The Fall of Rolex!!! What Went Wrong?
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- Опубліковано 2 сер 2024
- In this candid video, I expose why your Rolex watch sucks! I take a look at the reasons why owning a Rolex might not be as impressive as you think. Contrary to popular belief, luxury doesn't always equate to quality, and we explore the finer details that often get overlooked. Join me as I uncover the truth about these iconic timepieces, from their craftsmanship to their value proposition in today's market. Whether you're a watch enthusiast or simply curious about luxury goods, this video will challenge your perceptions and offer a fresh perspective on what makes a watch truly exceptional. Don't miss out on this candid discussion that's bound to change the way you view your prized possession. Watch now and discover why your Rolex might not be living up to its legendary status!
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We like to keep it real with our channel. A second part to this video coming soon… so subscribe for more of your favorite watch content. 🕓 Do you agree with our take? Comment below!
Hi, one thing that really boils my p*ss is the discontinued market, now this isnt the fault of rolex, they would much rather sell you a new watch then let you go some where else to by a used one. Grey market however drives me made when something is discontinued or about to be. The reason its discontinued is because its obsolete out of date and out of fashion, but they use this to charge more than a new one in many cases. The new one is better improved and over all a better purchase, but stupid people buy them, like being offered a brand new sony PS5 and saying " no thanks i am going to get a PS3 at twice the price of the 5, its been used for 6 years solid and is about to die but the dealer says its rare becuase its discontinued" erm Doh.
I had a wonderful Breitling for several years, but I’ve seen daily the Rolex on the wrist of my wife. There was always the feeling of “yeah Breitling is nice, but Rolex is perfect”. And yes finally sold my Breitling and got a Rolex (below the list price on grey market). Rolex is a very boring perfect imperfection. But that’s why it will be always classy.
Great Video,
realized that when I was traveling by plane. So many people with datejusts. Put me off to buy one. - Maybe a turn o graph?
Maybe I’ll get a fifty fathoms. Somehow have the feeling that these are more enthusiasts watches and less common to see on every wrist….
Great analysis sir 👍🏼 Really look forward to the second part 😊
Sorry but my Rolex does not Sucks. However YOU sucks!
My problem with Rolex is I assume every Rolex I see is a fake.
Can’t fake gold
I'd love to buy an Explorer, and I've halfway convinced myself that the 36mm Explorer market is not big enough for counterfeit watch makers to even bother, but I'm probably just fooling myself.
@@poolmonkey I picked up the 124270 36mm Explorer a few months ago. It's awesome, and you can obtain it as a first watch. But yes, there's good clones of it. The top Chinese factories make clones of every watch. Who cares, though. Losers buy them because they're only interested in a status symbol. You realize that when you talk to them.
@@malvgik2774yeah I got a datejust 41 2 tone yellow gold with the black.
@@poolmonkey You are!
Buddy of mine complimented a stranger on his “cool sub” the response: “this is not a sub, it’s a Rolex” - haha says it all
The sooner the Rolex bubble crashes the better and when it does I hope pretentious pr1cks such as this stop wearing Rolex .
@user-oo1mz9cj4s that was just a prick trying to impress others. Same thing in the car world. I see people all the time that have awesome cars that know nothing about them other than the name.
Haha, gold! :-D
😂 exactly
Love it! So true.
I have one rule, learned over five decades of starting and running small businesses: I will never beg anyone to take my money. If I'm your customer, you must value my custom. And when you get into the strata of luxury cars, airplanes and luxury watches, you had better regard me with concierge-level personalization. I have walked out of many stores, shut down more deals and left sellers in silence because they thought they could make me feel awkward or unappreciated. Money is hard to make, if you want mine, you'd better offer value and respect. That's why there are no Rolexes or Seikos in my watch collection.
Seikos? Even if you mean Grand Seiko, I'm still a bit puzzled
@@TheChzoronzon You're thinking solely about price and prestige; I'm talking about brand seller attitude. You don't have to have the price tag, if the arrogance and seller contempt is in place.
@@htschmerdtz4465 You can buy a Seiko in any Mall, with exactly zero fuss...much less any "attitude"
Again: you must meant Grand Seiko, if anything
LOL. Concierge service is just paying a premium for some lowly paid workers to flatter you. Nobody who is actually important demands anybody to 'respect' them.
@@mrbrisvegas2 You are so detached from reality that is almost admirable, bravo! :D
My son is an attorney. I told him I was on a waiting list for a Pepsi. He rightfully said, “If you are on a waiting list, you aren’t getting the watch.” Meaning, if you are a VIP, they will have the watch you want, when you want it. If you’re not a VIP, forget about it. He’s right.
Well, I bought three Rolex watches before I got my Pepsi. If this is your first or second watch, forget about it.
There are no waiting lists. Your name goes straight into the circular file when you leave the store.
@@MAKESQ Exactly, its all about making a relationship with the dealership and that involves buying certain pieces to get the one that you really want.
Rolex is king. Best watch at the price point. Best value retention (if you buy the right model at the right price). The only brand you can trade and make money.
What does being an attorney have to do with the price of tea in China? Lol
Totally agree with your assessment of Rolex. Visited my local AD in San Diego (UTC Mall) and was put on a "waiting list" for a Sky Dweller. My salesman told me he would update me every quarter as to where I stood. After 15 months of no contact, I reached out to him to see where I was. I was told that the CRM application used by the AD had crashed, and that he had no way of telling me where anybody was on the list. I was told to check back in a month. When I visited, in person, three months later, I was again told that the CRM application was still down. When I asked him how he was allocating watches to anybody, I was told he was just selling the Datejust model. He them told me to let him know if there were any other models besides the Sky Dweller I was interested in acquiring, as he would be happy to put me on "The List." I then asked, "I thought your CRM app was down?" To which he just smiled at me. Result: I now own a VC Overseas Dual Time.
Stellar timepiece my man! Congrats 👊
that VC looks indeed very nice.
you own a MUCH nicer watch than a Sky Dweller. the Overseas is endlessly nicer
Great choice.
As an owner of the Skydweller (blue dial), your VC is better. However, this guy in the video trying to say it's hideous, lol, yeah sure buddy. It's a gorgeous piece and the setting function with the bezel is brilliant. If the dial looks too busy then you must also hate every perpetual calendar and chrono in existence or complications greater than a date function in general.
I'm in AZ, and the only reason I have the Skydweller, is because when I started buying from this AD, it was a Grand Seiko I wanted. After that I wanted a IWC Big Pilot. Then the year after that I asked for a Batgirl. Took 4 months. Then asked for a Starbucks the year after, took 2 Months from when I asked. Then earlier this year I asked for a blue Skydweller, they called me in a week.
So basically, I acknowledge they saw the purchase history and none of the rollies showed up as flipped yet lol.
But I never had to buy anything I didn't want, everything was progressive based on what I wanted at the time.
I own Omega, Tudor and JLC as well, but they were from different stores than this AD.
Presently, I'd say JLC is my favorite brand. I'm really eyeballing that latest blue dial Triple calendar chrono from the MC line!
This guy throwing shade at Rolex though...lol, whatever makes you feel better at the end of the day. They won't cease to be the most sought after brand in the industry over UA-cam opinion. They are far too entrenched into the global consumer consciousness.
Same experiences here. Purchased my first white face explorer II in the 90s and it was a great experience. I went to an AD last weekend and was looking at a Deep Sea with the gradient dial. Two on display and neither were for sale. Salesperson said I had to create a profile and a submission to Rolex would be made to see if I was approved to buy the watch.
