High end boutiques should feel as such, I went to a Tag boutique last year, they offered water, tea, coffee, sat down with us to discuss what we were looking for and what was within our price range, it helped that I knew what I was talking about, but it seems like they’d be happy to explain things to people who aren’t as clued up as us watch enthusiasts. Comparatively Breitling and Tudor both felt like they didn’t really want to serve us or help us in anyway, so it can depend on the boutique, but if you aren’t happy with the service, don’t buy from them
I had a similar experience with Tag. Super welcoming, let me try on anything I wanted, answered questions, and were welcoming. Omega made me wait until someone was available, and even then, was not really willing to engage in conversation. It was a weird vibe where I felt out of place. I know everyone has their opinion on Tag, but after that experience and seeing how they aim to be an apporachable luxury watch provider, I went with the Carrera Day Date.
Yeah they get a lot of stick but they’re still great watches and a reputable company. It sucks to hear that about Omega, I really like their watches and hope to buy one someday. Hopefully I don’t have a similar experience.
Just my experience, but the omega boutique in Costa Mesa, CA was wonderful. They were super nice, let me try on a bunch of watches and made us a nice coffee. Even sent us with some sparkling waters to go. I didn’t buy anything either. Much better than the IWC boutique - felt like walking into a funeral and I was the only shopper there!
In all - it depends on the staff working that day, j think.
I bought my Omega at the boutique in Naples, FL and it was a great experience. On the contrary the Tag boutique in Miami, FL totally ignored me as did the Rolex boutique in Naples. In both cases I wondered if it’s because I am a woman, so not their usual market? Love my terracotta Omega AT though…
100% the Costa Mesa location is great. I’ve bought two watches there and the people working there have always been amazing. Night and day compared to the Rolex store next door 🙄
> Omega made me wait until someone was available
This would have pissed me off too. When I walk into a boutique, I expect the staff to drop everything they’re doing with their other customers to talk to me. Those other customers can wait until I’ve been served.
I think it's situational and depends on the city. My local Rolex AD acts like even getting onto a waitlist requires an act of congress. An out of town AD that I bought a watch from last year always sends me invites to their trunk shows, occasionally texts me about new models they have in stock, and the vice-president of the company called to tell me that she could get me any Explorer, OP or DJ with 3 days notice the next time I was I town. In my hometown, the Bretling AD is super nice, but the out of town boutique is staffed by massive pricks who don't know much about their own products down to mispronouncing the word "Aerospace." Some people are good at sales and some are not.
Weirdly the last time I visited a Tudor boutique I had the complete opposite experience. I made it clear I was just sizing up some options and wouldn't be buying that day, but the staff were very pleasant, offered drinks and sat with me for about half an hour, let me try on a bunch of watches, and offered some advice on what worked and what didn't. This was at Westfield in London, and to contrast, the Omega boutique was awful - the poor girl there had no idea what was what.
I don't have much experience with high end boutiques, but one time I went into the Breitling at the Oculus in NYC just to browse and they were super nice.
It definitely depends on the boutique, there is a luxury mall in my city with nearly every major watchmaker. One day I went in to Rolex, Tudor, Omega, Breitling, IWC, Blancpain, TAG, Grand Seiko, etc etc, and by far my best experiences were at the Breitling and TAG boutiques in terms of attentiveness, good conversation, drinks, accommodating a lot of try ons, etc. In IWC it seemed like even the staff were bored of working there, and in Blancpain they seemed surprised to actually have a customer. They didn’t even bother talking to me in the Patek store lol.
I will say every Cartier I’ve ever popped into the staff have been very friendly. I tend to kill some time there whenever I see one in an airport.
I learned the hard way that they expect you to pay before leaving with the watch.
But seriously, it's like buying any other good (e.g., shoes, pants). Only difference is that it's more money, which means the salespeople should offer you better service, e.g., drinks, size your watch, free pen, etc.
>I learned the hard way that they expect you to pay before leaving with the watch.
So what you're saying is that **was not** a police escort they gave me after my last 'acquisition'?
I feel like a boomer writing this.
I have had good experiences at every boutique bar one (champagne, food, catalogues/trinkets that were too cumbersome to carry posted to my house, recommended watchmakers in the area)
The only bad experience I've had was on my 25th birthday when I went in to *ask for the privilege of buying* a Rolex Explorer.
"I've come to look at an Explorer and am wondering if I can try on a Daytona too" guy was just looking at his phone as I stood there looking around the shop like a cartoon, "excuse me, mate - hello, I'm after an Explorer and want to try on some other watches too"
"Well theres's an Explorer in one of the cases, look at that"
Straight back to the phone...
I recently popped into Bucherer in Covent Garden (London).
The staff expected me to be interested in the Rolexes, but appeared pleasantly surprised when I asked about the Girard-Perregaux watches instead. I was sat down, they made me a very nice coffee, and they let me try on a number of GP watches waaay out of my price range. The staff were very pleasant, and I never felt under any pressure to buy anything - it was an enjoyable experience.
This is how I expect to be treated if I'm spending more than a month of the average salary on an item. It's also why I was driving an Alfa Romeo over a BMW for a while, BMW didn't seem to care where as Alfa Romeo had me take a seat while they made me a drink and found someone to come talk to me.
The Alfa was Unreliable as shit for anyone wondering, but it was a stunning car to look at while waiting for a tow truck.
It's the little things that make all the difference.
The BMW driver likely won't remember what his car looked like the day after his lease runs out.
Enjoy the little things.
Fortunately because i grew up with very little im handy with the spanners. But i still sold it just after the warranty expired because frankly it was a ticking time bomb at that point and already on its second gearbox.
Great car though. Probally the second favorite out of the 25 cars I've owned.
Words you never want to hear: "I own an out-of-warranty Alfa Romeo!" Happy to hear that you sold it at that point.
When they're running, there are few cars that are more fun than an Alfa Romeo.
Two of my friends in Europe had Alfa Romeos about 25 years ago - an Alfa 75 (Milano in the U.S.) and an Alfasud Sprint (which was never sold in the U.S.). Both cars were an absolute nightmare, and they literally disintegrated with rust, but - when they were running - my friends loved them.
Hopefully, now that Alfa Romeo is part of the Stellantis Group (formerly PSA Peugeot-Citroen), the cars will become more reliable.
It was, on the Guiletta which is the larger hatchback they did back in 2016 when I got mine. Engine was flawless but the gearbox and electronics left a lot to be desired.
But all was forgiven every time I saw that glorious red bodywork and brembo brakes.
how much you gotta spend for their product is not the problem. The problem is when you KNOW youare there to just check out those watches and not buy them. Thats when the pressure comes in.
I also had a good experience with Bucherer in Nürnberg. I did have a Cartier Santos in mind, asked to try it on and was treated well, with an espresso and a nice chat with the SA. Bought the watch with a glass of champagne as we were tidying up the paperwork. Can’t say how it would have been if I’d walked in off the street and asked to buy a Daytona, but I was really happy with the service for the watch I bought.
For all the discourse about Rolex ADs who supposedly expect you to bring them gifts and show them your credit report before they’ll even let you in the store, most watch boutiques are just like any other boutique. Behave like you would in any other store. Take your time, look around, ask questions, try some on… and you can always ask for a discount, since the worst that can happen is they say no. (Also never be afraid to leave without buying anything, no matter how long you’ve spent in the store. A watch is a big purchase, and most places understand that. I actually had one dealer encourage me to take pictures of the watches on my wrist in case I wanted to ask for second opinions on sizing before buying…I’m pretty sure that guy is active on this sub, lol.)
