . Your Casio is a good watch but has no value whatsoever other than being a good affordable watch. We cannot compare luxury products with basic ones. Buying the latest Ferrari vs a Toyota makes the buying process totally different according of the one your getting . When you buy a Rolex, you don’t buy just a watch , you buy a legendary luxurious exceptional brand that not anyone can get. Either you like the idea and accept the rules or you don’t and limit yourself with affordable Japanese watches. I personally made my choice. I have to precise that I personally never experienced a situation in a Rolex store as described in this video. I always dale with friendly and professional salesmen.
@@SuperBechtiI don’t think it’s anything to do with luxury. There are many things that would be classed as luxury and are made in much smaller numbers but the company or person making them treat you as a valued customer and don’t make you jump through hoops to get their products.
Granted you may have to wait to get the item, especially if they are a single craftsman but even then it’s often less of a wait.
100% agreed. A few years ago I had saved for a Rolex GMT Batman as my first “nice” watch. Went to a dealer and had a terrible experience basically being told that I can be on a three year waiting list. Because of that I looked for and discovered other options including Grand Seiko. Fast forward to now and seven Grand Seikos later, no need or want for a Rolex. I guess I can thank that experience for turning me into a fan of other brands.
Exactly the same for me. I bought the wife a Rolex for her birthday almost a decade ago. A few years ago I thought I'd like to get a GMT for myself, but then discovered the complete lack of inventory for men's watches, and the AD games like MWC talks about in the video. I now have four Grand Seikos, and they are stunning. I was treated professionally at the GS boutique, and the brand has a customer for life. I refuse to play the Rolex You're-Not-Worthy-Yet game when it comes to purchasing a timepiece.
You forgot to mention (as Paul Thorpe explained) that Rolex doesn't share the stolen watch registry and KEEPS stolen watches instead of giving it back to original owners.
Wow, I always thought that from being a luxury brand, they would. That's real kick in the balls.
Ridiculous. If you consider that say something like the helium escape valve has been designed by Rolex to protect your watch that they would similarly design a relatively simple corporate process to protect your watch and investment by means of theft recovery by using a distributed registry.
I don't think this is legal in the United States. If an owner can provide payment documentation a pretty simple court filing would compel them to return the property.
@@porscheoscar You may be right, but if the original owner doesn't know that Rolex recovered their watch, how can they go about getting it back? The thing is, have we ever heard of Rolex giving a watch back? I think the stolen watch registry should be available to ADs or the public. In the end, this f'd up choices still don't hurt Rolex enough for them to change.
@@davehan241 your lawyer would need contact Rolex with the documentation with a request that if the number enters their databases that the attorney be notified. The lawyer would send a follow up a year later. Squeaky wheel gets the grease. A watch owner without a lawyer is as silent to Rolex.
Bizzare. I saw a sub date in the window of an AD in 2011. I walked in. Asked to try it on and bought it. Never been in that shop before or since. That seems unheard of now. I had always associated the brand with James Bond, my dad's richer friends and his desire to have one (although he never did) so always held them in esteem, so that's why I decided to treat my I that day. A couple of years ago I fancied another, the GMT II pepsi in steel. I asked in another AD and got laughed at. My desire for them disappeared at that moment...
They will miss us real fans when a new generation doesn't care about non smart watches and they start to sell less.
Saw a guy with a meteorite dial Daytona, 16519LN, last month. I noticed it and I gave him a compliment, I wanted to see how long he waited to get it. Upon closer inspection, the date wasn't set, the time wasn't set, and it wore more like a bracelet, than a watch. He simply said "Too be honest, I don't know much about it, I just wear it for the drip." I was flabbergasted. Rolex attracts some interesting folk for sure.
What's "the drip"?
There is no date on a Daytona!!
@@dommerdom Apparently it's the term that replaced, "swag" among the youth of today.
@@stevenwebb9861 true! My bad
@@richardsmegma5081 😄 yes, Pagani Design!
Strongly agree with you. I had been to a Rolex AD in Mumbai India. I had just one watch (GMT ll) on my mind for almost 5 yrs. I was saving it for around 3yrs. When I entered the AD they didn't even ask me which watch I was looking for they just told me to go to next counter where they had airking and milgauss. I told them that I wasn't there for those but they said that I need to qualify before I buy a renowned model. I showed them my omega which was gifted to me by my dad and told that I do have the funds and I'll write a check still they told me to buy an airking. I just turned my back on them and left out of the AD. After 2 months I did some digging and bought myself a JLC Master control. Even tough it's not an eye catcher watch like a gmt 2 but still I like that machine.
I loved my Zaratsu polished Grand Seiko when it wax scratch free. The first scratch was easy to deal with, I’d christened the watch. The next few scratches were harder to accept as I was loosing that perfect Zaratsu polish. Now the watch is covered in micro-scratches and I love it even more. Each scratch represents a moment of joy on my wrist.
I wonder how many “moments of joy” did you really experience shouting out 4-letter words every time you’d bang your watch against the door frame…
@@wristroll_vlad knocking door frames doesn’t bother me in terms of scratches and dings. It’s putting my keys in the wrong pocket and needlessly scratching my watches as a result that bothers me most.
i never understood this, i don't want scratches on anything i own and spent money on. my house, my car, my shoes, clothes and my 10k watch. i think this is something people tell themselves to feel better about it.
@@DC-si8xw the watch will get scratched up whether I like it or not. I don’t go out of my way to scratch it up though am also ok when it happens. I refuse to let a few scratches diminish my enjoyment of the watch.
Yes, the zarats polishing is much better then what the swiss shitters have to offer.
One word - Omega.
Coaxial movement is da bomb! Arguably a better movement used in iconic watches.
Oh 100% on that my friend!
My Omegas avg +1 sec per week max, absolutely outstanding
Bravo Russ ! Honest, fair and to the point. This is becoming pervasive through the watch community, I wonder if Rolex are listening or ever will listen ?
One day! But its not us they are bothered about Dale :[
No, Rolex won't listen.
@@jeeperspeepers8323 100%
Rolex have more money than God & could sell 10 times more watches than they can make I'm shure they don't listen to people who complain about them .
how many humans does it take to build a rolex? how many answer the phone. how many designer for the next pink left hand models 🤔 don't upset the sellers,
they suck. old and cold they sell cob webs worst than spiders. grow up. like old moss and weeds
For those who really like the Rolex look, there are countless lookalikes in all kinds of qualities and price ranges...but even the most expensive are a fraction of the cost of a Rolex...and can actually be bought without games. After all of this if you must have a Rolex, then the name is all that really matters to you.
