Three of the great laws of the universe apply here: 1) Life is more pleasant when you love beautiful things. 2) It is better to be envied than to be pitied. 3) Haters are often frustrated with their lives.
@@drsrsv8884 > thinking wearing an outdated overpriced products that you have to kneel and beg the manufacturer to sell them to you is "winning in life"
Bought my 5513 Submariner in 1969 in Vietnam and it’s still on my 80 year old wrist today. It’s a work of art and goes up in value each year. How many watches can even come close to it? An heirloom that will eventually be on my grandson’s wrist. So there all you naysayers,
Hi sir, I am Vietnamese and just got into watches. May I asked you how Rolex watches were sold in Vietnam? Cause clearly Vietnam was and still a developing country. I can only imagine that you bought it in Saigon where American occupied Southern Vietnam
I enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this. For me, my 16610 submariner is a perfect daily wear. I have worn it pretty much every day since 2009 and still love it just as much as the day when I received it - my 40th birthday.
Rolex has been worn from the deepest of Earth's oceans to the highest mountains... on the wrist of Chuck Yeager breaking the sound barrier (1947), onboard the X-15 flying at Mach 6.7 and during the Apollo 13, 14 and 17 missions to the Moon. The favorite watch as worn by people such as Jacques Cousteau, Jean Claude Killy, Ian Fleming, Dizzy Gillespie, Martin Luther King, Sir David Attenborough, Sir Malcolm Campbell, etc... Good advice for not buying overpriced stuff of any brand in the gray market !
Rolex are undoubtedly great watches with a great history. Personally, however, I prefer Tudor. For me they are fresher, cooler, braver and "younger" 😉. And they offer a great quality as well indeed.
I agree with everything you have eloquently narrated. Whenever I wear my Rolexs people often say, "on it's a status symbol, you're wearing it to show the world that you are successful, a cut above." I don't own my watches for that, I love the feel and look of them, simple as! Thank you for sharing your videos.
I’ve never lost money on a Rolex. You can wear them for years-which I have-and know that the value remains should you need or want to sell it. Not many luxury items can accomplish such a feat.
When I was associated with US Army Special Forces as a recon aviator, the Rolex GMT Master and Submariner were a must have in order to be recognized as a special operations troop. I have a Tudor Submariner and a gold and stainless GMT Master with a jubilee band. Just now getting them serviced for the first time.
So it was a matter of peer pressure and costuming versus anything else? I was a Navy O6 at SOCOM and SOCCENT. Know what we wore? Whatever we wanted. SOCOM was G-Shock heaven. Staff types wore jewelry, operators in the field wore functional watches.
True. I see the Richard Mille offerings and imagine they’ll be badly dated in 10-20 years, maybe sooner. Not so for Rolex. It’s like the Porsche 911 of watches.
I agree with everything you said! I did the typically Rolex “love-hate-respect-love” curve when I started getting into watches a few years ago. Now I’m saving up for the next few years for one! Hopefully I’ll get there!
There's also the folks that got one as an heirloom. I recently discovered my grandfather's OP 6564 and had it repaired and now it's in the rotation for my collection.
I’ve had multiple Rolex watches. A hulk. A coke GMT. TT ceramic GMT and a vintage RootBeer GMT which is the best of the lot. I don’t take them off. Not to sleep or anything else. That avoids drops and loss. If I’m not winding it, it’s on the wrist
Very true . Probably around the same age as you . As a kid Rolex was no doubt impressive to me but I think it was more a mark of quality than anything else . I own 5 but have to say my omegas get virtually all my wrist time . Find the flexing culture unpalatable which I suppose has affected my wearing habits. I also think the hugely appreciating prices has led me in many ways to perhaps inadvertently view them more as assets as opposed to daily wear watches . Although I haven’t thought of selling maybe subconsciously I am thinking that the Rolexes May be passing through so don’t have the same attachment as I do to my omegas ..
Rolex tell the time everyday they are amazing watches the time is right every second it’s pure class time piece that tells the time all day. Such a pretty watch
A great video come out and some great points. But I’d like to bring up some points of why people don’t wear Rolex 1: price. Brand new, the suggested retail price for a basic Rolex Submariner is about $9000. If you add a date complication to that particularly Rolex, you’re looking at a total of $10,000 for a brand new one and the prices remain relatively consistent with the basic models the exception of the oyster perpetual, which is only about $6000. Who is people come out that is just flat out on obtainable. And a used one, can be starting at 14,000. Great for value retention, but not great for someone trying to get one brand new. 2: lack of attainability. My local authorized dealer told me that on average do you have to wait between 18 and 24 months to obtain a Rolex. So unless you have a really good relationship with the authorized dealer, or time it absolutely perfectly, you’re not gonna be able to walk into the store by one and walk out the same day. By comparison with the brands Tudor and Omega, The only reason why you would not be able to walk out with a watch you want that same day, is if they physically do not have it in stock. 3: unbelievably skyrocketing prices. When the Rolex submariner was released to the public, in 1954, you could buy one brand new for about $150, approximately $1700 adjusted for inflation. Still reasonably expensive but not unattainable for your average man. This is actually why James Bond originally wore a Rolex submariner in the early films and generally preferred Rolex in Ian Fleming‘s original novels. Adjusted for inflation, because that watch has gone up almost tenfold and the only significant change in the design since the 1950s has been an increase in the power reserve from 55 hours to 70. 4: lack of engagement with demographics. Whenever Rolex has an advertisement they don’t really focus on reaching out to new customers, I didn’t really seem to focus on what movies their watches Have been in, or what celebrities have worn their products. Omega as their marketing as, here’s what are watches can do, here’s what they have done, here is James Bond, and here’s a model to get you engage with. Based on these alone, I would rather go with omega. After all I don’t care what watched it was in titanic, I would know what to watch can do.
Just discovered your channel sir, and I quite enjoyed it. I don't have a Rolex, but I respect everything they do. I have trustee Longines I've been wearing for awhile, and I agree finding YOUR watch makes you feel good.
Pretty much sums up the reasons why I love the brand. I tried for a long time to avoid Rolex, I’ve owned Onega, GS, Zenith amongst others but only fully understood Rolex when I got one on my wrist. If you cut away all the BS, at the basic level they are just a damn good watch. I still own other watches but the only one on a bracelet is now my OP, nothing really comes close as they oyster bracelet comfort wise
As an attorney in my own practice, it's insane how much differently clients and others receive me in my Rolex. (As opposed to my chronoswiss, longines, omega)
I love your presentation in your video's chap, and I've watched many of them. Personally, I have never even noticed Rolex marketing in my whole life. I am a 53yo Australian chap. Rather my story is that I resisted buying a Rolex for many years into my watch journey. My passion was/is Omega for reasons unknown, just loved them. But eventually I did buy a Rolex, and it was the quality of the product, its beauty and beautiful wearability that sold me on them. In fact, most of the reasons you state. I still don't really love them , but I do respect them hugely.
Just spending my second week diving in Cyprus and the new submariner has been faultless...sea, swimming pool and every beach in between..and with just a quick shower looking fantastic when dressing for dinner ...i own no other watch that can pull this off ..its just perfection !!!!!
I've always been interested in watches since i was 16, I'm now 67 And have a decent disposable income to indulge my enjoyment of fine watches. Among my collection i have three Rolexes and wear one off them every day. Many people think the name is synonymous with showing off and posing but if you delve beyond that you'll find they are VERY fine watche, with nearly every part of them being made in Switzerland. Then there is the added bonus that, unlike most other luxury items, they hold their value very well, so that in the future, should I need it, I could sell them for more than I paid. I should add that, God willing, they'll be passed down to my don eho also has an interest in watches. Great channel by the way.
