Ok! A few things I should add in! 1. A lot of people think this may have been a person trying to hit on me. 😂 as much as I wish that was the case… I think any female can tell the difference between someone who fancies them and someone who might be a bit dangerous 😂 it’s not like our eyes locked, and we had a moment. Hahah. Dude looked at my watch and began following me. 😂🙈 You can definitely tell the difference! And 2. I think I should have said a bit more: I am really lucky this ended the way that it did. There are so many people that didn’t have the happy ending I had! It’s been a big warning for me. 💕💕💕
I'm a dude, and I agree, you can tell when someone is after something of yours. I used to road cycle, and I parked my expensive road bike in front of a grocery store (locked it up). This guy was exiting the store, and his face lit up and totally changed expression while I was walking away from my bike into the store. . I saw his face and instantly went back to my bike, unlocked it, and rode on. You can tell.
Dear women, SAY SOMETHING. Walk up to someone who works there, say a guy is following you around the store and you feel weird. Make sure the guy sees you do this. He will usually leave. You don't need to say anything about your watch. You're not trying to get him arrested. Just look at him, point, and say something.
Or dont be a fkin entitled Karen and just ask him does he know you like a normal fkin person ?. Dont go around accusing somebody out of thin air like you own the place.
YUPPP! And I always kinda thought it was just a London thing! Or a big city thing! I really didn’t think this would happen in Bristol. I think it this kind of stuff is only going to go up
Even the small cities in the US are dealing with this, let alone big cities. Criminals have no fear anymore. No cash bail, simple catch and release. Wearing the famous watch brands - Rolex, Patek, AP, and Richard Mille, will get you robbed on sight. Doesnt matter the price or model. Youre actually safer wearing a stainless steel Vacheron Overseas than a Rolex Oyster Perpetual, despite it costing over 4x as much at retail.
I feel comfortable wearing Rolex in Midtown Manhattan. But I normally wouldn’t do that elsewhere in the City. It’s not worth the risk. Steinhart for me ! Haha. Good episode, Brittany!
I think you read into the situation well and sorry to hear you were put in an uncomfortable situation. Smart of you to put distance between you and the other person. There’s an obvious difference when someone is “trying to talk to you” vs eyeing your stuff in a store. Hope you both stay safe!
Totally agree with your concerns over personal safety. Personally, I’ve switched back to wearing my JLC Geophysic 1958 for this exact reason. No one knows what it is and it draws no unscrupulous attention. Yet it’s an amazing piece. Sad state of affairs that these concerns need to be factored in.
Oh that is stealth wealth! JLC = TASTE! 💕💕 and you’re right! No one knows what it is, but you know it’s cool and chic. Gah! It’s just so sad! The Daytona really was a watch that meant a lot to me and I so enjoyed wearing. But you know…. There are people starving. Lol!! My biggest problem is “boo hoo! I can’t wear my Daytona 😜😂
my concern is.. the "spotters" might get even more sophisticated these days. They'd know what a JLC is, they can tell diff between a grand seiko and a regular seiko
So far I managed to avoid trouble by wearing my most “popular” pieces along with REALLY casual outfits, so much so that the watch is automatically tagged as fake, or not worth the risk of checking out. With more formal attires, JLC, Lange and other less known brands are practically invisible.
At this point I'm convinced that right now is the perfect time to wear microbrand watches that look great but might use more basic workhorse movements. Mind you not bad movements but movements that are made to serve it's purpose more so than looking pretty while doing it. Nobody is going to rob you over a Baltic that's worth only a few hundred dollars tops and you're still wearing good looking watch with good functionality.
@@joseignaciogonzalez9667 I don’t think so. My Lange Saxonia is barely noticed by very cultured watch enthusiasts, for 99.99% of the people it may as well be a Daniel Wellington.
Probably because I didn't grow up in an ultra-safe country, the idea of strolling around wearing a very expensive and highly recognizable item seems crazy to me.
Very sorry you had to go through that. I hope this feeling passes soon and you feel safe to wear that beautiful watch again :) You're the best, Britt! Watch fam is here to support you!
As a AD, we noticed over the summer months Clients phoning in to ask what Watches we could recommend as an alternative to their Rolex, as they didn’t feel comfortable or safe wearing a Rolex with short sleeves in certain areas of the UK !
It’s so sad to hear that these things are getting more common. Watches are so mainstream now and so easily recognized by everyone including thieves. Hope you recover from this incident and start wearing that beautiful piece again
Whenever I ask a stranger about their watch, I try to say the model name instead of the brand. For instance, I'll say "is that a seamster?" Instead of saying "is that an omega?" Or another example, "is that a datejust?" Instead of saying "is that a Rolex?" Doing this attracts less attention from would be thieves, who instantly know brand names. It also makes them more comfortable, because they know I'm a watch geek that way.
Gringa! Sorry to hear you about your experience. Back in June/July and here in the US, there were a lot of news stories regarding police departments (especially NY and LA) warning people not to wear watches and jewelry in public. Anyway it does make you think. There were a couple of times in the past few months, when I was decided to wear one of my Hamiltons or a G-Shock, instead of one of my Tudors, because of where I was going and what I was doing. And looking back I hated that feeling. Blessed be the Gringa and Long live the Cult. Also, the US version of the cheap everything store would be probably be a "Dollar General".
Honestly. I had never felt unsafe in a watch… until now! 😱 it always kinda felt like Bristol wasn’t like one of those big cities - like LA and NY! But it’s definitely spreading into the smaller cities now. Gotta think more before putting on watches! 🙈
@@albundy3929 Make sure you tell the person, who after saving for months to buy a $250 Citizen, loses it in a mugging. He can find comfort the fact it was only a Citizen and he was not mugged for it. And though I know better to reply to this snobby (dare I say pretentious) comment, I shall stretch it even further. Though Gringa's story about being followed and possibly targeted, appear to be specifically related to her wearing the Daytona, never did I say someone was going to specifically target my Tudor watch. It was the simple fact of knowing that due to location and timing, I could be robbed. And with my wallet, rings, and whatever watch I was wearing would be subject to the taking. It does not matter whether it was my Tudor (which to me is a significant purchase), my $50 Casio, or some future grail watch worth 1000 times as much, having to play it safe can be horrible feeling. Pontification Complete.
Yeah, I hear you. I've had things stolen from me and it's not a great feeling. I deal with this in two ways: I don't wear or carry anything I can't afford to lose, and if I can't afford to lose it but want it with me, I insure it. I'm not a pro photographer but I still have a $15,000 rider for camera equipment on my insurance. That way I can carry those big white lenses to any part of any city and be assured that if I DO get robbed, there's new equipment in my future. I'd insure any jewelry over $2000 including watches.
Sorry to hear about your experience Brit. And I highly doubt that you're exaggerating the situation at all. Intuition is an incredibly powerful tool for avoiding danger and if your intuition told you that man may be dangerous, he most likely was. Never doubt that instinct, it evolved to keep you and your ancestors alive for centuries. And it's probably best to keep your watches off your wrist unless you're in a safe place or around people who can protect you.
PAUL THORPE! Thank you so much. You know, I always say, when you just know in your gut sometjing is wrong - sometjing is probably wrong. Follow your gut!
