Thank you for watching and support to my channel, my work, and my love for horology. I spend a lot of time in producing these videos before you see them here, and the effort that goes in making these vids is a combination of knowledge, analysis, close inspection, assessment of watch on the wrist from both wearer's perspective and third person's view, accuracy checks, and above all, my passion and love for horology and fine watchmaking. If you like the content I produce and wish to support me, please join me in my Patreon platform to help me continue to produce the content. I am not funded or sponsored by anyone, and this gives me the ability to share an unbiased opinion and candid assessment. Also, due to the volume of messages I receive, I am unable to respond to email discussions unfortunately, so if you want to discuss any of the watches I have reviewed further, ask for my suggestion and insights into your watch collection, please join my Pateron platform, where you can message me directly. You will also get access to my ad-free videos upon subscribing to my Patreon. I am an independent watch reviewer with no sponsor, and this is what separates me from the rest of the mainstream. And if you think my independence and freedom of speech to share unbiased and candid reviews deserves your support, please come forward: Support to my work: Patreon: www.patreon.com/HafizJMehmood Instagram: instagram.com/horolojust/ Facebook: facebook.com/HafizJMehmood Twitter: twitter.com/HafizJMehmood Please do check out my other videos: My Channel: ruclips.net/channel/UCnkBUPz6L8oXQ2CGaZp9cbQ All comments in this videos are mine and driven from my real-life and hands-on experience, macro inspection, Visual assessment, wear and feel of watch in the hand and on the wrist. Please reach out to me for any enquiries or collaborations at jawadmehmood@icloud.com If you want to discuss any watches I have reviewed, please join my Patreon to message me directly. Due to volume of emails I receive, I am unfortunately not able to respond to emails related to watch discussions, my advice, suggestion or insights to watch collection questions. Thank you.
Fresh breath of air. You seem so much more credible than other reviewers. Ablogtowatch used to be my main source of reviews men these days it is so noticable that they aren't allowed to be too critical of the products they are reviewing.
Hy there, so I’m wondering where you get this OP41 from? Is it new „fresh out of the Box“ from an authorize Rolex dealer. Or did you buy it used from the Graymarket?
Hi Paul. Yes I did - thanks for watching and discussing the video. I also left a comment regarding your question in your video too. Let me know if you’d like to discuss further. Thanks again, Hafiz
The macro shots are unbelievable. Not even a fake watch can go so wrong! On the positive side this watch is a masterpiece of design simplicity. Growing on me.
I own an OP 41, there is a small smudge on the 2nd hand under 20x magnification. Luckily, that's the only thing. None of these issue appear on any of my 3 Omegas. Omega quality control is 2nd to none. They are perfect.
Mate it's a matter of probability.. Rolex produces over a million watches a year and all of them are sold out, and they're reviewed more than any brand on RUclips. All this produces a higher probability of finding watches with QC issues. Omega are sought-after less than Rolex and Grand Seiko is not even the picture. This naturally results in "finding" less QC issues with Omega and Grand Seiko. Either way if it's a widespread issue, there will be a public outcry and Rolex reputation will be on the line.
Lovely watch let down by an appalling lack of quality control and workmanship. Love the in-depth reviews Hafiz; and the macro shots are simply stunning.
So I just spent 10 mins with a loop looking at the hands on my OP 41mm Green and it does have scratch issues on the hands. Easier to see under macro on the vid but they are there. You can't see any issues with the naked eye but under the loop looks like when they do a comparison vid with a Noob V10 super clone. I guess the Chinese didn't have to keep improving their quality just had to wait until Rolex lowered the bar!!
Yeah the scratches require upclose inspection and specific lighting to show. But of course that doesn’t mean they’re not there. For the price, they shouldn’t be there. The ding on the minute hand - you can actually see it on a few clips not taken with Macro lens - sigh!
Hi Paul. No, I didn’t buy it myself. Most of the watches I review are not mine. I borrow them for review from friends around me, and some from local shop I know. I can neither afford all these watches, not do I have a sponsor AD to send me new watches unfortuantely. This watch was bought end of last year and since it’s a new release OP41, it can’t be more than 4 months old. Even if it was opened for authentication, no one opens the dial for it; only caseback. There were also paint marks on the dial that can only come from factory. From my understanding, this watch only had one owner who bought it brand new only a couple of months ago (end of 2020).
Paul prison Tattoo Thorpe you got an absolute cheek when your son is the biggest watch fraudster in the uk - didn’t he go to prison for two years - plus the police have raided your home - you are a complete hypocrite going on about watch crime when your whole family - are being chased by the police - look at HMRC have posted about your son - any decent father would hide under a rock and die with embarrassment.why don’t you compensate all the people defrauded by your son
Keep up this terrific work, Mr. Mehmood! More videos exposing the flaws in high-end watches will either cause people to lose interest, resulting in lowered prices, or inspire watchmakers like Rolex to up their QC game. You've earned another subscriber.
It is so painful seeing one of the most beautiful watches ever made being plagued with this ridiculous QC issues. The OP is in my personal opinion the most gorgeous watch Rolex sells. Its essential yet perfectly well formed and purposeful design speaks to me.
The biggest concern for me is that the superficial flaws seen on the dial / hands reflect the attention given to the movement. If debris / scratches are so obvious on visible elements it makes you wonder what sins exist behind the case back... thank you as always, Hafiz. Excellent work and a great video. Happy New Year bud!!!
@@pacmancalgary Back in the day I made a hard copy of that and read it several times. I think Rolex has improved their finish quality since then. But yeah, it was quite an eye opener.
this quality is a joke even for retail price. I am happy that people keep spending Money on Rolex, so I can keep Grand Seiko as my grail and unknown brand
How many times are the hands magnified in this video? 5x? 10x? You can not see this with your nakid eye. Why would you care? Do you know that like 99.99% of all diamonds show many imperfections if you observed them at 5x magnification?