Great work, you are right in every respect. I would like to add the bracelet means when you first put it on - your first impression is - this watch just feels right on my wrist. I think also the timeless design, you can see the DNA of the watch is previous models eg the Submariner over decades. Also don't underestimate the range of Rolex and the fact that you can buy watches in many different sizes. My wife wears a OP 31mm and it fits her perfectly, and she has options from 28mm to 41mm sizes (not many other Coys make the range of sizes). I own 3 Rolex watches, most recent purchase White Gold Daytona.
In 1973, a steel Submariner cost 385 USD. Adjusted for inflation, that's about 2300 USD today. So why are people putting their names on a waiting list, so that a year from now, they can pay ten thousand dollars for a three thousand watch?
It’s bonkers. I paid £2,350 for my Rolex GMT Coke in 2001. It’s a nice watch & have lots of memories with it. I also have an Omega Seamaster 300m Chronograph that I purchased last year. The Omega is absolutely incredible compared to my GMT Coke. An absolute delight to wear. I find it rediculous that my GMT is worth three times as much as my Seamaster. It’s so, so silly. Fools and their money are easily parted.
@Harry Donovan modern Rolexes are still pretty pedestrian to modern Omega master co-axial calibres. That’s a fact. Just the branding really with a Rolex and I guess the iconic design. Nothing to do with the quality of the horology.
If you want a nice watch, Rolex is the easiest choice. You can spend months on watch forums learning ancient brands, movement types, and how to pronounce Piguet and Jaeger-LeCoultre - or you can just buy a Rolex Submariner or Daytona and get on with your life.
I love Rolex and your channel. I've been collecting watches for 22 years now. It has to be acknowledged that after Casio and Seiko, Rolex have the highest annual production output for any watchmaker currently in production. That statistic has always influenced my purchasing decisions.
Very much in agreement with your thoughts here. I've had Hamiltons, seiko, casio, a few omega... sold everything apart from my square G shock and on the waiting list for 36mm OP or an Explorer.... I think they will be a watch I'll keep for life... especially if I get the green OP! Happy to wait a few years as it'll be worth it 💚
Everyone likes to work long enough to acquire something that they cherish. At some point it’s nice to diversify and Rolex has always been a reasonable store of value, in fact they often pace inflation and can appreciate. Unfortunately like so many things they’ve become commoditized and have become something of an investment. This has lead to the supply chain shortages and price manipulation. However it doesn’t detract from the fact there an amazing addition to anyone interested in a great all around watch. They have surpassed there own legendary mystique. I personally own three Rolex watches, a Sea Dweller 16600, Root Beer GMT2 , and a Yacht Master and wouldn’t sell one of them, there a benchmark in reliability and comfort and each serve a different purpose. Great review!
Great video. Coincidentally, I picked up my first Rolex from my AD today. 41 mm Datejust blue dial with white gold fluted bezel on Jubilee bracelet. Hoping to having many good years with it.
All true. Having purchased a 16570 Polar before prices went to the moon, I have minimal interest in other watches which are in my price range. AP, PP, VC I can't consider stretching to.
Rolex brand power well explained. I liken it with car analogies. There are Ferrari, Bentley, rolls royce and aston martin just like AP, Vacheron, Patek and FP Journe. But Porsche just like Rolex is the daily luxury object of exclusivity. Practical and robust luxury hits the sweet spot. there are better brands, more complex cars but their practical drawbacks feeds into the Rolex brand power.
I own three and agree with many of your points. I also believe that Rolex is going to have some issues with people being turned-off by how much they may have to spend in the future and the games played at the AD's. Many are more than willing to purchase a watch at retail but can't and likely are on huge waiting lists. I will not be chasing any Rolex model for the foreseeable future as they are now quite overpriced and I will not beg anyone to sell me another. People like myself who have no interest in purchasing other "Jewelry" or other items just for the privilege to be granted the crown may just backfire for Rolex. We'll see in the future how many younger potential buyers they will gain as I feel many who are paying well over retail may be an anomaly. It could reach an equilibrium in several years and will those buyers be there or could it sour those potential buyers in the future as they migrate to other great brands that can be purchased today at an AD. I guess we'll see.
I don' get the whole Rolex waitlist nonsense. Back in 1984 after my graduation from college; I went to a local Rolex dealer and selected the GMT Master right then and there, paid for it and they adjusted the bracelet and the sales person told me to save every hang tag, the box, everything, the papers for the long term for which I did. I think the final cost was $1,800 back then. I can't imagine what it costs now but it does have a replacement service dial that replaced the original T-25 dial. No doubt that this has greatly diminished the value. Compared to the new crop of Rolex models my 60550 is smaller, acrylic crystal and a simple clasp. Wore it throughout a career in the Air Force without any issues. Now, the jeweler who serviced it recommended that I no longer swim with it due to its vintage nature and these days with watch snatchers in in places like Beverly Hills, one has to be a bit careful. Other watches, Omega Speedster, Breitling Cosmonaut, a couple of Seiko automatic dive watches and a couple of mechanical modern Timex models. A nice leather band can do wonders for a Timex.
Greetings from NYC. Rolex is now the brand Every bloke with a credit card has in NYC. It has no exclusivity anymore..especially with over a million a year produced. Rolex doesnt make a grand complication and has no heritage as an in-house movement maker. Until the late 80's or early 90s they did not have an in-house movement powering their core line up. They also outsourced dials and bracelets. Meanwhile A. Lange make every last screw (and you pay for it). It wasn't until current Rolex management realized it was a bad look to have nearly every element of their best sellers made by outside companies making them nothing more than re-branders. So they bought all these companies doing all the actual manufacturing. Regarding quality, yes the quality has finally matched its high price but boy have they ratcheted up those prices. Troubling to me is that the newest Rolex are going to be much more expensive to service since they've moved aggressively towards making it difficult for independent watch makers to repair and service their watches by requiring special tools and parts that will be exclusive to official Rolex service centers. And you dont want to see their price list for common service versus what your independent watch maker will charge. I would save up for the Paul McCartney Patek Aquanaut ...the rich man's submariner. And sadly when Sir Paul passes this model will skyrocket in value and will likely be the most expensive watch ever auctioned. Sir Paul could have any watch in the world but this knight of the round table, living legend and billionaire chose the most stylishly simple Patek. He even wore it on his wedding day. The value will triple. Special mention to the Vacheron Overseas with the lacquered blue dial...sublime. Personally I'll take one Vacheron or Patek over a collection of Rolex. By the way, vintage Rolex are incredible. The John Goldberger 100 Superlative Rolex book (a masterpiece someone recently uploaded a page by page video of) makes one wonder how that Rolex of the past could have become such a sterile dial designer today. When I first saw the Skydweller I thought they were punking us. It was like a $20k Invicta.