I went to an Omega and they were more than happy to see me an Ultra Deep. What a huge contrast in the experiences.
there is no queue for deepsea. you just have to wait a bit
Well said, short & to the point. There are so many of us who feel the exact same way for all the reasons you mentioned. In the end, millions of us have the money to buy a Rolex, but we also have personal dignity. I have avoided going into Rolex ADs for over a year.
Great point. Now I wish I would have used those words at the end. Appreciate you watching us and supporting our new channel 👊 - Jason
Asked for an Explorer 39 at a AD in Toronto last Jan. Never owned a Rx, never flipped, wouldn’t know how. Dealer smiled and said “it’ll take a while” and gave me a glossy catalog. In May I got a call “about your watch”. Not to say they had one, but to ask if I still wanted one. It’s now July. If I get a call, I will tell them to shove their tactics. Who does this? BTW I bot a lovely Seiko field watch for 1/20 the price.
There are two types of Rolex owners. One who can tell you the model and movement reference and the other who will tell you how much they paid and how much it’s now worth!
😂 there's alot of truth in this!
@@Audittr2108 ok, on this I will agree
126711CHNR (3285) literally embedded in my brain. You're welcome :D
But then, so are my G-shocks, and Grand Seiko's 😂😂😂
But I'm not any good at my Omega watch references... only the movements 9900 & 9904
@@JustMeTalking That’s because you’re a watch guy like me!
@@Audittr2108 What's your watch collection looking like at the moment?
100% spot on.
I am so over dealing with the attitude of Rolex ADs, especially if they are part of a larger jewelry store and push you to buy unwanted jewelry just to get their attention.
Exactly 👊
I have literally hundreds of thousands with Bucherer over 10+ years, before Covid and all this craziness. I went to ask for a Pepsi GMT 2 (at this point the only Rolex I want and it's only because of my love for flying and Pepsi's links to flying). The lady told me I need a long purchase history and told me to look at their Bucherer branded and used watches.
Then she passed me off to a junior associate to show me their used stock. The experience was just so offputting I decided to just sit on the wait list FOREVER if I have to.
@@modash1231 I am by no means a serious collector of Rolex but I do have a Pepsi, Daytona and Datejust in my collection. I recently went into an AD to ask about a yachtmaster and was wearing my Pepsi. The look of disdain from the twenty something year old sales dude who said something along the lines of, “..you should know better than to walk in and expect to buy a Rolex. It just doesnt work that way”. Haha I laughed and left.
@@user-oo1mz9cj4sright. It’s actually crazy to me how Bucherer treats me now. They used to sell me Pateks on discount and then bundle day dates on even fatter discounts. They bent over backwards to serve me and find the watches I wanted. Now they won’t even talk to me unless I am ready to take the Bucherer and used stock that nobody wants.
I went into the Rolex AD store in La Jolla, CA about a month ago to look at the Explorer, and it was a very pleasant experience. Granted, they did not have one to sell me of course, but the woman was extremely patient, helpful, friendly, and let me try on several different models. When I told her I was from out of town, she gave me her tips on how get one from my local AD. Still, I agree it's frustrating and dumb to have a brick and mortar store that won't offer their product to buyers.
A rare honest take on Rolex. Well done.
Eventually customers were going to discover that there are more genuine Rolexes in Switzerland being produced then fakes in China.
There are more genuine Rolex's in Switzerland; THEN we went over to Chicomland.
I was going to buy a Rolex, but bought a Hamilton, two Loriers, a Sinn, a Citizen, and a Garmin instead...I have a watch for every occasion and still have 6000k left over.
But none of your watches will increase in value - they will decrease in value. One thing my friend Rolex isn’t just a watch, it’s an investment too. A submariner can triple in price over 2-3 decades and some models x50 in original price in 30 years. In 30 years all your watches will be garbage mostly
@@APBCTechnique So what? he rightly wants to enjoy wearing his watches right now, not hiding them up his sleeve in case he gets mugged, being fearful of scratching them to reduce their resale value or having to keep them in a safe/safety deposit box.
@@APBCTechnique Now factor in the costs to have them serviced every 5 years.
he can wear it too and the value will grow@@zosothezephead837
@@APBCTechnique No new Rolex will 50x the price in 30 years. There is just too many being produced, unless it is some super rare limited edition one. And who cares if a Submariner triples in price in 3 decades, that's 30 years. From 15k to 45k in 30 years is not a great investment. You could make that amount of money in way shorter time on the stock market or other businesses.
Rolex is an aspirational brand and that works for them. We are giving them free advertising by just having this dialog here and that works for them. Love them or hate them people buy them and talk about them. I have six and I’m on here talking about them…and that works for them. What ever we do short of ignore them, helps them. Heavy sigh.
Lots of truth here
I’ve never heard such an accurate description of Rolex
I completely agree with your comments. I have wanted a stainless Submariner since I was 15 years old. I'm 62 now and can easily afford one but am experiencing the same "your not worthy" attitude from Rolex AD's. They can take their watch and GTH. In a few years the boom will be over and you'll be able to again buy a new or nearly new sub for 8K but the market is already flooded with high quality clones that basically make it foolish to buy the real thing. what's special about a watch when no one knows if it's real or fake?
What I found interesting is Rolex has been fined for 100 million dollars in the end of 2023, yet NO major watch UA-camr made a video about it or mentioned it in any video at all. 100 million fine is a pretty significant number to me, and I think it's supposed to be a big news to the watch world.
I'll do some research on this... I'd be happy to make a video discussing this topic. We did just record a video around some lawsuits. So stay tuned for more videos and for other watch brand highlights.
You’re wrong about that. Time and Tide did, WatchCrunch, Luxury Bazaar, I believe Adrian Barker did. They may not have made a separate video just about the fine but they certainly talked about it. Not sure who you are considering a major watch UA-camr but those are pretty popular
@@dukes70 Haven't found any from those watch channel you mentioned, and feel free to send me some links if you don't mind. Some of the "major" UA-camr I follow are Nico, Adrian Barker, Teddy, Watchfinder, Jenni Elle, and Britt Pearce, and please lmk if you see any of them talks about it!
@@ShadyD365$100M is not pocket change. It's mega money for their indemnity insurance provider
What was the fine for?
I work around many people from mainland China and HK with Rolexes, and not a single one of them knows anything about watches. Just the cost/price and status associated with Rolex. They think it is the summit. Don't know or care about other brands and assume they are inferior.
Old school Rolex owners who bought at a much lower price point are generally different. A colleague of mine bought one 25 years ago. Walked straight into an AD and made a purchase. In and out. He just wanted a watch built like a tank that looked good, and it still looks good now. He is shocked at how much people pay for them now.
Are they good watches? Absolutely, but the hype is out of control and doesn't match reality.
This is def why vintage Rolex is one of my favorites 👊
This is bang on! After being treated with complete disrespect in several ROLEX dealers even though I could and would have purchased a piece I vowed not to deal with them. I ironically added a Matt titanium Aquaracer to my collection a watch that I have worn in five countries and never seen another being worn by anyone else now that is exclusive.
Every watch channel and watch company has to bow to the crown for their success. You would all be nothing if it wasn’t for Rolex. Simple as that.
“Most Rolex owner are not watch enthusiast” that is soo true. Especially the new Daytona, submariner or gmt guy. They don’t care about watches they only care about how people recognize their watch, and they wearing their ceramic submariner like a Patek thinking they are the biggest dog in the room. They put protection film on a brush steel submariner and is just ridiculous. And they don’t even wear them like it should. I end up selling all my Rolex (Yachtmaster40/Submariner41) and got my self into H Moser and Blancpain. Best decision I ever made
Protection film… omg the worst 😂 Agree… I had my AP RO on the other day and I complimented a Rolex on a wrist and the guy asked what I was wearing, and showed him. He looked confused and then asked who made it. I said Audemars Piguet. He said, huh, I’ve never heard of them 🤦♂️
@@TheWatchBros If you'd said AP, he'd probably have heard of it.