@@AG-nj3ky no greater magnification than Hafiz’s previous reviews of other watch brands - which do not show this quality or lack of finishing quality generally.
@@AG-nj3ky You are kidding right? You can see the dent in the Hand and the scratches without zooming in. They look more terrible than on an 100 € watch lol
@@AG-nj3ky That’s not the point. A diamond is organic material with natural defects. Poorly finished or scratched hands and paint specks on the dial are completely within the control of the manufacturer. It’s completely unacceptable at this price point. Why would someone pay $5900 at retail for this watch when a $200 Orient has fewer defects? There is a level of finishing and craftsmanship expected that is not being met here with this OP. Do you think Grand Seiko would let one of their watches out the door looking like that?
The watch collecting strategy guy also sees horrific quality control fails in his Rolex close ups so this just goes to show it’s not an isolated case. Moreover J. Anthony also has a video on the myth of Rolex quality. Rolex is riding a wave of hype and resting on its laurels.
That’s really unfortunate to see this many QC issue. As others here state, most Rolex consumers don’t care and just want the name on their wrist. I’m not sure how you deal with this other than bringing a loupe when you take delivery? But then what? Reject and wait for a replacement? Get bumped from the list? How does Omega compare under macro these days?
Steve, I own a "Railmaster", an "AquaTerra", and an "Apnea" I also own a silver dialed OP41, under a loupe, the Omegas are flawless. Under a loupe (20x) there is a small smudge on the seconds hand. (OK for me as you need such a powerful magnification to see it) Omega's game is top tier currently.
i bought the new Omega SMP300 recently, its practically flawless and couldnt find any flaws no matter how much i scrutinised it. absolutely in love with it and VERY pleased with the quality.
@@konadora how about the heavy, borderline sharp stainless steel bracelet on the new SMP. I own one and in addition the clasp is massive and digs into your skin.
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the scratched hand with a ding at its tip and the color spots on the dial. I was in firm believe that something like this would never - and I mean NEVER EVER - happen with a Rolex watch, and still here you go. I wouldn’t be surprised if Rolex makes contact to you in order to get hold of the watch so that they can identify who was responsible for this mess. This is a PR desaster.
Im pretty sure they can easily locate the watch background and origin from its serial number. Even if they dont trace this back, I hope they can improve on their production standards. The last thing you’d want after dropping $10k on a watch is to have dented hands and splash paint marks on the dial.
Why would they need to do any better than this when they have people lining up to pay ridiculous money for their watches. The vast majority of Rolex owners to not care one bit about QC issues, the words on the dial are the most important thing.
Maybe there is some truth in this. Perhaps they can’t churn these models out fast enough to satisfy global demand? It’s a sad day if quality is being compromised as this video suggests. Or maybe just a one off lemon? Perhaps some people just want Rolex on their wrist and could care less about tiny surface marks or manufacturing defects.
@@bobbydazzler1780 actually Rolex is able to produce more models. They can easily invest und build new production. But hey, why?! Demand is all time high and people are dumb enough and willing to pay 2-3 times at retail prices.. They have enough funds...
@@justgeorge121 wait what?! Most of them stays in boxes or safe unworn?! How dumb is this?! So actually people who enjoy wearing their watches and have the money to get them but aren‘t able to (or you buy grey what makes no sense at all) are even more fked up?! Gosh people.. if you want invest, how you start proper investing and not ONLY in rolex?!
Amazing video Hafiz I’m shocked to see the quality issues. I really wanted a Sub but “settled” for the Omega SMP300m last year. The SMP is nothing short of amazing. I still love the Sub but won’t play the AD game. I actually think Omega is going to trump Rolex in the next decade. Their range is still a little confused and busy but if they can work that out METAS and their QC is phenomenal
I have just bought the OP 41mm with the Blue Dial , it is out of this world , best watch I have in my Collection and so nice to Wear , Rolex OP’s are outstanding tbh 😊
Guys, always take your luxury watches under magnification while there is still warranty left, and if there's anything wrong, go demand a fix under warranty. The more they need to take back watches and fix them, the less profitable it gets for them to cut corners with QC in the first place.
What a wonderful and brave review. It can easily be seen the amount of effort you’ve have put into this vid. And yes, Rolex should be truly ashamed , and held accountable, for the nasty finish on their products. Other reviewers have also highlighted Rolex’s lack of quality control. If I had a choice, I would go for an Omega anytime.
Hi Hafiz. great review. Did you buy this watch at an Authorised Rolex AD as a brand new watch? Was it a UK Authorised dealer or one in another country? Please let me know. Thank you.
Appaling indeed 😱. I saw a yellow OP41 last month, checked it with a 5x loupe, it was fine. Left the microscope at home, but on a serious note what we see here is totally unacceptable.
Where did this piece come from Hafiz? How did you come across it and what’s its history? Is it directly from the Rolex factory? Doubt they would release a watch where it’s damaged and visible to the naked eye! Please let us know.
And here I was thinking the black dial OP 41 was going to be my next watch...I don't think I'd buy without being able to take a very critical look at it under magnification. My Grand Seiko at less than half of the price shows no such defects. However he wrist shots towards the end of the video really do show that under regular viewing conditions this is a very fine looking watch. This is the first video of yours I have seen and you have gained a new subscriber. Well done.
Well, the Rolex fan-boyism is the root of the problem. If their watches sell out no matter what and people are willing to pay twice the retail price, why should the R company care about QC or innovation? They will only change if they start losing major portion of their sales to their competitors.
