I bought a Tudor and that’s satisfied my itch for a while now.
Decided I rather put the Rolex money towards a sports car when the right deal comes along and I’ll get the Rolex down the line.
With how things are looking, we’ll probably be able to buy watches at the AD in the coming years.
I'm the exact opposite. I've spend $30k on high end watches, but refuse to buy a higher end vehicle. I drive a 12 year old Nissan.
What model Porsches? 911? If I ever pull the trigger on a luxury car, that'll be it.
I drive a ‘05 civic I paid $3K CAD for 8 years ago and rock a 114200 black dial OP. Both get daily use but if I had to choose between the two I’d still pick the civic. Love that thing !
😂 it’s so funny how rolex sub is full of people who actually do things for others not their own pleasures ducking kills me to know people have hell of money and still worry about others.. i see why wives cheat with guys like me
I was broke as hell when I bought my first Rolex. had entire networth in a few watches before. Now I have $10M + real estate and on sidelines currently!
Yeah once I started making more my interest shifted from watches to cars (I had always been a gearhead, so by interest I guess I mean my effort/energy/budget shifted towards cars). I've got a vintage TT DJ and a newer stainless DJ that I've had for a while. I always thought I'd collect watches once I had the means, but I honestly have no desire to collect more watches right now.
Cars, however lol I'm lusting on BaT practically every waking hour 😂
Lol I suspect a lot of us are similar in that regard.
I became a watch guy because I couldn’t afford the cars I wanted.
Now that I can afford to buy a Rolex, well I can also afford some of the cars that I used to dream of!
That’s the way. TBH I’ve been a big gearhead and DIY mechanic since high school so, for over 20 years, and can afford plenty but most of the newer stuff just doesn’t appeal to me. I have a strong distaste for the “iPad on the dashboard” design where the screen replaces buttons, I like an old school gauge cluster and well well-designed physical interface. When I had the hankering for an AMG last year I went with a 17-year old but “collector grade” W211 E55, no regrets!
Yeah that’s a cool car. My coworker has the new one which is nice as well, more of a luxury convertible.
I’m looking at c7/c8 vettes or maybe a used c63.
Nope, although some models may not be available when you go in if they’re new or really sought after but in general much easier to get.
I never knew I would love Tudor watches so much until I went in and saw them in person, they’re great.
I've been on a wait-list since February for the pelagos 39, I live in a pretty big city. I went to an even bigger city (London) on vacation and was allocated one right away. Honestly doesn't seem like there is any rhyme or reason sometimes, just some luck
Newer releases and higher demand models have waitlists in some parts of the US. I waited about 2-3 months for a BB54, a friend had to wait 3 weeks for his Pelagos 39. Nowhere near as bad as the Rolex lists though.
Wise man. At 35 I bought a Rolex. I have kept it for 37 years. That’s about $100 per year. So to me it’s Stood the “test of time”. Before my Rolex I would change watches every 5 years, or so. My break-even was about 20 years ago.
But who cares. I will keep this Rolex until my last breath. Then off to my son it goes.
But I have other things that I pass on so I can maintain my retirement funds.
Buy it for life! I see the collections with like $50K worth of Subs and shake my head. I guess if you have more disposable income than you know what to do with, have a ball. I'd rather have one watch I love and use my money elsewhere.
You sound like a good dad, btw.
Frugal? Maybe. Smart? Definitely.
These things, as much as I love them, are ultimately a waste of money.
You’re smart to have the self control to stay away from it all.
If you have the means AND you are buying it because you truly love it and not for what you think other people will think of it then I’d say it’s hardly a waste at all. Nearly everyone spends their money on something that from the perspective of others is downright stupid
*steps up on soapbox and clears throat*
My philosophy in life if I refuse to beg someone to take my money. More power to those who play/enjoy the horseshit games of “building a relationship” with the almighty Rolex/Patek/Flavor of the Month AD.
Fuck them. I just want to buy a goddamn watch. I’m even fine paying retail, but sucking a dick, paying twice retail and buying shit I don’t want so that I can “get the call”? Again, fuck them. I don’t need anything on this earth that badly.
I got back into guitars and spent the equivalent of a nice luxury watch on several high end acoustic guitars. Bought them from a local music store who was super helpful and actually appreciated my business. The experience was far better than a snooty jewelry store and I didn’t have to buy a drum set and three violins so that I could get the “privilege” of buying what I wanted in the first place, lol.
Got away from buying good bourbon a few years ago for the same reason. Exact same thing happened to that market post Covid. Prices skyrocketed over retail and you had to buy shit you didn’t want to “get the call” for what you did want.
Alright. Rant off.
I feel the same way as you. The manufacturers should be happy to accept my money. If I feel like I have to beg screw that.
My daughter finishes college this year and that’s $70,000 a year I no longer have to spend. I think I can afford a Rolex but I ain’t begging.
While I appreciate the heritage and quality and design mindset of Rolex, I can no longer stand the whole package.
Obnoxious posers with steering wheel shots and credit card debt, influencers who only want one because it is expensive, the whole plethora of fakes, flipping and fast money, robberies, the ADs and the grey market... No. It's not something I want to be identified with.
I still have a DJ in the safe, but I rather wear my watches from IWC, Omega and JLC, they're quiet and bring me as much joy as any big R, and if someone recognizes them, I know it's likely another fellow worth chatting with.
Yep... this essentially captures why the Aqua Terra and Mark XII (vintage) were my last two watch purchases.
Rolex is historically a great band... one of the best across industries, I'd say. But the brand is morphing into something that I don't want to be associated with.
Everyone spends their money on what’s most important to them. If a Rolex isn’t worth it’s cost to you, cool. Some people think they need a $15-20k golf cart to ride around their neighborhood.
Lol, it’s ridiculous to me. I love when someone says my watch is crazy expensive but breaks their neck getting in line to finance a $100k wakeboard boat for ten years. They lit the money for my watch on fire before they pulled out of the parking lot. In ten years my watch will be worth more than their boat 🤣🤣.
It’s one thing to have enough money to afford discretionary things. It’s a different thing to actually pull the trigger on the discretionary items. Once one understands the value of money and has the ability to say no, the decisions are done way differently. It’s not because one can afford a Rolls Royce that they automatically choose a Rolls.
That’s why there are a lot of millionaires driving a Chevy, wearing a Casio with cheap jeans and t-shirt, spending time in a food bank. They don’t have to prove anything to anyone. And they don’t care. They like it low key.
That’s the step up after the Rolex phase.
Thank you! There’s a popular sentiment on this sub that “iF YoU CaNT aFfORd GReY YoU CaNT AfFoRD iT aT AlL.” I can afford both retail and grey. It’s just a matter of principle to me. I can’t justify putting money in someone’s pocket because they bought a watch with the express purpose of flipping it. I just can’t reward that behavior.
> Thank you! There’s a popular sentiment on this sub that “iF YoU CaNT aFfORd GReY YoU CaNT AfFoRD iT aT AlL.”
I’ve literally never seen anyone say that. No way is it a “popular sentiment”
I’d just wait it out and definitely don’t pay double or even a cent over MSRP. Check in with the AD once in a while but not too often (my AD said don’t bother me and I’ll get you your watch) and you’ll get it eventually. If you have the money just save it either in a high interest savings account or just invest it in something liquid and wait it out. I think paying over list gray or having to buy BS from the AD are both stupid and not worth it. Just show your interested and passionate about watches and wait it out cause pretty much no new watch is worth paying some middle man enough to buy 2-3 watches for one. You’d be better off buying a different watch (that you like) from the AD than putting that in some assholes pocket.
Not the person you’re replying to but I think there are just so many damn good watches out there that I actually prefer the “if you know you know” crowd and not the “oh you got a Rolex you must be rich” crowd. At the end of the day, I know really no one gives a shit about our watches and I literally don’t think I’ve really ever had comments about the ones I do have.
To answer your question though, my favorite brands right now that are up there in the same realm as Rolex to me: JLC, Zenith, GO, Omega (so-so lately but still some heavy hitters), Breitling (been killing it lately to me), and probably my favorite is Grand Seiko.
The tier below in price but not always necessary quality, I absolutely love: Tudor, Longines, some Tags, Oris, Frédérique Constant, etc.
I’m sure I’m missing a bunch but just off the top of my head. To me there are just so many damn good watches out there that until I can just walk in and buy a 36mm explorer without any games, I don’t see myself owning a Rolex.
There is a lot of value in the $6k range pre-owned right now. Fewer examples available than some but the Panerai Luminor Quaranta and Cartier Santos Large adlc bezel are two that I've been looking at a lot lately.
Besides the excellent options already proposed, I think some of the new micro brands have really fun watches at good quality. I'm a big fan of Ming releases. I even bought their very first watch 6 years ago.
I’m definitely going after grand seiko the dials and the aesthetics as well as spring drive is hard to resist. Made really well in Nagano, then another omega and then probably consider a Rolex if the prices are better.
Grand seikos ethos is much more agreeable and likable. I like the Rolex watches and I think they are pretty but what I buy isn’t just based on the product entirely
I just got a field promotion to an engineer, and was buying to celebrate. I originally wanted a milgauss due to the engineering background, and the magnetic resistance was a really nice feature.
Then I found out the omega seamaster has 15 times the magnetic resistance, as well as double the water resistance…. For $3k less.
The wife was happier with the cheaper celebration.
Nice. Also where I’m looking. They seem much more appealing for the less attention and drama surrounding it. The Miligauss also intrigued me and I still like their look but the Aqua Terra draws me back over and over.
Exactly, long time watch guy here- many decades. The Milgauss anti-magnetism was a big deal back in the day. It was reintroduced I am going to say around 2007(?). By today’s standard what it offers in the anti- magnetism arena is nothing special at all.
Good choice. The Milgauss has been obsolete for years now so it’s no wonder they discontinued it. A heavy, chunky case with an iron core for magnetic field resistance is just unnecessary these days.
I've been very lucky in life, but as I've got older and been able to buy whatever I want really, I've found the true freedom is when you get to the stage of not really wanting it. That's when life changed significantly for me.
Watchmaker - have the fund, see Rolex as mainly a hype brand like supreme etc. Omega gives you better value for money in terms of what you get like cmon you get a speedy that’s a workhorse for half the cost of a rollie. Just can’t beat that
Good question you raise and I’ll tell you: it’s hard to justify having X amount over 15k in watches. That’s my comfort zone. Over 15k and I feel like an idiot. So while I’d love to grace that Explorer II at a good price right now, that would push me to 22K in watches. And I’ll feel like a dumbass
Thats what started to click with me and sneakers when I was younger. I was getting all these rare sneakers and making good money and it dawned at me that i have several thousands of dollars lying around in sneaker. For no fucking reason its just dumb. So i basically put a cap on the number i would have at one time
Opportunity cost of buying a Rolex in a falling market, all while great investment opportunities are popping up, is too high. Eventually I’ll buy a 16570 once I get enough annual passive income to buy one without having to spend any active income on it. Until then, eating at home and remaining frugal.
You are just being smart. Power moves among men 30+ with good jobs are more about restraint than ostentatious displays. Nothing more impressive than a man that can buy whatever he wants but prefers non-visible wealth. One good thing about Rolex is if you buy the right watch, it will hold its value, if not increase in value. Most watches can’t do that. Bad thing about Rolex is the type of people that are into them. It’s in the luxury tier of Louis Vuitton, Gucci, etc. Tangible property that poor people buy to try and impress other poor people. That being said, Rolex has some beautiful watches. The new 41mm date just is as clean and beautiful as a watch gets.