Not everybody who wears a watch (or a Rolex) knows every other brand out there. Hell, I've seen many a "watch channel" pronounce the silent "S" or the second name as if it were an F1 driver. Let alone the vast number of "watch experts" who cannot pronounce Jaeger-LeCoultre properly.
I'm also a whisky enthusiast, and put hours, days, weeks into learning how to pronounce names like Craigellachie, Tullibardine, and Balvenie correctly. If it's your thing, you take it seriously. If all your interested in is that one watch that you liked, why would you know these kinds of things.
I wear my pagani submariner it looks identical I even learn how to change dials put on a green one looks just like a hulk for 80 bucks 😅.
You need to understand that not a Single watchmaker produces watches for enthusiasts.
They produce products for customers such as any other Company. Most enthusiasts thinking so much about a piece they can bearly afford.
Thats a terrible target Group for a Company.
Rich people who give a shit about 10 or 20 grand or more... those are the clients they want.
Used to have 5 Rolex timepieces. I was very self conscious when wearing one, not to mention the danger to my personal safety they drew. Ended up selling all of them and switched to Omega and Grand Seiko. I enjoy these watches much more than I ever did the Rolex pieces.
Im still a Rolex guy but those grand seikos are on another level!
Rolex are ugly.
Omega are excellent watches and they get way less attention than Rolex does.
Ok
You and your comment section are full of shit 😂
100% agree. I am relatively new to the hobby - but when I began to get serious and go for higher end pieces, Rolex was immediately a turn off for all the reasons mentioned. I took an interest in JLC, Grand Seiko, and Panerai for the reasons of : excellent craftsmanship, welcoming client and purchasing experience, unique design language, fantastic technical specs. Rolex almost immediately seemed like it was outside of everything I love about watches.
I'm a Rolex fan. I've got the 216570 Expl II Polar. That being said, if my AD called today offering any watch with a 32xx movement, I'd decline. It's a low-amplitude dog. Sorry if you bought one, but it's time keeping is going to fall off dramatically.
I've been to both of the Rolex ADs in San Diego, CA and got the same "Waiting List"/"You can grovel at my feet" treatment; now my wife and I are proud owners of his and hers Omega Seamaster Aqua-Terra. As far as I'm concerned Rolex can KMA!
So your feelings are hurt because they didn't grovel at YOUR feet?
@@seth_5394 why dick ride a Rolex AD so hard? Lmfao. He clearly just wanted to be treated like a customer instead of a nobody.
@@seth_5394here, have a cookie snowflake.
Omega boutique will treat you well because you can buy it for 30% off if you buy online slightly pre-owned
I agree with alot of this especially the interrogation process at ADs, its embarrassing wtf is that all about. It never stopped me from wanting a sub, its still such an iconic watch and ive appreciatedthem for longer than i can remember. I picked the sub up last wk, now be careful what you wish for, dont get me wrong i love the watch but the wait seems to have been the most exciting part of the process, if your wondering it was a UK AD and the watch was 9k GBP.
You start questioning the price when a close friend has a precise clone of the exact watch for 700 quid.
That said i wanted a watch a could pass onto my son and i believe the Rolex will fit the bill.
Dont forget most clones will be stopped and thrown in the back of the draw after a few yrs if they last that long.
I believe Rolex created a very clever buisness model which is constantly discussed but as smart as this may have been i do believe its imploding due to it becoming evermore transparent.
I recently went to Rolex in Malibu, they had over 150 displays of every single model and color. None for sale! I have been on the list for a green DJ 41 fluted/jubilee for 2 years and they had 3 displays! Not to mention the experience was horrible, I felt like I was begging to spend 11K! The sales lady named Paris was very condescending and told me “that’s hard to get”! It can’t be too hard to get when you have 3 displays!!!
I've had mixed experiences. I was hovering outside an AD, and the salesperson came out and asked if I wanted to try some on. Of course they were all display models and they didn't have anything available, but they were very helpful and reveled in the shared interest in the watches.
Then I visited another AD, and while they were accommodating, I felt a certain aloofness that I just didn't vibe with. I didn't stay in that store very long.
What she meant to say is "that's hard FOR YOU to get." Every AD is different. Some are aloof and snobby, and some are friendly and helpful. Granted, none of them likely will sell you the watch you really want at that moment. Hopefully that will change as the luxury watch market continues to decline.
if you really want it that bad buy it on the grey market.
@@DJSIC82 not worth the risk, too many fakes
@@BT-qv3sg if you buy from a trusted jewelry place it's worth it.
I recently came across your channel and found it really funny that when I called the dealer in my country to buy an Oyster Perpetual as a gift for my wife, I thought I'd be put on a waiting list. But when I called, the ad told the waiting list is actually closed! 😂 it seems they heard you and changed their strategy 😂
I totally agree with all your points. I got my first rolex 13 years ago - a “hulk” - wayyyy before the hype. Back then if you knew you knew and that was it. If i ever saw someone wearing a Rolex there would be this quiet respect and maybe a nod of recognition. Now because of social media and cheap credit every dirtbag has one, plus everyone knows what they look like so have to be really security conscious - i said to my mrs just today that i spend more time taking my Rolexs off than putting them on these days to avoid wearing in certain area and scenarios
I couldn't agree more. I’m currently on vacation, I decided to try buying a GMT (Bruce Wayne). Knowing the reputation of Rolex, I was apprehensive about what might happen (what an amazing feeling to have about buying a $12,000 watch). Nevertheless, I went for it.
As expected, they had the watch on display with a jubilee bracelet. I tried it on, but the seller informed me, "There's a waiting list, and you have to be from here (Hamburg, Germany). Are you from here?" We were speaking English, so it was clear I wasn't local. I sensed she was waiting for me to beg for the watch, but I didn't. For me, the buying experience should be enjoyable; it's a hobby g dammit . Nowadays, watches don't serve the same purpose they once did-any phone can tell the time.
I would never buy a fake watch however this type of attitude gives me motivation to buy a fake so they never ever see my money.
What a shitty way to treat your costumers.
I know and hate that you had the experience. Unfortunately, this is common for lots a Rolex buyers.
Expand your range and look at older models. There's more out there than just the latest models.
Goodness sake, YOU are the problem, NOT Rolex. Firstly, you go in referring to it by some stupid nickname from internet forums (you will never hear Rolex call it that and it's a sign that you're not a fan of the brand). Secondly, I guarantee you they will have at least 200 people registered their interest for that particular model, and they will be allocated maybe a few a month. It is simply professional to demand that those watches go to local customers first, as that is THEIR local AD. And it is right that it goes to the people who have some history supporting the brand, and who have showed, at least to some extent, that they're not just interested in buying it to stick online the next day for around 4 grand more. You people are so self-entitled it is shocking.
@@OngoGablogian185 Why does it matter what the customer calls it, as long as they want the watch and can afford it? Nothing he said in his comment indicates that he signaled to the dealer that he might flip the watch. He simply wanted a nice expensive watch and they made him feel like a second class citizen, kind of like you just did with your comment.
@@poolmonkey They did nothing of the sort and neither did I. Listen to yourselves: you sound like professional victims. He wanted something that was unobtainable at the time, that he had little knowledge of, and they politely informed him the truth: that every AD is required to assign these limited watches to their LOCAL customers.