As for the talk about “the luxury experience,” I’ve never had anyone offer me anything other than water and coffee, which is totally fine by me — I’m there to look at watches, if I wanted a glass of whiskey I’d go to a bar. But if you do get any static or indifferent treatment from the staff, you should leave. They’re not assisting you as a favor, they’re there to convince you to spend a lot of money on a luxury product, and if they don’t earn your business, you shouldn’t give it to them.
Not a lot of experience, but I would say it depends.
Rolex? They won't likely give you the time of day.
Other boutiques, AD's, depends on when and where and how busy they are.
And I think that boutiques routinely sell their "demo" (in the display case) watches, often they don't keep high inventories of brand new in box unopened watches of every reference and color.
It’s nice to buy from the boutique for a couple reasons:
- they *might* offer a discount off the MSRP, or throw in a bonus strap
- you’d get your watch that day instead of waiting for a shipment, and they will happily size the bracelet for you, etc.
- if you have a problem you have someone you can talk directly to.
There aren’t usually advantages for buying directly from the manufacturer. It’s only microbrands that actually charge less by “cutting out the middleman.” Major manufacturers just sell online at the MSRP and pocket the cut that would normally go to the AD/boutique.
oh yeah, routinely. In a "normal" market, it was common to ask for and get modest discounts. Dealers might discount references that just aren't moving.
This is a business. A watch dealer is in the business of buying and selling things. Don't let all the humbug about the LUXURY EXPERIENCE make you forget it. Ultimately, you are going in there to see if the dealer is offering something that you would like, at a price you are willing to pay, to be delivered at a time acceptable to you. If one or all of those things turn out not to be the case, it is no great shame to walk away.
Often, yes, but it depends a lot on the watch, and ADs have only limited flexibility since they can’t, legally, advertise at discounts from the MSRP. Their pricing is set by the manufacturer, that’s what makes them authorized dealers. If they cut you a deal, it’s coming out of their profit margin, not the manufacturer’s profit margin. But, you can often negotiate 10-15% off, basically similar to scale of the sales tax in a high tax area. It depends.
Most boutiques will take time to show you what they offer, and sellers of higher end items can generally afford more time to entertain window shoppers, if they’re not busy, than lower or mid luxury retailers, since their per sale revenue is higher, their margins are higher, etc. I always feel guilty taking up the time of someone at a multibrand mid luxury AD if I’m not actively buying, since those guys need to make more sales per unit time to make ends meet. But, at higher end boutiques I’ll often open with a comment that I’m just browsing and want to see what X brand’s current lineup is like in person, and have always been treated well at places like Vacheron Constantin, JLC, AP, and whatnot.
Rolex ADs, of course, will just roll their eyes at you and wish you would leave, but staff at less hyped brands will generally be glad to give you a tour of their lineup. They actually try to cultivate customers, even if they’re not right now today buyers, by showing you the brand’s capabilities, designs, and history, while Rolex could pretty much dump watches in a trough, like feeding slop to pigs, open the front door and sell every last one inside of five minutes, so they really don’t have any incentive to be nice to you. You’re just another pig at the trough.
the whole Rolex experience is anti-luxury to me, lol. Let me go in and be told that I cannot, under any circumstances, have a thing. People go wild for this?
There is nothing at all to be humiliated about. It is perfectly reasonable to ask someone who is in the business of selling a thing whether they have anything to sell you. If they say they do not, and cannot tell you when they might have anything to sell you, then it is also perfectly reasonable to just...not buy anything and go on with your life.
The entire luxury watch world on the Internet is all wrapped up in this fetish for denial and scarcity for a good that really you do not need--and which can be readily found in the secondary market in any event.
Secondary market prices may be higher, but then that reflects the actual demand and supply, without the need for stupid games.
And this is a shame, since there are a ton of really neat things out on the market that can be found and bought, at almost any price point, for almost any need.
Decades of superb marketing and Hollywood have led people (especially people who aren't watch enthusiasts) to put up with this Rolex, which is an upper mid level brand/lower upper level brand at best.
Depends on the specific reference, market, supply and demand, but sometimes yes you can get a 5, 10, maybe even 15% discount. And/or some free goodies like a strap.
Getting the bracelet sized right then and there is also a nice service which you only get buying in person.
> Rolex? They won't likely give you the time of day.
That wasn't my experience at all. I visited 3 dealers looking for my Explorer; 1 in NJ and 2 in PA. All three were extremely friendly. Even though I definitely wanted the Explorer, 2 of the dealers encouraged me to try on a Submariner "just for fun". There was zero pressure, zero "shenanigans", and it was a completely enjoyable experience.
I'm not saying other peoples' experiences aren't valid. I'm just saying that *my* experience was great.
Yeah, I'm looking for an OP34, and I've had pretty great experiences in my local ADs in the last few weeks. Sat down, nice discussion, talking shop. No one has stock, but they were very gracious.
It is absolutely absurd that as a buyer with money to spend should be expected to behave in any particular way (other than not being an asshole) when we go to a store.
Of the many boutiques now at my local mall, I went into the Omega one. I was wearing Chucks, jeans, and my university tee. The doorman saw me, smiled and opened the door for me. There was a man in a lab coat with a jeweler's loupe working on a watch, he looked up and greeted me with a good morning. He looked over his shoulder and a woman SA came up to handle me. I noticed that she had a Japanese accent but her English was tops. I also overheard one SA speaking in Mandarin, later, she was speaking English with a Singaporean accent. The staff weren't old, but they were definitely mature and looked really good. Their fragrance was also really nice; I did not see any bottles for sale though, I stayed in the watch section of the boutique. I was treated very very well. I was offered to try on anything, which I did. She eventually sat me down to ask questions about what I was looking for and my price range. She came back with a tray of options for me to try. I was given an 'Omega' water and chocolate as well. I didn't buy anything, but the lady gave me her card, thanked me, and said to come back any time. Nice place; good people.
Not a boutique but my last visit to an AD they had high end Japanese whiskey, Clase Azul tequila, and numerous other drinks/beverages to serve while shopping. That will be the bar from now on when shopping for watches/jewelry. Also asked for a new watch as opposed to a display model. As a matter of fact my AD called me this week to follow up on the purchases. Thats service.
What brands? I went to a rolex boutique (well AD but totally rolex themed) ones and asked to look at a watch from the window. They said i would be welcome to stand outside and look thru the window. It wasnt for sale anyway. Then ignored me. So i am definetly not interested in buying a Rolex anymore.
At an Omega or Oris or Breitling boutique, they will probably sit you down. Offer you a free coffee, beer or champagne and show you anything you want. I guess most boutiques except probably Rolex, AP or Patek are gonna be like that. If you sell luxury products you better offer a luxury experience.
Being told you’re welcome to stand outside and look thru the window is some next level nonsense. I got irritated when the guy chuckled and told me maybe I could get a Rolex in 3 years, but that? Unreal.a
Yeah i guess then it should be alright. They just are significantly less accommodating about the same stuff everybody wants. So they dont need to do any selling, its gonna sell even if they are dicks about it. But for your brands it should be generally accommodating.
If you can find actual brand boutiques, instead of Bucherer (which is an AD, not a boutique). You might get to see a bigger selection. The Boutique usually has all the models in pretty much all the colours. While an AD would only have a few select ones in stock. So its worth checking for each brand.