Personal safety is everyone's business. Hanging a 20/40/60 thousand dollar watch on your wrist is red meat for criminals. I think you made a good decision in leaving the Rolex at home. I really like your channel. Be safe and keep making great content.
The world is f**ed up when it comes to going out with nice watches. Sorry to hear about this experience 😐 I hope you can enjoy your watches in future but awareness is probably inevitable. Big hug 🤗
It's a horrible feeling. My wife was followed and had her new phone swiped from her hand. She carries an old phone now. There are bad people who want your valuables.
That was part of why I got rid of my Hulk - not interested in getting stabbed really or having to be aware of 360 degrees all the time in central. Good that you have the spidey sense.
I also sold my Rolexes for the same reason. I always had to be mindful of my surroundings and on high alert when wearing my Rolexes. It just wasn't fun anymore.
Sorry to hear that :( Personally, I would not wear an expensive watch if I'm going swimming, shopping at supermarkets, walking in crowded areas or travelling. There are other watches that best fit these situations like Casio, Seiko, a smart watch ...etc since I don't like to worry about stuff when I'm out. I hope that everyone stays safe however, these watches are becoming very expensive and more people releaize this now than 5 years ago.
It’s a shame the internet, UA-cam, and Instagram has brought so much attention to thieves about the value of watches…. Oh wait. Is this a product of the internet watch influencers’ doing?
In Hong Kong, we also saw a significant higher count of robbery (80 rolex were robbed from a shop!). The economy is getting worse, people are getting crazy. Glad that you and your watch are safe.
Britt, U.S. Marine here. Trained to avoid being a victim of a terrorist attack and/or getting kidnapped by Al Qaeda et al. overseas. Listen to your intuition/gut. You clearly listened to your instincts. That is good. Always assume negative intent when a situation like this happens. Don’t walk to an area where there are people. You did great by thinking offensively, grabbing your 🔐 Keys. Remember, there is not such thing as a fair fight. You can also scream hysterically! Who cares what others may think. You are saving yourself
I'm glad you followed your instinct and remained safe. Who knows what this guy was up to? He may simply have been enamored with a watch that he rarely sees in public, or he may have wanted to rob you. Either way, it's not worth the risk to find out. On a side note, this is nothing against you in the least, but if you eat a steak in the middle of a room full of people eating rice, someone is bound to be jealous or have nefarious intentions. It's sad, but with the current divide between the wealthy and the less fortunate growing, it's only going to get worse.
Sounds like you’ve had a narrow escape. I bought my Rootbeer from Newcastle and the AD escorted me back to my car and seen me pull away in my car before he turned and walked back to the shop. Above and beyond if you ask me. I am disabled so that might have had something to do with it. Best have your Gshock on hand when you go to the next city. Glad you’re ok Brittany. ❤️
First of all, congratulations on the Root Beer. My favourite GMT II. I do not expect you to give an exact location for safety reasons, but what was the name of the AD? Because that is top notch service.
That’s really good of your ad! This is a TOP AD! Omg, lurking outside watch shops would be a perfect way for some of these people to steal a watch from someone. :( with box and papers!
@@BrittPearceWatches they had that exact scenario happen previously so I now believe that’s why I was escorted to my vehicle. I didn’t know that at the time though. Much love. ❤️
I studied under a former federal agent at Ole Miss who was a personal security expert and he had conducted studies proving women had a sixth sense and should always listen to that “voice”.
B&M sounds like the British equivalent of a Dollar General in the US. I already see a lot of CCW/ 2A comments here, and I am all about that no doubt, I live in Kentucky, BUT remember this is the US. EVERYONE is carrying. Just be careful and you too Britt.
HAHAA I think it is like a nicer dollar store. The U.K. is soo different with guns and that stuff! For us, the big problem is stabbing! A lot of concealed knives Bevause guns are so hard to get.
Someone we know was stabbed for his Rolex in Manchester. I wear a white dial Explorer2, not a flashy Rolex but only with long sleeves. Otherwise it is a Seiko.
When you have the experience you described most likely your instincts were spot on. Very good that you were paying attention (it's called situational awareness) for actual victims usually do not. And it's human nature to think that happens to others, not me. So glad this worked out for you. Stay safe.
LOL! I just don’t know how to be serious in serious moments. James has been really angry woth me before. And I just can’t help but get socially awkward and laugh LOL! It’s not that it’s funny! I’m just too immature lol!!!
There are places and moments where it is better to hide luxury watches - it is also about safety and understanding the economic situation. The more difficult the economy, the more painful for people who are struggling to see happy people with such watches. In France in Avignon, I realized there were quite a few homeless people and beggars in the street and I told my family to hide watches and jewelry. And one doesn’t necessarily want to show an expensive symbol of success to people in difficulty, it is also a bit a matter of respect. In Monaco or Switzerland, no problem :)
All you need to do is wear two watches, get a hublot and have that lower on the wrist so when your jacket exposes a watch people start vomiting and start making angry Nico noises at you but just above that is the daytona.
You’re not overreacting. We now live in a society where theft and assault is no longer considered a crime. I rarely wear any of my luxury watches in public but when I do I always place my right over my watch when someone approaches me
I'm a 6' 4" 220 lb male and I have had a (sort of) similar journey with my new Rolex GMT. Like you i never thought I'd own this watch but was offered one from the AD earlier this year. I travel quite a bit - and after all that's the whole point of the GMT, isn't it? I wore it on a trip and didn't feel safe the whole week - and now don't wear it while travelling anymore. A bit sad really as I love the watch. As a result of all that I've just bought the Seiko 5 GMT blueberry - which to be honest is brilliant and will perfect to travel with.
My Brother-In-Law was robbed at knifepoint in Marbia Spain for his Rolex Sub last year. I know how long and hard he worked and saved to buy it. Devastated. It's a shame people can't wear their luxury watch in public anymore. I wear a 32 year old Seiko diver that looks like I've been hammering nails in with it, so I guess I'm safe. Your Daytona is totally awesome! I'm sad that you cannot wear it when and where you want, in peace and safety.
Sorry to hear that Brittney, hope everything is okay. IMO it's such drag that you can not wear your fav watch and have to be paranoid all the time when you wear it outside the house or usual area. At this point most of ROLEX turned me off due to well known Thieves Pick-up List, too much Brand Exposure and Flex Culture like RM, Patek and AP, while Tudor and OMEGA or underdog brand are the safer watch to wear nowadays. Wish you all the best Gringa!
My grandmother used to keep her jewellery in The Wault (she was from Transylvania, so she had an accent), and whenever she went to a wedding or bar mitzvah she'd go to the bank and get her jewellery for the weekend. Basically, she didn't get to wear her good jewellery. I don't have this problem with my lovely microbrand watches or my indy watches. It's a reason to stick to the more rational end of the market. Not that NObody's ever been stuck up for a Tissot Heritage 1936, but I fancy my chances.
Totally understand. I have several Rolex's, 1655, James Cameron, Hulk, Double referenced 5513/5517 MILSUB etc. In Germany it's fine, but we are getting ready to move back to Tampa Florida. My German wife is the one who wants to move back, go figure. I feel OK in Tampa, but no way were we going to move back to San Francisco! I am a retired federal agent and I will qualify again to carry my duty weapon because we do live in crazy times! My family will not be a target.