I wanted one from when i was 18, at a friends wedding my mates dad was wearing a gold Datejust, i was in awe and knew NOTHING about watches, but i knew i wanted one..... I finally got my AD purchased 126660 DSD JC at 55, i do own 28 other watches such as Omega.. Panerai and more brands.... i also own and wear cheap Gshocks.. but for the last 4 months i have worn just one watch... my 126660, after putting it on a RubberB strap..... i cant leave it alone its my absolute FAVOURITE at the moment :-)
Because, hard as it is to believe, a Rolex is as robust, tough, reliable and waterproof as a Vostok Amphibia whilst keeping better time. The only way the Rolex falls short of the Vostok is the stainless steel jubilee strap isn't as good (the strap on my Rolex Oyster datejust broke and the watch disappeared whilst wild swimming. I still have the Vostok despite worse treatment)
Great video! Although I have to disagree with you on the first few points mentioned. Nowadays people certainly do not buy Rolex because of superior functionality, water resistance or comfort. Other watch brands or even other devices offer equal or far superior qualities in all these areas for the same or far less money. No one in their right mind buys a USD 10K Rolex for the GMT complication when a 30 dollar Casio watch has the same functionality, only better. Mechanical watches are now mostly juwelry and fashion accessories. And Rolex has become the ultimate luxury item and status symbol. Not only to show-off to others but also to feel good about one's achievements and to admire the beauty of the pieces. Nothing wrong with that btw. I love Rolex. But I think the desire to buy Rolex has little to do with water resistance, functionality or superior wareability, although all these are part of the overall offering and a damn good excuse to convince oneself to pay USD 8K for a very basic, and very beuatifull, watch.
I only wear a rolex in the water or anything of importance to my health/safety… ie; tools for work. I also don’t care what anyone else does or buys. Maybe because I started 20+ years ago and only now appreciate that there’s a watch for everyone to enjoy. But similar comments seem to be in every video of relevance that mirror projecting or why they are set on speaking for everyone. People buy things because they need more than they want… proof in numbers and comments.
Morning sir After just watching your video re Rolex watches I must say that I'm 100%with you on all of it !!! Yes many are drawn to this brand as they see it as a way of showing off their wealth The big gold "bling models "spring to mind !!True class means wearing a watch that is very much understated and very often only recognised by fellow owners My choice many years ago was a Seadweller, not the later 44 mm job, but the one that looks just like a Submariner. Another excellent coment and very true was the "value keeping "quality of a Rolex Sadly, many people just "don't get it re the Rolex thing !!As the great Pink Floyd, sang If I had to explain, you wouldn't understand Keep up the great content 👏 👌 👍
Penis extender, or a penis replacement in some cases. JFC, if you have some money to spend on a watch, at least be original and get something other than a Rolex. Personally, I enjoy wearing a luxury watch that only a handful of people would recognize.
Thank you for another great video! I really like the engineering which goes into these watches. Sadly for me and to the relief of my wallet, I have never found a Rolex which suits my wrist. They are either too big or too small.
Hi Ash. Thanks for putting this video out there. You raise great points. I like the nuance and subtly that you highlighted. I like watches. I've liked watches for years -- especially mechanical watches. That being said, since the advent of the Apple Watch, I've struggled with trading off the functionality of Apple Watch for a mechanical. Apple Watch offers nudging for physical fitness, texts alerts, alarms clocks, etc. I've dipped my toes into mechanical watches (I have a automatic mechanical watch that includes a day date complication). I like it, but often when I wear that mechanical watch, I find myself missing my Apple Watch. Apple Watch certainly does not have the panache of a mechanical, but Apple Watch seems to be acceptable across a variety of formal to informal occasions. Have you (or anyone else reading this comment) had similar sentiment or experience about how to position an Apple Watch (or another 'smart watch') in your collection?
Yes, I’m exactly where you are, I own mechanical watches including a Rolex and swore I would never stray into the smart watch territory. I finally caved in and bought an Apple Watch in Oct 20 and it hasn’t been off my wrist since!
@@JS-ep8mu What I'm struggling with now is: can I justify the price of a Rolex (or another luxury watch -- thinking the moon watch), if really, I'm going to wear an Apple Watch 85%+ of the time?
I think you're missing the point here old boy! Wrist watches are for many people a piece of functional jewellery that is quite simply and in many circumstances, a piece of art on your body. Apple watches are extremely useful I suppose, but seem to me to be a small computer strapped to your wrist, that also tells the time. I guess a reflection of how much some people are governed and constrained by the pace of modern life and the need to rely on a computer to guide their daily lives. People love their watches, they don't love Apple watches. Just my thoughts!
@@billperry7549 Agree with you on all of your points. Especially the part of functional jewelry. I suppose I still struggle with the conundrum in the morning as I am about the walk out the door and I need to decide which watch to strap on. I tend to go to the Apple Watch most days. Since that's the case, I find myself having a difficult time justifying a budget of thousands to acquire a luxury watch.
Rolex is a tad gauche for reasons that you mentioned and makes you a target for thieves. Would I carry 20,000 dollars in cash on me while strolling through Boston and show it off? But you might wear a Rolex.
Hi, Ash. Lovely article I don’t have a Rolex, but I do wear an Oris Big Crown Aviator, a gift from my fiancé as was, now my wife. It is absolutely precious to me but also my daily choice. I see no point in owning something of such quality, utility and meaning and keeping it in a drawer.
For many years I worked as a civilian flight instructor in California. Often times out-of-towers would come to the airport and say things like, "You charge $100/hr. for your time. That sound awfully steep. Back in Dog Patch where I come from we pay our flight instructors $10/hr. How about I pay you at that rate?" Or they might offer me a $50 bonus to do something clearly illegal. But when I started wearing a Breitling Navatimer, much to my relief, those questions stopped. It's sort of the same with Rolex. When you wear one and you meet with a banker, or realtor, or lawyer they're likely to see you as a person who's not to be trifled with.
Love Rolex , just like I love other prestigious items. However, I have a story , which impresses people, whoever, wherever they are in life. Christmas 1981. I bought a Seiko S3 quartz date watch, £38.75 from Zales jewellers. My father gave £25.00 for his siblings for Xmas , so I paid the difference. I’ve still got it. I still wear it every day , every night , even to bed, it fact it’s the only thing I wear to bed. . Take it off just for bathing purposes. Had 2 services , quite a few batteries, most of them lasting 5 years plus a piece. Guess what ? It tells the time , still does and does very well .
I wear my Rolex for many reasons, but one of the reasons I chose that brand was because it’s a reminder - I’m in a material society, and while I’m playing this game, I’m going to play it well - and that little crown and lovely dial means to me: “Keep going. You did it before, and you can do it again and again.”
I have always wanted a Rolex, not for the status, but the craftsmanship and quality is what I want. Their designs are not intricate, but they do it very well. I also appreciate their watches don't tarnish as cheaper brands do. I also would love the Omega saphire sandwich moon watch.
So basically the overall reason to buy rolex watches is to flex around almost everywhere as people in history have made them the ultimate watches, when you have a lot of money and you want to or have to spend it Cause other reasons aren't that convincing apart from the watches lasting long due good built quality , but they could get easily lost if you are not careful From a purely efficiency point of view , its not convincing to buy them And yes one of the reasons is their ridiculously high price , even their retail price is high but they had to get more price due to supply and demand , I'm a middle class and i dont see worth in investing in rolex and dont think them as assets , i agree that they can be sold for higher orice but it doesn't sound so secure They are just a thing of entertainment and flex for the rich and there is Nothing wrong with that
I’ve had many. Sold most. Down to two now. I rarely wear them at all. I go all over the world for work and most places I go I’d make my self a target if I wore them. In addition to that, I’m tired of the AD games when trying to buy one.
As always, a great video. Thanks. I would love to see something comparable to Rolex. Only thing I see (at Rolex MSRP level ) is imperfections. Just cannot afford buying stuff that loses my admiration and lots of value immediately. Call me unromantic. As long as I can still get hands on my beloved Rolex watches at MSRP as I do now (not because I'm rich or famous but I got a long term good relationship with an AD), I will stick to this brand. Every excursion (e.g. JLC Polaris) was punished. It couldn't keep up with my expectations. It was always dissatisfying in the end.