It matters what the customer calls it because it's a sign of a serious watch collector or not. Rolex is a huge brand now as well as a fantastic watch maker. Some people go in wanting a Submariner because of its history, their profession, etc. Others go in because they heard their friends talking about a 'Bluesy' and they suddenly want one. Rolex doesn't use the nicknames and most people who collect them don't - the internet hype crowd do, and that's the market they are trying to avoid.
Most people today are incredibly narcissistic and this poster sounds like one too. He's motivated to buy a fake now to 'get his own back' because he couldn't walk into an AD from outside his own country and immediately get one of the most high demand watches that have a year-long waiting list, lol. Get real! And these types of people then inspire videos like this. People speak to some guy on the train or plane with his 'Batman' and he has no clue about it. Doesn't know about the brand, makes up some silly story, and comes across as a shallow person. Guess what? He's wearing a fake. The Superclone industry is huge, and people just want the status symbol without having earned it.
There's for sure some poor sales clerks out there but Rolex gets so much hate due to ignorant, rude, and self-entitled consumers.
Forget Rolex. Walked in AD. And walked out. Totally unacceptable service, products, etc. Went and bought an omega in the same mall and laughed. I would rather support a local gray market company than buy from Rolex. Better service, can buy pieces and have warranty. Sucks. But absolutely not.
BOYCOTT ROLEX!!!
I know… it’s so frustrating
Was in Japan last week. The preowned market there was amazing. They have to be the preowned king of Rolex.. Every type was there for sale
@@Udansha Nice! The pre owned market is where it’s at. Japan is the King of a lot of amazing things so I can only imagine the Rolex selection is the same.
@@Udansha Do happen to know where exactly?
What did you get?
I agree 100% with everything you said, which is why when I purchased my one and only Rolex about a decade ago it was a Cellini 50505-0020 in gold. What a fantastic timepiece with respect to looks and has near digital performance in terms of accuracy. I was wearing the watch every day, but then I need to have the leather band replaced about every 2-years (band looks bad in 12 months and I suffer through the ragged look for another 12-months before replacing it). The problem is the Rolex leather bands cost nearly $500 direct from the company, but at least my local jeweler only charges $10 to install it, including installing the gold clasp. After replacing the band for the third time, I added an everyday watch to my 2-watch collection, a Tudor Ranger with a black rubberized band. The Tudor is cheap (relative to Rolex), keeps nearly as good time, is rugged and has a rugged band. That band is also starting to look a little shabby and the Tudor dealer told me a replacement was nearly $1000! Well, that's not happening, but even so I think I have the best combination of two watches for a non, collector, the Tudor is my everyday "tool watch" (with a somewhat shabby band because I wear it 24/7) and the Rolex Cellini is my special show-watch (with a nearly pristine band because I almost never wear it). The cases and crystals of both watches are pristine despite extensive usage. A super combination. All the best.
you buy a rolex to impress your friends and you buy a grand seiko to impress yourself
People buy Rolex for one reason " FOMO " myself included but not anymore since 2016.
Been there and have the tshirt to prove it, lol. Excited you’re watching our videos 👊
I disagree, since I was a kid I wanted a no date submariner and when I had the money I bought one. I bought it for me not to show off, or for an investment nor any other reason than it was my grail watch and I wanted it. The flippers are a pain but you have your blame every idiot that pays over the RRP for anything, same clowns paying £2-3k for a plastic Swatch with Omega on the dial. I love my sub and yes I had to wait for it from the AD but have nothing but praise for Laings who I bought it from as there was none of the ridiculous snobbery I had in goldsmiths or WoS. Ultimately buy the watch you and don’t listen to the neighsayers, it’s your wrist and your money buy what you want and enjoy it be it Rolex, a Sekonda or Casio but never pay over the odds and remember it’s not an investment, it’s a tool to tell the time.
Actually the reason is to flex to others. Two dudes. One wearing a Sub. The other an A L & S Zeitwerk. Average person on the street would think the Zeitwerk is a quirky toy. Most Rolex wearers buy them for the happy hour flex.
@@BarryDalton flexing is usually done through fakes .
@@mahmoudghoneim8004 not necessarily.plenty of people in the world with more cash than taste.
Great video! I follow you on instagram and found your channel through that. Agree on all your points. I sell Rolex but only vintage models and for the reasons you state your 'beef' with them. I try and get my clients to pursue other brands with a genuine rich history like Cartier. Also on the production, really well shot, lighting, framing, editing etc. Wish you all the best with your channel. James
Appreciate the kinds words 🙏 I love vintage Rolex… a much different company back then. I felt like I could air out my frustrations since I’ve been a Rolex owner for many, many years now 😉. Share with your friends, we would love to gain some traction and start building a great watch community 👊
This is the point I wanted to make too - this video has excellent production value for such a low channel subscriber count
Also you nailed it re: Rolex owners. I try to converse with them regularly and most of them are absolutely clueless.
Friend went into Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, told them he wanted a blue datejust, jubilee bracelet, fluted bezel and salesman said give me 3-6 months. Less than three months later they called him and said we have your watch for you. It was his first Rolex. They didn't screw with him at all.
That’s because of oversupply 👍
Marketing - supply and demand. If they wanted to get him one tomoz, they could! Supply and demand laddddy boyyyyy
Did he at least blow the salesman as a sign of respect and gratitude?
Typical exception to the rule case. Are you a wahmen?
I'm happy that Rolex is (nowadays) fairly hard to get at AD. I do own three, but this way, it made me look elsewhere and I discovered a whole new world of amazing watches, which are not even expensive and are fantastic. Breitling, Tudor and even Tissot (PRX) & Citizen (tsuyota!). Thank you Rolex :)
That’s my hope for most of us. There are so many amazing watch houses out there… let’s go explore the hobby!
Great comment. I'm doing the same thing and didn't even realize it; just having fun looking at all the other brands and their history.
t'as oublié Invicta dans ta liste
Tudor is what Rolex used to be: solid, reliable tool watches without the pretension. And Tudor is Rolex’s skunk works, experimenting with new designs, features (love the North Flag’s power reserve) and is not shy about crafting with titanium.
‘The Shield protects the Crown’
Agree
Tudor movements are definitely inferior though. I wish Tudor would up their game and make their watches thinner and with better movements (maybe the latest black bay gmt is a step in the right direction). If that happens I would never buy another Rolex again.
Started researching watches as I wanted the best mechanical tool watch out there… but was so turned off by the Rolex AD experience. Was quoted $17k for a new no-date sub. Decided to go with a pre-owned Tudor Black Bay Dark instead, which I absolutely love. As you mentioned: The Tudor's solid, reliable and doesn't attract the wrong kind of attention.
@@puruthacker9700 Black bay 54 is 11.2mm thick. In house movement, COSC certified, 72h power res and +-2 seconds accuracy. The newer Tudors are METAS certified. Less than half the price of Rolex counterparts, and you can just walk in and buy one. What more do you need?
Tudor is awesome. That said, I own both. Got my FXD last month and am thoroughly enjoying it. I‘m considering the 925 58 too though. The Pelagos 39 is awesome too, but I don’t really have room for it in my collection.
I’ve had a GMT Master II Coke model on my wrist for 25 years. My wife bought it at a Dallas jewelry store. She was treated well, given a 5% discount. It had a total price of just under $3,000. It has been a wonderful companion, keeping time within 1 to 2 seconds a day. I am not an investor, I don’t care about its value because it will never be sold. I traveled internationally in my career and this was my working watch.This is what Rolex always used to be about before we started the investor craze in watches and Rolex started pumping up prices: a solid, reliable, good looking timepiece.
It’s a Pepsi not a coke
since when is Pepsi red and black?