I was at a Rolex AD recently in Pittsburgh and they were really great, said they had no problem putting me on a list and would not expect me to buy anything I didnt want to to qualify. Then in my home town near Chicago, my closest RolexAD were terrific. I actually went in to see if they had a Tudor Pelagos, they showed me the new Ranger, and they were as excited about the watches as I was. Both dealers were terrific. I'm not really a Rolex fan, the explorer would be the only one I'd be interested in really. But recently I've been changing my mind about Tudor, ohh that Pelagos 39mm! Agree with almost everything you said however, plenty of superb watches to be had that are not Rolex and no one is trying to cut your wrist off for those.
100% Victor! Thanks for watching!
I have a Rolex sub! I don’t wear it anymore. There so Chav now. I have a Seiko Sla037 now! I am very happy with the look and feel! Seiko and Grand Seiko are the future. For me!!
Gilmour! Think you could be right!
I think this is my fav video of yours. You're so right that a watch is something to be appreciated and enjoyed, instead of being a status symbol or an investment. Keep up the great work.
Your AD laughing is spot on! Finally, someone that understands what is going on.... I was told I need to buy jewellery before I can "qualify" to buy a Rolex. That pissed me off real bad! Love your video
Eric it’s unbelievable isn’t it!! Rolex know this goes on!!! It’s crazy
Seriously?!? Wtf .. outrageous!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR yes, especially that first you have to qualify yourself for a Rolex, spending 15000$ (yes I live in Canada where everything is 30% more expensive with the exchange rate) on a watch is already a financial challenge that doesn't make any sense at all and then you need to pre-qualify for a Rolex? Give me a break!
I was told by an AD that I considered switching to after my previous AD all but laughed at me, that for Rolex they’re only working with existing customers and that if I bought other things, I might get on a list. My initial thought was to look for another AD, but as they also sell JLC and a Reverso is on my list, I may get this from them at some stage. If they offer me a Rolex, I’ll decide at the time. I’m only interested in a yacht master anyway but can live perfectly well without one. Rolex, as a brand, means little to me anymore. They’re just another brand. I pushed the button on a Grand Seiko yesterday.
We do not live in the old Soviet Union when there were constant shortages, long lines for stuff and waiting lists. In fact we are drowning in items to sell us. But, certain brands have convinced many folks with artificial shortages that somehow they are "special". Be smart and do not play their games.
Not knowing the reference number? Not knowing when Rolex was established? What does that have to do with enjoying your watch? I got my submariner over 3 years ago because a friend had his submariner for like 20 years and he said it has been super reliable and still makes him happy for his purchase. So I got mine to wear it daily and I do. I’m a maintenance technician for large equipment. My watch definitely looks like I wear it every day. I don’t really bother myself with a reference number or when Rolex was founded is all I know is I’m quite darn happy with my watch. The rest of that stuff is trivial…
I am with you on that. I own a few watches, including the apparent dreaded Rolex brand, love them but couldn’t tell you any of the technical specs 😂
@@TenaciousGeebs thank you! Before I got my submariner I had a GShock, loved it, but I wanted something mechanical, so I got a seiko skx and that was not very accurate, it was also very susceptible to magnetic fields so it would be off by minutes a month, I even bought a demagnetizer because sometimes equipment I work with generates magnetic fields so I had to demagnetize my seiko a lot, well accuracy is important to me since we have to punch in and out on time at my work so I was always fiddling with the skx to get it really close. Well, a friend told me about how accurate his submariner was and that it was always within a minute a month. So I went on the pursuit to get one and got one. It’s been pretty great so far. I haven’t had to demagnetize it once and it’s still within its minute a month tolerance.
Thank you for watching my friend! It was a little tongue in cheek my friend just emphasising the fact that a lot of people I have chatted to in the last couple of years think of Rolex only as a value. These watches are amazing machines.
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR you replied! I understand where you were coming from in the video. I did watch your whole video and I understand where you were coming from I’ve come across people who have seen my submariner and the first thing they think about is money or flipping it they ask, how can you wear that every day? Aren’t you afraid of devaluing it? Scratching it? I tell them, this watch will be on my wrist forever. I have no want to sell it. So it’s priceless, I don’t even think of the cost of it anymore, to begin with it was a little scary but the first couple of scratches out of the way I haven’t worried about it at all. Keep making vids! I just wanted to contribute to the conversation.
@@alexsystems2001 I honestly look at it as a very good watch . It needs to be worn imo
I sold my last Rolex not long ago and have zero regrets.
Hahahaha love it!
Regrets will come sooner that you think
@@SuperBechti its a watch not a house man. I have better watches.
@@elefantrising I do have a nice collection of watches that I build for quite a few years now. Only prestigious brands such as AP, Blancpain, IWC, Zenith, Panerai and, of course, Rolex. 20 years ago I started to feel that my Rolex watches were not so special any longer and sold the two I owned (Submariner and GMT Master ). Today I feel totally different about Rolex and bought a few models to fill up the void. Not being able to get a Rolex as you wish, when you wish makes the product even more attractive to me. More people can afford the price of a Rolex than an AP or a Pateck and that’s why no one is bashing those two brands that are even more difficult to get than Rolex, because too expensive. Pretending that Rolex is bad brand because they are hard to get and ADs are taking advantage of the situation is ridiculous considering the history of the brand and the quality of their products. All the comments that are bashing Rolex come from who are very frustrated about not being able to get one while having the cash for it. That’s all there is.
@@SuperBechti I never said they are bad watches they are great just not there any more in my case. I have more expensive watches and less expensive watches I do not need to own a brand that I do not align with as a consumer. I used to be able to buy one no problem and now flippers buy them more so then folks that are into watches. I support brands that want me as a customer as opposed to a brand that cares very little for the end user, the older I have gotten the more I realize you have to earn my money not the other way around.
Superb and honest view, especially considering you own one. Fed up of rolex, watch snobs and those just bothered about value. Buy a watch you like and wear it.
Cheers Ryan!!!
Buying a vintage Rolex is a much more enjoyable experience than buying a new one. The only problem is that reliability can be a issue and so can price. Rolex is cool but I honestly don’t have a desire to own one.
I do agree with you. My first thought when I see a Rolex is “is it real??”