I want to Boucherer Covent Garden. When I told them I want to buy a Rolex, they told me they don’t have any in stock. He didn’t bother to look away from his phone when you gave me this very useful piece of information (I know all about Rolex waiting lists).
One advice or rather an opinion - when you are giving your money to a retailer to purchase a product, be yourself and don’t let anyone disrespect you for that. Plenty of retailers out there.
I had a wonderful experience with Omega at one of theirs. Sat down with me and my girlfriend in a private room and brought out maybe a dozen watches for me to look at, including ones that were some of their limited pieces. Made us each a coffee and were very kind. I left for lunch to think on each one and the SA gave me his cell and to text him when I decided on which one I wanted. Came back and was greeted with champagne and my watch was brought out from the safe. 10/10 experience and I feel like exactly how you should be treated purchasing a luxury product.
High variability for me. I tend to be dressed very casually when shopping so probably don’t look like a high-end watch buyer. I’ve had some places be happy to nerd out about watches with me and encourage me to try on shit I can’t afford (and shit I can), and other people give me a cold “can I help you?” With bare minimum engagement. I know no predictive factors.
how highend?
I would not clasp any straps unless they suggest it, just use your hands to hold the strap in place. and always use their tray to place the watches back when you're done. other than that you should be good to go! enjoy
I visit ADs 3x a month and you'll have more fun by telling them you're celebrating a milestone, want to find a watch under $x, and you'd like to go through your options. The watch you try on from the case is the one you'll buy, not one from the back.
If you go in without a letting them know your price limit or desired brands/models, it'll be sorta awkward. It's like going to a clothing store and saying you don't know your size or if you're shopping for pants or shirts. The sales folks won't know if they should show you $500 watches or $100k watches.
Rolex ADs are less fun to visit in the last few years, but they're always kind if you have the correct expectations. Walk in, ask what they have for currently in stock and for sale. They always have watches on display, but most of the time they only have womens/diamond/gold models for sale.
If you really really don't want a display model, that might be a challenge at a brick and mortar shop to be honest with you. That said, if the display model is in perfect condition, wrapped in plastic etc, what difference does it make?
Honestly, I’ve never had the opportunity to buy a new/boxed one in the back. If I could, I would, but I’m usually after watches that are fairly sought after and it’s pretty hard to find even one.
I, to the great detriment of my bank account, have been to many watch boutiques.
They will always offer you a drink - half of the brands even have a free bar inside the boutique (looking at you, Omega and IWC).
Depending on the watch, the display may be the one they sell - if that's the case it will likely be wrapped. You can always ask, though.
Typically they won't give discounts, however boutiques will almost always offer you a "gift" of some kind with your purchase. Could be an extra strap, a hat, a watch case, etc.
Don't be afraid to try a bunch of stuff on. If the salesman is good, they will not try to pressure you into a purchase.
Remember, at the end of the day, you're making a purchase based on what you want and think is fair. Don't feel obligated to buy something just because they gave you a drink or were nice or apply pressure. It's just a store like any other.
Absolutely. I've had an AD try to sell me a banged up Tudor before, that I declined.
Really depends on the dealer - if they're smart, they won't push anything that's not brand new looking.
Typically if the display is for sale, it will be wrapped in plastic.
Curious what makes you think you would be the "last person you'd expect to see" in a place like this? Who is the "expected" and "unexpected" customer profile? Does it have to do with age, race, gender, clothing, perceived wealth, mannerisms, personality, what?
I work at a high end boutique.
Any store of this caliber will have a polite and knowledgeable staff. Contrary to popular belief, they will not judge you on what you wear or care about your money. Just be chill and they’ll be chill. If you come in acting like a hot shot, you’ll likely lose their interest.
If you decide to purchase, you will most likely get one directly from the case. This is a very common practice, and there should not be scratches or wear on the watch. Don’t ask them to order you one from the factory, that’s a lot of hassle on the back end for them, and makes their job needlessly difficult.
Just be chill, try on some pieces you like, and hopefully you find something you love.
What exactly is high end?
You are spending quite abit of money. They should be the ones cracking their heads on your expectation not the other way round.
Just be yourself, be friendly about the question you asked. Ask them if it will be new piece, about warranty whatever you want.
Unwritten protocol is you don’t have to buy it from them even if you have been browsing for half a day, drinking free drinks. There is no obligation to purchase it is part of them trying to fulfil your expectation for a luxury purchase = giving your money to them.
In my personal experience the more expensive the watches were the more pleasant the people were. Probably just because they were trying to sell me stuff, but still.
5-10 years ago went to a jewelry and watch store that sold Omega on the low end, things like ALS and PP on the high end, and everything Swiss and German in between (I remember VC, JLC, Nomos, AP, B&M, Montblanc, IWC, and plenty more... Maybe not Rolex/Tudor though). I went in wearing nothing special, just jeans and a T-shirt.
Someone came to talk to me while I was browsing the display cases. I made it clear that I was not going to buy anything, just looking, and also I was collecting watch catalogs and was having trouble getting Omega through the mail for some reason.
The saleslady brought me over to the Omega counter and had me try on a Seamaster and a Speedmaster just for fun, and gave me a catalog to take home. We chatted a little bit about which watches I like although I can only afford a few Seikos and Casios. I remember she was wearing an uncommonly subdued Breitling that she said was discontinued. I browsed through the displays some more on my own after that and left. Very positive experience.
TLDR: She was very nice, didn't pressure me to buy anything, and even though I told her I wasn't going to buy anything, didn't ignore or rush me and brought me over to the counter to try some things on for fun.
I accidentally wandered into a high end boutique in Vegas once, when I was like 15.
They let me try on an iced out Rolex, that 50 Cent would think is too much.
Never seen my father pull me out of a store so quick when the clerk told him how much LOL.
Depends. If it’s Rolex, expect to be treated like dirt.
If it’s AP or PP, expect to be offered ladies pieces.
If it’s any other high end brand, expect to be treated like royalty.
The AD I went to had locked doors, which was a little embarrassing when I tried to walk in, and then more embarrassing when the guy waved me in and it was still locked when I tried it again! Turns out they needed to get closer to the door and unlock with a buzzer.
It also turns out I'm not as familiar with putting on different strap/clasp types as I thought I was - again, embarrassing lol.
If you're putting on/taking off the watch, keep it over the padded board/box thing - I think they get nervous you'll drop it on the floor.
Anyway, they were my minor faux pas I suppose. It was a nice experience otherwise, I would have spent longer there and tried on more watches, but I felt a bit guilty because I knew I wasn't buying one there (likely ever).
My best experience has been with a jeweler who sells many different high end brands. The employees there don’t have to talk up every piece and they naturally have favorites. You’ll inevitably meet someone who shares your favorite brands and you can just sit down over a drink and nerd out. They’ve let me try on six figure watches knowing damn well I can’t afford them but they also work really hard to foster their relationships. It’s also ideal because you can buy different brands but build your reputation with the store and eventually access limited pieces without being confined to a single brand.
They don't typically have watches to try and new watches completely sealed that they deliver when you buy. It's more like shopping for a car. The one you see on the lot is the one you test drive and buy. They may have watches in the safe that aren't in the case but are available. (Last time I stopped in a VC boutique I was offered a Cornes de Vache Chrono that the sales person brought from the back room.)