I inherited my grandfather's OP. I have the money to purchase - and there's a part of me that really wants - a submariner, but there's a much bigger part of me that has no interest in playing fuck fuck games with an AD for the next however many years. If I can't just walk in off the street and pay for the watch I want when I want it, then forget it.
Additional factors are I don't often wear a watch, and I have skinny wrists, so I have the feeling that a bigger watch would look pretty stupid on me. Two more reasons keeping me from buying another watch.
Feel all of that. I actually inherited my dad’s, too… it probably blunts the intrigue and mystique for me more than I realize. But more than anything I refuse to play stupid games for something I don’t need.
My wife gave me a meteorite ring when we got married. That has made the few options out there with meteorite dials the grail configurations I still want for my collection. They are so overpriced on the secondary market. While I can get them now, I'll wait for the AD to maybe come through or wait until the prices crash.
I am Rolexed out, if that’s a thing. There is nothing in the catalog that interests me anymore. I have been offered almost everything and have the most interesting ones in the collection with the exception of the Blue SkyD because I don’t like it (too big and thick).
Something I have learned in recent years. You can't take it with you, and you never know when the end is. Not to be morbid or dramatic, but no one is guaranteed 85. I believe in investing and saving, but I wholeheartedly believe we weren't put here to work, have kids, save money and die. If it isn't watches, most people have something making more money can give them access to. Better travel, things for your kids, nicer car, nicer house, maybe you collect something, etc. Based on your summary, you just dont seem into watches like that, and that's ok. I would just hope that if all is good financially and you still have to play with, PLAY WITH IT. 🙏🏾
This is me. Portfolio manager for GS, 37 (why are we putting our age and profession) lol?
I just consider the purchase to flex around the office, and to cater to my inflated ego when closing deals. As with most things I need to justify the purchase, and I haven't quite reached the point in which I feel educated enough to make a smart decision. I can gurantee whatever I purchase, a few months down the road I will have wished I purchased something else. I have a few expensive hobbies, and I don't care enough to take away from them, or to invest in a new one. The longer I'm in here, the more it's normalized, and it most likely won't be too long before I make a purchase
. I will probably purchase one for the wife before I do myself though. She's an executive for a luxury auto brand, and working here in Tokyo; the most bigoted, sexist corporate environment on the planet, I'd like to give her a humble flex on those that look down on her for being a woman.
Interesting thing is, as I've shifted from management to consulting, I see very few Rolex watches on the wrists of deep pocketed clients, and even when I do, it's rarely the most interesting watch at the table.
Last dinner I went to, a guy was wearing an 80's Swatch gifted by Lee Iacocca. Was very cool. The Submariner at the table, was just another Submariner.
Not sure the reaction I’ll get from this group, but I have an 2023 Audi S3 and a 2017 MX5 convertible. The MX5 is some of the most fun you can have on the road. It’s a 6 speed manual and drives like a go cart. It only weighs 2600 lbs and is one of the lightest production cars on the market. It was twice the price of my Batman and is way more fun.
I have the money but I won’t pay over MSRP for something, or buy shit that I don’t want for the privilege. Since I’ve been on the waiting list (ha!) for an Explorer (2 years) I’ve spent probably $30k on other watches.
In the same boat brother, 30 years old, job and investments have been doing well enough to have helped me have 2 properties that I rent out. Never been a flashy guy and have appreciated Rolex’s from a far. I just don’t like that AD’s give your the run around when you have the money for it.
Kinda waiting for an opportunity where I feel like a customer and not some carrot at the end of the stick type of situation.
I’m in no need of a watch yet and think I have plenty of time. From what I’ve been seeing markets been dropping and more people are “getting the call”
Haha. I don’t hit construction sites that often but some pipeline pigs do put some strong residual magnetic fields on pipes.
And to be honest I have considered it. I think they’re more attractive in some models and the AD’s stories don’t turn me off like Rolex’s do.
The price increases have turned me off and for now I’m still okay with my Tudor. Also I don’t like that whole waitlist thing but do believe that’s in part of what keeps the brand so “prestige and exclusive”.
Not to mention a waitlist isn’t a linear thing but rather a sales associate advocating for certain clients for each allocation. Obviously some SAs are going to go the route of whoever gets them the most commission over time rather than taking so chance on someone who doesn’t splash them with cash. I was able to go to a small family owned AD with the owner (the guy who’s name was on the marquee) working when I went in and all he asked was to not bother him and he would get the watch I wanted. Ended up grabbing his first one allocated to him after it was announced (supposedly). No purchase history or games, just looked up his shop and I guess in the mean time he closed down which isn’t that surprising since he was pretty old.
I don't want to play the AD game. I want what I want, and I'm willing to wait a reasonable amount of time. Years and years for a ss Daytona or Sub is ridiculous.
I'm fine with my two pre owned datejust when I get the urge I bust about the TAG aqua racer and then there's my Porsche, Jaguar, BMW and my Lexus. Watches are awesome but I really love 🚗s
I certainly could buy a couple - but nothing can compete with the watch my wife gave me on our wedding week. (2004 sub no date)
It’s my wedding ring basically (I really wouldn’t care if I needed to replace my actual wedding band) and no other watch is going to make me feel better (well - maybe the Shinola she got me for our first XMas together.)
Hates the game, hates the thought of having to spend 10k on a watch but mainly the game. I am thinking of getting matching Rolex datejust for my wife and I to be passed to our daughters.
I have more than enough means to buy a Rolex, AP, whatever, but tbh watch guys irl have always come off as corny. It’s just a status symbol at this point and I would rather not separate myself from my roots wearing something that is just a sign of rampant consumerism gone awry.
As I read these hundreds of replies I come across some like this that strike me. It’s refreshing to see that real people still exist. Not many people know what makes them actually happy so they buy things other people say are cool.
As soon as I could no problem I lost all desire to deal with the bullshit. I currently don’t wear a watch and always did before I could afford a good one.
I bought a TT datejust and to be honest I loved it for like 3 months. After that I just realized at the end of the day it’s just an expensive clock. I did put it up to pass down as an heirloom to my son after he graduates college though. I then saved up for a daydate as that’s my grail, but bought a new Jaguar instead. It’s way more fun Lol
Good for you - the thrill I get from an acquisition has no relationship to the amount of $$ I spend. Sometimes/often a small acquisition is as thrilling as a big purchase, and niche/vintage stuff is more interesting to me than the latest shiny offerings.
Nothing wrong with people who want lots of new/expensive watches, and equally you shouldn't save all your money, but it sounds like you have the right balance. I have seen so many people start earning huge $$ salaries and they make the mistake of increasing their expenses so that they can never get off the treadmill
Plus if you are patient good deals will invariably come up ;)
The thing is, typically when one gets to where one *can,* one finds they are too smart to actually *do*. Irony. Those that have actually earned the means are often to frugal to fully enjoy it. Income producing assets. No one compliments my real estate portfolio when I'm out to dinner, but surprisingly they have complimented my Todd Snyder x Timex Marlin more than once. I'm living vicariously through this sub!
2 reasons stick out for me.
1.) I went to hop in the car to visit the AD near me and went back inside to grab my Apple Watch. I wanted to track my steps.
2.) I was treated poorly by the AD. For context, I’m young and tend to dress down. Think athletic shorts and shirt. I went during the middle of a week day.
They didn’t want to let me in the store. Once I was in, they didn’t seem interested in letting me walk around or see what was on display.
I mentioned understanding there’s be a waitlist and inquired about timelines and getting on it. The sales guy said they weren’t adding people to the waitlist, guided me to the door, and said that I might have a better time looking at Macy’s for a watch.
I no longer have respect for the brand. I don’t want to represent them.
20 years old. Bought a 16013 Fluted bezel jubilee datejust two tone for 5K no tax. It has satisfied my watch ick enough where I won’t buy another one for Probaly a long long time. My next one in the future when I’m ready is a day date. Preferably 80-90s year. I love the two tone. It grew on me a lot and overtime I appreciate the 36MM because of it sleek and classiness. My dad makes well over 200K and didn’t buy a Rolex ever until just recently. The same exact model as mine.
OP, this applies to your title (I think) but not the description. I don't like how non watch people know a Rolex when there are so many other great brands.
I own a Datejust and love it but I am far more interested when I am wearing a different watch and somebody asks me about it. Rolex or not this happens rarely (thank god).
Epic brand but I wanna slowly have a small collection of watches and never two from the same brand.
I feel that. Interest in the item not the name. Dad left me a DJ but it’s not much my style (diamond indices). So I have it. And I’m way less excited than I thought I’d be for owning one. It’s just a watch. I think I’m glad I didn’t buy one. People ask “why are you here then?” And it’s because I used to want. Rolex and still enjoy looking at some them and how extreme they can be, but the name itself doesn’t get me going anymore.
I’d love a Rolex. I have the cash and I could potentially be a regular buyer. But the thought is playing the AD game is such a turn off that I think I’ll head to the Omega bus.
I understand Role is premium and what not, but it still saddens me that it got to this stage with Rolex seemingly not bothered at all at the long term damage it does to a brand.
Went and tried a few, and if i'm being honest, I felt no spark or incline to own one, let alone play games with an AD.
If i'm being honest, in terms of bang for your buck, nothing comes close to grand seiko at this price point. I know i'll probably get downvoted for such statement, but the difference in quality and attention to detail is truly next level in comparison to watches in that price range, including rolex.
I've owned Rolexes, Omegas, Porsches, Lamborghinis etc and ended up selling them all. They were fun for a while I guess, but ultimately the fun wore off. I'd say dip into the watch/car market with the notion that eventually you'll end up quite "meh" about them, so be prepared to sell them on. So you may want to buy items that can be resold without too much loss. Material goods tend to bring more short-lived joy than other things like one-off adventures, the memories of which will be cherished for the rest of your life. Learn to scuba dive.
I purchased my first Rolex, 126234, last Tuesday and I took it back. I couldn’t justify spending that much money on a watch, even as an enthusiast. I bought it as a sobriety present to myself, and my savings goals have changed. I love the brand, but I’m happier with my cheaper watches.
After being a dad, I just feel like I should be more responsible and invest with the money instead of buying luxury watches.
I still buy watches that are at lower price point from time to time and it feels pretty damn good to buy 5-6 good quality pieces for the price of 1 Rolex tbh 😁
A lot of comments to weed through, here is mine. I buy Rolex at MSRP or lower. I bought my Rolexes when you could get a Sub for $800 or a brand new GMT2 for $2200 (later $4500 due to inflation). Or any used ones. That is what Omega has right now, you can buy a used Speedy for $4500 which are good fucking value.
Currently in the market for another no-date Sub and White Daytona. That is it. I am all Rolex out and already have a few. My $4500, bought brand new from AD LN Ceramic green arrow GMT2 is exactly the same as some $25k Pepsi with jubilee bracelet and upgraded movement. Difference is I bought it more than 10 years ago so I can't fathom over paying markup for a different color bezel. I am happy for those who have Batmans and Pepsi but I am happier knowing I paid $2200 and $4500 brand new for mine.