The watches are fantastic pieces of the finest craftsmanship, however I would find it hard to justify the asking price. I prefer Omega in terms of design and watches, even though the price are skyrocketed there as well.
Also, I wouldn’t particularly feel safe wearing one at the moment
I am shocked at Rolex. They are playing a dangerous game, because in any company the customer is king.
Your not a 'mad' collector -but a very sane one!.
Great vid m8 !
Thanks for watching my friend! Absolutely agree!
A great video as always Russ, with humour and honestly, perfectly summing up the feelings that many have about Rolex today. They make excellent watches but both the AD experience and brand nonsense put me off buying any more, five years ago. I'm actually grateful, as I have experienced the joy of Omega, Zenith, Longines and countless micro brands, instead. I recently retired and would have bought a Rolex to celebrate but bought a Fifty Fathoms instead, which few people outside of the watch obsession will recognise, which suits me just fine. Rolex of course don't care but one day they may just regret the way they have gone.
Spot on with every word here, Russ. A Datejust and Cellini recently were within my reach but Rolex has left such a bad taste in my mouth that I decided to pass on getting my once dreamed of grails. Like you I admire the watches very much, but the brand has lost it's appeal to me.
Cheers Chris! Its a shame!
I've never heard of someone wanting a Cellini before. I always assumed that was the watch they forced you to buy before they'd sell you a Sub.
Your "once dreamed of grail watch" was a Cellini!
Yep….I wear ALL my watches. I don’t care what they “sell for” or how much they go up or down in price. There is only one Rolex I like, and my first contact with a Rolex AD gave me all the information I needed. I’ll never own that Rolex because I’m not into “the game”. If Rolex doesnt want my money, I’m sure Tudor, Omega, and Longines will… 😂 Great video. It needed to be said and you said it well.
This video was so refreshing to see. Every bit true, and I feel the same way.. every time I get together the money for a watch and even think about getting a Rolex, I’m reminded of all the BS I’ll go through to buy one at retail and I go get something else. There are so many other brands out there that make great watches, but don’t have the nonsense hoops. If I spend thousands on a watch with a dealer, I want to feel respected and I want to feel like I can trust the people I’m doing business with.. but I don’t feel that way with Rolex.
This is a great summary of the problem with the company as a whole and their false scarcity model of marketing that is literally creating life threatening situations all over the world. That’s why I am an Omega guy. I love Rolex designs but the first time I went to buy a new one here in NY I saw that I would have to play the game. I said fuck that and took my money to Omega! I will wear a well made homage of their designs but I won’t play their game. There are two many companies making great luxury watches without the bullshit! Extremely well done brother
Always happy you watch a show my friend!! I need to get into Omega now I feel!
I love Omega too 💪
I just finished purchasing my 4th omega. I have 2 Speed Masters, an Aqua Terra, and a Planet Ocean GMT. Each watch has its own character to it, I may splurge for a Grande Seiko in the future, but at this moment I feel my collection is complete.
Rolex has built an empire with a quite unfair commercial policy. The watches are really good, but the price is ridiculous compared to the specs and the lengths you have to go to be "granted" one piece are absurd. It is madness
I believe Rolex makes some great pieces but I refuse to pay over retail or go on a waiting list especially if I have to purchase other items I don’t want. In my eyes, the customers /consumers are the ones to blame for this trend going on with Rolex A.D.’s. We are allowing them to do it when in reality we are the ones with the power to stop it. They need our money but the consumer allows them to dictate how they have to spend their hard earned money to get a piece they want. Not this guy. I can do without. There are many other brands to enjoy that won’t brake the bank or have the A.D.’s tell you how to spend YOUR own money. Stop giving them that power. Great video.
I am certainly enjoying buying other watch brands after dropping the hope and pursuit of getting a Rolex. Would I still like to buy and own one? Yes. But, I kept seeing other watches that I wanted to wear, so pulled the trigger and am much happier. Not sure how I got hung up on trying to get something that was exclusive, but I'm now reminded how much fun watches are and the joy you get out of them, no matter the price.
I have done the same. Rolex may have the largest market share, but they do not own the market. Once people discover other fine, affordable, and available brands, they realize that Rolex will have to do much better to earn new customers once demand does cool.
I got into watches pretty recently, and was surprised to see the Rolex case completely empty at my one local retailer. As far as I'm concerned, Rolex has made themselves irrelevant. But I did buy a Tudor, and am strongly considering an Omega right now (that I can actually buy new).
Go Omega , you won't regret it !
Omega is in my sights that's for sure!!!!!
You won't go wrong with Omega. The wife bought me a Seamaster Chronograph for my 50th. Absolutely love it 😀
Question for you, did you go to a buy a Tudor because of its association with Rolex? Or were you looking at them anyway?
@@azangana1973 The Black Bay 58 just had the perfect vintage vibes and sizing I was looking for. I liked it better than the Submariner and it cost way less. But the connection to Rolex was also a bonus at the time.
Not to mention how blingy modern Rolex looks. Rolex is a company that now produces homage Rolex watches.
Just met a guy on a cruise- and when I complimented his subby, he told me he only wears it on cruises. Said he otherwise keeps it in a safe-deposite box, and that he's petrified of it getting stolen. At that point (and at the prices) it's just not worth wearing/owning. "Exclusivity" from pricetag I just don't understand- even now that Seiko is trying to drive itself up-market. Once you cross the common-sense value proposition, it no longer makes sense to own one.
MWC captured the thoughts & frustrations of many Rolex potential buyers with keen sense of humor in 10 minutes. Your wife's comments was pretty spot on.
Cheers Danny!!!
Had a similar thought myself recently. Great video! Still have my explorer like yourself, but getting so fed up with Rolex I just sold my submariner. I realized I was keeping a really nice but kinda boring watch that I hardly ever wore because you can’t get it, and “you’d be crazy to get rid of it.” Now, for the aftermarket sales price of one submariner, my collection includes a JLC Polaris and JLC master geographic. Wearing them more, arguably better watches, and they don’t attract the negative attention. Always wanted to add the explorer 2 to the collection, but really don’t think I can justify that price increase. Amazing watches, but for all the reasons you said, can’t be ars*d anymore. Still though, that explorer 39mm isn’t going anywhere……
JLC is a much better watch. It's the watch makers watch. Rolex is a load of hype. I have owned many Rolex watches not any more all gone. Christopher Ward all the way now.
I took a president for service to the local AD that my father gave me, it hadn't been used in 40 years and they refused to service it because it had been opened previously by a non official AD... I'm done with Rolex!