This is why I don’t wear my GMT on business trips anymore. I wear a 16usd Casio worldtimer instead. Does the same thing and I don’t have to worry about being mugged for it.
What fun is it to have a fine watch? Do you sit & gaze at it by yourself? I won't quit wearing my Tudor Panda. Ill go down w/ the ship if need be. I man older Marine & I know some stuffLOL
@@richardmorris7063 I’ve got a wife and kids who depend on me. It’s not worth getting macheted over. I wear it at the office and around, just not on trips to Europe anymore.
An acquaintance of mine (a physically disabled guy) had a Submariner. It was given to him by his father before he passed away. One day he got knocked out in the streets and his Rolex was stolen. It happened like 4 years ago. No one has been arrested. The case is unsolved.
What an awful experience. I had a similar one on the tube wearing a pp… it popped out and this guy clocked it. He then followed me off tube. I did it walk home as did not want him to know where I lived and went into pub, where he did not follow me.
Sorry to hear you had that experience. That’s not fun at all. Although, I’m a 5 foot 9 male and quite stocky, I have really struggled with the idea of buying a Rolex or an Omega for basically the same reason. Not worried about the watch, necessarily being stolen, but I am worried about being beaten, or even killed for it. It’s a sad thing where you can’t necessarily wear something that you enjoy out in public anymore. I live in Canada, just outside of Toronto, where everything feels quite safe, but you just never know. I would love to own a Rolex an Omega but for the very reason you just described in this video it’s some thing I really haven’t felt comfortable doing. And I especially would not feel comfortable travelling anywhere outside of Canada wearing it. So then it becomes what’s the point of having it if you can’t wear it and enjoy it? Anyway, I hope your experience hasn’t completely ruined your love of the Rolex. Oh, and a special shout out for the Zellers stores. I miss them lol.
It's soooo true! Do yo think my black dial OP is ok?! I've still been wearing it because it feels less identifiable! And it's such a boring one. But it may be time to give up on my OP too! :(
Sorry to hear, Britt. It’s horrible out there. Friend of mine had his DateJust literally ripped off his arm recently, while he crashed to the floor. Both his pride and head are bruised. Fortunately, he was insured. I’ve never owned a Rolex. Had the chance a few times, but opted for - and preferred - Tudor. But I’ve heard stories of all sorts of watches being taken recently, including Tudor. 😞 Take care, and by the way, you have a fantastic surname. 😃
Always trust your gut if you notice something off about someone. There is a great book written in the 90s called “The Gift of Fear.” Everyone should read it, because it explains why you need to trust your intuition when you get that initial “fear” instinct. We evolved to be aware of predators, and signals they give off, which triggers the fear response. But as society, we have been trained to ignore that fear and instead be polite and nice. And predators use that to find victims. In other words, you did exactly the right thing. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you were in the wrong, or you over-reacted. If your fear response was triggered, it was probably for a good reason. And you also did the correct thing by grabbing your keys and being prepared to punch him with them - that is taught in all self-defense classes, because keys are sharp enough to stab the person and cause pain. That might be just enough to get away.
I’m glad to hear it turned out this way - and this guy was so obvious in following you. In a nicer part of town they might have had spotters as we heard from Paul. Definitely good to be on the safe side if something doesn’t feel right. Yes, it’s a real shame one has to be so careful with high-end watches these days. I wouldn’t even want to wear a CasiOak mod because one of those idiots might mistake it for an AP. And speaking of Casio: not even sure about the £1500 titanium model. They might even try to take that!
Same reason I stopped wearing my 16570 Polar. For years it was an unknown under the radar watch that gathered almost zero notice. Fast forward 15 years and somehow it became a thing and gathered way too much notice on my travels. I had one really uncomfortable moment in a remote place where a local eyed the watch and then eyed me with that "could I take him..." look. I sold it along with a couple of other choice watches...it's just not worth being assaulted for a timepiece.
That's unfortunate. Polar used to be one of the most under the radar Rolex Sports watches. Now everything is hot and you can't enjoy it without constantly being on high alert. It just wasn't fun anymore.
Your luxury watches are now like fine brandy. To be enjoyed at home Not feeling safe with any watch on your wrist defeats the very purpose of owning it. Compounding with the visibility of having a UA-cam channel under your own name and displaying your and your husband’s impressive collections for all to view only makes it worse. One solution to keep enjoying nice watches when you’re out and about is to go niche vintage. No thug will care when they see a 1953 35 mm Doxa dress watch.
I live in the USA. A small town. But regardless of where you live, there are some common sense rules that apply. The first rule is to be very aware of where you are. Is it a high crime area? Wearing a Daytona into a B&M? Really? Maybe if you have two bodyguards! Lock your doors, no matter where you live. Put your car in your garage. Put your Daytona in the safety deposit box at your bank. Any only wear watches in shady locations that cost less than 500 pounds! Get yourself a Tissot Seastar 1000, Quartz, like me, and be carefree!
Had a similar experience about a year ago with my TT Datejust (the current 36 model) and that was my dream watch but after almost losing my life over it I sold it for what is now pretty much my daily being an Aqua Terra 38 black dial on bracelet. I've had people say I like your watch but no shady characters have noticed it which is fine with me. The Rolex brand image has just been off putting for me after that experience, I would have loved to buy a birth year TT Sub but that's definitely never happening now RIP 💀💀. Anywho glad to hear that you're alright tho, praying that it was a one off experience. Have a good Sunday!!
Unfortunately, how things are now this is going to become widespread across the U.K. But, Brit, you are now well known. You need to take precautions. Both away from, and at home. Sad but true.
Honestly I have a no fear wearing a steel sports watch. I feel like 99% of people see a Rolex and don’t know what it is.It’s only a full rose or yellow gold watch with diamonds would be harder to wear.
On a different note....Rolex availability is way up at AD's in the UK it seems. Loads of people I know getting phone calls re Rolex SS sports lately. Anyone else noticing this? Probably reflects the Rolex market shrinking 15-20% in the last three months and continuing on a steady downward slope. Hopefully a return to "normal"
Wearing expensive and easily recognizable watches by yourself walking around the city is probably not the best idea for anyone. Regardless of their size. There are a lot of desperate people going through some really hard stuff. It's not an excuse for crime, but if you're starving and see someone with 10k or more on their wrist you're going to feel a certain way, no matter who you are, so I don't really wear watches like that to go shopping or when on foot walking around the city. Heading to nice dinner with friends, going to a charity auction, important business meeting and so on I am wearing one of my big boy watches. There is a time and place for everything. Glad you were paying attention and you and the watch both made it home safe.
Damn... I live in a big city in Australia but as a young male, the thought of being followed or harassed just doesn't enter my mind. Clearly more than a gender issue but I'm kind of shaken up by your story Gringa. I'm sorry that such a sentimental & beautiful watch now represents fear
You should continue wearing what you want just be aware of your surroundings (sounds like you already were in this case), also get the watch insured. I felt the same way you currently do and stopped wearing my pieces for a few months as crime in NYC continues to go up, two of my friends were robbed at gunpoint for their jewelry at a coffee shop in the middle of a weekday. We've gotten past that now and my wife and I continue to wear our AP's and Rolex's. Don't let one bad apple deter you from enjoying what you love. Think about how many people you've walked past that either don't take notice to the watch or appreciate it and move on. There are far more good people on the streets as opposed to bad.