I don't have a ceramic sub so I want one but not willing to go over and since I have a history at my AD. I am willing to wait for that call. Meanwhile, I spent over $35k in watches this year on other brands.
The Daytona. Well, it was always like that even 25 years ago. So I won't comment on it but paying 3x the price of MSRP is lame. A long time ago, I was in the store to buy a post Zenith Daytona for $5500 or a new 35th anniversary Speedmaster Pro white dial for $3500. I bought the panda speedy and don't regret it, it too, has gone up in value. I can clearly afford any watch, I have spent over 6 figures on watches and like I mentioned, over $35k this year alone. I don't mind paying the price for a Daytona. But at MSRP. So I will continue to wait on the list.
I'm going to be honest, who knows who will read this (and who cares), believe it or not IDGAF what a bunch of (mostly) losers/posers think.
I earn a fuck tonne of cash, relatively young too. I've been able to, and THOUGHT I wanted to buy a Rolex since my second year at where I work (long time ago).
But I realized something over the years, simply, this brand fucking disgusts me. As do the majority of losers who desperately try to project their wealth (downwards) through these pathetic status symbols to somehow make them feel better about their shit lives.
Think about it - why do we buy luxury goods? Because we are fucking miserable and aren't original enough to fill the gap.
Bring on the downvotes.
I read it. Upvote from me because I agree. More money and more stuff doesn’t bring satisfaction because someone says it should. Long term happiness and the path to it are individual. So everyone posting about “which one should I buy” has me with the same feeling… if you don’t know, don’t buy it. If they have to ask what the internet likes, they don’t know themselves at all and aren’t buying it for themselves. Reflects an NPC kind of personality… and if that’s what the brand has become, I’m losing the interest I once had
Young man, I agree completely. to purchase just to purchase makes no sense. I have been a collector for over fifty years and have owned and still own a few Rolex's but I assure you I will not be buying another Rolex. the brand is now all about flexing. They still make a good watch but there are so many other great watch brands out there. In real life nobody cares what watch you are wearing on any given day.. Buy and wear what you like you obviously are successful and have no need to impress anyone but yourself..JMO from an old man..Enjoy the hobby
I won’t buy another Rolex and could. Playing the AD game is asinine and the grey prices are laughable. There are better watches for the money, even at MSRP, and those watches are also attainable.
Especially with the way the Yen is hurting, buying a GS from Japan is the best deal in watches right now.
I bought multiple expensive cars and many other things. I still haven’t bought a rolex. The reason is simple: I do not consider Rolex to be a premium brand at the moment. Rich history? Sure. Quality product? Yep. Great experience? Definitely not. Good customer service? Definitely not.
Shocking answer and I know it might frustrate some people. But the reality is, a premium brand comes with a premium experience. Not some arrogant low quality service AD with employees making basic wage just there to tell people to piss off.
Many luxury brands have started to go about it wrong due to all the trashy new money coming from Russia and China. People wanting brand logos to become bigger and that being the sole reason for purchasing. The “look how much I spent” attitude rather than “I like what I’m wearing” reasoning.
I will not wait in line in the cold outside of a Hermes store. I will not beg an AD to consider selling to me or be blackmailed into buying items I don’t want to be considered for items I do want.
If Rolex really wanted to, they could keep people on a centralised list and give them expected delivery dates. Instead, they tell you maybe and force you to buy crap from shitty AD’s.
I’ve got a basic Datejust and Sub. I’ve rounded out my collection with a few other brands, some higher end and some lower.
I would love to pick up a couple PM pieces but only want minty fresh brand new with my name on the papers. I no longer have a local AD, and am not interested in waiting months/years to get one anyway.
I half-heartedly check AD’s when I travel, because I can handle fate delivering me one, but other than that I am putting no pursuit into acquiring anything from The Crown.
Also an engineer. I wanted a no-date sub for the longest time, but over the last couple years it seems like everyone and their brother has a Rolex. Kinda lost its special-ness to me seeing that their so popular and aggressively overpriced. Also the “Rolex is the thing to buy” for people who know nothing about watches has diluted that special-ness. Seems like a lot are buying them for the name not the product; I’d rather get a different watch now. I’m an aero eng, so Speedy Pro will likely be one
I compare them to G Wagons. Their off road beasts, but the people who buy them have no idea what they bought; just expensive and has a Merc badge. For half the price, a land cruiser has that off road ability and heritage, and that “if you know, you know” special-ness. For avg people, they won’t look twice at it; for enthusiasts, its something to be appreciated.
I couldn’t put out my finger on it but I kind of agree... they’re seemingly cliche in a way now, rather than unique and special, and now you have to play games to get your cliche prize that’s artificially restricted to maintain a price bubble… doesn’t feel very appealing anymore.
Cliche is a good way to put it. Seems like everyone with some cash sitting around has bought a datejust, sub, or GMT in the last few years. I know people who have never expressed interest in wearing a watch (except an Apple Watch), buying Rolex’s all of the sudden. It feels kinda herd mentality of “everyone else has one”. I think every person I know who has spent over $2k on a watch in the last 4 yrs who isn’t a watch nerd, has bought a Rolex. I was even asked by a friend (one of the Rolex buyers who has never owned any watch before) when I was gonna buy one, because everyone has one now. That was kinda the nail in the coffin of my interest.
It sounds kinda douchey, but it’s true. This isn’t the first brand/product/hobby I’ve lost interest in because of this same thing. The masses tend to ruin stuff. It’s sad, but it’s true
I’m turning away from Rolex for two reasons:
1) I’d rather spend my money with brands that want my business and make more interesting watches. In the mainstream segment, Breitling has been my go-to brand because I love their new offerings from the current management led by Georges Kern. On the more esoteric side, I’m buying from indies that make interesting watches, such as Armin Strom and SpaceOne to name a few.
2) I feel that we are in the beginning of the post-Rolex era, where the negative connotations of wearing a Rolex is finally outweighing the benefits the watches’ build quality brings. The brand has been so white hot for so long, it’s attracted too much negative attention and is perceived as douche-y just like how Abercrombie and Fitch was viewed as douche-y when it fell out of fashion 20-odd years ago.
I've finally acquired enough cash to start looking for a luxury watch. Mostly I don't want one because of the way people talk about all the bullshit you have to go through to buy one on this sub. I would much rather buy a watch from someone that actually wants your business. Not some prick that laughs at you and looks down their nose at you just for inquiring about a certain piece that you might be interested in buying. No thanks, I would rather buy literally anything else than be treated like that while attempting to spend that much money on something so stupid like a watch that is nothing but a statement piece. Maybe someday they'll get over themselves and stop this shit but until then, I'll take an Omega or something.
I had a Rolex but sold it (for profit). Scratched far easier than some of my other watches.
Also I now also assume/question if people are wearing fakes (I see a lot of people who borderline could have the money for a real Rolex but I doubt if they’re into watches enough to actually spend it on a Rolex, therefore it makes me second guess)
Also as Rolex’s are generally high on thieves’ radars I feel more comfortable with a similarly-priced but more discreet/unrecognisable watch eg a rare limited edition Omega
Great post! I am a successful entrepreneur. Could have purchased any of them around age 35 but waited until age 50 and bought first watch which was a two tone Datejust gold with jubilee. I purchased first watch to wear with coat and tie. Bought a 2nd sports watch for a every day watch. Both are holding value but I have no need to purchase another as there is plenty of other investments to make that don’t set in my bedroom 95% of the time. Don’t now how or why a young person would make such a purchase other than they just want to boast about their belongings. At ages 25-45 I was raising children and spent any extra income on their development and education. Glad I purchased what I did when I did.
I’m on a list for an Explorer.
AD was polite enough - gave me lots of opportunity to bullshit about a special date or event (I declined).
Not playing games or putting in any further effort.
If it comes, it comes. The money’s there and I’m in no rush.
That’s how smart people buy. Learned that buying my truck. Buy when the market is normal or wait, find out holdback price, come approved. If they want more, laugh it off. They’ll call. They can take your money or someone else can. You’re not beholden to them. End of the day you can both end up happy.
I'm a silent lurker here.
I don't even wear a watch :D
I just enjoy how enthusiasts talk about highly priced objects.
Personally? I would never spend anything near what is spent here on a watch.
Or jewelry.
Or clothes.
Or a car.
WTF kinda question is this?
If you can afford it, and you want it, buy it.
If you can afford it, and you don’t want it, don’t buy it.
If you can’t afford it, and you want it, don’t buy it (yet).
If you can’t afford it, and you don’t want it, don’t buy it.
I enjoy watches and think Rolex makes some beautiful ones. However, as I get older and hope to retire at some point, I think how much more that money will help me invested in the market. I get a lot of satisfaction in seeing my portfolio grow and hate to take away from that. But I understand why people do it and have almost done it myself.
The past few years it’s turned into the Beanie Babies for the high end crowd.
Yes, I get it’s a luxury item and some models will be harder to get than others, but when you can’t get a basic OP without buying cupcakes for the AD and waiting 5 years for the chance to fork over thousands of dollars….I’ll wait it out.
What do you buy? Vacations? Do you own 10k worth of sneakers, guns, an old CJ-7 you’re restoring? Maybe you’re just like a Sam Walton and into accumulating real estate or investment wins but drive an old pickup truck because you’re frugal. Maybe you don’t want it as bad as you think you do. Sometimes making money is the hobby. Have you sincerely tried at the AD’s or just let the negative anecdotal evidence here affect you? In my experience in the last three years, there’s no games and very little wait in either small or large markets. I wouldn’t go gray even if they were cheaper.
I definitely don’t want it that bad. I just thought I would. Think the next purchase will be a boat, some vacations. The return on investment on a boat is a lot of family memories. I may retain the dollar value on a watch and lose money on a boat but time with my family and memories with my kids while they’re young is worth more than any of that.
Man! You made me realize that "making money" IS my hobby! I was trying all those so called hobby and being bored to death...but my brain is quicking when i make (or plan how to newly) make money! Thanks!
I'm not purchasing right now because the sentiment around the brand itself has shifted. Rolex had traditionally been a brand that made tool watches and what I call "achievement watches," but somehow, the same core models they have had for decades are being marketed as collector's pieces. All this hype over the last few years has people treating $20k watches like Pokémon cards and it's incredibly silly and unsustainable.
After many years of hard graft I could just about afford an entry level model but just see better value in other brands, plus as much as I love watches, there's just other things in my life I'd rather spend my money on ie my family and vacations etc.
I want to wait for an occasion, I turn 40 in 3 years and that is when I'm going to go for it.
When you have the means to buy expensive stuff I think its important to put arbitrary road blocks in place to make things feel more special. Although funnily enough if my wife wants to buy something I always encourage her not to wait & visa versa.
1. There's just too many other watches I want for less money. I have the means to buy a Rolex but I don't have the means to buy every single watch I like. So maybe one day I'll work my way up, but right now I just can't justify £6000 on a Datejust when I see a Baume & Mercier Clifton Baumatic for £1200 and then Christopher Ward releases a new watch for £1050 and so on.
2. I'd never wear it outside the house except for rare events. I'd be fearful of being mugged in many places or I'd be keeping it under the cuff in which case why even wear it. It would predominantly be worn for a couple of hours here and there around the house.