Brother, thanks for another superb content, well balanced and honest. While I am happy overall with my OP36, there is also dust spec on the dial which I noticed about a week after it was picked up from the AD. This is trully dissapointing, but it seems I am not an exception. That being said I am still thinking about the new turqoise 41. While there is no excuse for these qc issues especially at this price point I would say that you have helped remind us to always be smart consumers and check everything thoroughly. Thanks again.
Thanks for this review, I think. I have the new OP 41 silver dial. After I finished watching this video, I immediately got out a loupe and started going over the dial. While I didn’t finds the problems you did, i did notice a few QC issues, some dust, etc., which I hadn’t noticed before. Very disappointing...
Rolex fanboys: "B-b-but only Rolex is a Rolex because it's a Rolex! It's the only watch and everything else is just lame! It'll go up in value while sitting in my safe which is definitely what watches are intended to be used for! You can exchange your Rolex for a ride to the nearest town when you get stuck in the middle of the Sahara, you know!"
Just looked at mine (silver Feb 2021 41mm) with a loupe. Flawless :) I'm not bothered about anything smaller because I don't think human eye sight will evolve that much before I die.
Hey Hafiz, I got to try on the 41mm at my AD but it didn't fit as well on the wrist as the op 39. I think it is because of the end links on the bracelet, you might want to consider that in the video, it is considerably longer than the 39 end links.
Hi mate. The end links don’t increase the watch span. If you check from the underside of end links, they flare straight down before the lugs end, so there’s no additional flaring they offer on the wrist.
Yea I know what you mean. The centre link flares out when viewed from inside but it still sticks straight down from before the end span of the lugs. I wish I could post a photo here; it would have been easier to explain but I hope it’s making sense.
Oh, wow I was considering getting a Rolex in the future when I'd be able afford one, but I don't think I want one anymore. I swear I've seen macros of the sub $1,000 Seiko range and they looked much better. Have you seen something like this on the Datejusts, or are they better?
Looks like he got a fake or one that’s been serviced by an unskilled watchmaker. Too many flaws and scratches for an untouched genuine, from the factory. You could send this back with your warranty for a full service, or maybe even a swap to a different watch, on the house, if it’s genuine. Would love to see a video after taking it to an official Rolex service center.
This is a really first-rate video. Thank you so much for doing this. For the record, I have owned two Grand Seiko watches - both of which had pitted hands and had to be sent back to the factory for replacement. Super annoying. When I pay $8000 for a watch, the expectation is that it’s perfect. I pay that much for a watch because I want at least ONE thing in my life that’s perfect. That’s what I’m paying for.
Wonderful narration as usual from the master, Rolex need check itself on quality control, for the cost I would really upset with the scratches, excess paint flakes & above it all the "Dinged" second hand, should never have left the factory. P.S. Tx
Hafiz, your production and presentation are simply outstanding. Never had a Rolex on my grail list and dont think I ever will. Their stock control, waiting lists, created shortages, and on top of all of that the QC is appalling. They are marketing masters who can no longer provide quality. Flexing a Rolex, to me, seems nothing more than pretension at best.
My friend, I too am appalled at Rolex QC. I don't know what to do. I bought a new watch and it has a number of alignment issues that I didn't see initially... they said I should wait until service. They are cutting corners everywhere, they are the new Seiko in regards with misaligned everything. I am very disappointed with what was supposed to be a milestone watch for me. This is why we can't have nice things.
Thanks Hafiz. I noticed that all watches look great on your wrist ...36mm, 38mm, 39mm 40mm, white dial, blue dial, black dial, rolex, AP, patek etc.... I have enjoyed your channel. Thank you very much
Thanks a lot. This really shows that Rolex doesn't really care about the quailty on the "entry level" watches or they are just not able to do proper quality control on the huge amount of watches they produce. Most customers won't ever see those issues, but for that price you would expect something better.
My OP41 is flawless under macro, while my Air-King has dust all over the green seconds hand. It’s simply a matter of QC, I think. Nothing to do about pricing.
Today's lesson... View through a loupe before parting with money. At this price point flaws are not acceptable. Spent a couple of years living in geneva and you can walk past the Rolex unit in plan les quates(patek philippe unit is next door incidentally) and look through the window and view the work stations. Couldn't say if watches were assembled in this area but dust control prevention didn't look a priority. Good video hafiz , real wake up call.
Great review Hafiz, a bit concerning re the ding etc. but a lovely minimalist timepiece that will go with anything. I really fancy the Bright Blue one, understated by also stand out, somehow…. Well done….subscribed.
Hi Hafiz, thank you! If you had a gun on your head and had to choose blue vs black now. Which one do you go for? Would love to have some feedback before pulling the trigger on one of them..! Thanks again!
Beautiful watch, however, the lack of QC is such a disgrace even Rolex couldn’t defend that. I hope that if you returned to your AD with this problem it would get resolved ASAP. Great video as always Hafiz 👍🏻
I bought an exp2 from a boutique in Monaco a couple of years ago. Upon returning to London I realised there was some fluff stuck to the date disc! Took it to the London service centre and this was very quickly rectified as I waited. Unsure how they would treat scratched hands however !
I just purchased my first Grand Seiko, model SBGJ237 GMT. When I look at the finish of the dial, hand, markers under a loop, the finishing is exquisite. The attention to detail is unbelievable. I have had it for a bit over a week and it is keeping time to +1 sec/day. I know no one outside of true watch geeks will be impressed like they would if I wore a Rolex, but to me that is part of the appeal. Perhaps this particular Rolex is an anomaly QC-wise, but there is absolutely no excuse for the multiple issues experienced here. I would return it for a full refund and take my money elsewhere. Good luck.