What kind of advice are you giving here? "You should do what you want" is a little naive. She understands that this is dangerous. If you and your wife decide to take the risk alright but her thougths are correct.
I moved to small town Canada from a big US city. I feel more vulnerable here because people know us too well IMO. It is sad to not be able to be yourself.
You did the right thing being nervous, the guy may have wanted to strike up a conversation about the watch to chat you up, but you never know these days. Its a shame you won't wear it, but I get it. Its the same reason I won't have a flashy car on the drive, its a theft magnet and I would never relax! I tend to wear my Omega 300 every day, but I am always 'aware' of who has noticed it, and I could imagine in your position that being scary, my wife's had a few similar experiences! Love the channel and the more casual/chatty approach, feels like im at the pub with a mate!
Really sorry you had to experience this. Sad to think that myself and others like yourself up and down the UK always have to have eyes in the back of our head when out in public with a nice watch.
Sorry to hear that happened. As someone who almost had their motorcycle stolen a month ago, I can't stand people who can't let others enjoy the things they paid good money for. In your case though, I wonder if you could have asked the cashier if security could escort you out since you were worried about your safety. Granted it sounds like you had walked to the shop vs drove, so not like security could have walked you to your car before you drove off.
Yeah, I walk almost everywhere! Or cycle! But yeah, I was very close to telling a staff member. It felt like one of those things where you second guess yourself, you know?! I kept thinking in my head "Is he actually following me? Am I being too paranoid?!" but you know, when something doesn't feel right - when your gut is telling you something isn't right - it probably isn't!
@@hlee2 I agree. I don't have anything worth more than £2k, but post pandemic, it felt weird to wear them whilst seeing people queuing at a food bank. I just wear Casio G Shock's these days.
It’s kinda sad, I am Singaporean, fortunately my country kinda safe, but I don’t wear Rolex when I goes oversea, G-shock or vintage old watch my choice of daily wear, just to be safe
I'm the owner of the exact same watch, the 116500LN, and I wear it on the daily. I live a pretty lowkey-ish lifestyle and I think it suits me well. It's still an absolute shame people down in those kinds of area cannot wear a watch as iconic as the daytona.
You basically moved from a nice place in Canada to a not nice place. I’d move back to a nice place where you can wear your watch and not worry about getting robbed by thugs.
Wearing a huge dollar sign on your wrist in anywhere but the upper crust part of town isn't good anymore. when you wear them turn the dial side to the inside of your wrist the same way you do with an expensive ring on the street.
Had a hotel clerk in London notice my watch and warn me about problems they’ve had about guests being targeted for watches and jewelry when leaving the hotel. Also had a guy follow me around a casino in Vegas for an hour trying to get me to trade my Panda Daytona for $40K in chips. Ended up having to get security to walk me back to my room. Daytona has been pretty much in the safe ever since.
0:01 to 0:03 (before and after of laser hair removal) 😆 Sorry Brittany 😆 On a serious note though I am with you and contemplating selling my Daytona and moving to a VC. It is just not worth the hassle and takes the enjoyment out having a watch you love. Crazy times. Great video 🙏👏🥃
I don't wear any expensive watches. I saw a video of a guy in a restaurant being robbed of his watch, eating dinner on an outside table. I decided,I didn't want to get hurt over a watch. You don't know if it's the watch or you are a woman he was interested in talking to. Who knows?
Its stories like these that made me thankful for the country I live in, where you can wear a literal Richard Mille and no one will dare touch you, and people can safely walk pass a dark alleyway
You know! THATS so much like where I grew up! I grew up in such a safe environment. Living in the U.K. honestly has toughened me up quick. In a sad way. I miss being generally trusting!
Not nice feeling like that. Watches should be a joy not a burden. Top tip, don’t shop in such low end places …….. or just take James with you for protection 👍🏻🙂
Yesterday I was wearing my rolex, around the house. I went out to shop and changed my watch to a seiko . no one will notice a seiko. then I thought why own a watch that you don't want to wear when in public. This is causing me to rethink my watch collection. sorry that we have to think about these things now, be safe Brittney.
Ok! A few things I should add in! 1. A lot of people think this may have been a person trying to hit on me. 😂 as much as I wish that was the case… I think any female can tell the difference between someone who fancies them and someone who might be a bit dangerous 😂 it’s not like our eyes locked, and we had a moment. Hahah. Dude looked at my watch and began following me. 😂🙈 You can definitely tell the difference! And 2. I think I should have said a bit more: I am really lucky this ended the way that it did. There are so many people that didn’t have the happy ending I had! It’s been a big warning for me. 💕💕💕
😉
Anyone tries to rob or hurt you I will kill them Britney darling!
Stay safe
❤️❤️❤️
I'm a dude, and I agree, you can tell when someone is after something of yours. I used to road cycle, and I parked my expensive road bike in front of a grocery store (locked it up). This guy was exiting the store, and his face lit up and totally changed expression while I was walking away from my bike into the store. . I saw his face and instantly went back to my bike, unlocked it, and rode on. You can tell.
If i see a pretty girl with a nice time piece i will follow her as well not many females share the same passion we can talk watches for hours 😍
I will probably rob your heart ❤️
Dear women, SAY SOMETHING. Walk up to someone who works there, say a guy is following you around the store and you feel weird. Make sure the guy sees you do this. He will usually leave. You don't need to say anything about your watch. You're not trying to get him arrested. Just look at him, point, and say something.
Good advice
Then he’ll beat you both up in this crazy world
I think this is great advice
The store employee is unlikely to give a damn. Just call the cops.
Or dont be a fkin entitled Karen and just ask him does he know you like a normal fkin person ?. Dont go around accusing somebody out of thin air like you own the place.
London is so messed up right now. Thugs know it and navigate. I don’t recommend wearing an expensive watch in big cities, at least not exposed 😖
YUPPP! And I always kinda thought it was just a London thing! Or a big city thing! I really didn’t think this would happen in Bristol. I think it this kind of stuff is only going to go up
Even the small cities in the US are dealing with this, let alone big cities. Criminals have no fear anymore. No cash bail, simple catch and release. Wearing the famous watch brands - Rolex, Patek, AP, and Richard Mille, will get you robbed on sight. Doesnt matter the price or model. Youre actually safer wearing a stainless steel Vacheron Overseas than a Rolex Oyster Perpetual, despite it costing over 4x as much at retail.
I feel comfortable wearing Rolex in Midtown Manhattan. But I normally wouldn’t do that elsewhere in the City. It’s not worth the risk. Steinhart for me ! Haha. Good episode, Brittany!
And yet go have brunch in Canary Wharf on Saturdays, it’s Patek market. I guess the news may not have spread as much outside the watch community.
@@MuchachoCarracho Some Pateks don’t stand out to the would-be thieves.
I think you read into the situation well and sorry to hear you were put in an uncomfortable situation. Smart of you to put distance between you and the other person. There’s an obvious difference when someone is “trying to talk to you” vs eyeing your stuff in a store. Hope you both stay safe!
Rolex should do a chrono where the top pusher is a siren and the bottom sprays acid into an attacker’s face.