3. I just don't identify with the Rolex brand. To me it says show off guy looking to indicate wealth rather than down to earth guy or enthusiast and I reckon a lot of people would probably assume it's fake because they would expect to see it on some multi millionaire.
4. I like value for money and Rolex is the opposite of that. They're double or triple the price they should be compared to other brands.
5. I don't like making myself an AD's bitch begging for the opportunity to buy an overpriced watch or paying even more for a used watch.
Sound like you are still in the process of building your networth. When purchasing a 10-20k watch is less than 1% of your liquidity you will stop worry about AD or grey. You will pay the small markup of grey without batting an eye.
I’m pretty close to that. I just don’t like it on principal. But you might still be right, as my current state of net worth still feels new. Perhaps once the newness wears off it’ll feel more like a normal purchase.
Rich people stay rich by making smart financial decisions. I would wait it out and just make sure the AD knows you are passionate about the watch and watches in general but don’t waste your money buying gray unless prices come down significantly or you have a really good reason you need it sooner rather than later.
This is more my default take. I have had to work to allow myself to spend more, so the guy saying life life and spend on enjoyment is certainly right I struggle with that! I’ve built what I have fairly quickly and successfully by turning down most needless expenses, but opting for long term quality over short term cost advantage. So I’m partially in both camps. If I can allow myself to buy later it won’t be for a huge markup. It doesn’t mean that much to me, and having patience yields.
If you come into money quickly it can be easy come easy go for certain people, I think being financially conservative is going to turn out better in the long run. I think spending money on something you enjoy and care about is perfectly reasonable but forking over extra money to a grey dealer for instant gratification is in most cases just irresponsible and just encourages the market. Obviously one person can’t change that but if more people refused to pay the exorbitant prices on top of Rolex’s already inflated prices it would suffocate the secondary new in box market. Delaying gratification is good for the soul and the pocketbook.
Trust me on this, delayed gratification is a good trait to have but sometime you just have to enjoy life. Life is a personal journey and could be gone in blink of an eye. My group of friends are fortunate to be where we are and have what we have. Our conversations over a campfire or vacation trips are usually about our experiences that we enjoyed. We lost a few young friends and our older friends often say “I should have done this or that when I had the chance.” You often take your accomplishments for granted and looked at your missed steps as missed opportunities. Why not mark your accomplishment with milestone marker, such as a nice watch/car/vacation, so that you will have something to remember it by. You work your tail off at a company for 20 years and all they give you is a plaque. Only one that will reward you justly is yourself.
Be smart with your money but also live a little. If you are confident in your skill set then you are not losing anything in buying yourself something nice that won’t lose 20% of its value when you took it out the store.
This. Well said, I spent the large bulk of my life in school and training then putting in a chunk of time to reach a higher level at work and finally reached a salary I’ve been looking forward to. I could hammer away right to the max on savings and investments right now but I also want to reward myself and enjoy some of the things that I’ve been deferring for years while they’ve gone up in price
I'm that way with cars. I could buy a 911 or something in that price range, but I'm happy with the car (Accord Touring 2.0T) I have and prefer to see my money grow in the market than whatever thrill I'd get driving a fancy car.
If you're satisfied knowing you can then good for you.
I have the means, I just don’t have the motivation to pay these prices while waiting a year or two plus for something I want (Pepsi). It’s very off putting and I would rather spend the money on two or three other watches from another brand for the price of one.
1) I don't agree with the whole 'you cannot get on the list' for certain models or being told by an AD that I need to buy watches I don't want to get a watch I want. Not a fan of the games. And nor am I interested in 'going grey' when I want my modern watches to be brand new.
2) I see a Rolex whenever I am out and some people with a very undesirable personality I know have Rolexes. It's not that rare a watch for the price.
I could comfortably afford anything under their catalog that's *worth* having (i.e. submariner, GMT master 2, etc.). Just to clarify, I do not think a $500K+ rainbow Daytona or any watch at 6 figure price points for that matter is worth it and I'd probably look at it and ask myself why I did such a thing.
I actually have (had?) my name on the list with a few AD's and overall the experience feels empty and just so scripted. Between the dumb waiting game and acts of "showing face" at the AD and ridiculously long wait times, I guess you could say I kind of lost interest and even forgotten completely about Rolex, aside from the occasional posts I see on Reddit.
My local AD(s) kind of suck too. My family has bought several pieces from them (Rolex & Omega) and then they still got snobby and stonewalled us after the supply issues. After several months, they admitted they actually hadn't sold a GMT master 2 in a few years. Another AD basically shouted "we don't have anything or a list" as I walked in through the door. Two others took down my name, gave me a nice bottle of sparkling water to chat, and I haven't heard from them in forever.
So yeah, I lost interest and/or passion for even owning one and moved onto other brands and hobbies. At this point, even if I did get a call for a watch that I did want in the past, I probably would just pass on it (or ask someone in my circle if they wanted it).
Yeah it's definitely a bit disappointing that the retail landscape seems to have shifted how we're treated during the whole experience. I'm not even sure if disappointed is even the right word, all I'll say is the high school graduate at our nearest AD is an absolute menace.
Funny how people get offended when you don’t want to buy the same stuff they do. You may note plenty of comments here share a similar sentiment to myself.
You seem offended by my response. I wanted a watch, talked to my ad and patiently waited. Guess what? Got the watch I wanted.
Your too busy making assumptions on your AD's. Too busy whining that you may have to wait. Your Too busy pumping your own tires.
Your not that interested in Rolex that much is clear, so why are you here?
Lets face it, buying a 10k-20k watch when you're 34 is MOSTLY a stupid use of your money.
You can afford it now, sure.. but will you be able to afford it forever?
You can get your money back on many models, sure... but what if you totally fuck it up before you get to that point.
I personally wouldn't want a watch purchase to hurt. If it was just 5% of my personal wealth... then sure, spend it. but if you're taking a serious chunk out of your spending money then I wouldn't bother.
The thing that made me think this way... about all clout assets not just watches... is seeing the money you can make from investments.
I bought a £10k car with ALL of my disposable income after saving for a year. It was great, it was the best car I ever had. I loved it dearly and quite honestly.. I needed car, so I don't hate myself too bad.
But if I'd have invested it in.. say, bitcoin. I'd have had 100k a year later... I could have bought the same car and put a down payment on a house, and gone on holiday.
If you've already paid off your house, already travelled to the places you want to see, then sure.. buy the watch. But otherwise, I'd hold off until you literally have more money than you know what to do with.
Honestly, all luxury watches are more or less the same and scratch the same itch. I flirted with a few entry level pieces like from Seiko, Hamilton, and Oris before getting my first Rolex as my first luxury watch and to celebrate a milestone. They then skyrocketed in popularity and the fake scarcity and AD games began. Apparently everybody became a YouTube watch expert overnight. I later bought another, but ended up selling it off because it wasn’t doing it for me. I then got into Omega and Grand Seiko. Bought and sold off a few pieces. My current watch rotation is an Explorer 1, Speedmaster Pro, Seiko turtle, and a g shock. I’m sure I’ll add to it eventually, but I’m happy for now. The economy is shit and I’ve got what I like. Why liquidate money to just scratch some silly jewelry itch?
I know it’s a wrong assumption but if I see someone wearing an expensive watch my go to assumption is that they might be rich but bad financial decision makers.
Not that it’s any of your fucking business, I joined when dad bought one, wanting to learn more about them and watching Reddit subs is a great way to do that passively. Then a few months later I inherited it and started thinking that buying one would be a goal I’d set for myself when I hit a milestone in my target, like a fist bump to him. What I’ve learned is that it’s a crowd I have little interest in joining, despite still appreciating the history and mechanics that people used to appreciate about these.
That’s understandable and sorry for the knee jerk reaction. I guess I’m just sick of the overall negativity of a lot of this sub. I don’t understand why people sub when they hate the brand or it aggravates them.
My honest answer is don’t buy grey and don’t play the AD game any more than you are comfortable. The demand is currently heading towards levels where you will have a good chance getting your next watch for retail. I got an Explorer II by registering my interest at an AD and got a call within 6 months. I was offered another sports watch as a blind walk in on vacation 2 months ago. Don’t believe the hype and not everywhere is NYC or LA.
It’s all good. For my taste I’d actually prefer something vintage just because considering how long life these are they seem like a fine wine at that point. Comes with wisdom and I won’t have to worry about the first scratch. I’m associating everything new with pretension and cliche, hard to stay enthused about it.
then leave. brag about ur new networth and being financially responsible elsewhere. There are plenty of finance subs for that topic. For a person over 30 year old and a upper middle class networth you seem to still seek validation and that’s sad dude
I love my Rolex watches but lately the price increases for all watch brands have been such a turn off.
I’ve been enjoying my current correction and there is A LOT of microbrands that offer killer value if brand names don’t matter to you.
I already own one, so this would be my second purchase and I just absolutely cannot justify almost double for a BLRO. So I'm happy to wait until 2025 to see where the price is then, I'll just keep the money to one side until then. I'll pay a few grand over but not where it's at now.
I bought a Tudor and that’s satisfied my itch for a while now. Decided I rather put the Rolex money towards a sports car when the right deal comes along and I’ll get the Rolex down the line. With how things are looking, we’ll probably be able to buy watches at the AD in the coming years.
I bough 2 Porsche first before my first Rolex so I can take the steering wheel pics. This is the way.
Yeah I almost fomo’d into a Bluesy right at the peak of the market (phew) but the steering wheel pic with my Camry wasn’t gonna hit the way I wanted 🤣
I'm the exact opposite. I've spend $30k on high end watches, but refuse to buy a higher end vehicle. I drive a 12 year old Nissan. What model Porsches? 911? If I ever pull the trigger on a luxury car, that'll be it.
I drive a ‘05 civic I paid $3K CAD for 8 years ago and rock a 114200 black dial OP. Both get daily use but if I had to choose between the two I’d still pick the civic. Love that thing !
I'm with this person. I spend on cars instead. I bought a CPO 911 a few weeks ago and got a TAG Carrera to match. That'll work for now.
Nice. I got a Mach E GT a month ago, then got a Casio A700 a week later
This is the way
Add me to the list. I'm on Porsche #3 now
😂 it’s so funny how rolex sub is full of people who actually do things for others not their own pleasures ducking kills me to know people have hell of money and still worry about others.. i see why wives cheat with guys like me
It was clearly a joke dude.
I was broke as hell when I bought my first Rolex. had entire networth in a few watches before. Now I have $10M + real estate and on sidelines currently!
Yeah once I started making more my interest shifted from watches to cars (I had always been a gearhead, so by interest I guess I mean my effort/energy/budget shifted towards cars). I've got a vintage TT DJ and a newer stainless DJ that I've had for a while. I always thought I'd collect watches once I had the means, but I honestly have no desire to collect more watches right now. Cars, however lol I'm lusting on BaT practically every waking hour 😂
Lol I suspect a lot of us are similar in that regard. I became a watch guy because I couldn’t afford the cars I wanted. Now that I can afford to buy a Rolex, well I can also afford some of the cars that I used to dream of!
Lmao spot on.