@JJ LeCoot Maybe so... I own a "top rep" so as to tell the difference. Compared to my gens right next to each other its easier to spot little things. Rolex does screw up too sometimes... I think the rep I have has the etched crown more center than my gens. lol What I've learned is different replica manufactures use different factories and will be better in certain areas than others. So, it's hard to say just from one or two odd looking things. The best overall way I've learned to tell a fake is to open it up and look at the back of the movement. Even with the rep new clones, you can tell the difference looking at it compared to a gen photo or with a loupe. Otherwise I tend to look at the datewheel font, the crown on the dial, the dial font alignment and "style" so to speak and the edges of the hands. From all the rep's I've seen, they can't get the hands edges to be smooth but they can get them without scratches like this. This watches hands edges look pretty damn smooth to me. The rotor in the movement is also usually to loud compared to gen. If they service the replica movements, the winding actually isn't that much different at all from gen, so don't only use that as an indicator. All this being said, that dials crown does look a bit stubby..... but the hands edges look smooth. I've seen genuine errors before, I would want to open up the case back.
@@jens3545 typical Rolex Fanboyism. There is a QC issue: THE WATCH MUST BE FAKE! ROLEX IS GOD! ROLEX NEVER MAKES MISTAKES! THERE IS ONLY ONE BRAND WHICH IS THE BEST IT‘S ROLEX!
Hi is the watch unopened from the factory? Would be "game over" if you could confirm this. Awesome videos. Been a subscriber for a while. Keep up the great work please 🙏🏻
Given the supply games that Rolex and its ADs play, the imminent price rise and now the sloppy QC on this watch I'd say that Rolex are a brand that take its customers for granted. Vote with your feet (or wallet) or nothing will change. For the time being I will concern myself with watches from other brands.
Great video and spot on critique! This watch is NOT worth the $6K USD list price and definitely not the 2x aftermarket price. I’d like to see more of the watch community follow up with their observations. Rolex’s reputation for excellence, which is the justification for their watch valuations, is now trash. It seems like they are trying to quickly cash on high consumer demand at the expense of quality. Thank you for lifting the curtain! What magnification was used to identify the defects? Thank you again.
im guessing that this piece has been opened before, because my blue one does not have any defects, and i mean none. Is it a review unit or did you buy it like this?
Not opened before. It’s a new release from 3 months ago, hence never serviced either. Even if it was ever opened, why would anyone bother to throw paint splash marks on the dial?
@@HafizJMehmood oké then it's a shame of Rolex that this passed their Qc, well if you look how some people turn a movement upside down on a pillow to show the movement this could had caused the paint issues but as you said it's a new unit so can't be. Shameful at the least then.
You sure it was a brand new watch and not a refurbished one? Many dealers have been selling older ones as new ones due to the high demand. 3-4 people in my friend circle have this watch, none had these issues. Honestly it looks like whoever bought this watch u r reviewing got scammed.
Thank you for watching and support to my channel, my work, and my love for horology.
I spend a lot of time in producing these videos before you see them here, and the effort that goes in making these vids is a combination of knowledge, analysis, close inspection, assessment of watch on the wrist from both wearer's perspective and third person's view, accuracy checks, and above all, my passion and love for horology and fine watchmaking.
If you like the content I produce and wish to support me, please join me in my Patreon platform to help me continue to produce the content. I am not funded or sponsored by anyone, and this gives me the ability to share an unbiased opinion and candid assessment. Also, due to the volume of messages I receive, I am unable to respond to email discussions unfortunately, so if you want to discuss any of the watches I have reviewed further, ask for my suggestion and insights into your watch collection, please join my Pateron platform, where you can message me directly.
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Fresh breath of air. You seem so much more credible than other reviewers. Ablogtowatch used to be my main source of reviews men these days it is so noticable that they aren't allowed to be too critical of the products they are reviewing.
Hy there, so I’m wondering where you get this OP41 from? Is it new „fresh out of the Box“ from an authorize Rolex dealer. Or did you buy it used from the Graymarket?
Hi Hafiz, thanks for that, would love to talk over this a little more. Did you see my video I made on this subject? Thanks.
Hi Paul. Yes I did - thanks for watching and discussing the video. I also left a comment regarding your question in your video too. Let me know if you’d like to discuss further.
Thanks again, Hafiz
@@HafizJMehmood can you please give me an answer to my question?
The macro shots are unbelievable. Not even a fake watch can go so wrong! On the positive side this watch is a masterpiece of design simplicity. Growing on me.
Can’t believe this passed QC - as said by others I would return and ask for another
Thanks Hafiz for keeping it real
... another brand.
And a partial refund
@@markreynolds9135 Even if it was used, are you really suggesting that the previous owner took off the crystal and scratched up the hands?
@@gregh2077 not him, but someone else for sure
Hafiz is exposing Rolex’s lack of quality control!
Sadly it’s not the only brand... it’s pretty much all of them!
Hafiz is a quality chap. Thank you Sir!
macro shots reveal everything...there's no place to hide.
@@dlhussain81 not as bad as Rolex. That was terrible
I am actively waiting for Hafiz to expand his watch scope. So far, as expected, GS beats them all. I won't how Patek or Lange fair under microscope.
The dent on minute hand is visible with naked eye. Shame on Rolex. Go with GS/Omega guys
I own an OP 41, there is a small smudge on the 2nd hand under 20x magnification. Luckily, that's the only thing. None of these issue appear on any of my 3 Omegas. Omega quality control is 2nd to none. They are perfect.
@@vvvhhhhhbb Yup. An imperfection is acceptable if it is visible only under a loupe. If visible with a naked eye, return it
I’ll add JLC to the list of other brands to checkout.. same with Glashutte Original.
Nope
Mate it's a matter of probability.. Rolex produces over a million watches a year and all of them are sold out, and they're reviewed more than any brand on RUclips. All this produces a higher probability of finding watches with QC issues. Omega are sought-after less than Rolex and Grand Seiko is not even the picture. This naturally results in "finding" less QC issues with Omega and Grand Seiko. Either way if it's a widespread issue, there will be a public outcry and Rolex reputation will be on the line.