To be honest, Rolex isn't worth the money. Look at Grand Seiko - Build quality is superior to Rolex. Rolex went through a hype which is now coming to an end.
Worth is very subjective my friend!:] If I had the money to buy one, Id get one y'know! They are that good imo. However the sh[t around the brand is not worth it anymore
It's sad that this is bound to happen, no matter how savvy some consumers get... I have just started getting interest in watches because of this channel (and some others too), I got an Casio A158W at first, then gave it to mom and got myself an AE1200, aka the Casio Royale, and found a little vintage Technos while going around my city. I'm definitely too poor to even think of buying a 3-digit price tag without planning, let alone a 4 or 5-digit price luxury watch, but I do understand that the reason why they (usually) are priced is because of the superb attention to details, may it be construction, accuracy, design or durability. I do understand the appeal of it, and I have no problem with it.
But I don't fancy it much when any brand starts capitalizing that they are pricey or they are exclusive just because of branding. I do understand when there's not much of something because it is cost/time demanding, so it needs a waiting list, but when brands like Rolex dive into the practices of manipulating the market to keep the demand astronomical - common in other luxury fashion brands, like Supreme, Gucci or what it reminds you of - just because it is seen as "the rich folk's" thing.
And I know Rolex pretty much knows what they are doing, because even though some of the top models might be time consuming to produce, the amount of money they profit could be more than enough to raise their production, so it's not an excuse. And I remember jokingly saying, in a video from Ben's Watch Club of him exposing "fashion brands" like MVMT and Filippo Loreti, that I bought a watch because I will use it or I like it, not because I want to be a robbery magnet (as these brands usually put "getting compliments from people at the street" as their selling point, but in reality only someone trying to rob me would do such a gesture), so it's unfortunate it's a real thing happening to Rolex customers.
I remember a rapper here in Brazil where one of the songs says something like "My Casio turned into a Rolex", and as a happy Casio user, I am baffled on why a perfectly fine functional watch, or maybe the most useful and reliable digital model money can buy, be treated as a sign of poverty. If I buy a luxury watch, definitely it will be for special occasions, but the Casio is the beater for the daily activities, especially because of the great countdown timer and alarm functions on the go. As you said, each watch has a soul, and people treating it as a brand or something to shove into a safe doesn't give justice on what watches can be or are about.
Keep up the good work, you Mad Brit. Got me into the watch nerdness as well (even if just a little bit), but I love when you come up with unique or weird models for review ✌
Hey there, I have quite a few watches through a large price spectrum and one of my most favourite is a Casio G-Shock DW5600E which was less than £100 - if you haven't got one then I recommend checking one out, and they are NASA flight certified and were (don't know if still are) standard issue for trainee Astronauts, which not many people know, Who needs a Speedmaster?! You have to wear what makes you happy, not what makes other people happy. Enjoy your watch nerdiness :-) I've just looked and our friend the MWC has one on his Amazon shop if you find and click the link.
This is superb my friend! Little do they know but there Rolex that loses 30 seconds a month can be halved by the accuracy of a 10 pound Casio!!!
@@rr40v8 The speedmaster might be the only watch qualified for EVA.
Mikaeshin I have the AE-1000
A True story. I was sat in a large jewellers in the City of London when a young guy walks up to the assistant and says 'I want to buy a Rolex but I don't know anything about watches, can you show me a few?' A Rolex is a decent watch, but over-hyped and overpriced with a marketing and advertising spend which far exceeds any true value in the item itself. The watches are ok but the sales machine is both genius and grossly manipulative.
Cheers Mark! Having held and worn a fair few, these watches are bloody good;)
I bought my Rolex Explorer 2 at a local jewelry store in Florida ( 4 years ago ) while shopping with my wife for something she wanted. I really didn’t know much about Rolex but I like field style/ utilitarian watches and the Explorer really appealed to me. If I had to wait on it I would have never bought it. Long story short I love that watch and wear it way more than my others and on a second note… this store that we love and where we shop regularly, dropped Rolex because they felt they were a total pain in the back side. Now they carry Omega and Longines and I’ve since bought two more watches there that I walked out with on the day of my purchase. I’m not impatient but I don’t want to wait on something unnecessarily. Just not my thing.
Love you channel!
I couldn't agree more Russ!! And to be honest, Tudor offers more compelling designs and are just as good, if not better than what Rolex currently offers. I would take a new Tudor Sub or a BB58 each and every time over what Rolex currently offers!!! Cheers mate!!!
I'm so put off by rolex that I won't even consider their so-called sister company tudor. When I consider the crap surrounding rolex it makes me look at rolex owners as marks.
Well there's a slight irony there, because Tudor are owned by Rolex haha. It's somewhat odd they would put more effort into the designs of their 'baby' and 'cheaper' brand than their primary brand.
Who gives af about a tudor. Spend thousands on a watch and get zero status what a joke
@@jackmcneil6569 most of us don't need a watch or anything material to give us "status", so the joke is on you my friend. Cheers.
What do you say when people ask," is that a Rolex"?
Great show and point.
Very happy with an Omega, don't feel the need to support greedy ad.
It's not rediculous. It's luxury, never meant to be accessible for everybody. Like it or not, this is the reality. Rolex is not Seiko and I don't think they want to become one.
Yes your right my friend! A lot of people say Ferrari use the same selling tactics . However I will never be able to own a Ferrari . A Rolex is certainly reachable
I have owned the 39 mm Explorer but sold it. I now have a 16610 pre ceramic sub , it’s the very definition of the best of Rolex for me. Im on my way not a big fan of what Rolex has become but the earlier models before ceramic were fabulous and a daily driver. I have been driving mine since 1991 and it’s works perfectly at +1 per day with only one service over the whole period. One more thing; don’t wear your Rolex on a bracelet. I wear mine on a strap or a nato. It ha never been noticed in all the time I have had it. It’s the bracelet that attracts attention imho
The week before christmas'22, I decided heck I want a Seiko. But I didn't just want to order it online, check it off my list, and start wanting another one. So I went to an AD in my city that boasted of having the largest Seiko collection in Norway. I'd never been there before. When I walked in, huge store, no other customers, a suited up gent walked over and asked if he could help me, I introduced myself as a beginner watch enthusiast, had watched lots of Teddy Baldasarre and others, and just wanted to see some cool watches IRL. Showed him the lovely Orient Star I had on my arm. I inched over towards the Grand Seiko stand, told him I had seen several of them in videos, and would love to hold one, see one at least. We were chatting easily, he was clearly deeply into watches himself, and opened the locker and pulled out a couple £8000 watches. I was like "holy moly I won't be able to buy that you know", he calmly told me he was just excited to "be on the watch journey with me", he even went to the back room to get one off the wrist of his coworker! I told him I was looking for a watch in the £300-400 range first, he didn't care.