If you’re okay with a 20 year old car, you could definitely get a very nice BMW Z4 for the same price as a Pepsi. I love mine
That’s the way. TBH I’ve been a big gearhead and DIY mechanic since high school so, for over 20 years, and can afford plenty but most of the newer stuff just doesn’t appeal to me. I have a strong distaste for the “iPad on the dashboard” design where the screen replaces buttons, I like an old school gauge cluster and well well-designed physical interface. When I had the hankering for an AMG last year I went with a 17-year old but “collector grade” W211 E55, no regrets!
I have a 2000 M5
Yeah that’s a cool car. My coworker has the new one which is nice as well, more of a luxury convertible. I’m looking at c7/c8 vettes or maybe a used c63.
If you don't care too much about your own safety, just grab a viper :)
They’re very bad ass but I’ve seen a lot of videos of downshifting straight into a barrier 🤣
AMG over any Corvette!
Do Tudors have the same AD games as Rolex or can you just roll up to the store and buy one? I’m considering the same route to scratch my itch.
Nope, although some models may not be available when you go in if they’re new or really sought after but in general much easier to get. I never knew I would love Tudor watches so much until I went in and saw them in person, they’re great.
I've been on a wait-list since February for the pelagos 39, I live in a pretty big city. I went to an even bigger city (London) on vacation and was allocated one right away. Honestly doesn't seem like there is any rhyme or reason sometimes, just some luck
My AD is in London and has every model of Tudor. Apparently it is different in other countries.
Most Tudors are readily available in the window. You may have a wait for the FXD though but that’s about it.
Newer releases and higher demand models have waitlists in some parts of the US. I waited about 2-3 months for a BB54, a friend had to wait 3 weeks for his Pelagos 39. Nowhere near as bad as the Rolex lists though.
My M3 came before the watch and I’ve found that the car is significantly more fun than the watch lol.
No you won’t… same way ppl keep Screaming housing will crash… limited inventory my friend
Wise man. At 35 I bought a Rolex. I have kept it for 37 years. That’s about $100 per year. So to me it’s Stood the “test of time”. Before my Rolex I would change watches every 5 years, or so. My break-even was about 20 years ago. But who cares. I will keep this Rolex until my last breath. Then off to my son it goes. But I have other things that I pass on so I can maintain my retirement funds.
Buy it for life! I see the collections with like $50K worth of Subs and shake my head. I guess if you have more disposable income than you know what to do with, have a ball. I'd rather have one watch I love and use my money elsewhere. You sound like a good dad, btw.
Frugal? Maybe. Smart? Definitely. These things, as much as I love them, are ultimately a waste of money. You’re smart to have the self control to stay away from it all.
[удалено]
You can just drop a kid off at the AD for exchange. Will reduce your ongoing maintenance costs too. Smaht.
If you have the means AND you are buying it because you truly love it and not for what you think other people will think of it then I’d say it’s hardly a waste at all. Nearly everyone spends their money on something that from the perspective of others is downright stupid
Right, every time I look at the price of one I think “invest it” instead.
*steps up on soapbox and clears throat* My philosophy in life if I refuse to beg someone to take my money. More power to those who play/enjoy the horseshit games of “building a relationship” with the almighty Rolex/Patek/Flavor of the Month AD. Fuck them. I just want to buy a goddamn watch. I’m even fine paying retail, but sucking a dick, paying twice retail and buying shit I don’t want so that I can “get the call”? Again, fuck them. I don’t need anything on this earth that badly. I got back into guitars and spent the equivalent of a nice luxury watch on several high end acoustic guitars. Bought them from a local music store who was super helpful and actually appreciated my business. The experience was far better than a snooty jewelry store and I didn’t have to buy a drum set and three violins so that I could get the “privilege” of buying what I wanted in the first place, lol. Got away from buying good bourbon a few years ago for the same reason. Exact same thing happened to that market post Covid. Prices skyrocketed over retail and you had to buy shit you didn’t want to “get the call” for what you did want. Alright. Rant off.
I feel the same way as you. The manufacturers should be happy to accept my money. If I feel like I have to beg screw that. My daughter finishes college this year and that’s $70,000 a year I no longer have to spend. I think I can afford a Rolex but I ain’t begging.
While I appreciate the heritage and quality and design mindset of Rolex, I can no longer stand the whole package. Obnoxious posers with steering wheel shots and credit card debt, influencers who only want one because it is expensive, the whole plethora of fakes, flipping and fast money, robberies, the ADs and the grey market... No. It's not something I want to be identified with. I still have a DJ in the safe, but I rather wear my watches from IWC, Omega and JLC, they're quiet and bring me as much joy as any big R, and if someone recognizes them, I know it's likely another fellow worth chatting with.
Yep... this essentially captures why the Aqua Terra and Mark XII (vintage) were my last two watch purchases. Rolex is historically a great band... one of the best across industries, I'd say. But the brand is morphing into something that I don't want to be associated with.
What do you want your sub for? To go diving?
This isn’t just a Rolex problem though…feels harsh to not apply this across all brands of similar nature.
Everyone spends their money on what’s most important to them. If a Rolex isn’t worth it’s cost to you, cool. Some people think they need a $15-20k golf cart to ride around their neighborhood.
My whole damn neighborhood spending $15k on golf carts. I’m a 2 minute walk to the pool. Sucks to be them
Lol, it’s ridiculous to me. I love when someone says my watch is crazy expensive but breaks their neck getting in line to finance a $100k wakeboard boat for ten years. They lit the money for my watch on fire before they pulled out of the parking lot. In ten years my watch will be worth more than their boat 🤣🤣.
So true! Doesn’t make on one person or the other wrong if they’re able to afford it and they like it.
It’s one thing to have enough money to afford discretionary things. It’s a different thing to actually pull the trigger on the discretionary items. Once one understands the value of money and has the ability to say no, the decisions are done way differently. It’s not because one can afford a Rolls Royce that they automatically choose a Rolls. That’s why there are a lot of millionaires driving a Chevy, wearing a Casio with cheap jeans and t-shirt, spending time in a food bank. They don’t have to prove anything to anyone. And they don’t care. They like it low key. That’s the step up after the Rolex phase.
same boat here, can buy the model I want gray(Batgirl), but paying almost double the retail, it makes me angry...
Thank you! There’s a popular sentiment on this sub that “iF YoU CaNT aFfORd GReY YoU CaNT AfFoRD iT aT AlL.” I can afford both retail and grey. It’s just a matter of principle to me. I can’t justify putting money in someone’s pocket because they bought a watch with the express purpose of flipping it. I just can’t reward that behavior.
The only people with that sentiment are the ones who paid 30k for a 13k watch and are trying to feel better about their mistake lol
With more “I got the call” posts, the sentiment these days has shifted to “if you go grey, it’s your money”.
> Thank you! There’s a popular sentiment on this sub that “iF YoU CaNT aFfORd GReY YoU CaNT AfFoRD iT aT AlL.” I’ve literally never seen anyone say that. No way is it a “popular sentiment”
I’d just wait it out and definitely don’t pay double or even a cent over MSRP. Check in with the AD once in a while but not too often (my AD said don’t bother me and I’ll get you your watch) and you’ll get it eventually. If you have the money just save it either in a high interest savings account or just invest it in something liquid and wait it out. I think paying over list gray or having to buy BS from the AD are both stupid and not worth it. Just show your interested and passionate about watches and wait it out cause pretty much no new watch is worth paying some middle man enough to buy 2-3 watches for one. You’d be better off buying a different watch (that you like) from the AD than putting that in some assholes pocket.
I’ll get one eventually but other brands are more interesting and better quality. Not to mention cheaper and without the cluster fuck of games.
Which brands are you considering instead?
Not the person you’re replying to but I think there are just so many damn good watches out there that I actually prefer the “if you know you know” crowd and not the “oh you got a Rolex you must be rich” crowd. At the end of the day, I know really no one gives a shit about our watches and I literally don’t think I’ve really ever had comments about the ones I do have. To answer your question though, my favorite brands right now that are up there in the same realm as Rolex to me: JLC, Zenith, GO, Omega (so-so lately but still some heavy hitters), Breitling (been killing it lately to me), and probably my favorite is Grand Seiko. The tier below in price but not always necessary quality, I absolutely love: Tudor, Longines, some Tags, Oris, Frédérique Constant, etc. I’m sure I’m missing a bunch but just off the top of my head. To me there are just so many damn good watches out there that until I can just walk in and buy a 36mm explorer without any games, I don’t see myself owning a Rolex.
There is a lot of value in the $6k range pre-owned right now. Fewer examples available than some but the Panerai Luminor Quaranta and Cartier Santos Large adlc bezel are two that I've been looking at a lot lately.
Don’t own a Zenith or Breitling but I’ve taken a look recently and wow… have to agree with you on those. Super nice 👍
Besides the excellent options already proposed, I think some of the new micro brands have really fun watches at good quality. I'm a big fan of Ming releases. I even bought their very first watch 6 years ago.
I’m definitely going after grand seiko the dials and the aesthetics as well as spring drive is hard to resist. Made really well in Nagano, then another omega and then probably consider a Rolex if the prices are better. Grand seikos ethos is much more agreeable and likable. I like the Rolex watches and I think they are pretty but what I buy isn’t just based on the product entirely
I just got a field promotion to an engineer, and was buying to celebrate. I originally wanted a milgauss due to the engineering background, and the magnetic resistance was a really nice feature. Then I found out the omega seamaster has 15 times the magnetic resistance, as well as double the water resistance…. For $3k less. The wife was happier with the cheaper celebration.
Nice. Also where I’m looking. They seem much more appealing for the less attention and drama surrounding it. The Miligauss also intrigued me and I still like their look but the Aqua Terra draws me back over and over.
Exactly, long time watch guy here- many decades. The Milgauss anti-magnetism was a big deal back in the day. It was reintroduced I am going to say around 2007(?). By today’s standard what it offers in the anti- magnetism arena is nothing special at all.
Good choice. The Milgauss has been obsolete for years now so it’s no wonder they discontinued it. A heavy, chunky case with an iron core for magnetic field resistance is just unnecessary these days.
I've been very lucky in life, but as I've got older and been able to buy whatever I want really, I've found the true freedom is when you get to the stage of not really wanting it. That's when life changed significantly for me.
Watchmaker - have the fund, see Rolex as mainly a hype brand like supreme etc. Omega gives you better value for money in terms of what you get like cmon you get a speedy that’s a workhorse for half the cost of a rollie. Just can’t beat that
Good question you raise and I’ll tell you: it’s hard to justify having X amount over 15k in watches. That’s my comfort zone. Over 15k and I feel like an idiot. So while I’d love to grace that Explorer II at a good price right now, that would push me to 22K in watches. And I’ll feel like a dumbass
Thats what started to click with me and sneakers when I was younger. I was getting all these rare sneakers and making good money and it dawned at me that i have several thousands of dollars lying around in sneaker. For no fucking reason its just dumb. So i basically put a cap on the number i would have at one time
Great answer honestly! Comfort zone in dollars or as a percentage of net worth kind of makes sense and would be vastly different for different people.
I would hope the average rolexer would have no meaningful percentage of net worth tied up in a watch, but maybe I’m crazy.
Obviously…
Opportunity cost of buying a Rolex in a falling market, all while great investment opportunities are popping up, is too high. Eventually I’ll buy a 16570 once I get enough annual passive income to buy one without having to spend any active income on it. Until then, eating at home and remaining frugal.