Yes and garrota inside ... .
That guy was totally going to rob you. Good job of situational awareness on your part. The US version is Dollar General.
That looks like a Big Lots. But, DG is basically the same thing.
Totally agree with your concerns over personal safety. Personally, I’ve switched back to wearing my JLC Geophysic 1958 for this exact reason. No one knows what it is and it draws no unscrupulous attention. Yet it’s an amazing piece. Sad state of affairs that these concerns need to be factored in.
Oh that is stealth wealth! JLC = TASTE! 💕💕 and you’re right! No one knows what it is, but you know it’s cool and chic.
Gah! It’s just so sad! The Daytona really was a watch that meant a lot to me and I so enjoyed wearing. But you know…. There are people starving. Lol!! My biggest problem is “boo hoo! I can’t wear my Daytona 😜😂
Nice watch one of my faves
my concern is.. the "spotters" might get even more sophisticated these days. They'd know what a JLC is, they can tell diff between a grand seiko and a regular seiko
@@benficaM8888 That’s certainly a possibility.
Funny I have written about the same comment with my Reverso 😅
So far I managed to avoid trouble by wearing my most “popular” pieces along with REALLY casual outfits, so much so that the watch is automatically tagged as fake, or not worth the risk of checking out. With more formal attires, JLC, Lange and other less known brands are practically invisible.
At this point I'm convinced that right now is the perfect time to wear microbrand watches that look great but might use more basic workhorse movements. Mind you not bad movements but movements that are made to serve it's purpose more so than looking pretty while doing it. Nobody is going to rob you over a Baltic that's worth only a few hundred dollars tops and you're still wearing good looking watch with good functionality.
Not anymore , everyone knows watches now
@@joseignaciogonzalez9667
I don’t think so. My Lange Saxonia is barely noticed by very cultured watch enthusiasts, for 99.99% of the people it may as well be a Daniel Wellington.
@@Microwave414 Time for Aliexpress watches.
I stopped wearing my Daniel Wellington for the same reason.
NYC , LA , Chicago , Philly are all the same right now. Crime is out of control because nobody is going to jail.
🤣 someone needs to get their head out of right wing media 😂
Probably because I didn't grow up in an ultra-safe country, the idea of strolling around wearing a very expensive and highly recognizable item seems crazy to me.
Very sorry you had to go through that.
I hope this feeling passes soon and you feel safe to wear that beautiful watch again :)
You're the best, Britt! Watch fam is here to support you!
As a AD, we noticed over the summer months Clients phoning in to ask what Watches we could recommend as an alternative to their Rolex, as they didn’t feel comfortable or safe wearing a Rolex with short sleeves in certain areas of the UK !
It’s so sad to hear that these things are getting more common. Watches are so mainstream now and so easily recognized by everyone including thieves. Hope you recover from this incident and start wearing that beautiful piece again
Whenever I ask a stranger about their watch, I try to say the model name instead of the brand. For instance, I'll say "is that a seamster?" Instead of saying "is that an omega?" Or another example, "is that a datejust?" Instead of saying "is that a Rolex?" Doing this attracts less attention from would be thieves, who instantly know brand names. It also makes them more comfortable, because they know I'm a watch geek that way.
Exactly,, I do the same thing! Glad to know I'm not the only one out there that does this.
Gringa! Sorry to hear you about your experience. Back in June/July and here in the US, there were a lot of news stories regarding police departments (especially NY and LA) warning people not to wear watches and jewelry in public. Anyway it does make you think. There were a couple of times in the past few months, when I was decided to wear one of my Hamiltons or a G-Shock, instead of one of my Tudors, because of where I was going and what I was doing. And looking back I hated that feeling.
Blessed be the Gringa and Long live the Cult.
Also, the US version of the cheap everything store would be probably be a "Dollar General".
Honestly. I had never felt unsafe in a watch… until now! 😱 it always kinda felt like Bristol wasn’t like one of those big cities - like LA and NY! But it’s definitely spreading into the smaller cities now. Gotta think more before putting on watches! 🙈
Just stop.
Dollar Tree.
@@albundy3929 lol...I was thinking the same thing...BTW congrats on scoring 4 touchdowns in one game...I was there it was beautiful....
@@albundy3929 Make sure you tell the person, who after saving for months to buy a $250 Citizen, loses it in a mugging. He can find comfort the fact it was only a Citizen and he was not mugged for it.
And though I know better to reply to this snobby (dare I say pretentious) comment, I shall stretch it even further. Though Gringa's story about being followed and possibly targeted, appear to be specifically related to her wearing the Daytona, never did I say someone was going to specifically target my Tudor watch. It was the simple fact of knowing that due to location and timing, I could be robbed. And with my wallet, rings, and whatever watch I was wearing would be subject to the taking. It does not matter whether it was my Tudor (which to me is a significant purchase), my $50 Casio, or some future grail watch worth 1000 times as much, having to play it safe can be horrible feeling. Pontification Complete.
Yeah, I hear you. I've had things stolen from me and it's not a great feeling. I deal with this in two ways: I don't wear or carry anything I can't afford to lose, and if I can't afford to lose it but want it with me, I insure it. I'm not a pro photographer but I still have a $15,000 rider for camera equipment on my insurance. That way I can carry those big white lenses to any part of any city and be assured that if I DO get robbed, there's new equipment in my future. I'd insure any jewelry over $2000 including watches.
Smart. I work in insurance and recommend this to all my clients.
Sorry to hear about your experience Brit. And I highly doubt that you're exaggerating the situation at all. Intuition is an incredibly powerful tool for avoiding danger and if your intuition told you that man may be dangerous, he most likely was. Never doubt that instinct, it evolved to keep you and your ancestors alive for centuries. And it's probably best to keep your watches off your wrist unless you're in a safe place or around people who can protect you.
Never go against your gut feeling Gringa! Your gut never lies, that's why God gave it to us. I'm so glad you are safe🙂
Brit your instincts were good. So pleased u got home unscathed… see my friend Curt’s message. Good advice!
PAUL THORPE! Thank you so much. You know, I always say, when you just know in your gut sometjing is wrong - sometjing is probably wrong. Follow your gut!
Personal safety is everyone's business. Hanging a 20/40/60 thousand dollar watch on your wrist is red meat for criminals. I think you made a good decision in leaving the Rolex at home. I really like your channel. Be safe and keep making great content.
The world is f**ed up when it comes to going out with nice watches. Sorry to hear about this experience 😐 I hope you can enjoy your watches in future but awareness is probably inevitable. Big hug 🤗
Right?! And you know, this could have had a much worse ending! My story had a happy ending with a lesson learned.
What a great advertisement for Grand Seiko, Omega, Breitling . . . Timex.
I always wearing my rolex Doytona every day. but nobody knows Daytona in Seoul, South Korea.
It's a horrible feeling. My wife was followed and had her new phone swiped from her hand. She carries an old phone now. There are bad people who want your valuables.
That was part of why I got rid of my Hulk - not interested in getting stabbed really or having to be aware of 360 degrees all the time in central. Good that you have the spidey sense.
I also sold my Rolexes for the same reason. I always had to be mindful of my surroundings and on high alert when wearing my Rolexes. It just wasn't fun anymore.