I started my watch journey during the pandemic because I had a lot of free time. When you start out, at least today, I think it’s the norm that you get sucked into the rolex cult by default. However, I just held myself back and decided to know more about watch making. And the more I got to know about it, the more I realized how basic rolex is. I cannot afford the likes of A Lange or patek, but i have developed a strong admiration for grand seiko and galshutte original …and owe two pieces of each
I agree with you 100%. I own 14 mechanical watches, including an Omega, Longines, and others. I never considered Rolex for all of the reasons you mentioned. Last week I attended a really great event put on by a local luxury watch dealer, Teddy Baldassarre, that was well-attended by many out of town guests. I wore my Zenith Chronomaster El Primero A384 Revival, with the ladder bracelet, and I received many unsolicited compliments, plus some photo requests. Not gonna happen wearing just about any Rolex I'd wager.
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed our video and hope to see you around for more!
Mentioning Teddy as your "local watch dealer". Oh, how I envy you, I always like his content online. That event must have been great!
@@shonen84 Teddy is an awesome AD with a great range of brands. It's terrific that he's opened a boutique for four of his luxury brands, which is only about 20 minutes away from me. The event was invitation only featuring Grand Seiko, and included a demonstration by one of their top watchmakers, Hiroomi Suzuki. It was very exiting to be able to spend time talking with other other watch aficionados, plus I got to meet Teddy and Joe Kirk, the Brand Curator. I'm so inspired that I'm going to the Windup Watch Fair in Chicago this weekend!
If I had the budget for a Rolex, I'd skip it and move to a Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date or a GO PanoMaticLunar, a Girard-Perregaux Laureato, or a Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso. (It'd be a hard decision if I could only buy one!)
Why would anyone want a picture of a watch they can see in any AD’s window. Just more BS.
Very interesting presentation. I've been a watch enthusiast for over 50 years. I wear a Longines and a Formex. I know that most Rolex owners think I'm impressed, but I quietly suspect that they're unknowingly wearing a counterfeit. Just a matter of numbers. Nothing in the Rolex catalogue interests me, regardless of price.
Haha… pretty much 😂
Numbers regardless, mine’s 22 years old and I’ve worn it every day in all circumstances. It’s been through hell and back.
Built like a tank.
Yep. I bought my submariner in Nam in 1969 and wear it every day. An heirloom going to my grandson. Priceless
@@roywallace3964 That’s fantastic. Your grandson is a lucky man. I hope he wears it every day like you did.
Thank you for your service.
I ABSOLUTELY agree, with anything you have said in this video !! I have had a lot of Rolex's to include vintage ones, when it was economically feasable and when it was a watch that you could wear signalling your enthusiasm for watches. And, I might ad, before you had to get on your knees before your AD in order to even get on a fictional waiting list, just to see rich Chinese and scarcely famous people leaving the shop with a sub or a dweller on the wrist without spending as much as a second on one of these "lists" !!
Today, I have sold all my Rolex's in order to buy other watches - except for my old Datejust 1603 that I still find is a beautifull watch ............. but only just as beautiful as my Omega Constellation Piepan from the 1960's !
Earlier my biggest dream was to own a Rolex ........... now I don't even pay attention when they come up with some ridicoulus dial color trying to tell you that it is a "new model" !!
The image you most often display when you wear a Rolex is no longer "connaiseur", but more often than not that of someone wanting to flash that they have money - the watch part of the equasion is not even on their mind !
I sold all of my Rolex a couple years ago and have focused on independents since then.
Those soooo many independents and micros out there to explore!
Really considering it myself. My 6 Rolexes could turn into a Langematik and an AP 15450
@@watchman8817 Lange makes awesome timepieces. I'd love to own one, but they're way out of my range.
Me too😂
Thinking of doing the same
One thing worth noting: not everyone has a Rolex on their wrist; in fact, many people wear counterfeit ones. This can lead others to assume your Rolex is fake as well, similar to the perception issues with Louis Vuitton bags.
If you want a watch just go for a Casio, everything above the brand message, influence, marketing and so on are already driving your decision, besides product quality. So why blame Rolex, if Richard Mille sells for 50k a watch with a spider man inside, and it is a really awesome watch for enthusiasts, everything is possible. AP and Pateks also have waiting lines. I am happy with my Datejust blue dial, the impact of a Rolex is different everywhere you go, I have Omega and Tag, it is not the same at all!
Last week I got my explorer 36 from the dealer, because I like the history surrounding the model and I was looking for a watch for daily use that does not attract much attention. I agree with the new and flashy models. Not a fan of it, but vintage Rolex has a lot to offer and that is usually not attractive to the snobs. So far I haven't seen anyone with a 16018 (with D link bracelet), luckily! I still believe that you should buy what you like! My preference within the collection is JLC because of the craftsmanship and the closer target group that is interested in complications, craftsmanship and history.
Rolex is the iPhone of watches
It feels like that sometimes
Rolex and the iPhone are best in class
@@adrianhargreaves2854 iPhones are pretty much only game in town. Rolexes are not.
@@modash1231 oh yes they are
Holds its value and a lot of people want it? Sadly yes.
I got sick and tired of the waiting list. I called Vacheron Constantin and they were kind people at the Highland Park Boutique in Dallas, Texas. The shop was decorated with some cool items. I got to see and try on several watches. Mine took about 5 months to arrive and it was the Triple Calander 1942. It listed at $24,100 and I am glad I just stepped over the whole Rolex AD game and went with one of the Holy Trinity of watch makers.
Really glad you found somewhere that made you feel welcomed when spending your money!
Cool move, nice buy 👍
If you want to see how scarce Rolex watches are, go spend a few days at the Masters. My 4 days there last year I probably saw somewhere around 8-10,000 Rolex sports models alone. It was almost appalling
Find someone wearing almost any other luxury watch brand, you can safely assume they know something about watches. Rolex owners? Forget it. 9/10 are either wearing a fake or bought it because they thought it would make them look successful. Toxic brand culture. The only exception would be if they're wearing something less popular like a Milgauss or an Explorer II...then there's a chance they actually know something about watches and bought the outlier model for a reason.
Here in the U.K. it’s a bizarre sales process that hopefully the French ruling will change. At the start of the year I visited an AD who firstly refused to talk about Rolex without an appointment despite the store being empty!! After returning to the shop 2 hours later for an agreed appointment I was told an AirKing list comprised of 44 customers already waiting with an annual allocation of 4 watches. So….that’s 11 years then!!
Wow! I’m sorry to hear this… that’s too long for that watch 😳
The waiting lists are imaginary, they tell you that in the hopes that you will do something to put yourself higher in the "queue" like perhaps buying another watch they want to sell you.
You could well be right, kind of backfired as I found a beautiful glashutte seaq which I’ll cherish and probably not have any positivity for the Rolex pre sales process!
Thank you for making me feel a bit less weird. Because I have heard so much about Rolex and prestige and wearing one makes you feel great and admired. And I can't make it work. Picturing myself wearing a Rolex, my first impulse is one of... shame, I think. I wouldn't want to be seen wearing one. Because I would look like someone who knew nothing at all about watches and was not interested, but had won some money and had a need to be admired.
Every time someone who never cared about watches is in a situation where the matter is adressed - as in the "if I win in the lottery" conversation - they always mention buying a Rolex. And if a razzia at some bandits' den reveals a crate of luxury watches, the caption reads "Blah, blah, Rolex" while ignoring the fact that there is a freakin' A.Lange & Söhne in the picture. The likelihood of your choice of high end watch being a Rolex increases with your lack of interest in and knowledge about the matter. And that puts me off, frankly.
I completely agree with this list, especially the "false rarity" comments. I was watch shopping in Japan at some of the well established 2nd hand watch stores (Ginza, Osaka, etc.), and there were literally hundreds of Rolexes in cases ready to be sold.