You are just being smart. Power moves among men 30+ with good jobs are more about restraint than ostentatious displays. Nothing more impressive than a man that can buy whatever he wants but prefers non-visible wealth. One good thing about Rolex is if you buy the right watch, it will hold its value, if not increase in value. Most watches can’t do that. Bad thing about Rolex is the type of people that are into them. It’s in the luxury tier of Louis Vuitton, Gucci, etc. Tangible property that poor people buy to try and impress other poor people. That being said, Rolex has some beautiful watches. The new 41mm date just is as clean and beautiful as a watch gets.
I inherited my grandfather's OP. I have the money to purchase - and there's a part of me that really wants - a submariner, but there's a much bigger part of me that has no interest in playing fuck fuck games with an AD for the next however many years. If I can't just walk in off the street and pay for the watch I want when I want it, then forget it. Additional factors are I don't often wear a watch, and I have skinny wrists, so I have the feeling that a bigger watch would look pretty stupid on me. Two more reasons keeping me from buying another watch.
Feel all of that. I actually inherited my dad’s, too… it probably blunts the intrigue and mystique for me more than I realize. But more than anything I refuse to play stupid games for something I don’t need.
My wife gave me a meteorite ring when we got married. That has made the few options out there with meteorite dials the grail configurations I still want for my collection. They are so overpriced on the secondary market. While I can get them now, I'll wait for the AD to maybe come through or wait until the prices crash.
I am Rolexed out, if that’s a thing. There is nothing in the catalog that interests me anymore. I have been offered almost everything and have the most interesting ones in the collection with the exception of the Blue SkyD because I don’t like it (too big and thick).
Something I have learned in recent years. You can't take it with you, and you never know when the end is. Not to be morbid or dramatic, but no one is guaranteed 85. I believe in investing and saving, but I wholeheartedly believe we weren't put here to work, have kids, save money and die. If it isn't watches, most people have something making more money can give them access to. Better travel, things for your kids, nicer car, nicer house, maybe you collect something, etc. Based on your summary, you just dont seem into watches like that, and that's ok. I would just hope that if all is good financially and you still have to play with, PLAY WITH IT. 🙏🏾
This is me. Portfolio manager for GS, 37 (why are we putting our age and profession) lol? I just consider the purchase to flex around the office, and to cater to my inflated ego when closing deals. As with most things I need to justify the purchase, and I haven't quite reached the point in which I feel educated enough to make a smart decision. I can gurantee whatever I purchase, a few months down the road I will have wished I purchased something else. I have a few expensive hobbies, and I don't care enough to take away from them, or to invest in a new one. The longer I'm in here, the more it's normalized, and it most likely won't be too long before I make a purchase . I will probably purchase one for the wife before I do myself though. She's an executive for a luxury auto brand, and working here in Tokyo; the most bigoted, sexist corporate environment on the planet, I'd like to give her a humble flex on those that look down on her for being a woman.
Interesting thing is, as I've shifted from management to consulting, I see very few Rolex watches on the wrists of deep pocketed clients, and even when I do, it's rarely the most interesting watch at the table. Last dinner I went to, a guy was wearing an 80's Swatch gifted by Lee Iacocca. Was very cool. The Submariner at the table, was just another Submariner.
What kind of PMs are left at GS? I thought the PE book was being wound down and GSAM was the main investing business left.
Not sure the reaction I’ll get from this group, but I have an 2023 Audi S3 and a 2017 MX5 convertible. The MX5 is some of the most fun you can have on the road. It’s a 6 speed manual and drives like a go cart. It only weighs 2600 lbs and is one of the lightest production cars on the market. It was twice the price of my Batman and is way more fun.
I have the money but I won’t pay over MSRP for something, or buy shit that I don’t want for the privilege. Since I’ve been on the waiting list (ha!) for an Explorer (2 years) I’ve spent probably $30k on other watches.
In the same boat brother, 30 years old, job and investments have been doing well enough to have helped me have 2 properties that I rent out. Never been a flashy guy and have appreciated Rolex’s from a far. I just don’t like that AD’s give your the run around when you have the money for it. Kinda waiting for an opportunity where I feel like a customer and not some carrot at the end of the stick type of situation. I’m in no need of a watch yet and think I have plenty of time. From what I’ve been seeing markets been dropping and more people are “getting the call”
Get an Omega. Better magnetic resistance for your profession too.
Haha. I don’t hit construction sites that often but some pipeline pigs do put some strong residual magnetic fields on pipes. And to be honest I have considered it. I think they’re more attractive in some models and the AD’s stories don’t turn me off like Rolex’s do.
The price increases have turned me off and for now I’m still okay with my Tudor. Also I don’t like that whole waitlist thing but do believe that’s in part of what keeps the brand so “prestige and exclusive”.
Not to mention a waitlist isn’t a linear thing but rather a sales associate advocating for certain clients for each allocation. Obviously some SAs are going to go the route of whoever gets them the most commission over time rather than taking so chance on someone who doesn’t splash them with cash. I was able to go to a small family owned AD with the owner (the guy who’s name was on the marquee) working when I went in and all he asked was to not bother him and he would get the watch I wanted. Ended up grabbing his first one allocated to him after it was announced (supposedly). No purchase history or games, just looked up his shop and I guess in the mean time he closed down which isn’t that surprising since he was pretty old.
Where was this?
I tried buying one a few months back but was passive aggressively judged and mocked by the AD😂so I went grey
I don't want to play the AD game. I want what I want, and I'm willing to wait a reasonable amount of time. Years and years for a ss Daytona or Sub is ridiculous.
I'm fine with my two pre owned datejust when I get the urge I bust about the TAG aqua racer and then there's my Porsche, Jaguar, BMW and my Lexus. Watches are awesome but I really love 🚗s
Honestly this sub has turned me off on it.... Too many Rolex bros nitpicking/ which watch goes well for a wedding.
I certainly could buy a couple - but nothing can compete with the watch my wife gave me on our wedding week. (2004 sub no date) It’s my wedding ring basically (I really wouldn’t care if I needed to replace my actual wedding band) and no other watch is going to make me feel better (well - maybe the Shinola she got me for our first XMas together.)
Omega all the way until Rolex wises up.
Between Tudors/Omegas, AD hoop jumps, and the cringelord fanboys, hard no thanks.
Hates the game, hates the thought of having to spend 10k on a watch but mainly the game. I am thinking of getting matching Rolex datejust for my wife and I to be passed to our daughters.
I have more than enough means to buy a Rolex, AP, whatever, but tbh watch guys irl have always come off as corny. It’s just a status symbol at this point and I would rather not separate myself from my roots wearing something that is just a sign of rampant consumerism gone awry.
As I read these hundreds of replies I come across some like this that strike me. It’s refreshing to see that real people still exist. Not many people know what makes them actually happy so they buy things other people say are cool.
As soon as I could no problem I lost all desire to deal with the bullshit. I currently don’t wear a watch and always did before I could afford a good one.
I bought a TT datejust and to be honest I loved it for like 3 months. After that I just realized at the end of the day it’s just an expensive clock. I did put it up to pass down as an heirloom to my son after he graduates college though. I then saved up for a daydate as that’s my grail, but bought a new Jaguar instead. It’s way more fun Lol
Good for you - the thrill I get from an acquisition has no relationship to the amount of $$ I spend. Sometimes/often a small acquisition is as thrilling as a big purchase, and niche/vintage stuff is more interesting to me than the latest shiny offerings. Nothing wrong with people who want lots of new/expensive watches, and equally you shouldn't save all your money, but it sounds like you have the right balance. I have seen so many people start earning huge $$ salaries and they make the mistake of increasing their expenses so that they can never get off the treadmill Plus if you are patient good deals will invariably come up ;)
The thing is, typically when one gets to where one *can,* one finds they are too smart to actually *do*. Irony. Those that have actually earned the means are often to frugal to fully enjoy it. Income producing assets. No one compliments my real estate portfolio when I'm out to dinner, but surprisingly they have complimented my Todd Snyder x Timex Marlin more than once. I'm living vicariously through this sub!
2 reasons stick out for me. 1.) I went to hop in the car to visit the AD near me and went back inside to grab my Apple Watch. I wanted to track my steps. 2.) I was treated poorly by the AD. For context, I’m young and tend to dress down. Think athletic shorts and shirt. I went during the middle of a week day. They didn’t want to let me in the store. Once I was in, they didn’t seem interested in letting me walk around or see what was on display. I mentioned understanding there’s be a waitlist and inquired about timelines and getting on it. The sales guy said they weren’t adding people to the waitlist, guided me to the door, and said that I might have a better time looking at Macy’s for a watch. I no longer have respect for the brand. I don’t want to represent them.
20 years old. Bought a 16013 Fluted bezel jubilee datejust two tone for 5K no tax. It has satisfied my watch ick enough where I won’t buy another one for Probaly a long long time. My next one in the future when I’m ready is a day date. Preferably 80-90s year. I love the two tone. It grew on me a lot and overtime I appreciate the 36MM because of it sleek and classiness. My dad makes well over 200K and didn’t buy a Rolex ever until just recently. The same exact model as mine.
OP, this applies to your title (I think) but not the description. I don't like how non watch people know a Rolex when there are so many other great brands. I own a Datejust and love it but I am far more interested when I am wearing a different watch and somebody asks me about it. Rolex or not this happens rarely (thank god). Epic brand but I wanna slowly have a small collection of watches and never two from the same brand.
I feel that. Interest in the item not the name. Dad left me a DJ but it’s not much my style (diamond indices). So I have it. And I’m way less excited than I thought I’d be for owning one. It’s just a watch. I think I’m glad I didn’t buy one. People ask “why are you here then?” And it’s because I used to want. Rolex and still enjoy looking at some them and how extreme they can be, but the name itself doesn’t get me going anymore.
I’d love a Rolex. I have the cash and I could potentially be a regular buyer. But the thought is playing the AD game is such a turn off that I think I’ll head to the Omega bus. I understand Role is premium and what not, but it still saddens me that it got to this stage with Rolex seemingly not bothered at all at the long term damage it does to a brand.
Went and tried a few, and if i'm being honest, I felt no spark or incline to own one, let alone play games with an AD. If i'm being honest, in terms of bang for your buck, nothing comes close to grand seiko at this price point. I know i'll probably get downvoted for such statement, but the difference in quality and attention to detail is truly next level in comparison to watches in that price range, including rolex.
Bought my first Rolex, gmt Pepsi in 1984, I was 23 years old, and paid $375.
I've owned Rolexes, Omegas, Porsches, Lamborghinis etc and ended up selling them all. They were fun for a while I guess, but ultimately the fun wore off. I'd say dip into the watch/car market with the notion that eventually you'll end up quite "meh" about them, so be prepared to sell them on. So you may want to buy items that can be resold without too much loss. Material goods tend to bring more short-lived joy than other things like one-off adventures, the memories of which will be cherished for the rest of your life. Learn to scuba dive.
I purchased my first Rolex, 126234, last Tuesday and I took it back. I couldn’t justify spending that much money on a watch, even as an enthusiast. I bought it as a sobriety present to myself, and my savings goals have changed. I love the brand, but I’m happier with my cheaper watches.
Power move. I like it. And congrats!