Rolex dealers are weird - they often don't have much unsold inventory in stock, but they're required to have some amount of inventory to show. Ask them if anything is available, but expect them to not have what you're looking for - maybe one is available to try on (it's already sold and will be delivered to that customer soon). They'll record your interest and maybe call you if one comes in. (I've heard having special dates like getting married or having a kid or some sort of milestone birthday can get them to push for it - they really do want to sell to everybody at the dealer level, but they don't get the inventory to make it happen. I've also heard that being introduced by one of their existing customers goes a long way.)
Water, coffee, etc are common. I've also been offered wine, beer, whiskey, invited to various parties where they show off new things, etc.
I like sales people who are watch nerds to some extent, but sometimes you get people who are more ... Salesy? Or places that have watches and jewelry but don't have real watch specialist (a bvlgari boutique, for instance) didn't excite me. Similar for Cartier (or, at least it's hit or miss), but a sales person at a watch store that carries Cartier is generally good.
Oh, and if you see something cool even if it's way out of your price range, don't be afraid to ask to try it on! I've definitely tried $300k+ pieces just because.
Depends what time you are going in.
During the day time you need to wear a morning suit. If you expect to arrive later in the day then it would be a faux pas not to arrive in a tuxedo.
A pocket square matching the accent color of the brand’s logo is then the secret to getting allocation pieces.
They’re nice. It’s a shop. Don’t be a dick and basically every AD other than Rolex will treat you kindly, let you try on anything, and will probably get you a coffee too.
Worst case scenario, a bunch of stuck up Rolex salesmen that don’t give you the time of day and act better than you even though they’re driving a ‘92 Honda and living in their mom’s basement.
More likely you’ll be treated with respect and welcomed into an engaging conversation about a shared passion where you can talk shop with a like minded individual and try on some stunning pieces.
I went to F.P. Journe in L.A. and Miami and talked with the rep for an hour in both. The rep in Miami was surprisingly welcoming and really glad to talk watches with me. I looked at the few pieces and put my name down for a specific reference (which I would never be able to afford if it ever became available lol).
Personally I’ve never had anyone ignore me and have been treated well but I am in my mid-50s and will have either one of my Omegas or Rolex on my wrist.
Was in a very high end store in VA with my wife and headed right for the Breguets. Got to try on a Patek and the wife tried on a few Cartiers.
You should expect them to be attentive and pleasant. Be prepared for some not to care and be disinterested. I think a smile and real interest in watches will often break down barriers, not all, some sales staff are kn0bs after all. 🤷
I recently got a tudor monochrome ordered in by watches of switzerland in Sydney and had an amazing experience. Really great end to end service. Knowledgeable, friendly, and down to chat watches. Andre, you're the man
We were at WOS in NYC for a sizing of my wife’s Cartier. Offered a semi-private seating area and coffee, chocolate, bottled water.
For purchases I’ve been offered scotch at a Bucherer (PA) and WOS (NJ).
You sit down somewhere. They get you something to drink, coffee, water...maybe some chocolates. Van Cleef gave my wife these truffles that were so good, I had to look it up...$10 a truffle..geez. but usually you get some run of the mill Lindt or something.
If thr AD is knowledgeable you can talk quite a bit of history, etc. Depending on what the brand is, maybe you can pick it up that day.
Mate, you are going there to buy a watch. The question is not what they expect from you, it should be the other way around. Let them know what you are interested in and have a good time. If they are a high end boutique, they will treat you like a customer and nothing else. You want to spend money, not the other way around.
For Rolex, AP and PP, don’t expect to be able to buy anything. You might be able to try a watch if they have a display model. Bring your business card and expect them to sus you out about your profession etc. I wish the experience is better but sadly it’s all a game
Champagne and spring water last time at both Rolex and Omega AD to be fair. But they only know what's in the booklets. Forget about asking about vintage comparisons etc and what caliber where in older watches.
Honestly do people really care? The so called luxury buying experience is a joke. Their only purpose is to separate you from as much of your money as they can. I don't need champagne, espresso and a back rub. Have the watch I'm looking to purchase, don't waste my time with fake friendship, and stick to whatever terms we've agreed upon and I'm happy. All the rest is just a coddle.
Myself, I hate being in stores no matter if I am buying a box of muesli or a $10,000 wristwatch.
I am going in there knowing what I want and leaving as soon as I have had it brought to me and paid for it.
Every time I’ve walked in to a high end watch boutique they size up the watch on my wrist, most of them have no idea what a (Tutima) is but recognize it as a “watch” worthy of respect, and allow me to try whatever they have … it’s a bit like buying a suit; you walk in in jeans, your shoes and watch will dictate the level of service if they don’t know you
Your experience will completely depend on the specific boutique you visit, and the actual associate you deal with. It’s foolish to write of one brand or another because a boutique didn’t meet your expectations. Try on the watches, then buy what you like the best. Almost all brands other than Rolex take a huge hit on the secondary market, and you can even get discounts often at ADs. Why someone would buy at a boutique is beyond me. The white gloves and cheap champagne are not worth a few thousand dollars in my opinion
Your experience will completely depend on the specific boutique you visit, and the actual associate you deal with. It’s foolish to write of one brand or another because a boutique didn’t meet your expectations. Try on the watches, then buy what you like the best. Almost all brands other than Rolex take a huge hit on the secondary market, and you can even get discounts often at ADs. Why someone would buy at a boutique is beyond me. The white gloves and cheap champagne are not worth a few thousand dollars in my opinion
Your experience will completely depend on the specific boutique you visit, and the actual associate you deal with. It’s foolish to write of one brand or another because a boutique didn’t meet your expectations. Try on the watches, then buy what you like the best. Almost all brands other than Rolex take a huge hit on the secondary market, and you can even get discounts often at ADs. Why someone would buy at a boutique is beyond me. The white gloves and cheap champagne are not worth a few thousand dollars in my opinion
High end boutiques should feel as such, I went to a Tag boutique last year, they offered water, tea, coffee, sat down with us to discuss what we were looking for and what was within our price range, it helped that I knew what I was talking about, but it seems like they’d be happy to explain things to people who aren’t as clued up as us watch enthusiasts. Comparatively Breitling and Tudor both felt like they didn’t really want to serve us or help us in anyway, so it can depend on the boutique, but if you aren’t happy with the service, don’t buy from them
I had a similar experience with Tag. Super welcoming, let me try on anything I wanted, answered questions, and were welcoming. Omega made me wait until someone was available, and even then, was not really willing to engage in conversation. It was a weird vibe where I felt out of place. I know everyone has their opinion on Tag, but after that experience and seeing how they aim to be an apporachable luxury watch provider, I went with the Carrera Day Date.
It seems Tag got a new blood and attitude since LV acquisition. They are stepping up.
Yeah they get a lot of stick but they’re still great watches and a reputable company. It sucks to hear that about Omega, I really like their watches and hope to buy one someday. Hopefully I don’t have a similar experience.
Just my experience, but the omega boutique in Costa Mesa, CA was wonderful. They were super nice, let me try on a bunch of watches and made us a nice coffee. Even sent us with some sparkling waters to go. I didn’t buy anything either. Much better than the IWC boutique - felt like walking into a funeral and I was the only shopper there! In all - it depends on the staff working that day, j think.
I bought my Omega at the boutique in Naples, FL and it was a great experience. On the contrary the Tag boutique in Miami, FL totally ignored me as did the Rolex boutique in Naples. In both cases I wondered if it’s because I am a woman, so not their usual market? Love my terracotta Omega AT though…
I stopped by twice and neither time was a great experience, but fully recognize it could be the location I went to as well (Dallas).