So I was just wildly fawning over these limited £8-10k grand seikos with gorgeous dials, talking his head off. I jokingly told him to not worry I wouldn't run out the door or anything, he wasn't worried at all. We had a chat about the spring drives, I tried a couple of them (the nicest one was over £10k). Took my jacket off, decided to stick around for a while. They showed me their other brands, told me a little about them, let me try a VERY expensive skeleton watch on the wrist just because got so interested in it. We then went over to the Seiko 5 stand, and I got to try a few of em, dissed a prospex (too big and turtley), and went for the pepsi dial one. He removed some links in the bracelet, helped me microadjust the clasp, set the date and day correctly, packed it up in the sexy box, and I left an hour later happy as a fiddle.
Now THAT is a good sales person. They basically let me roam the entire store for an hour. Loved the experience, definately going back next time I want a watch.
With your budget you were not prepared to buy a luxury watch!
You had to settle for a regular Seiko !
Now begin to work and save to one day buy a Grand Seiko, Omega, or Rolex!
Same experience here,
i gave up on Rolex about 18 months ago following 3 years of repeat visits to several ADs and being treated like common muck. SO much better experiences buying Tudors and Omegas tbh that i have nothing but distain for Rolex as a brand.
Nick I’m totally with you my friend! It would be much easier to feel this way if the watches weren’t so darn good!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR yep, amazing watches and incredible development history. But give me Blancpain, JLC and VC over Rolex any day! Right now i’m enjoying buying Tudor (who imo knocked it out of the park at Watches & Wonders) and Omega. Treated like a VIP (despite being ordinary general public!) and welcomed to try on watches in my own time, and order, by their sales reps….
There is an old saying as far as the SS Sports models are concerned.
Rolex is the best 1000.00 watch made.
That's is how much it costs the company to manufacture that 11000.00 submariner.
It's the first time I write a comment on one of your videos, even though I enjoy watching them since quite some time.
I'm almost 30 years old studied pharmaceutical engineering and live in Switzerland. Since when I was a teenager I always loved watches and own a few (in my opinion) awesome watches like a Omega Seamaster 300, Longines Master Collection and Tudor BB58 blue. I always liked several Rolex models (the less "fancy" models) but never bought one because of the Rolex "image". I especially liked the Oyster Perpetual and the Air King 116900 but not enough to justify a purchase. With the new 126900 update I finally decided that I absolutely love the new air king and would like to get one for myself.
I know since many years that getting a Rolex is difficult but I was so frustrated seeing that Rolex prefers to sell to people who just buy those watches flex on Instagram instead of selling to real watch enthusiasts! I don't know if I will ever be able to buy one, as I don't support the grey market of watches but I honestly speaking don't know if I want that watch anymore in the first place. The Rolex image is becoming more and more comparable to that of a Mercedes G-Wagon. You can bet that whoever owns that car, propably also had a gun in the glove box.
Anyway, thanks a lot for your great content and if you are ever coming to Basel you are invited for a few beers:)
Cheers....
Thank you so much for the support my friend and also for your comment!!! It’s even worse coming from you because you are Swiss!!!! If you like the watch that much you’ll get it eventually! It is beautiful! Looking forward to future conversations!!!
Hey Russ, TGV singing your praises and echoing your sentiments about Rolex in his latest video. Much respect to you.
That’s fantastic thank you my friend .
THIS is why I have Seiko, Orient, a 9F Grand Seiko, and my Tudor Ranger.
I have a 2016 sea dweller 116600 Sd4k with the 3135 movement I don’t wear it all the time as I like big chunky chronographs. I’m fortunate enough to live in an area where most people have no clue what watch I’m wearing, but I do wear it quite often I always have a pew pew in my pocket so I’m not really worried about wearing my watch.
Good for you my friend and so you should!!
Repeat with me: "this is not clickbait", "this is not clickbait"...
this is not clickbait this is not clickbait now repeat after me “everything surrounding this brand a’sucks “ “everything surrounding this brand a’sucks “
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR "this is not 100% clickbait", "this is not 100% clickbait"...
I enjoyed this one Russ, well done mate for calling it out.
Damn shame the way the industry has gone regarding this brand, I hope it corrects itself in the future by providing more watches to the public at retail rather than all the dodgy business going on behind the scenes
Be well mate 👍
I hope they fail. It's been horrible game trying to collect Rolex.
Totally agree russ , rolex is a luxury watch but people like joe essex whos got two rolex watches but cant tell the time let alone the history of rolex just cheapens a brand that i only can dream of owning .love the show.
Found a good AD in my neck of the woods. Put my name down for one I wanted, got a call telling me they had one for me less than 3 months later. Didn’t have to buy anything else in between.
Sweet!!!
This is comforting review. I usually feel FOMO, but not willing to have financial hardship for it. Customer service is 90% of my purchase, Rolex does not have it. Thanks for the honest review.
Thank you so much for stopping by my friend!!!!
I think eventually I'll have an Explorer, the true Bond watch, but like Omega too much. I think they innovate more than Rolex
I bought a SWSS MADE watch called Swiss Army 20 years ago for 180 USD ,never had it serviced other than replacing a battery , it looks good and keeps damn near prefect time and I would bet it is as accurate as a Rolex ..
I saw a comment the other day about Rolex not producing enough watches being nonsense. It went like this- Rolex produces 1.5m watches per year. There are 1800 ADs worldwide so each AD gets 833 watches per year. That's selling 2 watches per day which you can understand when the crypto bros were flush, but not now. So either it's nonsense or the numbers are wrong.
Russ, I know you watched my episode with Josh and Chris where we discuss these very points. I agree 100% with you as I have no desire to buy Rolex because of the culture it has created. Yes, I blame Rolex as well for the disgusting and snobbish culture and now the muggings and flexing on top of it just turns me off in such a way. Breitling is one of those brands that shows humility and doesn’t foster such a negative culture. They are more under the radar and that’s, quite frankly my comfort zone.
Appreciate you stopping by my brother! Yeah I’ve know your feelings on the brand for sure! Breitling suits you perfectly! One day I’ll try a Navi!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR we’ll be Navi buds! I want one as well mate.