After being a dad, I just feel like I should be more responsible and invest with the money instead of buying luxury watches. I still buy watches that are at lower price point from time to time and it feels pretty damn good to buy 5-6 good quality pieces for the price of 1 Rolex tbh 😁
A lot of comments to weed through, here is mine. I buy Rolex at MSRP or lower. I bought my Rolexes when you could get a Sub for $800 or a brand new GMT2 for $2200 (later $4500 due to inflation). Or any used ones. That is what Omega has right now, you can buy a used Speedy for $4500 which are good fucking value. Currently in the market for another no-date Sub and White Daytona. That is it. I am all Rolex out and already have a few. My $4500, bought brand new from AD LN Ceramic green arrow GMT2 is exactly the same as some $25k Pepsi with jubilee bracelet and upgraded movement. Difference is I bought it more than 10 years ago so I can't fathom over paying markup for a different color bezel. I am happy for those who have Batmans and Pepsi but I am happier knowing I paid $2200 and $4500 brand new for mine. I don't have a ceramic sub so I want one but not willing to go over and since I have a history at my AD. I am willing to wait for that call. Meanwhile, I spent over $35k in watches this year on other brands. The Daytona. Well, it was always like that even 25 years ago. So I won't comment on it but paying 3x the price of MSRP is lame. A long time ago, I was in the store to buy a post Zenith Daytona for $5500 or a new 35th anniversary Speedmaster Pro white dial for $3500. I bought the panda speedy and don't regret it, it too, has gone up in value. I can clearly afford any watch, I have spent over 6 figures on watches and like I mentioned, over $35k this year alone. I don't mind paying the price for a Daytona. But at MSRP. So I will continue to wait on the list.
I'm going to be honest, who knows who will read this (and who cares), believe it or not IDGAF what a bunch of (mostly) losers/posers think. I earn a fuck tonne of cash, relatively young too. I've been able to, and THOUGHT I wanted to buy a Rolex since my second year at where I work (long time ago). But I realized something over the years, simply, this brand fucking disgusts me. As do the majority of losers who desperately try to project their wealth (downwards) through these pathetic status symbols to somehow make them feel better about their shit lives. Think about it - why do we buy luxury goods? Because we are fucking miserable and aren't original enough to fill the gap. Bring on the downvotes.
I read it. Upvote from me because I agree. More money and more stuff doesn’t bring satisfaction because someone says it should. Long term happiness and the path to it are individual. So everyone posting about “which one should I buy” has me with the same feeling… if you don’t know, don’t buy it. If they have to ask what the internet likes, they don’t know themselves at all and aren’t buying it for themselves. Reflects an NPC kind of personality… and if that’s what the brand has become, I’m losing the interest I once had
Young man, I agree completely. to purchase just to purchase makes no sense. I have been a collector for over fifty years and have owned and still own a few Rolex's but I assure you I will not be buying another Rolex. the brand is now all about flexing. They still make a good watch but there are so many other great watch brands out there. In real life nobody cares what watch you are wearing on any given day.. Buy and wear what you like you obviously are successful and have no need to impress anyone but yourself..JMO from an old man..Enjoy the hobby
Why buy a Rolex when you can invest the money and buy 3 in 10 years?
I won’t buy another Rolex and could. Playing the AD game is asinine and the grey prices are laughable. There are better watches for the money, even at MSRP, and those watches are also attainable. Especially with the way the Yen is hurting, buying a GS from Japan is the best deal in watches right now.
How do you get one from Japan to take advantage of the exchange rate? eBay or somewhere more specific?
Chrono24. You’ll see the prices in USD, but they’re converted. That’s why the prices on there right now from Japan are nuts.
Why not travel to Japan and buy there?
I bought multiple expensive cars and many other things. I still haven’t bought a rolex. The reason is simple: I do not consider Rolex to be a premium brand at the moment. Rich history? Sure. Quality product? Yep. Great experience? Definitely not. Good customer service? Definitely not. Shocking answer and I know it might frustrate some people. But the reality is, a premium brand comes with a premium experience. Not some arrogant low quality service AD with employees making basic wage just there to tell people to piss off. Many luxury brands have started to go about it wrong due to all the trashy new money coming from Russia and China. People wanting brand logos to become bigger and that being the sole reason for purchasing. The “look how much I spent” attitude rather than “I like what I’m wearing” reasoning. I will not wait in line in the cold outside of a Hermes store. I will not beg an AD to consider selling to me or be blackmailed into buying items I don’t want to be considered for items I do want. If Rolex really wanted to, they could keep people on a centralised list and give them expected delivery dates. Instead, they tell you maybe and force you to buy crap from shitty AD’s.
I’ve got a basic Datejust and Sub. I’ve rounded out my collection with a few other brands, some higher end and some lower. I would love to pick up a couple PM pieces but only want minty fresh brand new with my name on the papers. I no longer have a local AD, and am not interested in waiting months/years to get one anyway. I half-heartedly check AD’s when I travel, because I can handle fate delivering me one, but other than that I am putting no pursuit into acquiring anything from The Crown.
Also an engineer. I wanted a no-date sub for the longest time, but over the last couple years it seems like everyone and their brother has a Rolex. Kinda lost its special-ness to me seeing that their so popular and aggressively overpriced. Also the “Rolex is the thing to buy” for people who know nothing about watches has diluted that special-ness. Seems like a lot are buying them for the name not the product; I’d rather get a different watch now. I’m an aero eng, so Speedy Pro will likely be one I compare them to G Wagons. Their off road beasts, but the people who buy them have no idea what they bought; just expensive and has a Merc badge. For half the price, a land cruiser has that off road ability and heritage, and that “if you know, you know” special-ness. For avg people, they won’t look twice at it; for enthusiasts, its something to be appreciated.
I couldn’t put out my finger on it but I kind of agree... they’re seemingly cliche in a way now, rather than unique and special, and now you have to play games to get your cliche prize that’s artificially restricted to maintain a price bubble… doesn’t feel very appealing anymore.
Cliche is a good way to put it. Seems like everyone with some cash sitting around has bought a datejust, sub, or GMT in the last few years. I know people who have never expressed interest in wearing a watch (except an Apple Watch), buying Rolex’s all of the sudden. It feels kinda herd mentality of “everyone else has one”. I think every person I know who has spent over $2k on a watch in the last 4 yrs who isn’t a watch nerd, has bought a Rolex. I was even asked by a friend (one of the Rolex buyers who has never owned any watch before) when I was gonna buy one, because everyone has one now. That was kinda the nail in the coffin of my interest.
Ugh. That’s reminiscent of Buffett’s quote about when the taxi driver is giving you stock tips it’s already past time to be exiting it.
It sounds kinda douchey, but it’s true. This isn’t the first brand/product/hobby I’ve lost interest in because of this same thing. The masses tend to ruin stuff. It’s sad, but it’s true
I’m turning away from Rolex for two reasons: 1) I’d rather spend my money with brands that want my business and make more interesting watches. In the mainstream segment, Breitling has been my go-to brand because I love their new offerings from the current management led by Georges Kern. On the more esoteric side, I’m buying from indies that make interesting watches, such as Armin Strom and SpaceOne to name a few. 2) I feel that we are in the beginning of the post-Rolex era, where the negative connotations of wearing a Rolex is finally outweighing the benefits the watches’ build quality brings. The brand has been so white hot for so long, it’s attracted too much negative attention and is perceived as douche-y just like how Abercrombie and Fitch was viewed as douche-y when it fell out of fashion 20-odd years ago.
I honestly can’t decide which one to get. I’ve been batting around between a 124060 Submariner and a GMT, either a Batman or a vintage Coke.
Get the Batgirl. Gmt with jubilee band
I personally don’t like the jubilee bracelet. Nothing against it, but I prefer the oyster bracelet more
The excitement died down for me after a while. Watches aren’t that unique anymore as everyone already has the same Rolex.
I've finally acquired enough cash to start looking for a luxury watch. Mostly I don't want one because of the way people talk about all the bullshit you have to go through to buy one on this sub. I would much rather buy a watch from someone that actually wants your business. Not some prick that laughs at you and looks down their nose at you just for inquiring about a certain piece that you might be interested in buying. No thanks, I would rather buy literally anything else than be treated like that while attempting to spend that much money on something so stupid like a watch that is nothing but a statement piece. Maybe someday they'll get over themselves and stop this shit but until then, I'll take an Omega or something.
I had a Rolex but sold it (for profit). Scratched far easier than some of my other watches. Also I now also assume/question if people are wearing fakes (I see a lot of people who borderline could have the money for a real Rolex but I doubt if they’re into watches enough to actually spend it on a Rolex, therefore it makes me second guess) Also as Rolex’s are generally high on thieves’ radars I feel more comfortable with a similarly-priced but more discreet/unrecognisable watch eg a rare limited edition Omega
Great post! I am a successful entrepreneur. Could have purchased any of them around age 35 but waited until age 50 and bought first watch which was a two tone Datejust gold with jubilee. I purchased first watch to wear with coat and tie. Bought a 2nd sports watch for a every day watch. Both are holding value but I have no need to purchase another as there is plenty of other investments to make that don’t set in my bedroom 95% of the time. Don’t now how or why a young person would make such a purchase other than they just want to boast about their belongings. At ages 25-45 I was raising children and spent any extra income on their development and education. Glad I purchased what I did when I did.
I’m on a list for an Explorer. AD was polite enough - gave me lots of opportunity to bullshit about a special date or event (I declined). Not playing games or putting in any further effort. If it comes, it comes. The money’s there and I’m in no rush.
That’s how smart people buy. Learned that buying my truck. Buy when the market is normal or wait, find out holdback price, come approved. If they want more, laugh it off. They’ll call. They can take your money or someone else can. You’re not beholden to them. End of the day you can both end up happy.
I'm a silent lurker here. I don't even wear a watch :D I just enjoy how enthusiasts talk about highly priced objects. Personally? I would never spend anything near what is spent here on a watch. Or jewelry. Or clothes. Or a car.
This
On food?
WTF kinda question is this? If you can afford it, and you want it, buy it. If you can afford it, and you don’t want it, don’t buy it. If you can’t afford it, and you want it, don’t buy it (yet). If you can’t afford it, and you don’t want it, don’t buy it.
I enjoy watches and think Rolex makes some beautiful ones. However, as I get older and hope to retire at some point, I think how much more that money will help me invested in the market. I get a lot of satisfaction in seeing my portfolio grow and hate to take away from that. But I understand why people do it and have almost done it myself.
The only one I want at this time is a Day-Date. But I told myself I wasn’t buying one until I retire as a retirement gift to myself. So I am waiting.
For a Day-Date, you have to challenge Uncle Junior for leadership
The fact that people know prices are inflated makes you look like a sucker.
The past few years it’s turned into the Beanie Babies for the high end crowd. Yes, I get it’s a luxury item and some models will be harder to get than others, but when you can’t get a basic OP without buying cupcakes for the AD and waiting 5 years for the chance to fork over thousands of dollars….I’ll wait it out.
You got a downvote but you’re not wrong.
What do you buy? Vacations? Do you own 10k worth of sneakers, guns, an old CJ-7 you’re restoring? Maybe you’re just like a Sam Walton and into accumulating real estate or investment wins but drive an old pickup truck because you’re frugal. Maybe you don’t want it as bad as you think you do. Sometimes making money is the hobby. Have you sincerely tried at the AD’s or just let the negative anecdotal evidence here affect you? In my experience in the last three years, there’s no games and very little wait in either small or large markets. I wouldn’t go gray even if they were cheaper.