Rolex is a milestone watch. It says you achieved a great undertaking and are now rewarded. But since it's use of sapphire for its dome it ceased being an adventurers' or military personnel tool watch but instead has become the wrist decor of an achievement accomplished gentleman now entering gentry status. This watch in it's current form can be treated as a beater watch for the office but not for mundane tasks. If you want your dad's Rolex " tool " watch which might have been used in rough and tumble exploits, get the pre 1985 Rolex Submariners which did use an acrylic dome over the dial. These old vintage timepieces were said to have been issued in history to naval personnel and worn by commandos and mountaineers. They were built to take punishment that would put Timex to humiliating shame.
Unfortunately wearing a distinctive Rolex on your wrist, in the wrong location, can result in admiring glances from the wrong sort of people. You just cannot tell that someone in a crowded restaurant or railway carriage, has not seen your watch on your wrist, and informed waiting friends that your a candidate for theft. I own two Rolex, a 2009 two tone Submariner and a vintage Explorer from the 1970s I do not wear them, simply because it is inviting trouble, in certain parts of the country.
Worn Rolex from the mid 70’s ,it was a brand that attracted tossers even back then,no doubt about that but whether I was one of them or not,the fact was and still is that I really like 2 or 3 of their models above just about anything else, unfortunately today the Rolex hype machine rolls on at full steam and constant social media attention has rendered the brand out of reach for most followers,I honestly despise what Rolex has become recently & if I were a younger man I would never consider getting on board the train. I’ll still keep my watches though.
Great video. I own 3 Rolex watches and seldom wear them anymore simply because of the attitude and ‘douchebag flex’ that tends to surround the brand. These days I mostly wear my JLC or Cartier Santos.
Yep, for better or worse, the brand carries a lot of baggage and you're putting yourself out there by wearing one. It's a bit like driving a convertible Ferrari - some people will admire you, while others will just think you're showing off (to put it kindly).
Yeah, nah. Much like modern Land Rovers, a Rolex watch has become the men’s version of a bling hand bag. It serves no real purpose other than to conspicuously flaunt ones wealth.
When all is said and done Rolex make solid very good quality basic watches which are very nice and have iconic designs. My opinion is 80% of Rolex owners I know buy them because they are status symbols simple as that.....get a bit of money....buy a Rolex...
A Rolex is a fine over engineered watch. They are accurate and made of sturdy materials and are durable and reliable. Some say you might go many years without servicing them . You literally will pay for QUALITY. It is a watch to aspire to own.
Yeah, Rolex are durable and legit sport watches. Recently took my 2021 gmt Pepsi scuba diving down to 125’, as well as my 2022 polar explorer II. Obviously my sub has gone scuba diving with me as well. Quick GoPro Videos on my channel.
About 3 years into collecting 1st watch Aqua Terra over an OP. Aqua Terra is bullet proof as you say Rolex is. 2nd watch Carl F Bucherer Manero Peripheral, Rolex has nothing to compare to the style of this watch. Will I own a Rolex at some point? Went to 2 ADs and was told 1-2 years. Nah, I’m good. Habring2, Felix next one in my sights. By what you like and have feelings for, if that’s a Rolex go for it.
So many people seem to think that the Submariner was James Bond’s watch because they saw it in the movies - and movies are real life aren’t they ? James Bond hit the bookshops in April 1953, a year before the Submariner was first offered for sale. The Explorer was introduced in 1953, but Fleming wrote Casino Royale no later than 1952 for publication the following year , so it can’t have been that. Bond’s watch is described by Fleming as a Rolex Oyster, nothing more. Just a basic OP.
I am not sure that the most successful people on this planet are actually wearing Rolexes.Most of the time they don’t give a shit about it.Rolex is anything but high end horology.They are nothing but one million year mass product watches .Wearing one of them doesn’t make you rich whatsoever.Don’t get me wrong,I used to have three of them and I can honestly tell you,it doesn’t change my life though.Cheers.😉
You said all that as in writing this falling all over themselves to own one patek had a entry level watch at 28 grand for the money it is a great watch if you want to get technical a damn quartz watch keeps more accurate time than any mechanical watch,f
Great video, Ash. I agree with all your points and will add this: over the 40 years I have observed adult behavior in the U.S., wearing a Rolex is very much a status symbol. What impresses me the most about my Rolex Datejust is that it has been perfectly accurate over the 100 days I have owned it, as it has not gained or lost even one second. Better accuracy than any watch I've owned, including quartz watches. Truly amazing for a mechanical watch. Second, it is incredibly well made and engineered with amazing wrist feel. A true pleasure to own and wear.
There's nothing quite like buying a watch and hoping that it may hold its value or even go up a little bit. Pure man maths which I hope to prove to my wife with my seiko 5 140th anniversary.
I would very much enjoy a video about your „style sins/mistakes“ of your younger days 😉. I am sure it would also have a great educational value for the younger viewers.
Despite I have been hearing “the big watch trend is over” for at least a decade now, *unfortunately Rolex is still the only company offering multiple* waterproof mechanical tool watch *models and options in 34-36mm* 😑
Three of the great laws of the universe apply here:
1) Life is more pleasant when you love beautiful things.
2) It is better to be envied than to be pitied.
3) Haters are often frustrated with their lives.
@@drsrsv8884
> thinking wearing an outdated overpriced products that you have to kneel and beg the manufacturer to sell them to you is "winning in life"
@@オルフェーヴルの夫 I guess law #3 applies to you then.
Bought my 5513 Submariner in 1969 in Vietnam and it’s still on my 80 year old wrist today. It’s a work of art and goes up in value each year. How many watches can even come close to it? An heirloom that will eventually be on my grandson’s wrist. So there all you naysayers,
Hi sir, I am Vietnamese and just got into watches. May I asked you how Rolex watches were sold in Vietnam? Cause clearly Vietnam was and still a developing country. I can only imagine that you bought it in Saigon where American occupied Southern Vietnam
I enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this. For me, my 16610 submariner is a perfect daily wear. I have worn it pretty much every day since 2009 and still love it just as much as the day when I received it - my 40th birthday.
It’s arguably the best iteration of the Submariner heritage.
Rolex has been worn from the deepest of Earth's oceans to the highest mountains... on the wrist of Chuck Yeager breaking the sound barrier (1947), onboard the X-15 flying at Mach 6.7 and during the Apollo 13, 14 and 17 missions to the Moon. The favorite watch as worn by people such as Jacques Cousteau, Jean Claude Killy, Ian Fleming, Dizzy Gillespie, Martin Luther King, Sir David Attenborough, Sir Malcolm Campbell, etc... Good advice for not buying overpriced stuff of any brand in the gray market !
Yep. But if you want one that has gone to places that sees the mountains from outer space... Buy an Omega.
29333
Isn't the astronauts wear an omega speedmaster on Apollo 13?
@@bellalettyandally7549 Indeed but Swigert took an extra personal wrist watch, as did astronauts Roosa & Mitchell on Apollo 14 !
But if I don’t like Omega Designs
Rolex are undoubtedly great watches with a great history. Personally, however, I prefer Tudor. For me they are fresher, cooler, braver and "younger" 😉. And they offer a great quality as well indeed.