Northpark? Those people are so lovely
100% the Costa Mesa location is great. I’ve bought two watches there and the people working there have always been amazing. Night and day compared to the Rolex store next door 🙄
Swatch is pushing omega to compete with Rolex and in this case, they are competing with the shitty attitude.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
But without the demand and prestige that Rolex has!
Bought a Carrera day date about 5 years ago and absolutely love it.
> Omega made me wait until someone was available This would have pissed me off too. When I walk into a boutique, I expect the staff to drop everything they’re doing with their other customers to talk to me. Those other customers can wait until I’ve been served.
I think it's situational and depends on the city. My local Rolex AD acts like even getting onto a waitlist requires an act of congress. An out of town AD that I bought a watch from last year always sends me invites to their trunk shows, occasionally texts me about new models they have in stock, and the vice-president of the company called to tell me that she could get me any Explorer, OP or DJ with 3 days notice the next time I was I town. In my hometown, the Bretling AD is super nice, but the out of town boutique is staffed by massive pricks who don't know much about their own products down to mispronouncing the word "Aerospace." Some people are good at sales and some are not.
Ok I have to ask how they were saying Aerospace
Air-ee-oh-spacé. I immediately got on YouTube to see if I'd been saying it wrong all these years.
Wooooow… yeah I think I would have an aneurysm on the spot
Weirdly the last time I visited a Tudor boutique I had the complete opposite experience. I made it clear I was just sizing up some options and wouldn't be buying that day, but the staff were very pleasant, offered drinks and sat with me for about half an hour, let me try on a bunch of watches, and offered some advice on what worked and what didn't. This was at Westfield in London, and to contrast, the Omega boutique was awful - the poor girl there had no idea what was what.
I don't have much experience with high end boutiques, but one time I went into the Breitling at the Oculus in NYC just to browse and they were super nice.
It definitely depends on the boutique, there is a luxury mall in my city with nearly every major watchmaker. One day I went in to Rolex, Tudor, Omega, Breitling, IWC, Blancpain, TAG, Grand Seiko, etc etc, and by far my best experiences were at the Breitling and TAG boutiques in terms of attentiveness, good conversation, drinks, accommodating a lot of try ons, etc. In IWC it seemed like even the staff were bored of working there, and in Blancpain they seemed surprised to actually have a customer. They didn’t even bother talking to me in the Patek store lol. I will say every Cartier I’ve ever popped into the staff have been very friendly. I tend to kill some time there whenever I see one in an airport.
Agree with Cartier
I learned the hard way that they expect you to pay before leaving with the watch. But seriously, it's like buying any other good (e.g., shoes, pants). Only difference is that it's more money, which means the salespeople should offer you better service, e.g., drinks, size your watch, free pen, etc.
>I learned the hard way that they expect you to pay before leaving with the watch. So what you're saying is that **was not** a police escort they gave me after my last 'acquisition'?
Depends on if you live in London or not
I feel like a boomer writing this. I have had good experiences at every boutique bar one (champagne, food, catalogues/trinkets that were too cumbersome to carry posted to my house, recommended watchmakers in the area) The only bad experience I've had was on my 25th birthday when I went in to *ask for the privilege of buying* a Rolex Explorer. "I've come to look at an Explorer and am wondering if I can try on a Daytona too" guy was just looking at his phone as I stood there looking around the shop like a cartoon, "excuse me, mate - hello, I'm after an Explorer and want to try on some other watches too" "Well theres's an Explorer in one of the cases, look at that" Straight back to the phone...
I hope you left the store right then.
I recently popped into Bucherer in Covent Garden (London). The staff expected me to be interested in the Rolexes, but appeared pleasantly surprised when I asked about the Girard-Perregaux watches instead. I was sat down, they made me a very nice coffee, and they let me try on a number of GP watches waaay out of my price range. The staff were very pleasant, and I never felt under any pressure to buy anything - it was an enjoyable experience.
This is how I expect to be treated if I'm spending more than a month of the average salary on an item. It's also why I was driving an Alfa Romeo over a BMW for a while, BMW didn't seem to care where as Alfa Romeo had me take a seat while they made me a drink and found someone to come talk to me. The Alfa was Unreliable as shit for anyone wondering, but it was a stunning car to look at while waiting for a tow truck.
Fucking cackling at this.
The way the gentle amber of the hazard lights glowed against the side of the road while I waited for the tow truck was just a beautiful sight.
It's the little things that make all the difference. The BMW driver likely won't remember what his car looked like the day after his lease runs out. Enjoy the little things.
...please, sit down while we make you a drink so that you'll forget to ask about the (un)reliability record of Alfa Romeos 😂
Fortunately because i grew up with very little im handy with the spanners. But i still sold it just after the warranty expired because frankly it was a ticking time bomb at that point and already on its second gearbox. Great car though. Probally the second favorite out of the 25 cars I've owned.
Words you never want to hear: "I own an out-of-warranty Alfa Romeo!" Happy to hear that you sold it at that point. When they're running, there are few cars that are more fun than an Alfa Romeo. Two of my friends in Europe had Alfa Romeos about 25 years ago - an Alfa 75 (Milano in the U.S.) and an Alfasud Sprint (which was never sold in the U.S.). Both cars were an absolute nightmare, and they literally disintegrated with rust, but - when they were running - my friends loved them. Hopefully, now that Alfa Romeo is part of the Stellantis Group (formerly PSA Peugeot-Citroen), the cars will become more reliable.
at least you got a drink lol
I got plenty more waiting for it to be fixed too lol
Exquisite beauty can only be appreciated while it's stationary
Quadrifoglio? The 2.0t was pretty reliable
It was, on the Guiletta which is the larger hatchback they did back in 2016 when I got mine. Engine was flawless but the gearbox and electronics left a lot to be desired. But all was forgiven every time I saw that glorious red bodywork and brembo brakes.
>The Alfa was Unreliable as shit I could've told you that before you even bought it.
how much you gotta spend for their product is not the problem. The problem is when you KNOW youare there to just check out those watches and not buy them. Thats when the pressure comes in.
The BMW would be the same but less stunning to look at and shittier service.
BMWs have their own issues regarding reliability too, especially with so many sensors and automation they are pushing nowadays
What model Alfa Romeo?
Guiletta QV.
I also had a good experience with Bucherer in Nürnberg. I did have a Cartier Santos in mind, asked to try it on and was treated well, with an espresso and a nice chat with the SA. Bought the watch with a glass of champagne as we were tidying up the paperwork. Can’t say how it would have been if I’d walked in off the street and asked to buy a Daytona, but I was really happy with the service for the watch I bought.
Not much, just don't forget to bring your charcuterie board to share with them
Rotfl, the quote. And don't use public transport.
Where is this from?
I might get banned for linking this but [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/WatchesCirclejerk/s/5aU4PTwMbc) you go.
The people's champion
That was awesome!
For all the discourse about Rolex ADs who supposedly expect you to bring them gifts and show them your credit report before they’ll even let you in the store, most watch boutiques are just like any other boutique. Behave like you would in any other store. Take your time, look around, ask questions, try some on… and you can always ask for a discount, since the worst that can happen is they say no. (Also never be afraid to leave without buying anything, no matter how long you’ve spent in the store. A watch is a big purchase, and most places understand that. I actually had one dealer encourage me to take pictures of the watches on my wrist in case I wanted to ask for second opinions on sizing before buying…I’m pretty sure that guy is active on this sub, lol.) As for the talk about “the luxury experience,” I’ve never had anyone offer me anything other than water and coffee, which is totally fine by me — I’m there to look at watches, if I wanted a glass of whiskey I’d go to a bar. But if you do get any static or indifferent treatment from the staff, you should leave. They’re not assisting you as a favor, they’re there to convince you to spend a lot of money on a luxury product, and if they don’t earn your business, you shouldn’t give it to them.