OMG This was the best video! I feel that exact same way! If I had 15k to spend on a watch I would sprint right past the Rolex case/dealer.
You're so spot on IMO that I could have scripted this show myself. I always wanted a Rolex after seeing them in WH Mays of Nottingham shop window every Christmas time when my grandparents would take me to the pantomime as a small boy. When I was 21 I started scuba diving and bought a new Submariner Date which I had for 4 years or so before getting married and selling it to buy a new bathroom and carpet. Four years on my wife unexpectedly bought me a new Submariner 14060M for my birthday, she had popped into H&M and I was outside with our baby daughter - wondering where on earth she had got to ... and then she appeared with it (after sneaking off to Berrys who were the AD at that time. £2,200 as I recall. I was so surprised and shocked. I still have it to this day, and each time it has had a service I have asked that the scratches are left on and not polished. Where I am going with this is, is that like with your Explorer this has immense sentimental value and I wouldn't sell it for a million pounds and I mean that, however for the last two years or more it has been in the safe hardly used, not because of its appreciating value but because I just don't like the current cult behind them and the people that rabidly have to have them and show off. It was only a couple of weeks ago that I said to my wife that I will start wearing it again when they become unpopular, which will hopefully be soon. As far as ever buying another one goes, another big issue is that last year my wife also bought me a Seiko SRPG29 with the polished case and gorgeous blue dial - for £229 how can I justify spending £8k on an Air King ? (I do love the green and yellow dial) Cheers :-)
"These things are supposed to have a very special relationship with us human beings." - The Mad Watch Collector. This is the best explanation of how I feel about my Rolex watch. I only have one Rolex because it's the only watch I want and need. I wear it every day regardless of activity and never tire of it.
I had an amazing experience buying a vertex M100 ONLINE. Contrast this to every time I've been to a Rolex AD, they somehow manage to make me feel like a second-class citizen whilst trying to peddle something else to me.
Well Vertex is superb! Your buying in to a legacy with them ,
To be honest, I think Rolex is 'done with' me.
Me to Martin! They never wanted me!
Had a similar conversation with another collector today regarding the AD’s playing games. Openly being told to take out insurance, finance, buy jewellery all to ‘help’ getting the piece you want.
And even more annoying when your circa £20k Tudor purchases doesn’t count towards your purchase history because it’s not the same store (city has two of the same AD’s one selling Rolex the other Tudor).
i Agree! After Selling my Sub I have since Purchased an Omega Speedmaster and Seamaster. For the Price of One Rolex 2 Omegas!!!!!!!!! Rolex is for Status seekers, Omega's are for watch lovers.
Good Show again.
I agree to all points.
But I think many negatives are not to blame Rolex itself.
I actually really don't like to visit the AD's and to ve confronted with such an arrogance.
It feels very uncomfortable.
But I still love Rolex...at least some modells.
But I'm not willing to pay the price of get into a waiting list as if I would were a begger.
As you said...there are so many great and awesome alternatives.
Well said my friend! The trouble is Rolex know of these practices the AD’s do!!!
On the other hand, I think Rolex might be less of a problem if more brands offered a variety of timeless, classy watches and grew their own identity rather than jumping on short-lived fads, doing endless reiterations of their few past successes, catering to new-rich rappers or copying - Rolexes. Despite their disgusting marketing ethics and braindead followership Rolex has a very clear and credible identity: The best and classiest no-nonsense sports watches. Rolex is considered value. Try to think of brands that offer genuine, lasting value.
Very true my friend. There business model with AD’s is ridiculous and there disregard for people or genuine watch lovers is a joke. Ps love the watches;)
my biggest issue with Rolex is the behavior of the company itself. Same reason I do not own an Apple product.
I hear you my friend!
The reason I won't buy Rolex again is that I realize I am more into Arabic numeral dials. 3 watches that I'm looking forward to getting my hand on are Glashutte Original Senator Excellence, IWC Big Pilot 43 & Longines Spirit Titanium. Rolex won't come out with the perfect Arabic numeral dial anyway.
Fair enough my friend!!
Finally an honest brave soul who says the same thing I tell to my friends about watches. Buy it if you like it and wear it! If you buy a Rolex just to show off, well.......there is nothing special about this brand except they are amazing in marketing and advertising. Great video!
Subscribed. Agree with everything you said and love your energy. There are a lot of other brands that are rolling under the radar but I think will see them rising in popularity including Longines and Oris.
Thank you my friend!
Mugged off with a couple of tins of soup….. 😂 (that tickled me Russel)
Joe!!! Cheers! Greedy authorised soup dealers!!!
I had planned to by a Rolex sub as a Retirement present to...ME...visited a well respected shop with Debit Card in hand and just happened to glance into the Omega cabinet and...Boom 💥 my eyes rested on an Omega Seamster Professional with gloss black dial and it was Game Over for the Rolex...and honestly, with what I saved buying this stunning watch instead of the Rolex, I took my wife and me to Egypt on a dive holiday...🏝️🐟🍺🍹
Great story with a happy ending here!!
I don't think your premise holds up mate. Increasing production is not as easy as turning a knob or flicking a switch. You might have a valid point if you don't like their distribution system, but would the brand really have the same appeal if it was on sale at Tesco or ASDA?
You beat me to it. Totally agree.
How cool would it be, if every of our beloved watch-related RUclips channels would post a similar honest and true video 🤔. That would be very impactful 💣!
There won't be many my friend! I just wanted my opinion on this brand on my channel! The more channels do it, the more Rolex may listen!
Another great show. If I could afford one, I still don’t think I would get one… I’ve not got the patience to be on a two year waiting list, and too cheap to pay over retail.
Cheers for watching Glynn!!!!
I've just bought a super-clone Rolex Submariner Starbucks. I did it because I was fed up and sick of trying to crawl up the bum of any AD begging them to treat me with some respect and take my money. They don't seem to care that I worked for my money and it is just as good as the money they take off their regular mates who they sell all their stock to.
So I bought a super-clone Submariner. The company I dealt with were polite, swift to answer questions and send me pictures of my exact watch. It arrived quickly and having owned a couple of Rollies in the past, not so distant past either, I can tell you the super-clone is an astonishing piece. Every bit as good as the ones that come out of the factory.
I had the very same Explorer you have and loved it but in a moment of utter stupidity sold it. I now cannot afford to replace it. Madness or what?