I agree with everything you have eloquently narrated. Whenever I wear my Rolexs people often say, "on it's a status symbol, you're wearing it to show the world that you are successful, a cut above." I don't own my watches for that, I love the feel and look of them, simple as! Thank you for sharing your videos.
I’ve never lost money on a Rolex. You can wear them for years-which I have-and know that the value remains should you need or want to sell it. Not many luxury items can accomplish such a feat.
@drsrsv8884 well said!
When I was associated with US Army Special Forces as a recon aviator, the Rolex GMT Master and Submariner were a must have in order to be recognized as a special operations troop. I have a Tudor Submariner and a gold and stainless GMT Master with a jubilee band. Just now getting them serviced for the first time.
So it was a matter of peer pressure and costuming versus anything else? I was a Navy O6 at SOCOM and SOCCENT. Know what we wore? Whatever we wanted. SOCOM was G-Shock heaven. Staff types wore jewelry, operators in the field wore functional watches.
They are just so perfect in all ways. Timeless. AND they don’t chase silly trends. They set the trend.
True. I see the Richard Mille offerings and imagine they’ll be badly dated in 10-20 years, maybe sooner. Not so for Rolex. It’s like the Porsche 911 of watches.
Patel, AP, Vacheron and Rolexy top PCs. Have several Omegas also as my daily@@jonwarshawsky5288
I have two Datejusts and one Sub. They’re bulletproof, comfortable and look terrific.
Proudly wearing my Datejust 36 right now. Love what the brand represents.
I agree with everything you said! I did the typically Rolex “love-hate-respect-love” curve when I started getting into watches a few years ago. Now I’m saving up for the next few years for one! Hopefully I’ll get there!
Nice video. I am really happy with my uncomplicated OP 41. A simple, basic, solid once in a lifetime purchase.
A great choice indeed.
There's also the folks that got one as an heirloom. I recently discovered my grandfather's OP 6564 and had it repaired and now it's in the rotation for my collection.
Thanks!
Thank you sir.
I’ve had multiple Rolex watches. A hulk. A coke GMT. TT ceramic GMT and a vintage RootBeer GMT which is the best of the lot. I don’t take them off. Not to sleep or anything else. That avoids drops and loss. If I’m not winding it, it’s on the wrist
One of my Rolex watches is virtually the same as it was when it was first designed in 1948. Still looks modern.
Very true . Probably around the same age as you . As a kid Rolex was no doubt impressive to me but I think it was more a mark of quality than anything else . I own 5 but have to say my omegas get virtually all my wrist time . Find the flexing culture unpalatable which I suppose has affected my wearing habits. I also think the hugely appreciating prices has led me in many ways to perhaps inadvertently view them more as assets as opposed to daily wear watches . Although I haven’t thought of selling maybe subconsciously I am thinking that the Rolexes May be passing through so don’t have the same attachment as I do to my omegas ..
Always classy Ash. I really enjoy your content and wish you continued success!
Rolex tell the time everyday they are amazing watches the time is right every second it’s pure class time piece that tells the time all day. Such a pretty watch
Picked up another Rolex today, the two tone Explorer. It’s lovely. You were right, be nice and genuine to your AD and they will reward you.
A great video come out and some great points. But I’d like to bring up some points of why people don’t wear Rolex
1: price. Brand new, the suggested retail price for a basic Rolex Submariner is about $9000. If you add a date complication to that particularly Rolex, you’re looking at a total of $10,000 for a brand new one and the prices remain relatively consistent with the basic models the exception of the oyster perpetual, which is only about $6000. Who is people come out that is just flat out on obtainable. And a used one, can be starting at 14,000. Great for value retention, but not great for someone trying to get one brand new.
2: lack of attainability. My local authorized dealer told me that on average do you have to wait between 18 and 24 months to obtain a Rolex. So unless you have a really good relationship with the authorized dealer, or time it absolutely perfectly, you’re not gonna be able to walk into the store by one and walk out the same day. By comparison with the brands Tudor and Omega, The only reason why you would not be able to walk out with a watch you want that same day, is if they physically do not have it in stock.
3: unbelievably skyrocketing prices. When the Rolex submariner was released to the public, in 1954, you could buy one brand new for about $150, approximately $1700 adjusted for inflation. Still reasonably expensive but not unattainable for your average man. This is actually why James Bond originally wore a Rolex submariner in the early films and generally preferred Rolex in Ian Fleming‘s original novels. Adjusted for inflation, because that watch has gone up almost tenfold and the only significant change in the design since the 1950s has been an increase in the power reserve from 55 hours to 70.
4: lack of engagement with demographics. Whenever Rolex has an advertisement they don’t really focus on reaching out to new customers, I didn’t really seem to focus on what movies their watches Have been in, or what celebrities have worn their products. Omega as their marketing as, here’s what are watches can do, here’s what they have done, here is James Bond, and here’s a model to get you engage with. Based on these alone, I would rather go with omega. After all I don’t care what watched it was in titanic, I would know what to watch can do.
This is an EXCELLENT presentation! Thank you!
Just discovered your channel sir, and I quite enjoyed it. I don't have a Rolex, but I respect everything they do. I have trustee Longines I've been wearing for awhile, and I agree finding YOUR watch makes you feel good.
Good video, Rolex always makes me curious but I happen to prefer Omega seamaster, Nobody ever asked me if my Omega was real.
Pretty much sums up the reasons why I love the brand. I tried for a long time to avoid Rolex, I’ve owned Onega, GS, Zenith amongst others but only fully understood Rolex when I got one on my wrist. If you cut away all the BS, at the basic level they are just a damn good watch. I still own other watches but the only one on a bracelet is now my OP, nothing really comes close as they oyster bracelet comfort wise
As an attorney in my own practice, it's insane how much differently clients and others receive me in my Rolex. (As opposed to my chronoswiss, longines, omega)
I love your presentation in your video's chap, and I've watched many of them. Personally, I have never even noticed Rolex marketing in my whole life. I am a 53yo Australian chap. Rather my story is that I resisted buying a Rolex for many years into my watch journey. My passion was/is Omega for reasons unknown, just loved them. But eventually I did buy a Rolex, and it was the quality of the product, its beauty and beautiful wearability that sold me on them. In fact, most of the reasons you state. I still don't really love them , but I do respect them hugely.
Just spending my second week diving in Cyprus and the new submariner has been faultless...sea, swimming pool and every beach in between..and with just a quick shower looking fantastic when dressing for dinner ...i own no other watch that can pull this off ..its just perfection !!!!!
I've always been interested in watches since i was 16, I'm now 67 And have a decent disposable income to indulge my enjoyment of fine watches. Among my collection i have three Rolexes and wear one off them every day. Many people think the name is synonymous with showing off and posing but if you delve beyond that you'll find they are VERY fine watche, with nearly every part of them being made in Switzerland. Then there is the added bonus that, unlike most other luxury items, they hold their value very well, so that in the future, should I need it, I could sell them for more than I paid. I should add that, God willing, they'll be passed down to my don eho also has an interest in watches. Great channel by the way.
Looking forward to your review on the explorer! Totally agree in all points
Great work, you are right in every respect. I would like to add the bracelet means when you first put it on - your first impression is - this watch just feels right on my wrist.
I think also the timeless design, you can see the DNA of the watch is previous models eg the Submariner over decades. Also don't underestimate the range of Rolex and the fact that you can buy watches in many different sizes. My wife wears a OP 31mm and it fits her perfectly, and she has options from 28mm to 41mm sizes (not many other Coys make the range of sizes).
I own 3 Rolex watches, most recent purchase White Gold Daytona.