“Zellers located in the worst part of Sudbury” was the perfect phrase and I 100% know what B&M is like now.
Sorry to hear that :( Personally, I would not wear an expensive watch if I'm going swimming, shopping at supermarkets, walking in crowded areas or travelling. There are other watches that best fit these situations like Casio, Seiko, a smart watch ...etc since I don't like to worry about stuff when I'm out. I
hope that everyone stays safe however, these watches are becoming very expensive and more people releaize this now than 5 years ago.
It’s a shame the internet, UA-cam, and Instagram has brought so much attention to thieves about the value of watches…. Oh wait. Is this a product of the internet watch influencers’ doing?
Exactly! Hahaha hype all they want! Flippers all.
In Hong Kong, we also saw a significant higher count of robbery (80 rolex were robbed from a shop!). The economy is getting worse, people are getting crazy. Glad that you and your watch are safe.
Are they robbing shops in Hong Kong or people as well?
Britt, U.S. Marine here. Trained to avoid being a victim of a terrorist attack and/or getting kidnapped by Al Qaeda et al. overseas. Listen to your intuition/gut. You clearly listened to your instincts. That is good. Always assume negative intent when a situation like this happens. Don’t walk to an area where there are people. You did great by thinking offensively, grabbing your 🔐 Keys. Remember, there is not such thing as a fair fight. You can also scream hysterically! Who cares what others may think. You are saving yourself
I'm glad you followed your instinct and remained safe. Who knows what this guy was up to? He may simply have been enamored with a watch that he rarely sees in public, or he may have wanted to rob you. Either way, it's not worth the risk to find out. On a side note, this is nothing against you in the least, but if you eat a steak in the middle of a room full of people eating rice, someone is bound to be jealous or have nefarious intentions. It's sad, but with the current divide between the wealthy and the less fortunate growing, it's only going to get worse.
Sounds like you’ve had a narrow escape.
I bought my Rootbeer from Newcastle and the AD escorted me back to my car and seen me pull away in my car before he turned and walked back to the shop.
Above and beyond if you ask me.
I am disabled so that might have had something to do with it.
Best have your Gshock on hand when you go to the next city. Glad you’re ok Brittany. ❤️
First of all, congratulations on the Root Beer. My favourite GMT II. I do not expect you to give an exact location for safety reasons, but what was the name of the AD? Because that is top notch service.
@@DarkGreenGoblin Goldsmith’s 👍
That’s really good of your ad! This is a TOP AD! Omg, lurking outside watch shops would be a perfect way for some of these people to steal a watch from someone. :( with box and papers!
@@BrittPearceWatches they had that exact scenario happen previously so I now believe that’s why I was escorted to my vehicle.
I didn’t know that at the time though.
Much love. ❤️
My friend in London got robbed over a Rolex. He got jumped from behind and his face got smashed.
It’s really sad that one can’t enjoy his/hers watches anymore, I live in NYC and here too watch theft has gone up crazy.
It’s scary times right now for watch lovers!
I studied under a former federal agent at Ole Miss who was a personal security expert and he had conducted studies proving women had a sixth sense and should always listen to that “voice”.
B&M sounds like the British equivalent of a Dollar General in the US.
I already see a lot of CCW/ 2A comments here, and I am all about that no doubt, I live in Kentucky, BUT remember this is the US. EVERYONE is carrying. Just be careful and you too Britt.
HAHAA I think it is like a nicer dollar store. The U.K. is soo different with guns and that stuff! For us, the big problem is stabbing! A lot of concealed knives Bevause guns are so hard to get.
Someone we know was stabbed for his Rolex in Manchester. I wear a white dial Explorer2, not a flashy Rolex but only with long sleeves. Otherwise it is a Seiko.
When you have the experience you described most likely your instincts were spot on. Very good that you were paying attention (it's called situational awareness) for actual victims usually do not. And it's human nature to think that happens to others, not me. So glad this worked out for you. Stay safe.
I’m in Milan, Italy. Three city center robberies in the last three weeks. Last one kind of surprised me: 800 euro watch stolen in broad daylight.
I’ve tried to explain the whole laughing at serious situations to my wife and I don’t think she believes me haha
LOL! I just don’t know how to be serious in serious moments. James has been really angry woth me before. And I just can’t help but get socially awkward and laugh LOL! It’s not that it’s funny! I’m just too immature lol!!!
Now try to imagine that in Mexico. Even my boss would mug me 😂😂😂
There are places and moments where it is better to hide luxury watches - it is also about safety and understanding the economic situation. The more difficult the economy, the more painful for people who are struggling to see happy people with such watches. In France in Avignon, I realized there were quite a few homeless people and beggars in the street and I told my family to hide watches and jewelry. And one doesn’t necessarily want to show an expensive symbol of success to people in difficulty, it is also a bit a matter of respect. In Monaco or Switzerland, no problem :)
Agree 👍
All you need to do is wear two watches, get a hublot and have that lower on the wrist so when your jacket exposes a watch people start vomiting and start making angry Nico noises at you but just above that is the daytona.
😂😂👏🏻
HAHAHAHA
You’re not overreacting. We now live in a society where theft and assault is no longer considered a crime. I rarely wear any of my luxury watches in public but when I do I always place my right over my watch when someone approaches me
I'm a 6' 4" 220 lb male and I have had a (sort of) similar journey with my new Rolex GMT. Like you i never thought I'd own this watch but was offered one from the AD earlier this year. I travel quite a bit - and after all that's the whole point of the GMT, isn't it? I wore it on a trip and didn't feel safe the whole week - and now don't wear it while travelling anymore. A bit sad really as I love the watch. As a result of all that I've just bought the Seiko 5 GMT blueberry - which to be honest is brilliant and will perfect to travel with.
Some savage will probably behand you for your seiko 💀
@@Agent-vj3nsYou're going to make him uncomfortable wearing a Seiko 💀
My Brother-In-Law was robbed at knifepoint in Marbia Spain for his Rolex Sub last year. I know how long and hard he worked and saved to buy it. Devastated. It's a shame people can't wear their luxury watch in public anymore. I wear a 32 year old Seiko diver that looks like I've been hammering nails in with it, so I guess I'm safe. Your Daytona is totally awesome! I'm sad that you cannot wear it when and where you want, in peace and safety.
When a spotter clocks your watch you should immediately let them know you have clocked them and your eyes should say Im ready for you.
Sorry to hear that Brittney, hope everything is okay. IMO it's such drag that you can not wear your fav watch and have to be paranoid all the time when you wear it outside the house or usual area. At this point most of ROLEX turned me off due to well known Thieves Pick-up List, too much Brand Exposure and Flex Culture like RM, Patek and AP, while Tudor and OMEGA or underdog brand are the safer watch to wear nowadays. Wish you all the best Gringa!
I stopped wearing expensive watches after the 2nd Submariner was taken at gun point while stopped in traffic in LA.
My grandmother used to keep her jewellery in The Wault (she was from Transylvania, so she had an accent), and whenever she went to a wedding or bar mitzvah she'd go to the bank and get her jewellery for the weekend. Basically, she didn't get to wear her good jewellery.
I don't have this problem with my lovely microbrand watches or my indy watches. It's a reason to stick to the more rational end of the market. Not that NObody's ever been stuck up for a Tissot Heritage 1936, but I fancy my chances.