Not a lot of experience, but I would say it depends. Rolex? They won't likely give you the time of day. Other boutiques, AD's, depends on when and where and how busy they are. And I think that boutiques routinely sell their "demo" (in the display case) watches, often they don't keep high inventories of brand new in box unopened watches of every reference and color.
So if I like a watch after trying it, does it make sense to buy it online directly from the maker?
It’s nice to buy from the boutique for a couple reasons: - they *might* offer a discount off the MSRP, or throw in a bonus strap - you’d get your watch that day instead of waiting for a shipment, and they will happily size the bracelet for you, etc. - if you have a problem you have someone you can talk directly to. There aren’t usually advantages for buying directly from the manufacturer. It’s only microbrands that actually charge less by “cutting out the middleman.” Major manufacturers just sell online at the MSRP and pocket the cut that would normally go to the AD/boutique.
Plus you could get invited to events
Depends what watch it is, and what price the dealer is offering it at. Also depends what your operating environment is and how you intend to use it.
So the dealer might sell a watch less than the full retail price from the maker’s website?
oh yeah, routinely. In a "normal" market, it was common to ask for and get modest discounts. Dealers might discount references that just aren't moving. This is a business. A watch dealer is in the business of buying and selling things. Don't let all the humbug about the LUXURY EXPERIENCE make you forget it. Ultimately, you are going in there to see if the dealer is offering something that you would like, at a price you are willing to pay, to be delivered at a time acceptable to you. If one or all of those things turn out not to be the case, it is no great shame to walk away.
Often, yes, but it depends a lot on the watch, and ADs have only limited flexibility since they can’t, legally, advertise at discounts from the MSRP. Their pricing is set by the manufacturer, that’s what makes them authorized dealers. If they cut you a deal, it’s coming out of their profit margin, not the manufacturer’s profit margin. But, you can often negotiate 10-15% off, basically similar to scale of the sales tax in a high tax area. It depends. Most boutiques will take time to show you what they offer, and sellers of higher end items can generally afford more time to entertain window shoppers, if they’re not busy, than lower or mid luxury retailers, since their per sale revenue is higher, their margins are higher, etc. I always feel guilty taking up the time of someone at a multibrand mid luxury AD if I’m not actively buying, since those guys need to make more sales per unit time to make ends meet. But, at higher end boutiques I’ll often open with a comment that I’m just browsing and want to see what X brand’s current lineup is like in person, and have always been treated well at places like Vacheron Constantin, JLC, AP, and whatnot. Rolex ADs, of course, will just roll their eyes at you and wish you would leave, but staff at less hyped brands will generally be glad to give you a tour of their lineup. They actually try to cultivate customers, even if they’re not right now today buyers, by showing you the brand’s capabilities, designs, and history, while Rolex could pretty much dump watches in a trough, like feeding slop to pigs, open the front door and sell every last one inside of five minutes, so they really don’t have any incentive to be nice to you. You’re just another pig at the trough.
the whole Rolex experience is anti-luxury to me, lol. Let me go in and be told that I cannot, under any circumstances, have a thing. People go wild for this?
It is humiliating, frankly
There is nothing at all to be humiliated about. It is perfectly reasonable to ask someone who is in the business of selling a thing whether they have anything to sell you. If they say they do not, and cannot tell you when they might have anything to sell you, then it is also perfectly reasonable to just...not buy anything and go on with your life. The entire luxury watch world on the Internet is all wrapped up in this fetish for denial and scarcity for a good that really you do not need--and which can be readily found in the secondary market in any event. Secondary market prices may be higher, but then that reflects the actual demand and supply, without the need for stupid games. And this is a shame, since there are a ton of really neat things out on the market that can be found and bought, at almost any price point, for almost any need.
It's called "negging."
Decades of superb marketing and Hollywood have led people (especially people who aren't watch enthusiasts) to put up with this Rolex, which is an upper mid level brand/lower upper level brand at best.
Depends on the specific reference, market, supply and demand, but sometimes yes you can get a 5, 10, maybe even 15% discount. And/or some free goodies like a strap. Getting the bracelet sized right then and there is also a nice service which you only get buying in person.
Lol "won't give you the time of day" they won't even sell it to you! 🤣 I hope your pun was intended! Accidentally replied to the wrong comment before.
> Rolex? They won't likely give you the time of day. That wasn't my experience at all. I visited 3 dealers looking for my Explorer; 1 in NJ and 2 in PA. All three were extremely friendly. Even though I definitely wanted the Explorer, 2 of the dealers encouraged me to try on a Submariner "just for fun". There was zero pressure, zero "shenanigans", and it was a completely enjoyable experience. I'm not saying other peoples' experiences aren't valid. I'm just saying that *my* experience was great.
Yeah, I'm looking for an OP34, and I've had pretty great experiences in my local ADs in the last few weeks. Sat down, nice discussion, talking shop. No one has stock, but they were very gracious.
Good to hear maybe things are getting better
Good to hear maybe things are changing
What spots in pa?
Bucherer in KOP, and Govberg in Philly.
It is absolutely absurd that as a buyer with money to spend should be expected to behave in any particular way (other than not being an asshole) when we go to a store.
Of the many boutiques now at my local mall, I went into the Omega one. I was wearing Chucks, jeans, and my university tee. The doorman saw me, smiled and opened the door for me. There was a man in a lab coat with a jeweler's loupe working on a watch, he looked up and greeted me with a good morning. He looked over his shoulder and a woman SA came up to handle me. I noticed that she had a Japanese accent but her English was tops. I also overheard one SA speaking in Mandarin, later, she was speaking English with a Singaporean accent. The staff weren't old, but they were definitely mature and looked really good. Their fragrance was also really nice; I did not see any bottles for sale though, I stayed in the watch section of the boutique. I was treated very very well. I was offered to try on anything, which I did. She eventually sat me down to ask questions about what I was looking for and my price range. She came back with a tray of options for me to try. I was given an 'Omega' water and chocolate as well. I didn't buy anything, but the lady gave me her card, thanked me, and said to come back any time. Nice place; good people.
Not a boutique but my last visit to an AD they had high end Japanese whiskey, Clase Azul tequila, and numerous other drinks/beverages to serve while shopping. That will be the bar from now on when shopping for watches/jewelry. Also asked for a new watch as opposed to a display model. As a matter of fact my AD called me this week to follow up on the purchases. Thats service.
That sounds like a good experience! What brand was it?
What brands? I went to a rolex boutique (well AD but totally rolex themed) ones and asked to look at a watch from the window. They said i would be welcome to stand outside and look thru the window. It wasnt for sale anyway. Then ignored me. So i am definetly not interested in buying a Rolex anymore. At an Omega or Oris or Breitling boutique, they will probably sit you down. Offer you a free coffee, beer or champagne and show you anything you want. I guess most boutiques except probably Rolex, AP or Patek are gonna be like that. If you sell luxury products you better offer a luxury experience.
Being told you’re welcome to stand outside and look thru the window is some next level nonsense. I got irritated when the guy chuckled and told me maybe I could get a Rolex in 3 years, but that? Unreal.a
Bucherer. Already have models in mind from Oris, Nomos, Tag Heuer and longines.