Lovely watch let down by an appalling lack of quality control and workmanship. Love the in-depth reviews Hafiz; and the macro shots are simply stunning.
So I just spent 10 mins with a loop looking at the hands on my OP 41mm Green and it does have scratch issues on the hands. Easier to see under macro on the vid but they are there. You can't see any issues with the naked eye but under the loop looks like when they do a comparison vid with a Noob V10 super clone. I guess the Chinese didn't have to keep improving their quality just had to wait until Rolex lowered the bar!!
Yeah the scratches require upclose inspection and specific lighting to show. But of course that doesn’t mean they’re not there.
For the price, they shouldn’t be there. The ding on the minute hand - you can actually see it on a few clips not taken with Macro lens - sigh!
@@HafizJMehmood No wonder people are turning to Grand Seiko.
I have one word for you:
Omega
@@Niro_Hero The Omega speed master 50th anniversary edition is better looking than any Rolex I’ve seen.
@@HafizJMehmood is this a new watch ?
Stunning video. Surprised to see these major QC control issues. May I ask, did you purchase this watch brand new?
Hi Paul. No, I didn’t buy it myself. Most of the watches I review are not mine. I borrow them for review from friends around me, and some from local shop I know. I can neither afford all these watches, not do I have a sponsor AD to send me new watches unfortuantely.
This watch was bought end of last year and since it’s a new release OP41, it can’t be more than 4 months old. Even if it was opened for authentication, no one opens the dial for it; only caseback. There were also paint marks on the dial that can only come from factory.
From my understanding, this watch only had one owner who bought it brand new only a couple of months ago (end of 2020).
Paul prison Tattoo Thorpe you got an absolute cheek when your son is the biggest watch fraudster in the uk - didn’t he go to prison for two years - plus the police have raided your home - you are a complete hypocrite going on about watch crime when your whole family - are being chased by the police - look at HMRC have posted about your son - any decent father would hide under a rock and die with embarrassment.why don’t you compensate all the people defrauded by your son
Hafiz don’t take any s*** from Paul Thorpe he is a member of the racist EDL
Keep up this terrific work, Mr. Mehmood! More videos exposing the flaws in high-end watches will either cause people to lose interest, resulting in lowered prices, or inspire watchmakers like Rolex to up their QC game. You've earned another subscriber.
It is so painful seeing one of the most beautiful watches ever made being plagued with this ridiculous QC issues. The OP is in my personal opinion the most gorgeous watch Rolex sells. Its essential yet perfectly well formed and purposeful design speaks to me.
The biggest concern for me is that the superficial flaws seen on the dial / hands reflect the attention given to the movement. If debris / scratches are so obvious on visible elements it makes you wonder what sins exist behind the case back... thank you as always, Hafiz. Excellent work and a great video. Happy New Year bud!!!
Wow, excellent point.
just read the Walt Odets article where he reviewed the Explorer 1 many years ago. THe movement had metal shavings in it
@@pacmancalgary Back in the day I made a hard copy of that and read it several times. I think Rolex has improved their finish quality since then. But yeah, it was quite an eye opener.
Exactly!!!
On the Rolex forum, it is not uncommon to find reports of issues with the 3235 movement. Time will tell if there are issues with the 3230 as well.
Did you get this from horology House, by any chance?
Haha
From the title I know I’m going to love this review. On with the show!
The quality is a joke, especially for 30% extra over retail!
this quality is a joke even for retail price. I am happy that people keep spending Money on Rolex, so I can keep Grand Seiko as my grail and unknown brand
@@SkyNikita322 easy to say until you need to get it serviced. You’re in for a shock.
My plumbs shrink when I look at a GS... the lack of passion is encapsulating.... I drive an Alfa🍺
Some guy is watching this jsut after he paid 8k for it.
Try 12 k
Then there is you. Without.
@@JamesWilkinson11 Im good thanks
About $8,500 in 2023 pre owned. But what’s a more affordable Rolex option?
6k naked 🎉
Great work - Rolex should be seriously concerned that such a piece could ever have escaped the factory.
How many times are the hands magnified in this video? 5x? 10x? You can not see this with your nakid eye. Why would you care? Do you know that like 99.99% of all diamonds show many imperfections if you observed them at 5x magnification?
@@AG-nj3ky no greater magnification than Hafiz’s previous reviews of other watch brands - which do not show this quality or lack of finishing quality generally.
@@AG-nj3ky You are kidding right? You can see the dent in the Hand and the scratches without zooming in. They look more terrible than on an 100 € watch lol
@@jens3545 no i am not kidding. Even the shot at 5:18 is larger than 1:1 and you can barely notice the dent.
@@AG-nj3ky That’s not the point. A diamond is organic material with natural defects.
Poorly finished or scratched hands and paint specks on the dial are completely within the control of the manufacturer. It’s completely unacceptable at this price point. Why would someone pay $5900 at retail for this watch when a $200 Orient has fewer defects? There is a level of finishing and craftsmanship expected that is not being met here with this OP.
Do you think Grand Seiko would let one of
their watches out the door looking like that?
The watch collecting strategy guy also sees horrific quality control fails in his Rolex close ups so this just goes to show it’s not an isolated case. Moreover J. Anthony also has a video on the myth of Rolex quality. Rolex is riding a wave of hype and resting on its laurels.
That’s really unfortunate to see this many QC issue. As others here state, most Rolex consumers don’t care and just want the name on their wrist. I’m not sure how you deal with this other than bringing a loupe when you take delivery? But then what? Reject and wait for a replacement? Get bumped from the list? How does Omega compare under macro these days?