Never doubt your instinctive gut feeling. At worst, you're wrong and it's nothing. At best, you're right and you avoided a situation.
That watch is too well know and flashy for lower income areas.
Idk, in these areas I feel they wouldn't know a 30k$ watch from a 300$ watch.
Totally understand. I have several Rolex's, 1655, James Cameron, Hulk, Double referenced 5513/5517 MILSUB etc. In Germany it's fine, but we are getting ready to move back to Tampa Florida. My German wife is the one who wants to move back, go figure. I feel OK in Tampa, but no way were we going to move back to San Francisco! I am a retired federal agent and I will qualify again to carry my duty weapon because we do live in crazy times! My family will not be a target.
This is why I don’t wear my GMT on business trips anymore. I wear a 16usd Casio worldtimer instead. Does the same thing and I don’t have to worry about being mugged for it.
What fun is it to have a fine watch? Do you sit & gaze at it by yourself? I won't quit wearing my Tudor Panda. Ill go down w/ the ship if need be. I man older Marine & I know some stuffLOL
@@richardmorris7063 I’ve got a wife and kids who depend on me. It’s not worth getting macheted over. I wear it at the office and around, just not on trips to Europe anymore.
An acquaintance of mine (a physically disabled guy) had a Submariner. It was given to him by his father before he passed away. One day he got knocked out in the streets and his Rolex was stolen. It happened like 4 years ago. No one has been arrested. The case is unsolved.
Every time I visit London, I only wear my Casio.
I have friends who have been robbed, so it’s not worth the risk.
What an awful experience. I had a similar one on the tube wearing a pp… it popped out and this guy clocked it. He then followed me off tube. I did it walk home as did not want him to know where I lived and went into pub, where he did not follow me.
This is what will kill the Rolex market
Now you could be onto sometjing here!
If an AD called you to offer you a daytona, would you pass on it for the fear on getting mugged?
@@hlee2 yes, why would I drop thousands on a watch I can’t enjoy?
Sorry to hear you had that experience. That’s not fun at all. Although, I’m a 5 foot 9 male and quite stocky, I have really struggled with the idea of buying a Rolex or an Omega for basically the same reason. Not worried about the watch, necessarily being stolen, but I am worried about being beaten, or even killed for it.
It’s a sad thing where you can’t necessarily wear something that you enjoy out in public anymore.
I live in Canada, just outside of Toronto, where everything feels quite safe, but you just never know.
I would love to own a Rolex an Omega but for the very reason you just described in this video it’s some thing I really haven’t felt comfortable doing. And I especially would not feel comfortable travelling anywhere outside of Canada wearing it. So then it becomes what’s the point of having it if you can’t wear it and enjoy it?
Anyway, I hope your experience hasn’t completely ruined your love of the Rolex.
Oh, and a special shout out for the Zellers stores. I miss them lol.
I'm so sorry this happened to you. You and other women should feel comfortable doing whatever you choose to do.
When I went to Cancun Mexico I didn’t bring my luxury watches, I wore one that’s worth under 100 usd.
Not only Daytona!! All Rolex models are identifiable. Wearing any Rolex will become a target!
It's soooo true! Do yo think my black dial OP is ok?! I've still been wearing it because it feels less identifiable! And it's such a boring one. But it may be time to give up on my OP too! :(
@@BrittPearceWatches OP is less bling bling and if you keep it under your cuff most of the time, it should be okay! Be safe, Britt!!😄
To be honest AP royal oak watches as well
Sorry to hear, Britt. It’s horrible out there. Friend of mine had his DateJust literally ripped off his arm recently, while he crashed to the floor. Both his pride and head are bruised. Fortunately, he was insured. I’ve never owned a Rolex. Had the chance a few times, but opted for - and preferred - Tudor. But I’ve heard stories of all sorts of watches being taken recently, including Tudor. 😞
Take care, and by the way, you have a fantastic surname. 😃
Always trust your gut if you notice something off about someone. There is a great book written in the 90s called “The Gift of Fear.” Everyone should read it, because it explains why you need to trust your intuition when you get that initial “fear” instinct. We evolved to be aware of predators, and signals they give off, which triggers the fear response. But as society, we have been trained to ignore that fear and instead be polite and nice. And predators use that to find victims.
In other words, you did exactly the right thing. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you were in the wrong, or you over-reacted. If your fear response was triggered, it was probably for a good reason. And you also did the correct thing by grabbing your keys and being prepared to punch him with them - that is taught in all self-defense classes, because keys are sharp enough to stab the person and cause pain. That might be just enough to get away.
I’m glad to hear it turned out this way - and this guy was so obvious in following you. In a nicer part of town they might have had spotters as we heard from Paul. Definitely good to be on the safe side if something doesn’t feel right. Yes, it’s a real shame one has to be so careful with high-end watches these days. I wouldn’t even want to wear a CasiOak mod because one of those idiots might mistake it for an AP. And speaking of Casio: not even sure about the £1500 titanium model. They might even try to take that!
Same reason I stopped wearing my 16570 Polar. For years it was an unknown under the radar watch that gathered almost zero notice. Fast forward 15 years and somehow it became a thing and gathered way too much notice on my travels. I had one really uncomfortable moment in a remote place where a local eyed the watch and then eyed me with that "could I take him..." look. I sold it along with a couple of other choice watches...it's just not worth being assaulted for a timepiece.
That's unfortunate. Polar used to be one of the most under the radar Rolex Sports watches. Now everything is hot and you can't enjoy it without constantly being on high alert. It just wasn't fun anymore.
Your luxury watches are now like fine brandy. To be enjoyed at home
Not feeling safe with any watch on your wrist defeats the very purpose of owning it. Compounding with the visibility of having a UA-cam channel under your own name and displaying your and your husband’s impressive collections for all to view only makes it worse.
One solution to keep enjoying nice watches when you’re out and about is to go niche vintage. No thug will care when they see a 1953 35 mm Doxa dress watch.
I live in the USA. A small town. But regardless of where you live, there are some common sense rules that apply. The first rule is to be very aware of where you are. Is it a high crime area? Wearing a Daytona into a B&M? Really? Maybe if you have two bodyguards! Lock your doors, no matter where you live. Put your car in your garage. Put your Daytona in the safety deposit box at your bank. Any only wear watches in shady locations that cost less than 500 pounds! Get yourself a Tissot Seastar 1000, Quartz, like me, and be carefree!
Had a similar experience about a year ago with my TT Datejust (the current 36 model) and that was my dream watch but after almost losing my life over it I sold it for what is now pretty much my daily being an Aqua Terra 38 black dial on bracelet. I've had people say I like your watch but no shady characters have noticed it which is fine with me. The Rolex brand image has just been off putting for me after that experience, I would have loved to buy a birth year TT Sub but that's definitely never happening now RIP 💀💀. Anywho glad to hear that you're alright tho, praying that it was a one off experience. Have a good Sunday!!
I guess it's just a silent subscriber that's too shy to approach but still amazed seeing you offline so he's admiring while giving space. Idk
Unfortunately, how things are now this is going to become widespread across the U.K. But, Brit, you are now well known. You need to take precautions. Both away from, and at home. Sad but true.