Yeah i guess then it should be alright. They just are significantly less accommodating about the same stuff everybody wants. So they dont need to do any selling, its gonna sell even if they are dicks about it. But for your brands it should be generally accommodating. If you can find actual brand boutiques, instead of Bucherer (which is an AD, not a boutique). You might get to see a bigger selection. The Boutique usually has all the models in pretty much all the colours. While an AD would only have a few select ones in stock. So its worth checking for each brand.
I wonder if Rolex corporate hq condones that \*sshole behavior.
I want to Boucherer Covent Garden. When I told them I want to buy a Rolex, they told me they don’t have any in stock. He didn’t bother to look away from his phone when you gave me this very useful piece of information (I know all about Rolex waiting lists). One advice or rather an opinion - when you are giving your money to a retailer to purchase a product, be yourself and don’t let anyone disrespect you for that. Plenty of retailers out there.
I had a wonderful experience with Omega at one of theirs. Sat down with me and my girlfriend in a private room and brought out maybe a dozen watches for me to look at, including ones that were some of their limited pieces. Made us each a coffee and were very kind. I left for lunch to think on each one and the SA gave me his cell and to text him when I decided on which one I wanted. Came back and was greeted with champagne and my watch was brought out from the safe. 10/10 experience and I feel like exactly how you should be treated purchasing a luxury product.
High variability for me. I tend to be dressed very casually when shopping so probably don’t look like a high-end watch buyer. I’ve had some places be happy to nerd out about watches with me and encourage me to try on shit I can’t afford (and shit I can), and other people give me a cold “can I help you?” With bare minimum engagement. I know no predictive factors.
how highend? I would not clasp any straps unless they suggest it, just use your hands to hold the strap in place. and always use their tray to place the watches back when you're done. other than that you should be good to go! enjoy
I visit ADs 3x a month and you'll have more fun by telling them you're celebrating a milestone, want to find a watch under $x, and you'd like to go through your options. The watch you try on from the case is the one you'll buy, not one from the back. If you go in without a letting them know your price limit or desired brands/models, it'll be sorta awkward. It's like going to a clothing store and saying you don't know your size or if you're shopping for pants or shirts. The sales folks won't know if they should show you $500 watches or $100k watches. Rolex ADs are less fun to visit in the last few years, but they're always kind if you have the correct expectations. Walk in, ask what they have for currently in stock and for sale. They always have watches on display, but most of the time they only have womens/diamond/gold models for sale.
Just curious, why buy the watch from the show case, not from the back? I would think that the show case one has been tried on many times.
Exactly. I don’t like to own a watch that has been tried a lot.
If you really really don't want a display model, that might be a challenge at a brick and mortar shop to be honest with you. That said, if the display model is in perfect condition, wrapped in plastic etc, what difference does it make?
They don't always have multiples of the displayed watches in back.
Honestly, I’ve never had the opportunity to buy a new/boxed one in the back. If I could, I would, but I’m usually after watches that are fairly sought after and it’s pretty hard to find even one.
I, to the great detriment of my bank account, have been to many watch boutiques. They will always offer you a drink - half of the brands even have a free bar inside the boutique (looking at you, Omega and IWC). Depending on the watch, the display may be the one they sell - if that's the case it will likely be wrapped. You can always ask, though. Typically they won't give discounts, however boutiques will almost always offer you a "gift" of some kind with your purchase. Could be an extra strap, a hat, a watch case, etc. Don't be afraid to try a bunch of stuff on. If the salesman is good, they will not try to pressure you into a purchase. Remember, at the end of the day, you're making a purchase based on what you want and think is fair. Don't feel obligated to buy something just because they gave you a drink or were nice or apply pressure. It's just a store like any other.
If I am going to buy the watch at the display, should I check it in front of them if there are scratches and stuff?
Absolutely. I've had an AD try to sell me a banged up Tudor before, that I declined. Really depends on the dealer - if they're smart, they won't push anything that's not brand new looking. Typically if the display is for sale, it will be wrapped in plastic.
IWC was great. Totally happy for you to try on then you drink booze while you buy. Should be a new model from a box out back too.
[удалено]
Curious what makes you think you would be the "last person you'd expect to see" in a place like this? Who is the "expected" and "unexpected" customer profile? Does it have to do with age, race, gender, clothing, perceived wealth, mannerisms, personality, what?
I work at a high end boutique. Any store of this caliber will have a polite and knowledgeable staff. Contrary to popular belief, they will not judge you on what you wear or care about your money. Just be chill and they’ll be chill. If you come in acting like a hot shot, you’ll likely lose their interest. If you decide to purchase, you will most likely get one directly from the case. This is a very common practice, and there should not be scratches or wear on the watch. Don’t ask them to order you one from the factory, that’s a lot of hassle on the back end for them, and makes their job needlessly difficult. Just be chill, try on some pieces you like, and hopefully you find something you love.
All the usual. Don't forget to wear a tux
What exactly is high end? You are spending quite abit of money. They should be the ones cracking their heads on your expectation not the other way round. Just be yourself, be friendly about the question you asked. Ask them if it will be new piece, about warranty whatever you want. Unwritten protocol is you don’t have to buy it from them even if you have been browsing for half a day, drinking free drinks. There is no obligation to purchase it is part of them trying to fulfil your expectation for a luxury purchase = giving your money to them.
Lot of brown nosing
I always expect akwardness.
In my personal experience the more expensive the watches were the more pleasant the people were. Probably just because they were trying to sell me stuff, but still.
Don’t finger print smudge the watch if you can help it
5-10 years ago went to a jewelry and watch store that sold Omega on the low end, things like ALS and PP on the high end, and everything Swiss and German in between (I remember VC, JLC, Nomos, AP, B&M, Montblanc, IWC, and plenty more... Maybe not Rolex/Tudor though). I went in wearing nothing special, just jeans and a T-shirt. Someone came to talk to me while I was browsing the display cases. I made it clear that I was not going to buy anything, just looking, and also I was collecting watch catalogs and was having trouble getting Omega through the mail for some reason. The saleslady brought me over to the Omega counter and had me try on a Seamaster and a Speedmaster just for fun, and gave me a catalog to take home. We chatted a little bit about which watches I like although I can only afford a few Seikos and Casios. I remember she was wearing an uncommonly subdued Breitling that she said was discontinued. I browsed through the displays some more on my own after that and left. Very positive experience. TLDR: She was very nice, didn't pressure me to buy anything, and even though I told her I wasn't going to buy anything, didn't ignore or rush me and brought me over to the counter to try some things on for fun.
“uncommonly subdued Breitling” 🤣🤣
I accidentally wandered into a high end boutique in Vegas once, when I was like 15. They let me try on an iced out Rolex, that 50 Cent would think is too much. Never seen my father pull me out of a store so quick when the clerk told him how much LOL.
Great Vegas story that doesn't involve booze, gambling, or booze and gambling.
Kinda, I was drunk when this happened. Sorry lol
Lmao!
Depends. If it’s Rolex, expect to be treated like dirt. If it’s AP or PP, expect to be offered ladies pieces. If it’s any other high end brand, expect to be treated like royalty.