In 1973, a steel Submariner cost 385 USD. Adjusted for inflation, that's about 2300 USD today. So why are people putting their names on a waiting list, so that a year from now, they can pay ten thousand dollars for a three thousand watch?
It’s bonkers. I paid £2,350 for my Rolex GMT Coke in 2001. It’s a nice watch & have lots of memories with it. I also have an Omega Seamaster 300m Chronograph that I purchased last year. The Omega is absolutely incredible compared to my GMT Coke. An absolute delight to wear. I find it rediculous that my GMT is worth three times as much as my Seamaster. It’s so, so silly. Fools and their money are easily parted.
@Harry Donovan modern Rolexes are still pretty pedestrian to modern Omega master co-axial calibres. That’s a fact. Just the branding really with a Rolex and I guess the iconic design. Nothing to do with the quality of the horology.
@Harry Donovan I’m glad you think so. If it makes sense to you, that’s the main thing.
If you want a nice watch, Rolex is the easiest choice. You can spend months on watch forums learning ancient brands, movement types, and how to pronounce Piguet and Jaeger-LeCoultre - or you can just buy a Rolex Submariner or Daytona and get on with your life.
Great video. I prefer the G-Shock brand though.
I am chuffed to the bits with this halftime speech
I love Rolex and your channel.
I've been collecting watches for 22 years now. It has to be acknowledged that after Casio and Seiko, Rolex have the highest annual production output for any watchmaker currently in production.
That statistic has always influenced my purchasing decisions.
Well I like them, but I won't pay more than MSRP for any of them. I have three, but never paid more than MSRP. Got all of mine at ADs last year.
Very much in agreement with your thoughts here. I've had Hamiltons, seiko, casio, a few omega... sold everything apart from my square G shock and on the waiting list for 36mm OP or an Explorer.... I think they will be a watch I'll keep for life... especially if I get the green OP! Happy to wait a few years as it'll be worth it 💚
Did you ever get your Rolex?
Everyone likes to work long enough to acquire something that they cherish. At some point it’s nice to diversify and Rolex has always been a reasonable store of value, in fact they often pace inflation and can appreciate. Unfortunately like so many things they’ve become commoditized and have become something of an investment. This has lead to the supply chain shortages and price manipulation. However it doesn’t detract from the fact there an amazing addition to anyone interested in a great all around watch. They have surpassed there own legendary mystique. I personally own three Rolex watches, a Sea Dweller 16600, Root Beer GMT2 , and a Yacht Master and wouldn’t sell one of them, there a benchmark in reliability and comfort and each serve a different purpose. Great review!
Great video. Coincidentally, I picked up my first Rolex from my AD today. 41 mm Datejust blue dial with white gold fluted bezel on Jubilee bracelet. Hoping to having many good years with it.
congratulations
Good choice! A perfect watch for all occasions.
Excellent video!
Awesome video! Cheers.
Brilliant video and great thoughts and observations. I have worn a no-dat Sub since my 23rd birthday,
All true. Having purchased a 16570 Polar before prices went to the moon, I have minimal interest in other watches which are in my price range. AP, PP, VC I can't consider stretching to.
Rolex brand power well explained. I liken it with car analogies. There are Ferrari, Bentley, rolls royce and aston martin just like AP, Vacheron, Patek and FP Journe. But Porsche just like Rolex is the daily luxury object of exclusivity. Practical and robust luxury hits the sweet spot. there are better brands, more complex cars but their practical drawbacks feeds into the Rolex brand power.
Yes & I'm looking at old black & white images of Professor Dr. Ferdinand Porsche. I just can't help thinking that he mainly wore a Cartier Santos.
I own three and agree with many of your points. I also believe that Rolex is going to have some issues with people being turned-off by how much they may have to spend in the future and the games played at the AD's. Many are more than willing to purchase a watch at retail but can't and likely are on huge waiting lists. I will not be chasing any Rolex model for the foreseeable future as they are now quite overpriced and I will not beg anyone to sell me another. People like myself who have no interest in purchasing other "Jewelry" or other items just for the privilege to be granted the crown may just backfire for Rolex. We'll see in the future how many younger potential buyers they will gain as I feel many who are paying well over retail may be an anomaly. It could reach an equilibrium in several years and will those buyers be there or could it sour those potential buyers in the future as they migrate to other great brands that can be purchased today at an AD. I guess we'll see.
I don' get the whole Rolex waitlist nonsense. Back in 1984 after my graduation from college; I went to a local Rolex dealer and selected the GMT Master right then and there, paid for it and they adjusted the bracelet and the sales person told me to save every hang tag, the box, everything, the papers for the long term for which I did. I think the final cost was $1,800 back then. I can't imagine what it costs now but it does have a replacement service dial that replaced the original T-25 dial. No doubt that this has greatly diminished the value. Compared to the new crop of Rolex models my 60550 is smaller, acrylic crystal and a simple clasp. Wore it throughout a career in the Air Force without any issues. Now, the jeweler who serviced it recommended that I no longer swim with it due to its vintage nature and these days with watch snatchers in in places like Beverly Hills, one has to be a bit careful. Other watches, Omega Speedster, Breitling Cosmonaut, a couple of Seiko automatic dive watches and a couple of mechanical modern Timex models. A nice leather band can do wonders for a Timex.
Greetings from NYC. Rolex is now the brand Every bloke with a credit card has in NYC. It has no exclusivity anymore..especially with over a million a year produced. Rolex doesnt make a grand complication and has no heritage as an in-house movement maker. Until the late 80's or early 90s they did not have an in-house movement powering their core line up. They also outsourced dials and bracelets. Meanwhile A. Lange make every last screw (and you pay for it). It wasn't until current Rolex management realized it was a bad look to have nearly every element of their best sellers made by outside companies making them nothing more than re-branders. So they bought all these companies doing all the actual manufacturing. Regarding quality, yes the quality has finally matched its high price but boy have they ratcheted up those prices. Troubling to me is that the newest Rolex are going to be much more expensive to service since they've moved aggressively towards making it difficult for independent watch makers to repair and service their watches by requiring special tools and parts that will be exclusive to official Rolex service centers. And you dont want to see their price list for common service versus what your independent watch maker will charge. I would save up for the Paul McCartney Patek Aquanaut ...the rich man's submariner. And sadly when Sir Paul passes this model will skyrocket in value and will likely be the most expensive watch ever auctioned. Sir Paul could have any watch in the world but this knight of the round table, living legend and billionaire chose the most stylishly simple Patek. He even wore it on his wedding day. The value will triple. Special mention to the Vacheron Overseas with the lacquered blue dial...sublime. Personally I'll take one Vacheron or Patek over a collection of Rolex.
By the way, vintage Rolex are incredible. The John Goldberger 100 Superlative Rolex book (a masterpiece someone recently uploaded a page by page video of) makes one wonder how that Rolex of the past could have become such a sterile dial designer today. When I first saw the Skydweller I thought they were punking us. It was like a $20k Invicta.
Yep! Right there with you! Could not agree more.
Thanks for this video -- what would you say is the best Rolex watch for a new watch owner?
A Submariner is hard to beat as a pure watch. But sadly very hard to find in this day and age.
well said chap!im hooked with Rolex watches
Ash I like your video very much and you have very good thoughts.
1 .Everyone know about the Rolex for quality
And value.