Oh I am such a nobody haha! But honestly, I am thinking it is time to wear the G Shocks out and about!
Honestly I have a no fear wearing a steel sports watch. I feel like 99% of people see a Rolex and don’t know what it is.It’s only a full rose or yellow gold watch with diamonds would be harder to wear.
On a different note....Rolex availability is way up at AD's in the UK it seems. Loads of people I know getting phone calls re Rolex SS sports lately. Anyone else noticing this? Probably reflects the Rolex market shrinking 15-20% in the last three months and continuing on a steady downward slope. Hopefully a return to "normal"
Wearing expensive and easily recognizable watches by yourself walking around the city is probably not the best idea for anyone. Regardless of their size. There are a lot of desperate people going through some really hard stuff. It's not an excuse for crime, but if you're starving and see someone with 10k or more on their wrist you're going to feel a certain way, no matter who you are, so I don't really wear watches like that to go shopping or when on foot walking around the city. Heading to nice dinner with friends, going to a charity auction, important business meeting and so on I am wearing one of my big boy watches. There is a time and place for everything. Glad you were paying attention and you and the watch both made it home safe.
Damn... I live in a big city in Australia but as a young male, the thought of being followed or harassed just doesn't enter my mind. Clearly more than a gender issue but I'm kind of shaken up by your story Gringa. I'm sorry that such a sentimental & beautiful watch now represents fear
The American equivalent is ether a Dollar General, Five Below, Family Dollar or Dollar Tree and maybe Big Lots.
You should continue wearing what you want just be aware of your surroundings (sounds like you already were in this case), also get the watch insured. I felt the same way you currently do and stopped wearing my pieces for a few months as crime in NYC continues to go up, two of my friends were robbed at gunpoint for their jewelry at a coffee shop in the middle of a weekday. We've gotten past that now and my wife and I continue to wear our AP's and Rolex's. Don't let one bad apple deter you from enjoying what you love. Think about how many people you've walked past that either don't take notice to the watch or appreciate it and move on. There are far more good people on the streets as opposed to bad.
What kind of advice are you giving here? "You should do what you want" is a little naive. She understands that this is dangerous. If you and your wife decide to take the risk alright but her thougths are correct.
I moved to small town Canada from a big US city. I feel more vulnerable here because people know us too well IMO. It is sad to not be able to be yourself.
You did the right thing being nervous, the guy may have wanted to strike up a conversation about the watch to chat you up, but you never know these days. Its a shame you won't wear it, but I get it. Its the same reason I won't have a flashy car on the drive, its a theft magnet and I would never relax! I tend to wear my Omega 300 every day, but I am always 'aware' of who has noticed it, and I could imagine in your position that being scary, my wife's had a few similar experiences! Love the channel and the more casual/chatty approach, feels like im at the pub with a mate!
Really sorry you had to experience this. Sad to think that myself and others like yourself up and down the UK always have to have eyes in the back of our head when out in public with a nice watch.
Sorry to hear that happened. As someone who almost had their motorcycle stolen a month ago, I can't stand people who can't let others enjoy the things they paid good money for. In your case though, I wonder if you could have asked the cashier if security could escort you out since you were worried about your safety. Granted it sounds like you had walked to the shop vs drove, so not like security could have walked you to your car before you drove off.
Yeah, I walk almost everywhere! Or cycle! But yeah, I was very close to telling a staff member. It felt like one of those things where you second guess yourself, you know?! I kept thinking in my head "Is he actually following me? Am I being too paranoid?!" but you know, when something doesn't feel right - when your gut is telling you something isn't right - it probably isn't!
With a broken system and rising inequality, what do you expect wearing a watch that is the equivalent of 1-2 years worth of rent on your wrist?
@@hlee2 I agree. I don't have anything worth more than £2k, but post pandemic, it felt weird to wear them whilst seeing people queuing at a food bank. I just wear Casio G Shock's these days.
It’s kinda sad, I am Singaporean, fortunately my country kinda safe, but I don’t wear Rolex when I goes oversea, G-shock or vintage old watch my choice of daily wear, just to be safe
Trust your gut, it will never lie to you. You can't always think the best of people.
I'm the owner of the exact same watch, the 116500LN, and I wear it on the daily. I live a pretty lowkey-ish lifestyle and I think it suits me well. It's still an absolute shame people down in those kinds of area cannot wear a watch as iconic as the daytona.
You basically moved from a nice place in Canada to a not nice place. I’d move back to a nice place where you can wear your watch and not worry about getting robbed by thugs.
Wearing a huge dollar sign on your wrist in anywhere but the upper crust part of town isn't good anymore. when you wear them turn the dial side to the inside of your wrist the same way you do with an expensive ring on the street.
Rolex gives you all the worst kind of attention. That's primarily why I don't wear mine out of the house.
Had a hotel clerk in London notice my watch and warn me about problems they’ve had about guests being targeted for watches and jewelry when leaving the hotel. Also had a guy follow me around a casino in Vegas for an hour trying to get me to trade my Panda Daytona for $40K in chips. Ended up having to get security to walk me back to my room. Daytona has been pretty much in the safe ever since.
0:01 to 0:03 (before and after of laser hair removal) 😆 Sorry Brittany 😆 On a serious note though I am with you and contemplating selling my Daytona and moving to a VC. It is just not worth the hassle and takes the enjoyment out having a watch you love. Crazy times. Great video 🙏👏🥃
I don't wear any expensive watches. I saw a video of a guy in a restaurant being robbed of his watch, eating dinner on an outside table. I decided,I didn't want to get hurt over a watch.
You don't know if it's the watch or you are a woman he was interested in talking to. Who knows?
Its stories like these that made me thankful for the country I live in, where you can wear a literal Richard Mille and no one will dare touch you, and people can safely walk pass a dark alleyway
Yeah, but there also drawbacks to living in North Korea…
@@borassictime918 LMAO. A very quick quip hahaha!
You know! THATS so much like where I grew up! I grew up in such a safe environment. Living in the U.K. honestly has toughened me up quick. In a sad way. I miss being generally trusting!
@@borassictime918 Singapore btw :)
@@borassictime918 Oh and that's a really good one 😂
I used to think my Explorer 1 was under the radar. But theres no way I'd wear it in any major city any more.
Not nice feeling like that. Watches should be a joy not a burden.
Top tip, don’t shop in such low end places …….. or just take James with you for protection 👍🏻🙂
Sadly watch crime is getting out of hand in the UK these days.
Yesterday I was wearing my rolex, around the house. I went out to shop and changed my watch to a seiko . no one will notice a seiko. then I thought why own a watch that you don't want to wear when in public. This is causing me to rethink my watch collection. sorry that we have to think about these things now, be safe Brittney.
Also, Hidden cost of wearing a Richard Mille-gotta have 10 bodyguards every time you wear it
THIS is the main reaosn why some people wear replicas; sadly.
And B&W sounds like Dollar General here in the US.
They still get mugged, as from a distance they look like the real deal!
I think it is like the Dollar Tree! But yeah, I get it when replicas :( Much less devastating to lose a few hundred £££ than it is to lose £11K!
Crazy to think that Rolex used to give these away in the early days. Nobody wanted them!?
I wouldn’t wear any blingy watch in public these days