Steve, I own a "Railmaster", an "AquaTerra", and an "Apnea" I also own a silver dialed OP41, under a loupe, the Omegas are flawless. Under a loupe (20x) there is a small smudge on the seconds hand. (OK for me as you need such a powerful magnification to see it) Omega's game is top tier currently.
i bought the new Omega SMP300 recently, its practically flawless and couldnt find any flaws no matter how much i scrutinised it. absolutely in love with it and VERY pleased with the quality.
@@konadora how about the heavy, borderline sharp stainless steel bracelet on the new SMP. I own one and in addition the clasp is massive and digs into your skin.
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the scratched hand with a ding at its tip and the color spots on the dial. I was in firm believe that something like this would never - and I mean NEVER EVER - happen with a Rolex watch, and still here you go. I wouldn’t be surprised if Rolex makes contact to you in order to get hold of the watch so that they can identify who was responsible for this mess. This is a PR desaster.
Im pretty sure they can easily locate the watch background and origin from its serial number. Even if they dont trace this back, I hope they can improve on their production standards.
The last thing you’d want after dropping $10k on a watch is to have dented hands and splash paint marks on the dial.
Rolex doesn’t care. It sells out every sports watch. I won’t get a Rolex unless this channel recommends it.
Why would they need to do any better than this when they have people lining up to pay ridiculous money for their watches. The vast majority of Rolex owners to not care one bit about QC issues, the words on the dial are the most important thing.
Was thinking exactly the same thing my friend.
Maybe there is some truth in this. Perhaps they can’t churn these models out fast enough to satisfy global demand? It’s a sad day if quality is being compromised as this video suggests. Or maybe just a one off lemon? Perhaps some people just want Rolex on their wrist and could care less about tiny surface marks or manufacturing defects.
@@bobbydazzler1780 actually Rolex is able to produce more models. They can easily invest und build new production. But hey, why?! Demand is all time high and people are dumb enough and willing to pay 2-3 times at retail prices.. They have enough funds...
@@justgeorge121 wait what?! Most of them stays in boxes or safe unworn?! How dumb is this?! So actually people who enjoy wearing their watches and have the money to get them but aren‘t able to (or you buy grey what makes no sense at all) are even more fked up?! Gosh people.. if you want invest, how you start proper investing and not ONLY in rolex?!
Amazing video Hafiz I’m shocked to see the quality issues. I really wanted a Sub but “settled” for the Omega SMP300m last year. The SMP is nothing short of amazing. I still love the Sub but won’t play the AD game. I actually think Omega is going to trump Rolex in the next decade. Their range is still a little confused and busy but if they can work that out METAS and their QC is phenomenal
I have just bought the OP 41mm with the Blue Dial , it is out of this world , best watch I have in my Collection and so nice to Wear , Rolex OP’s are outstanding tbh 😊
Guys, always take your luxury watches under magnification while there is still warranty left, and if there's anything wrong, go demand a fix under warranty.
The more they need to take back watches and fix them, the less profitable it gets for them to cut corners with QC in the first place.
I have a green dial OP41 and I have looked at it with a loupe and I haven’t seen any issues with mine.
blue one here and same as you perfect condition and not a single defect to be seen.
Great review Hafiz! Loved the details !! I even checked my new GREEN OP 41 for those flaws with the magnifying lenses. Happy to find out mine is ok. 🙌
Wow!! That’s unacceptable QC. I really hope someone at Rolex is watching...
I think someone is. Just scroll up a bit...;-)
Yes they are watching, how ppl are buying their overpriced products. Laughing and counting money
What a wonderful and brave review. It can easily be seen the amount of effort you’ve have put into this vid. And yes, Rolex should be truly ashamed , and held accountable, for the nasty finish on their products. Other reviewers have also highlighted Rolex’s lack of quality control. If I had a choice, I would go for an Omega anytime.
Hi Hafiz. great review. Did you buy this watch at an Authorised Rolex AD as a brand new watch? Was it a UK Authorised dealer or one in another country? Please let me know. Thank you.
Appaling indeed 😱. I saw a yellow OP41 last month, checked it with a 5x loupe, it was fine. Left the microscope at home, but on a serious note what we see here is totally unacceptable.
Just curious who/where you bought this from?
Where did this piece come from Hafiz? How did you come across it and what’s its history? Is it directly from the Rolex factory? Doubt they would release a watch where it’s damaged and visible to the naked eye! Please let us know.
Great content, also looks like damage to polished bezel at 5:43
And here I was thinking the black dial OP 41 was going to be my next watch...I don't think I'd buy without being able to take a very critical look at it under magnification. My Grand Seiko at less than half of the price shows no such defects. However he wrist shots towards the end of the video really do show that under regular viewing conditions this is a very fine looking watch. This is the first video of yours I have seen and you have gained a new subscriber. Well done.
Wow an honest channel, this so rare ! subscribed
Well, the Rolex fan-boyism is the root of the problem. If their watches sell out no matter what and people are willing to pay twice the retail price, why should the R company care about QC or innovation? They will only change if they start losing major portion of their sales to their competitors.
Brother, thanks for another superb content, well balanced and honest. While I am happy overall with my OP36, there is also dust spec on the dial which I noticed about a week after it was picked up from the AD. This is trully dissapointing, but it seems I am not an exception. That being said I am still thinking about the new turqoise 41. While there is no excuse for these qc issues especially at this price point I would say that you have helped remind us to always be smart consumers and check everything thoroughly. Thanks again.
Was this purchased directly from an AD?
Thank you Hafiz. The evidence presented seriously questions current grey market premiums.
AD or secondary market? Used? New?
We have the same wrist size so I can enjoy the video's wrist shots vicariously!
I wanted this so badly before watching the video. I have my doubts now. Haha..
Thanks for this review, I think. I have the new OP 41 silver dial. After I finished watching this video, I immediately got out a loupe and started going over the dial. While I didn’t finds the problems you did, i did notice a few QC issues, some dust, etc., which I hadn’t noticed before. Very disappointing...