Now, you may ask "Which models were they"? I have no idea, because THEY ALL LOOK THE DAMN SAME!
I'm a relatively new collector, and I'm proud to say that my collection will never contain a Rolex.
FINALLY ! ! ! ! I've been saying this for years and boiled alive everywhere for saying it . I had a , let's say . . . generous rolex collection , had. . . past tense. To me the last straw was the level of disrespect I felt the last time I entered a rolex AD . Turned around , entered omega AD right in front where I was allowed to try everything I wanted , got invited to a coffee and got myself a gorgeous ploprof and a museum collection number 6 for my birthday . Long story short I only keep one vintage rolex because it was a present and has a sentimental value to me . Everything else is gone .
Every single point you addressed is spot on and I sort of can go with that but feeling mistreated and downplayed as a costumer is something that I simply can not digest .
EXCELLENT VIDEO !
@@MarsAlexandre appreciate the comments and glad we put something out you enjoyed and could relate with. Looking forward to hearing from you on future posts.
Just out of curiosity which Rolex did you keep?
Nice play on the Ploprof!
Cheers,
Mike
@@TheWatchBros this is really odd I just replied but it disappeared.
Anyway, it's a vintage hand winding oyster royal precision that a girl gave to me many years ago, it looks like it has been thru hell and back but I absolutely love it. Collecting watches is a passion not a fashion 😉.
Ploprof is a magnificent beast, mesh black and orange rubber. Ironically one of the most comfortable divers I've found.
I'm totally subscribing to your channel, so feet on the ground!
Cheers!
Thanks for the support my friend! - Jason
The main reason new buyers 2017-present want a rolex is because they can’t get one easily. Something about “wanting what you can’t have” mindset. You’re right though after you actually get the watch it becomes bluh. My planet ocean is sooo much easier to read time on than my submarine or gmt.
Agree… there’s something about the human psyche that craves things we can’t have.
I have no problems reading the time on my James Cameron or my '13 Planet Ocean (currently out for service).
This is the most accurate comment I've seen yet. Some people are desperate to feel included.
Great video!
I would ad that wearing some Rolex models in some cities is a real risk of being attack. That is my biggest problem with Rolex. Other than that I do not hate the brand, I own a modern DJ that is very versatile, but that is it. Great video.
You're absolutely right. Being the most recognized watch in the world, it can be quite dangerous in some places to sport it on your wrist. Thanks for watching the video and I'll plan on discussing this in a future video!
If you can't afford to wear your Rolex as a daily beater - you are the fake.
This video is SO SPOT ON. I was an avid collector pre pandemic, having owned 2 PP nautilus models, 4 AP royal oaks, a blanc pain, Glashutte, panerai, Omega, in addition to 10 different Rolex models. The same AD that I bought most of my Rolex and both of my PP watches from, pretty much ghosted me from 2020 until recently. More recently, another Rolex AD--whose cousin I'm good friends and who made the intro-- never got back to me, despite us talking horology, movements, other watches, and him clearly seeing I'm a true collector. The entire hobby vis a vis Rolex isn't worth it to me. any longer. And most grey market sellers are......I'll stop there. I've sold most of my higher end time pieces and love wearing my Sinn limited edition 40mm divers watch as well as my Grand Seiko GMT as opposed to any of my SS rolex models that I've actually kept. GS hand finishes their watches with quality that blows rolex out of the water for comparable or cheaper price points.
Yes, I think you should do a follow up video and stay on them.
I love my Omega Constellation….blue meteorite face and I can see the workings from the back.
Really beautiful finish work too!
I was Going to buy a day date for my father as a gift, what I did not expect what’s the way that I was treated, I’m a construction worker, But I probably still have more in my bank account than an average boutique worker. After some research, a lot of redditors made it sound like it’s expected to be treated like that. So If anything, this video was a nail in the coffin from spending 25 grand with Rolex ( I was gonna finance lol) , now I’m just going to fly out to Japan with my father to find him a perfect Perfect available, and awesome Grand SEIKO, F Rolex.
Just buy from Crown&Caliber or Bob’s Watches
keep in mind that grand seiko will be a pain in the ass to service in the US. i really think anyone eyeing a rolex should just get an omega :D
Interesting topic.. Several years ago I dropped-off my oyster perpetual date just Rolex at an authorized Rolex repair center in Singapore for cleaning. I inherited the from my dad that he purchased back in the mid-1950s while in the military. A couple of days later when the watch was returned, the watch was missing the secondhand. They stated they could not fit the second hand due to a broken part they claimed was obsolete. My dad’s Rolex was never the same again.
I don't own a Rolex but I have tried to buy one, once. I was told by a sales associate that I couldn't buy the model I wanted as my first Rolex purchase. I have never even attempted to buy another Rolex since that day. I really don't even care to look at them after that. I've learned to appreciate that salesman as I've aged. I now wear a watch that cost about 20% of a Rolex and 10 years later it still runs flawlessly and honestly I think it looks better.
Yes on every point, no longer what it used to be. I don't know how a marketing department could think that making the buying experience horrible was going to be a good thing for the brand. Now wearing. an IWC as a daily.
Amazing daily my friend! 😳
Rolex is not the only brand I like but I do like Rolex
1. Not scarce - you’re right in general however the desirable pieces are not common. ADs get a small number of steel Daytonas. Rolex knows to keep the desirable steel models scarce and then try to sell the higher margin precious metal watches.
2. Terrible customer service - agree, but you’re not going to get a better treatment at Hermes, Patek, etc.. Luxury brands treat you like shit to make the people they let in feel more special. You need to go to a more off beat luxury brand like Zenith or Moser to be treated well.
3. Bland designs - matter of opinion … I think they strike a good balance between iconic design and experimentation. At least they have multiple desirable models: AP just has the Royal Oak.
4. Finishing and movement decoration - agree with you here they could be doing more here, especially with movement decoration
5. Lack of Complications - disagree here. Rolex movements are reliable and that’s what I like about them. If I want complications I’ll buy another brand.
6. Lack of history - yeah Rolex history is definitely full of BS and enhanced by their marketing.
7. Everyone has one - I don’t care what’s on other peoples wrists, but I do agree that the brand may signal “new money” to people
Appreciate your breakdown… even if we disagree on a few things here. Atleast you backed up your perspective and I respect that 100%. Hopefully you follow for more content. We have a lot of stuff planned in the near future!
Omega's movements are arguably more interesting, more robust, and definitely better finished than Rolex's. And then there is Grand Seiko...
@@balazskertesz5010 Omega/ETA movements are machine finished just like Rolex.
@@tab3Gator yes, but you can actually see them... 😀
@@balazskertesz5010 you can see a NH35 too. And I’d rather not. The speedys have beautiful architecture, the rest …ugh. The FF is a different story.
"Everyone has one!"
Yeah .. pretty much my feelingtowards them. One main reason I love my Bremont Alt1-WT .. not only is it a great looking watch, but no one else wears one because they're genuinely scarse.
100% on everything. And to add more, they think their Rolex is a rare special piece.
As a Rolex owner, I agree - I have moved on to Omega specifically the AT line up and haven’t looked back since.
What a great watch house to get into! Congrats!
I would never buy an Omega from an AD. The value plummets the moment you step out the door.
Better to buy it pre-owned in unworn or new condition. It'll save you thousands.
Not really much to argue with and I’m hearing more people express similar feelings these days. I was talking with a friend who works at my local AD and even he was saying that they’re now regularly getting passes from customers on the waitlist when their watches come in and can’t sell a few models at all. It’s karma coming back around as people realize…it’s just another luxury watch.