All over the world
I wanted one from when i was 18, at a friends wedding my mates dad was wearing a gold Datejust, i was in awe and knew NOTHING about watches, but i knew i wanted one..... I finally got my AD purchased 126660 DSD JC at 55, i do own 28 other watches such as Omega.. Panerai and more brands.... i also own and wear cheap Gshocks.. but for the last 4 months i have worn just one watch... my 126660, after putting it on a RubberB strap..... i cant leave it alone its my absolute FAVOURITE at the moment :-)
Because, hard as it is to believe, a Rolex is as robust, tough, reliable and waterproof as a Vostok Amphibia whilst keeping better time. The only way the Rolex falls short of the Vostok is the stainless steel jubilee strap isn't as good (the strap on my Rolex Oyster datejust broke and the watch disappeared whilst wild swimming. I still have the Vostok despite worse treatment)
Great video!
Although I have to disagree with you on the first few points mentioned. Nowadays people certainly do not buy Rolex because of superior functionality, water resistance or comfort. Other watch brands or even other devices offer equal or far superior qualities in all these areas for the same or far less money.
No one in their right mind buys a USD 10K Rolex for the GMT complication when a 30 dollar Casio watch has the same functionality, only better.
Mechanical watches are now mostly juwelry and fashion accessories. And Rolex has become the ultimate luxury item and status symbol. Not only to show-off to others but also to feel good about one's achievements and to admire the beauty of the pieces.
Nothing wrong with that btw. I love Rolex. But I think the desire to buy Rolex has little to do with water resistance, functionality or superior wareability, although all these are part of the overall offering and a damn good excuse to convince oneself to pay USD 8K for a very basic, and very beuatifull, watch.
I only wear a rolex in the water or anything of importance to my health/safety… ie; tools for work. I also don’t care what anyone else does or buys. Maybe because I started 20+ years ago and only now appreciate that there’s a watch for everyone to enjoy. But similar comments seem to be in every video of relevance that mirror projecting or why they are set on speaking for everyone. People buy things because they need more than they want… proof in numbers and comments.
love your channel absolute class!!!!
Morning sir
After just watching your video re Rolex watches I must say that I'm 100%with you on all of it !!!
Yes many are drawn to this brand as they see it as a way of showing off their wealth The big gold "bling models "spring to mind !!True class means wearing a watch that is very much understated and very often only recognised by fellow owners
My choice many years ago was a Seadweller, not the later 44 mm job, but the one that looks just like a Submariner. Another excellent coment and very true was the "value keeping "quality of a Rolex
Sadly, many people just "don't get it re the Rolex thing !!As the great Pink Floyd, sang If I had to explain, you wouldn't understand
Keep up the great content 👏 👌 👍
Thank you sir
Rolex. The BMW of the watch world. That’s why I wear an Omega and drive a Jaguar.
I like them because they are just really well built - and without fashionable adornments.
Penis extender, or a penis replacement in some cases. JFC, if you have some money to spend on a watch, at least be original and get something other than a Rolex. Personally, I enjoy wearing a luxury watch that only a handful of people would recognize.
Thank you for another great video!
I really like the engineering which goes into these watches.
Sadly for me and to the relief of my wallet, I have never found a Rolex which suits my wrist. They are either too big or too small.
I wear a simple no date sub and it’s a great everyday watch
I could not agree more. The perfect watch
Hi Ash. Thanks for putting this video out there. You raise great points. I like the nuance and subtly that you highlighted. I like watches. I've liked watches for years -- especially mechanical watches. That being said, since the advent of the Apple Watch, I've struggled with trading off the functionality of Apple Watch for a mechanical. Apple Watch offers nudging for physical fitness, texts alerts, alarms clocks, etc. I've dipped my toes into mechanical watches (I have a automatic mechanical watch that includes a day date complication). I like it, but often when I wear that mechanical watch, I find myself missing my Apple Watch. Apple Watch certainly does not have the panache of a mechanical, but Apple Watch seems to be acceptable across a variety of formal to informal occasions. Have you (or anyone else reading this comment) had similar sentiment or experience about how to position an Apple Watch (or another 'smart watch') in your collection?
Yes, I’m exactly where you are, I own mechanical watches including a Rolex and swore I would never stray into the smart watch territory. I finally caved in and bought an Apple Watch in Oct 20 and it hasn’t been off my wrist since!
@@JS-ep8mu What I'm struggling with now is: can I justify the price of a Rolex (or another luxury watch -- thinking the moon watch), if really, I'm going to wear an Apple Watch 85%+ of the time?
I think you're missing the point here old boy! Wrist watches are for many people a piece of functional jewellery that is quite simply and in many circumstances, a piece of art on your body. Apple watches are extremely useful I suppose, but seem to me to be a small computer strapped to your wrist, that also tells the time. I guess a reflection of how much some people are governed and constrained by the pace of modern life and the need to rely on a computer to guide their daily lives. People love their watches, they don't love Apple watches. Just my thoughts!
@@billperry7549 Agree with you on all of your points. Especially the part of functional jewelry. I suppose I still struggle with the conundrum in the morning as I am about the walk out the door and I need to decide which watch to strap on. I tend to go to the Apple Watch most days. Since that's the case, I find myself having a difficult time justifying a budget of thousands to acquire a luxury watch.
I have a 1926 Rolex Officers made from pure silver. It tells perfect time still. I can just imagine the story it has.
The look of that gmt on the jubilee is very effective, Rolex had a stroke of genius putting it on the jubilee 👍🏻
AP Royal Oak for me
Rolex is a tad gauche for reasons that you mentioned and makes you a target for thieves. Would I carry 20,000 dollars in cash on me while strolling through Boston and show it off? But you might wear a Rolex.
Hi, Ash. Lovely article
I don’t have a Rolex, but I do wear an Oris Big Crown Aviator, a gift from my fiancé as was, now my wife. It is absolutely precious to me but also my daily choice. I see no point in owning something of such quality, utility and meaning and keeping it in a drawer.
Absolutely agree.
For many years I worked as a civilian flight instructor in California. Often times out-of-towers would come to the airport and say things like, "You charge $100/hr. for your time. That sound awfully steep. Back in Dog Patch where I come from we pay our flight instructors $10/hr. How about I pay you at that rate?" Or they might offer me a $50 bonus to do something clearly illegal. But when I started wearing a Breitling Navatimer, much to my relief, those questions stopped. It's sort of the same with Rolex. When you wear one and you meet with a banker, or realtor, or lawyer they're likely to see you as a person who's not to be trifled with.
Wonderful watches indeed. It can however be situations where a Casio would be preferred, unless you want to be beaten up and robbed.
Very accurate video .
Love Rolex , just like I love other prestigious items. However, I have a story , which impresses people, whoever, wherever they are in life. Christmas 1981. I bought a Seiko S3 quartz date watch, £38.75 from Zales jewellers. My father gave £25.00 for his siblings for Xmas , so I paid the difference. I’ve still got it. I still wear it every day , every night , even to bed, it fact it’s the only thing I wear to bed. . Take it off just for bathing purposes. Had 2 services , quite a few batteries, most of them lasting 5 years plus a piece. Guess what ? It tells the time , still does and does very well .
I wear my Rolex for many reasons, but one of the reasons I chose that brand was because it’s a reminder - I’m in a material society, and while I’m playing this game, I’m going to play it well - and that little crown and lovely dial means to me: “Keep going. You did it before, and you can do it again and again.”
I have always wanted a Rolex, not for the status, but the craftsmanship and quality is what I want. Their designs are not intricate, but they do it very well. I also appreciate their watches don't tarnish as cheaper brands do. I also would love the Omega saphire sandwich moon watch.