I had a 16610 Submariner, at the time with the work i was doing i couldn't wear it. It just sat in the box. In the end i sold it. Got a casio gshock. Don't have to worry about scratches, being stolen, or the thousand pound service. And more accurate than a rolex.
Came to the same conclusion a while back, so completely agree!
Thanks Adrian!!
Here's my sob story:
I quite liked the idea of getting a nice new Rolex Explorer but my budget was a bit limited, then I found the Longines Conquest ...lovely piece of kit, more waterproof and has a date complication
I ordered one but had to wait three, whole ........DAYS to receive it.
Thums up and bollex to Rolex.
Congrats my friend! Longines are lovely!!
Couldn't agree more.
I hated Rolex for all the same reasons you mentioned. But here’s my experience. Two weeks ago I walked into a big fancy Rolex AD in San Francisco. I had come from a Panerai dealer just next door and I only wanted to look around.
A sales guy approached me and asked if he could help me. I was trained in physics and I once worked as an engineer so I said I wanted to see the Milgauss with the blue dial. The sales guy replied that unfortunately they didn’t have that model available for sale. The one they had in the shop was for display only.
No surprise there. But he said if I left my name and phone number he’s contact me as soon as one came in. Now I’ve left my name at plenty of other ADs and I’ve never heard back from any of them, not even the one where I bought my Accutron. Why would I? I’m just a guy and no one special. But for some unknown reason I left my name.
Yesterday, completely unexpected, I received a phone call from the sales guy. He said my Milgauss was ready for pick up. I couldn’t believe it. I rushed over to the AD and he ushered me into a very posh private room to show me the watch. It was perfect in every way. Everything checked and so I bought it. The sales price was $9,300 US.
But the process didn’t end there. The sales guy asked if I wanted a glass of champagne or whisky to celebrate. I asked if I could have a mimosa and do you know what, he made one for me. It was wonderful. I walked out of the AD feeling like a million bucks.
I’ve purchased watches more expensive than the Milgauss; an Apollo 8 Dark Side of the Moon and a Breitling. But those watches didn’t give me the same thrill as the Rolex. My Milgauss might not be my most expensive watch and it’s certainly not the most complicated. But it’s a thing of beauty. As far as I’m concerned Rolex is fantastic.
Been trying to purchase a 36mm black OP for over a year. I’m a 43 year old who just graduated from my post graduate studies. It is a one off luxury purchase to myself. After a year of this farce I’m at the point of giving up, I’ve been on the WOS waiting list and I’m starting tow wonder if this list/registration of interest is even a thing, or if the second I left the store my application was our straight into the bin. I’m with you mate, I have become really into my watches over the last year and am now thinking of getting a grand seiko or a Omega. I’m now so into watches that I am starting to get the bug. The thing is now that if I go out and buy a variety of luxury watches in the coming decades I will now a.) not get a Rolex out of principle, and b.) not use WOS. Sad state of affairs.
Stick by my original thought, not a watch but social and monetary currency in the modern age. Appreciate the enthusiasts that enjoy a personal connection with their watch and sought a grail purchase for their personal use. Can you honestly say you would feel safe wearing in certain areas of the uk? Seems to be a thief magnet and not the attention I would want, happy with my cheapies !!
Its crazy my friend isn't it! Very close to where I had dinner before I went live on BQ watches stream a guy had his legs broken with a baseball bat and his watch stolen!!!
Huh! I'll never buy another Rolex either 🤓 more importantly for me San Martin prices have gone up too🤔😱 great review 👍
Really!!!! Well there you go!
I own Rolex watches and totally agree, now I wear Breitling as they have great watches at great value and availability is spot on. Other watch brands out there with great quality timepieces.
I'm definitely not done, just bought a 126619LB and 126715CHNR .. but I am broke... Next on my list Omega "Ed White" 321 caliber Speedmaster.
Absolutely brilliant video Russ couldn't agree with you more.
Cheers Pete!
I guess things may have changed but I bought my first Rolex in 1996, then the next one in 2006. I never experienced any of the issues discussed here. I never even had the 1996 Datejust cleaned and it still keeps good time. Same with the 2006 Submariner. I see them in the windows of jewelry stores where I live outside NYC as well. I betcha I can buy all the Rolex's I want within a 10 mile radius of where I live. Perhaps these issues are concentrated in certain cities, or "where the money is". Try a smaller city. However, my suggestion is to buy a pre-owned one from a reputable dealer who provides the papers and certification. Wingates in TX and AnalogShift in NYC have good reputations and large selections of all types of watches. And there are many more. Personally, I am amazed at the appreciation in value of my Rolex's and perhaps it is because of their restrictive sales approach and limited supply..... fine by me...))
Btw this comment is still up?? Hasn’t been removed??
The dealers that sell watches where the original owners didn't wear them for fear of damaging them etc *chef's kiss* brand-new watch, fraction of the price.
@@SPNKr16 Right. Even if a watch has been worn, reputable dealers who sell these watches ensure the watches are in good shape, clean them, service them where necessary and fully disclose what papers are available, and offer guarantees. I have come across 4 additional dealers (with fantastic websites) who have awesome collections of pre-owned watches of all types. I have viewed hundreds of watches recently. I personally would go to these dealers before I bought a new one. So, if someone doesn't want to deal with how Rolex handles new watch sales with their certified dealers, suggest to people go to one of these other dealers and get a great watch, versus telling people not to buy a Rolex.
@@mm-jx7gf I absolutely would buy any watch owned for 3 months or less, even if worn for that amount of time - because if it's expensive at retail prices then I get it in the condition I intend to wear it in shortly after buying it brand new for HUGE discount.
At the moment I found my first Rolex (GMT Master II) clone and it's coming in next week. It's such a dead ringer and it's made by a reputable watchmaker, so I don't have to even think about replicas/fakes while I can go the legal route and support a real business that I found in youtube comments on reputable channels. I did a lot of waiting and research and these guys so far have not let me down. Unlike the sneaker/dress shoe community these guys are VERY grateful for just sharing this hobby.
Now, the price of this watch means I can get their Explorer clone a month later, and the Submariner clone a month after that - if I really wanted. I'm totally confident I'll be satisfied, I know my wallet is over the moon already.