I've seen the same thing
@@TheWatchBrosI got 1 for a friend who needed to get on "the list" then they offered me a couple which I turned down. I do have a few 5 digit models that I keep but never intend to wear as they're just crass nowadays.
Best regards 🎉
I agree with everything you said here. As a watch collector and a nerd, rolex isn't some cool badge of honor for an enthusiast anymore. It means absolutely nothing to anyone, outside of it being a silly status symbol. I was listening to a podcast about watches the other day, and the hosts were talking about rolex and the rolexes they had owned. One of the shills, ....er I mean hosts, was saying a rolex he had owned in the past "didn't count because he didn't get to share the moment!" And by 'share the moment,' he was referring to buying it from an A.D. and sharing the moment with the salesman! 😂 The whole thing is just incredibly cringy. I don't care if one person every 3 years notices I'm wearing an expensive watch, so why in the world would I buy a rolex?
Spot on !!!!
So here’s the deal. Bascially, 90% of what you say is correct. Rolex are not great watches from a collectors or real watch persons perspective. My Brother who is a real watch guy, and spends 100k - 200k on watches, sees Rolex’s as a joke. And it is true, most peeps who wear them know nothing about watches. I got my first Rolex when I was was 23 - new college grad and paid over time. There are tons of fakes out there, but most people know just by looking at the person if they are wearing a real one or fake - so lets put that to the side. So the question is why, are there 10,000 Rolex’s at the Masters??? - No, all these guys are not buying them because everyone else is… it’s a really simple answer. I can’t speak for woman… but for most guys, when they put them on their wrist they look amazing. I have tried lots of watches, and have owned over 20 Rolex watches over my life…. And I know they are not great, but nothing in my opinion ever looks better for guy looking at his wrist than a Rolex. That to me, is why they are desired and bought. Bottom line. It’s why a guy looks better in a Ferrari than a Corvette, as great is a Corvette is, it does not look nearly as good on your wrist. That’s it in a nutshell.
You are absolutely right, when you walk in to buy a Rolex the AD treats you as if they’re going to give it for free and they must examine you to check if you deserve it !
Agree with you completely. Especially with the fact that most owners are just flexing and know absolutely nothing about horology.
100% agree. I sold my last Rolex a few weeks ago, got more than I paid for it, that was just a bonus, I don't buy watches as investments. I then went to my AD to remove my name from the BS waiting list, I must say I felt empowered as I walked out, somehow I felt free :) I then bought my Grail Watch (non Rolex) and couldn't be happier :)
I will someday end up buying a Day Date but only if they eventually become available as a walk in. Rolex a Good brand but I'm sick of the stupid games they play and sick of the way some owners think they are something special because they own a Rolex. I prefer other brands even if they cost more. I also own some cheaper watches that are as good or better.
It does feel pretty good when you tell them you want to be removed 😉
@@TheWatchBros Then again, the waitlists are there not because Rolex created them, but because the demand far exceeded the supply. The Covid boom is now over, but those waitlists still exist. Over time they will get shorter until AD's can carry stock again, but that may take a while. Especially for certain models.
I only hate it when they make you jump through hoops. I don't want your stupid jewelry, and I don't want a ladies watch. Talk to me, assess how serious I am, and whether I will be wearing the watch, putting it in a safe, or flipping it. That should determine the order in which you sell the watches.
Rolex hasn't sold watches since 2019. The watches in their stores are only for exhibition. I've been to plenty of their boutiques around the world. The situation is consistent.
But I've also noticed that in some places, they reserve their watches for local customers only. It's such a pain. You can't just walk into a store, see something you like, and buy it.
I understand why these things are so. But it is unfortunate.
You are absolutely correct. To me Rolex has ruined its reputation. It's a luxury watch that you get only in black market paying extra. Rolex has surely ruined its reputation.
Thanks for the video ❤
Thank you and welcome to our community 🙏
It's the people who now wear Rolex who've spoiled it's cache. Showoffs, wannabes, flippers and haughty ADs have tarnished the name.
Who else makes a watch that has a dial that looks like a Rolex Day-Date?
Good analysis and points. I am a diver instructor since '77 with a Tudor Submariner Prince O date (Rolex case) since '77 and a Rolex Sea Dweller since '96 with together more then 4000 dives, it was tool watch for me before I move to dive computers, but today it is very difficult to find people able to understand why i love this classic ones, they look for the new ones (Hip/ show-off attitude) or the vintage value ones (Collectors / Investment speculation)
Rolex makes really good $2,500 Submariner's. . . That they charge $9,000+ for. They are the Harley Davidson of luxury watches. (Anybody who's never ridden a motorcycle thinks Harley Davidson's are "fast bikes", and they are fast but literally any "liter bike" would dust them and even many 600cc would too.) They're just a brand with a catchy name insecure people buy because "somebody at work has one" or whatever. They just have "SUCKER" screaming on their wrist.
Hey tarrman…I can feel what you said in my gut..you know why, because I ride a hayabusa with a shunbun on my wrist. Both Harley and rolex folks hate me haha
Exactly
A Submariner is 'worth' about $500. A $1000 Casio Oceanus is far better built.
@@mrbrisvegas2 Second hand with light dings and scratches with a cloth/rubber strap, yea. $500 is the low end, yes.
No, they are the Mercedes Benz of watches. They aren't the highest quality items, just a status symbol.
Hi there! Im a Swiss citizen and watch enthusiast since 30+ years and all I can say is that Rolex is the perfect watch for being immediately recognized. It is a watch that screams loud „I made it and I can afford a luxury item that makes me feel realized“. I agree with your opinion about Rolex buyers not necessarily being watch enthusiasts. At the same time I need to admit that Rolexes are timeless: their design and most of the configurations make them evergreens. It‘s difficult to get bored ot a Rolex, it matches almost all possible outfits whether you are wearing bermudas and a t-shirt or a suit. Of all watches I know and I had the privilege to call my own, probably Vacheron Constantin is the most refined, most versatile, most advanced in terms of movement finishing. I love the Oversea‘s Collection and the fact that you can switch the bands gives you almost inifinite possibilities in terms of matching the strap with your current outfit. Sure, we‘re speaking about a completely different price-point. A steel Vacheron Overseas is north of USD 25,000 while a steel Rolex is little above 10k. But the quality difference is simply astonishing. Getting back to Rolex, the only Rolex I truly appreciate and that I would buy is a Daytona Oysterflex, especially in white gold: it looks quite understated and give you a high degree of versatility / it‘s very wearable and less flashy than a two-tone Sub or GMT which costs 40% less.
Thanks for commenting and can align with some of your points. Thanks for finding us and hope you follow for more in the future!
Sorry I don’t agree, if you want to be recognized as you made it than buy something from Jacob and company like a 3 or 4 axis tourbillion . Rolexes were supposed to be tool watches,but morphed into boring luxury watches that never change. I simply don’t see anything special about a 50 year old design. And they don’t keep good time.
@@morpheus3190 Hello! I respect that fact that you don’t see anything special in a Rolex, but let’s be honest here, Jacobs & Co is a brand that most o people out there do not even know. If you cross Milan at night with a Jacob & Co. nothing is gonna happen to you, if you do the same with a golden Daytona you are instantly robbed and stabbed. And that’s why Rolexes are so recognizable even among people who are not watch enthusiasts. Furthermore they are a liquid asset, much easier to be sold as a Jacobs & Co. since the scale of their request is so wide.
I don't consider a Rolex an I made it item. I write Submariner sized checks on a regular basis. There are a lot of I made it items out there but a five figure watch isn't one of them. Multimillion dollar home, Ferrari, big powerboat or yacht, 45 foot motorhome etc are I made it items, not a silly watch.