Hey man, the model shots in the beginning of the video, was that the 39mm or 41mm version?
Rolex fanboys: "B-b-but only Rolex is a Rolex because it's a Rolex! It's the only watch and everything else is just lame! It'll go up in value while sitting in my safe which is definitely what watches are intended to be used for! You can exchange your Rolex for a ride to the nearest town when you get stuck in the middle of the Sahara, you know!"
Just looked at mine (silver Feb 2021 41mm) with a loupe. Flawless :) I'm not bothered about anything smaller because I don't think human eye sight will evolve that much before I die.
8:32 you can see the white paint spots, gee wizz Rolex
.... One cracking video I'm speechless Hafiz! Keep up the fantastic work and stay safe pal!
Hey Hafiz, I got to try on the 41mm at my AD but it didn't fit as well on the wrist as the op 39. I think it is because of the end links on the bracelet, you might want to consider that in the video, it is considerably longer than the 39 end links.
Hi mate. The end links don’t increase the watch span. If you check from the underside of end links, they flare straight down before the lugs end, so there’s no additional flaring they offer on the wrist.
Yea I know what you mean. The centre link flares out when viewed from inside but it still sticks straight down from before the end span of the lugs. I wish I could post a photo here; it would have been easier to explain but I hope it’s making sense.
Wow! Had a choice between this and a Grand Seiko Soko. Glad I chose the Soko.
'Sup. I don't want the op36 anymore... my Soko will be more than enough.
@@65hi863dhyu you need a rowlecks
Another great review and love the thought, preparation and independence.
Thank you for your time and effort put into your reviews.
Oh, wow I was considering getting a Rolex in the future when I'd be able afford one, but I don't think I want one anymore. I swear I've seen macros of the sub $1,000 Seiko range and they looked much better. Have you seen something like this on the Datejusts, or are they better?
Looks like he got a fake or one that’s been serviced by an unskilled watchmaker. Too many flaws and scratches for an untouched genuine, from the factory.
You could send this back with your warranty for a full service, or maybe even a swap to a different watch, on the house, if it’s genuine.
Would love to see a video after taking it to an official Rolex service center.
Watching this video wait let me look down at my Omega Smp it’s 7:08 pm and it’s flawless!
This is a really first-rate video. Thank you so much for doing this. For the record, I have owned two Grand Seiko watches - both of which had pitted hands and had to be sent back to the factory for replacement. Super annoying.
When I pay $8000 for a watch, the expectation is that it’s perfect. I pay that much for a watch because I want at least ONE thing in my life that’s perfect. That’s what I’m paying for.
great video! What is your set up to take such nice macro video?
Thank you for a superb review. The lack Of QC is absolutely unacceptable and shocking.
Great work Hafiz, I really the 36 mm size, for me the 39 mm was a perfect size, and 36 is the second-best.
Hafiz, brilliant video as always. Thank you!
Wonderful narration as usual from the master, Rolex need check itself on quality control, for the cost I would really upset with the scratches, excess paint flakes & above it all the "Dinged" second hand, should never have left the factory. P.S. Tx
Grand Seiko QC is secretly laughing hard at this
I must say iam not a Seiko Fan from a design point of videw but there QC is impressive even with lower priced watches there QC is impressively good.
@@jens3545 well... Seiko and Grand Seiko are faaaaaar away though
If you want a OP41 then time to think about GS SBGA375 - it's beautiful and in every way and detail superior to the OP41 in my opinion.
@@jasonfroggett1583 I so agree! One of my grail watches but I am too poor to afford it
All of sudden from this video GS is a hero, hello GS has its fair share of issues.
Great video as always Hafiz, Happy new year brother.
grand seiko laughs
Hafiz, your production and presentation are simply outstanding. Never had a Rolex on my grail list and dont think I ever will. Their stock control, waiting lists, created shortages, and on top of all of that the QC is appalling. They are marketing masters who can no longer provide quality. Flexing a Rolex, to me, seems nothing more than pretension at best.
My friend, I too am appalled at Rolex QC. I don't know what to do. I bought a new watch and it has a number of alignment issues that I didn't see initially... they said I should wait until service. They are cutting corners everywhere, they are the new Seiko in regards with misaligned everything. I am very disappointed with what was supposed to be a milestone watch for me.
This is why we can't have nice things.
this is what happens when you release 10 different dial colors in 3-4 different sizes all at once.
💯
So does Omega and even in bazillion more variations. LUL i detest that but still Omega has also QC issues.. but never heard of those drastic ones...
Thanks Hafiz. I noticed that all watches look great on your wrist ...36mm, 38mm, 39mm 40mm, white dial, blue dial, black dial, rolex, AP, patek etc.... I have enjoyed your channel. Thank you very much
Hafiz, do you like quartz watches......?
Thanks a lot. This really shows that Rolex doesn't really care about the quailty on the "entry level" watches or they are just not able to do proper quality control on the huge amount of watches they produce. Most customers won't ever see those issues, but for that price you would expect something better.
It’s hot nothing to do with entry level or not. These issues exist across the board.
My OP41 is flawless under macro, while my Air-King has dust all over the green seconds hand. It’s simply a matter of QC, I think. Nothing to do about pricing.
Exactly. Sometime you get unlucky and fall on a crappy one
Today's lesson... View through a loupe before parting with money. At this price point flaws are not acceptable. Spent a couple of years living in geneva and you can walk past the Rolex unit in plan les quates(patek philippe unit is next door incidentally) and look through the window and view the work stations. Couldn't say if watches were assembled in this area but dust control prevention didn't look a priority. Good video hafiz , real wake up call.