@@SPNKr16 Honestly, I don't know anything about "clone" watches. I am sure Rolex would go after them if they found out about a clone watch. That's what Rolex does to protect their brand, and I bet most other brands would do the same. I equate a clone watch to a "fake" or a "knock-off", but maybe I am wrong. I did buy a Cartier watch in Hong Kong a long tie ago, knowing it was not a real Cartier, and after about a year, it stopped working and I took it to a guy who opened it up and said it was junk....LOL. But, in this day and age, I would not be surprised if there are some decent ones made. My point is that anyone can buy a real Rolex or any good watch that is pre-owned and in great shape for much lower than a new one from a dealer. I don't know what a new Submariner costs, but I see the one I have pre-owned for $14k to $18k (with gold).... depends on age and condition, etc., and even the movement may be different in certain years (not sure). I think mine is over $20k new today. I paid $6k for mine new so it is nice to know it is worth so much more after all these years. So, these watch guys complain about how Rolex controls sales so much, but I am grateful for how they protect the brand by limiting the supply. If you want new Rolex enough, you can get it. It just may take a little work and go to different locations. Or, just get a pre-owned one which looks brand new, has papers in many cases, and is the real deal.
Great overview. I agree with what you said. In my experience 1 out of 10 Rolex owners are enthusiasts. Whereas, 9 out of 10 Omega owners are enthusiasts. This is one of the main reason why I've stayed away from Rolex. Not to mention that I can't get one new. There's also that.
Probably more than 1 of 10, but I get your point LOL.
"Nice bro, that the OP41?"
"Nah, it's Rolex"
9 out of 10 rolex wearer dont know the reference of the thing on their wrist
Well done matey , and well said , some of my favourite watches cost 20 quid but alas i tend to hide my Rolex,Omega etc etc , ridiculous isnt it?
Cheers for watching Mal and for the support!
The Rolex sales model is common in all luxury sectors. Why should a brand let anyone walk in and buy a rare item with no previous purchase history or loyalty to the brand?
That’s fine Jason if that’s the case , however it wasn’t
Good perspective on the Rolex craze. With that said, they do control more than 25% of the market and are probably the best mass produced watches. My Explorer 124270 has the best tolerance and bracelet of any watch I’ve ever owned.
Dude, let's be honest here, the brand is maybe the most recognized, but in term of quality and mechanical innovation, Omega is above.
I am genuinely sad to hear all the bad experiences of getting a Rolex. It’s a great watch. I was just fortunate enough to get my grail watch as my first Rolex and at retail. I do hope more people would be able to experience my first Rolex purchase.
What was the watch? And can I ask how you managed to secure at retail? It’s so hard to get a Rolex at retail at all let alone as a first time buyer at an AD. Would love some insight
@@GasTraining I recently got my grail, a SS Skydweller Blue Dial on Jubilee from my AD with no purchase history. I am local, and I used to stop by my AD every time I was in the area to say hello/chat. I own another Rolex but was from a different AD. My AD said the main thing is local/not a flipper is what they care about. I was offered other watches to purchase in the last 2 years which I turned down.
@@pathikdesai7310 thanks for the insight brother. Can I ask what watches they offered you that you turned down? Can’t imagine turning away the chance to purchase man🥲.
@@GasTrainingMy wife wanted a mother of pearl DJ 36 in TT Rose gold. They offered another 36 DJ but didn’t have the mother of pearl and there was an Omega Worldtimer which isn’t super rare but I hadn’t seen one in person. And one OP 36 with the blue dial. I really didn’t need a watch so I was happy to wait for a skydweller even if it never came. I assumed I would never get it with no history honestly
@@GasTraining It’s a Ref. 124270. I just showed my interest and let the AD know that I am willing to wait for the watch. I showed them, that for as long as they will provide me the watch I wanted, I will be a 100% sure customer. I waited roughly 10 months.
i love the rolex sub no date, but i could never justify the price of it, its ridiculous, i bought a tudor bb36 instead which almost has the same face and in my opinion is a more versatile watch, but do you know what? i barely wear it, the oyster bracelet isnt very comfortable and i tend to grab my 300 euro mini turtle on a rubber strap a lot more
I'm coming late to the world of watches but have spent many years in the world of guitars, and everything you said, you could pretty much substitute "guitar" for "watch," and substitute one or three famous brands for Rolex, and you'd have a factually sound rant-- right up to the point where you described the behavior of authorized dealers toward customers. Guitar manufacturers do treat their dealers this way, e.g., forcing them to carry inventory nobody wants before supplying them with any of the hot sellers, but I've never heard of a household name guitar brand whose dealers do that to retail customers. I'm over here thinking it really sucks when they refuse to publish an ordinary production guitar's price and instead make you call for a quote. Not because it's back-ordered or made to order. They could have it in stock. The company just forces dealers to agree to this, I guess to seem special and exclusive, and to let them play games with the price. That strikes me as disreputable, but it's nothing compared to what I'm hearing about Rolex.
I think it’s a playbook they all use and it’s sh&t my friend! Worst thing I ever did is sell my Rickenbacker 330:(
Tudor is the way to go even though it’s Rolex 😂
Give it 10 years and they will be the same to us Phil!!!:]
In 1965, a Rolex was about $90. That's about $950 in today's money. Knowing Rolex makes fantastic watches, but hasn't made one single advancement in their technology in the last 60 years, means their watches are still only worth $950 in my eyes. Forget million dollar watches. I'm fine with people collecting for the sake of investment, or people creating mechanical art. No ill will here. My problem is that Rolex was a luxury watch *_for the people,_* and now they're just milking the rich. It's getting almost impossible to tell a $200 knockoff from a real Rolex without a microscope. What does that say about Rolex? Any watch that costs more than $1,000 is trying to sell you a status, and the only people that will appreciate that status are watch snobs. Honestly, I'd rather strike up a conversation with someone wearing an Invicta Star Wars collab.
I have a Rolex 1016 magazine advert from 1964, and it states the price ($180) in the advertising copy. So adjusted for inflation that is about $1800 today. I'd pay that. The current list prices however are insane, let alone the grey market.
This broadcast is like "Ecclesiastes" for people who like watches....... very, very wise. You see a watch, you like a watch, you buy a watch.....you live with the watch......you love the watch, regardless of the brand. You need to love it.
Totally agree...I bough my submariner because as a kid, my Dad was able to get one and whenever I see a sub, I think about him. Thats what kickstarted me into watches. Now, I would not go near Rolex for the exact reasons you stated. My next purchase is the MM300 that I will give to one of my boys, then the Omega Planet Ocean one day...they will be worn well, just like my entry level Seikos and my Steinhart's....great vid....