@@venom5809 it depends where you live. In Italy I can assure you that if you walk around with a golden Daytona „wealth“ and „i made ir“ are the messages you delivery. In Zürich Switzerland not really. Furthermore it depends on your perception of luxury. I own a Ferrari and I got so used to it that it is nothing special anymore to me, I don‘t feel for sure I am flexing any muscles by driving it, nor that „I made it“. So, to keep things general, I think that 99% of the world‘s population would agree that wearing a 10 even 5k watch is something extremely luxurious. Where do 70% of all those produced Rolexes go? To the Asian market, where those with newly acquired purchasing power wish to be recognized by wearing brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Rolex.
How much did your TAG and Longines go up in value the last decade?
I get your points and agree with the „waiting list“ etc.
But other than that, I own a explorer one and don’t see that model more than half a dozen times a year out in the wild.
Good video, thx
I couldn’t agree more. I have a couple of Rolex watches I inherited, and I really love them. I wanted to add another to my collection but they literally would not sell one to me. As a customer I’ve moved on and built my collection with other pieces I’ve discovered instead. Grand Seiko are stunning, and in my opinion, much nicer than the Rolex I was planning to buy. With the issue around parts supply from Swatch Group, I think the Swiss watch industry itself is at risk of being passed by with better value for money alternatives.
You’re absolutely right, all Rolex watches suck.
Except the 2024 Sub no date I just purchased!! It’s just a fucking masterpiece!
I like the no date Sub a ton!
Grand seiko review please😊
It's on the list of watches to review. Be sure to subscribe so you get notified when we get to it. I think the AP Starwheel is the next review video planned.
I could relate with your experience walking into a Rolex store--getting interrogated about your identity, being limited to choose among the models they are selling for that day, and staring you down when you ask any questions. At the time when I visited a Rolex store and managed to finally get inside after the long line of flippers, I walked out with nothing since they didn't have the model that I wanted and it sounded ridiculous to me that I had to sign a contract if I will purchase a watch. I ended up buying a 2ndhand Rolex from a luxury watch resell/consignment store during my trip in Japan, and I could honestly not see the difference in its condition as an amateur watch hobbyist. Since then, I bought a Grand Seiko, Seiko Presage, and Montblanc and very honestly enjoy them more as a daily. Nowadays, I'm looking forward to adding a sportier watch into my collection, preferably from Longines or Breitling. Any suggestions?
After reading other people's experiences at a Rolex store I noticed that there were some parts of the process that were different from my experience at a Rolex store here in Korea. Either way, I think it is such a pain to get one. Can't help but to have this love-hate feeling towards the brand.
Very Interesting ideo. Short story, I bought my son the Blancpain-Swatch just a couple of weeks ago as he graduated from primary and I wanted to give him a gift. We were in NY last week and I brought my son to the Blancpain Boutique so he could see the real fifty fathoms. The seller in charge came and I told him I was trying to teach my son about their watches and let me tell something, this guy went far and beyond expelling the history and the different references. thought the years. He gave him 3 amazing books about the brand and let me tell you something. I could take easily forget about Rolex and buy a Plancpain just because that man made our visit to their boutique very special.
I would add… the main reason they can sell 1.2 million units is that ADs are forced to buy shipments sight-unseen. If they could choose what to buy, Rolex would have to build another warehouse to hold the unsold stock every year.
This is a myth. AD’s and Bucherer place orders with Rolex as master data every month. On some items there are set number of allocations, but within that, they mostly decide them self what models, dial colours, bands and bracelets they choose, and how many watches they want to purchase. High sought after items like Pepsis and SS Daytonas are some of the models there are quotas on, and AD’s who sell a lot of inventory of other items, are rewarded with things like extra Pepsis and Dayton allocations.
Customer service is so appalling. Its been 20+ years since I bought my first Rolex. So I went in (wearing my Pepsi which I wear daily) to see if I can buy/source a 42 Yachtmaster on an Oysterflex. I fully expected to be told I need to go on a waiting list but I was also just as happy to break out the Amex and buy on the spot. However, the sales dude looked down at me and said it just isn’t available and you can’t get one. I asked is anything available and he said nope. I laughed and left.
Here’s the kicker, as much as I detest the Rolex customer service, I love my Pepsi (and Datejust and Daytona) which has got an amazing patina from years of daily wear.
That's a great timepiece! I also have a vintage birth year Pepsi. I absolutely love that Rolex!
@@TheWatchBros The Pepsi is the perfect watch for me. I wear it daily and it looks like it to. The AD experience is the worst across ALL retail sectors. You cant find a more disgraceful display of arrogance.
I agree most with the point about customer service.
I went into Rolex and was serious about getting on a list to buy an explorer (not a rare Rolex) and I was told that they didn't have room for me on the list.
A few months later I asked another dealer about a new (less common) Omega and she took down my number and excitedly called me back the next week saying that she can have it shipped in from the other location so I can just try it on and see if I like it.
The Omega experience didn't make me feel like I was being judged or taken advantage of by a cooperation. Props to my Omega dealer
The Explorer, for me, is a Tool watch. I wear it to work everyday. I work on a mine site, not an office worker. I’ve never seen anyone wearing one. Great watch.
The video was great and enlightening because God forbid you say something bad. Oh, noooo. I am a collector and enthusiast, and I walked into an AD to look at the Tudor gmt coke and was told I had to put my name in to see it when it's available . Sounds a little crazy to me, but that is the thoughts at the AD'S now. Also, Rolex is fine, but people have to understand there are so many great brands out there to view and enjoy.
You got it to the tee 🤌
I want a Rolex because?
I just want one.
Well said - I have 5 - But most agree with what you have said
I was blinded to fall for the Rolex popularity for the last few years even though I was financially far off to want one. This year,I’ve come to senses, and started looking for more affordable watches that I actually connect rather than what others tell each other they should want. Honestly, I’ve seen more Rolex on people who were not in a place that they should have them. Wake up ppl. Rolex on your wrist while having no other serious asset makes you look stupid.
Agreed with every points. I put my name on the " Sub waiting lists" with few ADs for 10 years and never got a call back. During covid period, my lady friend bought a full RG DJ with diamond bezel and requested a Daytona. Within a year she got a Sub, a SS Daytona and an Explorer from her AD. Last year she got a call for a RG Daytona too. It's a stupid game not for a watch collection.
1. Maybe not rare but hard to get for multiple reasons, so probably better described as exclusive. Tag make fewer as fewer want a tag.
2. You don't like being interviewed but disliked flippers? This is the reason for the interview...
3. Skydweller dial too busy then suggest a Breitling chrono?
4. Hate that everyone has one? Do you also hate G_shock etc..?
I avoided Rolex for years, told myself the same as you've just said but had to experience it eventually. A Rolex is a Rolex. Be an enthusiast who has a Rolex too if you can. These issues have been around for years, the watches haven't changed so how can the "great" now be the "hate"?
The Breitling chrono has much better design language and is balanced, but that's just my opinion. We'll disagree on some things but hope you stick around and watch our other videos that will be coming out. Thanks for find us!
Eh, I have owned stuff from almost every watch brand and Rolex was garbage to be honest. I loved my Breitling and my Bell and Ross on the other hand. My Tag with the tire tread band was definitely one of the coolest.
Ferrari vs McLaren buying experience in a nutshell.
Unless you jayemms vids on mclaren buying experience!
@@anandmorris his video has led many (including me) to get bargain deals! Don't believe the fear mongering.
The commonality of Rolex is a plus and a minus. Military personnel had a tradition of buying Rolexes because when a country goes down, you can buy your way out with a Rolex when a currency falls.
That alone makes it worth it.