So basically the overall reason to buy rolex watches is to flex around almost everywhere as people in history have made them the ultimate watches, when you have a lot of money and you want to or have to spend it
Cause other reasons aren't that convincing apart from the watches lasting long due good built quality , but they could get easily lost if you are not careful
From a purely efficiency point of view , its not convincing to buy them
And yes one of the reasons is their ridiculously high price , even their retail price is high but they had to get more price due to supply and demand ,
I'm a middle class and i dont see worth in investing in rolex and dont think them as assets , i agree that they can be sold for higher orice but it doesn't sound so secure
They are just a thing of entertainment and flex for the rich and there is
Nothing wrong with that
I’ve had many. Sold most. Down to two now. I rarely wear them at all. I go all over the world for work and most places I go I’d make my self a target if I wore them.
In addition to that, I’m tired of the AD games when trying to buy one.
As always, a great video. Thanks. I would love to see something comparable to Rolex. Only thing I see (at Rolex MSRP level ) is imperfections. Just cannot afford buying stuff that loses my admiration and lots of value immediately. Call me unromantic. As long as I can still get hands on my beloved Rolex watches at MSRP as I do now (not because I'm rich or famous but I got a long term good relationship with an AD), I will stick to this brand. Every excursion (e.g. JLC Polaris) was punished. It couldn't keep up with my expectations. It was always dissatisfying in the end.
When did bond wear a Sub with white tie? When, for that matter, did Bond wear white tie at all??
watchcollectors.co.uk/blogs/news/top-5-rolex-watches-worn-in-james-bond
@@TheChapsGuide ok…this begs the question: what do you think “white tie” is?
Rolex is a milestone watch. It says you achieved a great undertaking and are now rewarded.
But since it's use of sapphire for its dome it ceased being an adventurers' or military personnel tool watch but instead has become the wrist decor of an achievement accomplished gentleman now entering gentry status.
This watch in it's current form can be treated as a beater watch for the office but not for mundane tasks.
If you want your dad's Rolex " tool " watch which might have been used in rough and tumble exploits, get the pre 1985 Rolex Submariners which did use an acrylic dome over the dial. These old vintage timepieces were said to have been issued in history to naval personnel and worn by commandos and mountaineers.
They were built to take punishment that would put Timex to humiliating shame.
Unfortunately wearing a distinctive Rolex on your wrist, in the wrong location, can result in admiring glances from the wrong sort of people.
You just cannot tell that someone in a crowded restaurant or railway carriage, has not seen your watch on your wrist, and informed waiting friends that your a candidate for theft.
I own two Rolex, a 2009 two tone Submariner and a vintage Explorer from the 1970s
I do not wear them, simply because it is inviting trouble, in certain parts of the country.
I own there. Subs.. My grail is the Batgirl. I feel ya !!!!
Been a watch guy for a couple of years now still no interest in Rolex would prefer a Zenith or Grand Seiko
I have a dj36 and explorer 36mm. There are many watches better than Rolex, but I love the solidity and feel of them.
Worn Rolex from the mid 70’s ,it was a brand that attracted tossers even back then,no doubt about that but whether I was one of them or not,the fact was and still is that I really like 2 or 3 of their models above just about anything else, unfortunately today the Rolex hype machine rolls on at full steam and constant social media attention has rendered the brand out of reach for most followers,I honestly despise what Rolex has become recently & if I were a younger man I would never consider getting on board the train.
I’ll still keep my watches though.
Great video. I own 3 Rolex watches and seldom wear them anymore simply because of the attitude and ‘douchebag flex’ that tends to surround the brand. These days I mostly wear my JLC or Cartier Santos.
Yep, for better or worse, the brand carries a lot of baggage and you're putting yourself out there by wearing one. It's a bit like driving a convertible Ferrari - some people will admire you, while others will just think you're showing off (to put it kindly).
a triumph for marketing, over manufactoring
Yeah, nah. Much like modern Land Rovers, a Rolex watch has become the men’s version of a bling hand bag. It serves no real purpose other than to conspicuously flaunt ones wealth.
When all is said and done Rolex make solid very good quality basic watches which are very nice and have iconic designs. My opinion is 80% of Rolex owners I know buy them because they are status symbols simple as that.....get a bit of money....buy a Rolex...
Their sales tactics make me hate this brand
A Rolex is a fine over engineered watch. They are accurate and made of sturdy materials and are durable and reliable. Some say you might go many years without servicing them .
You literally will pay for QUALITY. It is a watch to aspire to own.
Very true, it's hard to believe but a Rolex is so well made that it has the same ten year recommended service interval as a Vostok Amphibia!
Yes
Yeah, Rolex are durable and legit sport watches. Recently took my 2021 gmt Pepsi scuba diving down to 125’, as well as my 2022 polar explorer II. Obviously my sub has gone scuba diving with me as well. Quick GoPro Videos on my channel.
About 3 years into collecting
1st watch Aqua Terra over an OP.
Aqua Terra is bullet proof as you say Rolex is.
2nd watch Carl F Bucherer Manero Peripheral, Rolex has nothing to compare to the style of this watch.
Will I own a Rolex at some point?
Went to 2 ADs and was told 1-2 years. Nah, I’m good.
Habring2, Felix next one in my sights.
By what you like and have feelings for, if that’s a Rolex go for it.
My father was an airline captain and he didn't need a $20,000 stainless steel watch to tell him what time it was in the places he was flying to.
So many people seem to think that the Submariner was James Bond’s watch because they saw it in the movies - and movies are real life aren’t they ? James Bond hit the bookshops in April 1953, a year before the Submariner was first offered for sale. The Explorer was introduced in 1953, but Fleming wrote Casino Royale no later than 1952 for publication the following year , so it can’t have been that. Bond’s watch is described by Fleming as a Rolex Oyster, nothing more. Just a basic OP.
I am not sure that the most successful people on this planet are actually wearing Rolexes.Most of the time they don’t give a shit about it.Rolex is anything but high end horology.They are nothing but one million year mass product watches .Wearing one of them doesn’t make you rich whatsoever.Don’t get me wrong,I used to have three of them and I can honestly tell you,it doesn’t change my life though.Cheers.😉
You said all that as in writing this falling all over themselves to own one patek had a entry level watch at 28 grand for the money it is a great watch if you want to get technical a damn quartz watch keeps more accurate time than any mechanical watch,f
Great video, Ash. I agree with all your points and will add this: over the 40 years I have observed adult behavior in the U.S., wearing a Rolex is very much a status symbol. What impresses me the most about my Rolex Datejust is that it has been perfectly accurate over the 100 days I have owned it, as it has not gained or lost even one second. Better accuracy than any watch I've owned, including quartz watches. Truly amazing for a mechanical watch. Second, it is incredibly well made and engineered with amazing wrist feel. A true pleasure to own and wear.
There's nothing quite like buying a watch and hoping that it may hold its value or even go up a little bit. Pure man maths which I hope to prove to my wife with my seiko 5 140th anniversary.
i would leave it in the safe these days Ash!!!!!
I would very much enjoy a video about your „style sins/mistakes“ of your younger days 😉. I am sure it would also have a great educational value for the younger viewers.
Great idea!!
You say that other watches out perform a Rolex horologically. What other watches out perform Rolex?
Omega, Casio, etc, etc.
Despite I have been hearing “the big watch trend is over” for at least a decade now, *unfortunately Rolex is still the only company offering multiple* waterproof mechanical tool watch *models and options in 34-36mm* 😑