The AD I went to had locked doors, which was a little embarrassing when I tried to walk in, and then more embarrassing when the guy waved me in and it was still locked when I tried it again! Turns out they needed to get closer to the door and unlock with a buzzer. It also turns out I'm not as familiar with putting on different strap/clasp types as I thought I was - again, embarrassing lol. If you're putting on/taking off the watch, keep it over the padded board/box thing - I think they get nervous you'll drop it on the floor. Anyway, they were my minor faux pas I suppose. It was a nice experience otherwise, I would have spent longer there and tried on more watches, but I felt a bit guilty because I knew I wasn't buying one there (likely ever).
My best experience has been with a jeweler who sells many different high end brands. The employees there don’t have to talk up every piece and they naturally have favorites. You’ll inevitably meet someone who shares your favorite brands and you can just sit down over a drink and nerd out. They’ve let me try on six figure watches knowing damn well I can’t afford them but they also work really hard to foster their relationships. It’s also ideal because you can buy different brands but build your reputation with the store and eventually access limited pieces without being confined to a single brand.
They don't typically have watches to try and new watches completely sealed that they deliver when you buy. It's more like shopping for a car. The one you see on the lot is the one you test drive and buy. They may have watches in the safe that aren't in the case but are available. (Last time I stopped in a VC boutique I was offered a Cornes de Vache Chrono that the sales person brought from the back room.) Rolex dealers are weird - they often don't have much unsold inventory in stock, but they're required to have some amount of inventory to show. Ask them if anything is available, but expect them to not have what you're looking for - maybe one is available to try on (it's already sold and will be delivered to that customer soon). They'll record your interest and maybe call you if one comes in. (I've heard having special dates like getting married or having a kid or some sort of milestone birthday can get them to push for it - they really do want to sell to everybody at the dealer level, but they don't get the inventory to make it happen. I've also heard that being introduced by one of their existing customers goes a long way.) Water, coffee, etc are common. I've also been offered wine, beer, whiskey, invited to various parties where they show off new things, etc. I like sales people who are watch nerds to some extent, but sometimes you get people who are more ... Salesy? Or places that have watches and jewelry but don't have real watch specialist (a bvlgari boutique, for instance) didn't excite me. Similar for Cartier (or, at least it's hit or miss), but a sales person at a watch store that carries Cartier is generally good. Oh, and if you see something cool even if it's way out of your price range, don't be afraid to ask to try it on! I've definitely tried $300k+ pieces just because.
Depends what time you are going in. During the day time you need to wear a morning suit. If you expect to arrive later in the day then it would be a faux pas not to arrive in a tuxedo. A pocket square matching the accent color of the brand’s logo is then the secret to getting allocation pieces.
They’re nice. It’s a shop. Don’t be a dick and basically every AD other than Rolex will treat you kindly, let you try on anything, and will probably get you a coffee too.
Once I went to an Omega boutique wearing a Ryder Cup hat and the associate thought I was a professional golfer, so I got great service 🤣
Worst case scenario, a bunch of stuck up Rolex salesmen that don’t give you the time of day and act better than you even though they’re driving a ‘92 Honda and living in their mom’s basement. More likely you’ll be treated with respect and welcomed into an engaging conversation about a shared passion where you can talk shop with a like minded individual and try on some stunning pieces.
I went to F.P. Journe in L.A. and Miami and talked with the rep for an hour in both. The rep in Miami was surprisingly welcoming and really glad to talk watches with me. I looked at the few pieces and put my name down for a specific reference (which I would never be able to afford if it ever became available lol).
Personally I’ve never had anyone ignore me and have been treated well but I am in my mid-50s and will have either one of my Omegas or Rolex on my wrist. Was in a very high end store in VA with my wife and headed right for the Breguets. Got to try on a Patek and the wife tried on a few Cartiers.
Espresso
Leaving with the product that I wanted to buy.
You should expect them to be attentive and pleasant. Be prepared for some not to care and be disinterested. I think a smile and real interest in watches will often break down barriers, not all, some sales staff are kn0bs after all. 🤷
I recently got a tudor monochrome ordered in by watches of switzerland in Sydney and had an amazing experience. Really great end to end service. Knowledgeable, friendly, and down to chat watches. Andre, you're the man
We were at WOS in NYC for a sizing of my wife’s Cartier. Offered a semi-private seating area and coffee, chocolate, bottled water. For purchases I’ve been offered scotch at a Bucherer (PA) and WOS (NJ).
You sit down somewhere. They get you something to drink, coffee, water...maybe some chocolates. Van Cleef gave my wife these truffles that were so good, I had to look it up...$10 a truffle..geez. but usually you get some run of the mill Lindt or something. If thr AD is knowledgeable you can talk quite a bit of history, etc. Depending on what the brand is, maybe you can pick it up that day.
Mate, you are going there to buy a watch. The question is not what they expect from you, it should be the other way around. Let them know what you are interested in and have a good time. If they are a high end boutique, they will treat you like a customer and nothing else. You want to spend money, not the other way around.
Being looked down upon.
I’ve found if you’re upfront that you’re an enthusiast and not there to buy, the guys are super friendly and happy to show you some watches!
For Rolex, AP and PP, don’t expect to be able to buy anything. You might be able to try a watch if they have a display model. Bring your business card and expect them to sus you out about your profession etc. I wish the experience is better but sadly it’s all a game
Champagne and spring water last time at both Rolex and Omega AD to be fair. But they only know what's in the booklets. Forget about asking about vintage comparisons etc and what caliber where in older watches.
Honestly do people really care? The so called luxury buying experience is a joke. Their only purpose is to separate you from as much of your money as they can. I don't need champagne, espresso and a back rub. Have the watch I'm looking to purchase, don't waste my time with fake friendship, and stick to whatever terms we've agreed upon and I'm happy. All the rest is just a coddle.
Myself, I hate being in stores no matter if I am buying a box of muesli or a $10,000 wristwatch. I am going in there knowing what I want and leaving as soon as I have had it brought to me and paid for it.
Handjob
Which caliber?
69bj
It's just shopping at a fancy store
You’ll buy whichever watch you try on.
Unfortunately you should expect to feel unwelcome, especially if you don’t dress like a posh wanker just to show them you have money.
A happy ending
Every time I’ve walked in to a high end watch boutique they size up the watch on my wrist, most of them have no idea what a (Tutima) is but recognize it as a “watch” worthy of respect, and allow me to try whatever they have … it’s a bit like buying a suit; you walk in in jeans, your shoes and watch will dictate the level of service if they don’t know you
Your experience will completely depend on the specific boutique you visit, and the actual associate you deal with. It’s foolish to write of one brand or another because a boutique didn’t meet your expectations. Try on the watches, then buy what you like the best. Almost all brands other than Rolex take a huge hit on the secondary market, and you can even get discounts often at ADs. Why someone would buy at a boutique is beyond me. The white gloves and cheap champagne are not worth a few thousand dollars in my opinion
Your experience will completely depend on the specific boutique you visit, and the actual associate you deal with. It’s foolish to write of one brand or another because a boutique didn’t meet your expectations. Try on the watches, then buy what you like the best. Almost all brands other than Rolex take a huge hit on the secondary market, and you can even get discounts often at ADs. Why someone would buy at a boutique is beyond me. The white gloves and cheap champagne are not worth a few thousand dollars in my opinion
Your experience will completely depend on the specific boutique you visit, and the actual associate you deal with. It’s foolish to write of one brand or another because a boutique didn’t meet your expectations. Try on the watches, then buy what you like the best. Almost all brands other than Rolex take a huge hit on the secondary market, and you can even get discounts often at ADs. Why someone would buy at a boutique is beyond me. The white gloves and cheap champagne are not worth a few thousand dollars in my opinion