Do you plan send the watch for warranty? The dent part is a joke
Great review Hafiz, a bit concerning re the ding etc. but a lovely minimalist timepiece that will go with anything. I really fancy the Bright Blue one, understated by also stand out, somehow…. Well done….subscribed.
Sad. Not on Grande Seiko and Omega.
Which color do u personally prefer. Black or blue?
Blue 👌
Hi Hafiz, thank you! If you had a gun on your head and had to choose blue vs black now. Which one do you go for? Would love to have some feedback before pulling the trigger on one of them..! Thanks again!
People buy into the hype. Why should Rolex even try to fix it?
Beautiful watch, however, the lack of QC is such a disgrace even Rolex couldn’t defend that. I hope that if you returned to your AD with this problem it would get resolved ASAP. Great video as always Hafiz 👍🏻
I bought an exp2 from a boutique in Monaco a couple of years ago. Upon returning to London I realised there was some fluff stuck to the date disc! Took it to the London service centre and this was very quickly rectified as I waited. Unsure how they would treat scratched hands however !
What’s your thoughts on the silver dial 41mm OP ? Thanks 😊
I just purchased my first Grand Seiko, model SBGJ237 GMT. When I look at the finish of the dial, hand, markers under a loop, the finishing is exquisite. The attention to detail is unbelievable. I have had it for a bit over a week and it is keeping time to +1 sec/day. I know no one outside of true watch geeks will be impressed like they would if I wore a Rolex, but to me that is part of the appeal. Perhaps this particular Rolex is an anomaly QC-wise, but there is absolutely no excuse for the multiple issues experienced here. I would return it for a full refund and take my money elsewhere. Good luck.
well put together review! THANK YOU
As they raise prices, they lower standards apparently...
@JJ LeCoot Maybe so... I own a "top rep" so as to tell the difference. Compared to my gens right next to each other its easier to spot little things. Rolex does screw up too sometimes... I think the rep I have has the etched crown more center than my gens. lol What I've learned is different replica manufactures use different factories and will be better in certain areas than others. So, it's hard to say just from one or two odd looking things. The best overall way I've learned to tell a fake is to open it up and look at the back of the movement. Even with the rep new clones, you can tell the difference looking at it compared to a gen photo or with a loupe. Otherwise I tend to look at the datewheel font, the crown on the dial, the dial font alignment and "style" so to speak and the edges of the hands. From all the rep's I've seen, they can't get the hands edges to be smooth but they can get them without scratches like this. This watches hands edges look pretty damn smooth to me. The rotor in the movement is also usually to loud compared to gen. If they service the replica movements, the winding actually isn't that much different at all from gen, so don't only use that as an indicator. All this being said, that dials crown does look a bit stubby..... but the hands edges look smooth. I've seen genuine errors before, I would want to open up the case back.
@JJ LeCoot It could also be a replica dial, genuine hands scratched during installation
@JJ LeCoot Its not a fake lol
@@jens3545 typical Rolex Fanboyism. There is a QC issue: THE WATCH MUST BE FAKE! ROLEX IS GOD! ROLEX NEVER MAKES MISTAKES! THERE IS ONLY ONE BRAND WHICH IS THE BEST IT‘S ROLEX!
What is the 'wrist span'?
How do you measure it?
Wrist span is basically width of hour wrist from top view. It’s like measuring size of your wrist bone when viewed from the top.
Was this purchased from AP
Hi is the watch unopened from the factory? Would be "game over" if you could confirm this. Awesome videos. Been a subscriber for a while. Keep up the great work please 🙏🏻
Hey Hafiz would you recommend a brand new OP 36 for my first Rolex over a pre owned DJ 36? Both would be around $6000
I am never selling my white op 39. Most watches have at least one thing wrong with them, to me, the OP 39 is flawless.
Brilliant photography and filming once again Hafiz 👏. I love the new OP41 but extremely disappointed to see the flaws you have shown.
So what. I moved on to Omega, Grand Seiko and Sinn. I have my eyes on Zenith and Longines as well.
because of this? is it really that common ?
Given the supply games that Rolex and its ADs play, the imminent price rise and now the sloppy QC on this watch I'd say that Rolex are a brand that take its customers for granted. Vote with your feet (or wallet) or nothing will change. For the time being I will concern myself with watches from other brands.
So, did you send it back.....
Great video and spot on critique! This watch is NOT worth the $6K USD list price and definitely not the 2x aftermarket price. I’d like to see more of the watch community follow up with their observations. Rolex’s reputation for excellence, which is the justification for their watch valuations, is now trash. It seems like they are trying to quickly cash on high consumer demand at the expense of quality. Thank you for lifting the curtain!
What magnification was used to identify the defects? Thank you again.
Hafiz, personally which color should you choose … OP41 Blue, Black or Green?
I think Hafiz likes yellow in 36mm 💛
Tell me; should I buy this one now or wait for 2021 model?
Incredibly bad QC!
I reviewed $200 watches that look better under macro
I thought the same :D
im guessing that this piece has been opened before, because my blue one does not have any defects, and i mean none. Is it a review unit or did you buy it like this?
Not opened before. It’s a new release from 3 months ago, hence never serviced either.
Even if it was ever opened, why would anyone bother to throw paint splash marks on the dial?
@@HafizJMehmood oké then it's a shame of Rolex that this passed their Qc, well if you look how some people turn a movement upside down on a pillow to show the movement this could had caused the paint issues but as you said it's a new unit so can't be. Shameful at the least then.
Hello Hafiz, nice video as usual. Thank you!
Excellent review. Thank you
Examine a Richard Mille under macro.
You sure it was a brand new watch and not a refurbished one? Many dealers have been selling older ones as new ones due to the high demand. 3-4 people in my friend circle have this watch, none had these issues. Honestly it looks like whoever bought this watch u r reviewing got scammed.
Good review , interesting to see the close inspection of a new quality watch showing defects . 👍🙂