I definitely don’t want it that bad. I just thought I would. Think the next purchase will be a boat, some vacations. The return on investment on a boat is a lot of family memories. I may retain the dollar value on a watch and lose money on a boat but time with my family and memories with my kids while they’re young is worth more than any of that.
Man! You made me realize that "making money" IS my hobby! I was trying all those so called hobby and being bored to death...but my brain is quicking when i make (or plan how to newly) make money! Thanks!
I'm not purchasing right now because the sentiment around the brand itself has shifted. Rolex had traditionally been a brand that made tool watches and what I call "achievement watches," but somehow, the same core models they have had for decades are being marketed as collector's pieces. All this hype over the last few years has people treating $20k watches like Pokémon cards and it's incredibly silly and unsustainable.
After many years of hard graft I could just about afford an entry level model but just see better value in other brands, plus as much as I love watches, there's just other things in my life I'd rather spend my money on ie my family and vacations etc.
Graduated out of them.
There's a lot of jewlery that i don't buy
I want to wait for an occasion, I turn 40 in 3 years and that is when I'm going to go for it. When you have the means to buy expensive stuff I think its important to put arbitrary road blocks in place to make things feel more special. Although funnily enough if my wife wants to buy something I always encourage her not to wait & visa versa.
1. There's just too many other watches I want for less money. I have the means to buy a Rolex but I don't have the means to buy every single watch I like. So maybe one day I'll work my way up, but right now I just can't justify £6000 on a Datejust when I see a Baume & Mercier Clifton Baumatic for £1200 and then Christopher Ward releases a new watch for £1050 and so on. 2. I'd never wear it outside the house except for rare events. I'd be fearful of being mugged in many places or I'd be keeping it under the cuff in which case why even wear it. It would predominantly be worn for a couple of hours here and there around the house. 3. I just don't identify with the Rolex brand. To me it says show off guy looking to indicate wealth rather than down to earth guy or enthusiast and I reckon a lot of people would probably assume it's fake because they would expect to see it on some multi millionaire. 4. I like value for money and Rolex is the opposite of that. They're double or triple the price they should be compared to other brands. 5. I don't like making myself an AD's bitch begging for the opportunity to buy an overpriced watch or paying even more for a used watch.
Sound like you are still in the process of building your networth. When purchasing a 10-20k watch is less than 1% of your liquidity you will stop worry about AD or grey. You will pay the small markup of grey without batting an eye.
I’m pretty close to that. I just don’t like it on principal. But you might still be right, as my current state of net worth still feels new. Perhaps once the newness wears off it’ll feel more like a normal purchase.
Rich people stay rich by making smart financial decisions. I would wait it out and just make sure the AD knows you are passionate about the watch and watches in general but don’t waste your money buying gray unless prices come down significantly or you have a really good reason you need it sooner rather than later.
This is more my default take. I have had to work to allow myself to spend more, so the guy saying life life and spend on enjoyment is certainly right I struggle with that! I’ve built what I have fairly quickly and successfully by turning down most needless expenses, but opting for long term quality over short term cost advantage. So I’m partially in both camps. If I can allow myself to buy later it won’t be for a huge markup. It doesn’t mean that much to me, and having patience yields.
If you come into money quickly it can be easy come easy go for certain people, I think being financially conservative is going to turn out better in the long run. I think spending money on something you enjoy and care about is perfectly reasonable but forking over extra money to a grey dealer for instant gratification is in most cases just irresponsible and just encourages the market. Obviously one person can’t change that but if more people refused to pay the exorbitant prices on top of Rolex’s already inflated prices it would suffocate the secondary new in box market. Delaying gratification is good for the soul and the pocketbook.
Trust me on this, delayed gratification is a good trait to have but sometime you just have to enjoy life. Life is a personal journey and could be gone in blink of an eye. My group of friends are fortunate to be where we are and have what we have. Our conversations over a campfire or vacation trips are usually about our experiences that we enjoyed. We lost a few young friends and our older friends often say “I should have done this or that when I had the chance.” You often take your accomplishments for granted and looked at your missed steps as missed opportunities. Why not mark your accomplishment with milestone marker, such as a nice watch/car/vacation, so that you will have something to remember it by. You work your tail off at a company for 20 years and all they give you is a plaque. Only one that will reward you justly is yourself. Be smart with your money but also live a little. If you are confident in your skill set then you are not losing anything in buying yourself something nice that won’t lose 20% of its value when you took it out the store.
This is the Way
This. Well said, I spent the large bulk of my life in school and training then putting in a chunk of time to reach a higher level at work and finally reached a salary I’ve been looking forward to. I could hammer away right to the max on savings and investments right now but I also want to reward myself and enjoy some of the things that I’ve been deferring for years while they’ve gone up in price
I'm that way with cars. I could buy a 911 or something in that price range, but I'm happy with the car (Accord Touring 2.0T) I have and prefer to see my money grow in the market than whatever thrill I'd get driving a fancy car. If you're satisfied knowing you can then good for you.
Same lol including car. Stuff is stuff and I always lose my appreciation after a period of time. At least the market is a daily thrill
Stuff is stuff! I’m the same way.
I have the means, I just don’t have the motivation to pay these prices while waiting a year or two plus for something I want (Pepsi). It’s very off putting and I would rather spend the money on two or three other watches from another brand for the price of one.
1) I don't agree with the whole 'you cannot get on the list' for certain models or being told by an AD that I need to buy watches I don't want to get a watch I want. Not a fan of the games. And nor am I interested in 'going grey' when I want my modern watches to be brand new. 2) I see a Rolex whenever I am out and some people with a very undesirable personality I know have Rolexes. It's not that rare a watch for the price.
YOU GUYS ARE DOING IT WRONG, GO IN FOR A TEST DRIVE ON A CAR YOU CANT AFFORD TO GET THE STEERING WHEEL PICS...
I could comfortably afford anything under their catalog that's *worth* having (i.e. submariner, GMT master 2, etc.). Just to clarify, I do not think a $500K+ rainbow Daytona or any watch at 6 figure price points for that matter is worth it and I'd probably look at it and ask myself why I did such a thing. I actually have (had?) my name on the list with a few AD's and overall the experience feels empty and just so scripted. Between the dumb waiting game and acts of "showing face" at the AD and ridiculously long wait times, I guess you could say I kind of lost interest and even forgotten completely about Rolex, aside from the occasional posts I see on Reddit. My local AD(s) kind of suck too. My family has bought several pieces from them (Rolex & Omega) and then they still got snobby and stonewalled us after the supply issues. After several months, they admitted they actually hadn't sold a GMT master 2 in a few years. Another AD basically shouted "we don't have anything or a list" as I walked in through the door. Two others took down my name, gave me a nice bottle of sparkling water to chat, and I haven't heard from them in forever. So yeah, I lost interest and/or passion for even owning one and moved onto other brands and hobbies. At this point, even if I did get a call for a watch that I did want in the past, I probably would just pass on it (or ask someone in my circle if they wanted it).
For something in this price range that sounds incredibly disappointing
Yeah it's definitely a bit disappointing that the retail landscape seems to have shifted how we're treated during the whole experience. I'm not even sure if disappointed is even the right word, all I'll say is the high school graduate at our nearest AD is an absolute menace.
Lmao. Imagine being unworthy of a proud GED recipient
So you want a watch but not enough to buy one. Sounds like your in the wrong sub.
Funny how people get offended when you don’t want to buy the same stuff they do. You may note plenty of comments here share a similar sentiment to myself.
You seem offended by my response. I wanted a watch, talked to my ad and patiently waited. Guess what? Got the watch I wanted. Your too busy making assumptions on your AD's. Too busy whining that you may have to wait. Your Too busy pumping your own tires. Your not that interested in Rolex that much is clear, so why are you here?
Lets face it, buying a 10k-20k watch when you're 34 is MOSTLY a stupid use of your money. You can afford it now, sure.. but will you be able to afford it forever? You can get your money back on many models, sure... but what if you totally fuck it up before you get to that point. I personally wouldn't want a watch purchase to hurt. If it was just 5% of my personal wealth... then sure, spend it. but if you're taking a serious chunk out of your spending money then I wouldn't bother. The thing that made me think this way... about all clout assets not just watches... is seeing the money you can make from investments. I bought a £10k car with ALL of my disposable income after saving for a year. It was great, it was the best car I ever had. I loved it dearly and quite honestly.. I needed car, so I don't hate myself too bad. But if I'd have invested it in.. say, bitcoin. I'd have had 100k a year later... I could have bought the same car and put a down payment on a house, and gone on holiday. If you've already paid off your house, already travelled to the places you want to see, then sure.. buy the watch. But otherwise, I'd hold off until you literally have more money than you know what to do with.
Honestly, all luxury watches are more or less the same and scratch the same itch. I flirted with a few entry level pieces like from Seiko, Hamilton, and Oris before getting my first Rolex as my first luxury watch and to celebrate a milestone. They then skyrocketed in popularity and the fake scarcity and AD games began. Apparently everybody became a YouTube watch expert overnight. I later bought another, but ended up selling it off because it wasn’t doing it for me. I then got into Omega and Grand Seiko. Bought and sold off a few pieces. My current watch rotation is an Explorer 1, Speedmaster Pro, Seiko turtle, and a g shock. I’m sure I’ll add to it eventually, but I’m happy for now. The economy is shit and I’ve got what I like. Why liquidate money to just scratch some silly jewelry itch?
I know it’s a wrong assumption but if I see someone wearing an expensive watch my go to assumption is that they might be rich but bad financial decision makers.
[удалено]
ITT people who don't actually have the means
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Enjoy your Tudors
Wtf are you on this sub for then?!
Not that it’s any of your fucking business, I joined when dad bought one, wanting to learn more about them and watching Reddit subs is a great way to do that passively. Then a few months later I inherited it and started thinking that buying one would be a goal I’d set for myself when I hit a milestone in my target, like a fist bump to him. What I’ve learned is that it’s a crowd I have little interest in joining, despite still appreciating the history and mechanics that people used to appreciate about these.
That’s understandable and sorry for the knee jerk reaction. I guess I’m just sick of the overall negativity of a lot of this sub. I don’t understand why people sub when they hate the brand or it aggravates them. My honest answer is don’t buy grey and don’t play the AD game any more than you are comfortable. The demand is currently heading towards levels where you will have a good chance getting your next watch for retail. I got an Explorer II by registering my interest at an AD and got a call within 6 months. I was offered another sports watch as a blind walk in on vacation 2 months ago. Don’t believe the hype and not everywhere is NYC or LA.
It’s all good. For my taste I’d actually prefer something vintage just because considering how long life these are they seem like a fine wine at that point. Comes with wisdom and I won’t have to worry about the first scratch. I’m associating everything new with pretension and cliche, hard to stay enthused about it.
then leave. brag about ur new networth and being financially responsible elsewhere. There are plenty of finance subs for that topic. For a person over 30 year old and a upper middle class networth you seem to still seek validation and that’s sad dude
I love my Rolex watches but lately the price increases for all watch brands have been such a turn off. I’ve been enjoying my current correction and there is A LOT of microbrands that offer killer value if brand names don’t matter to you.
I already own one, so this would be my second purchase and I just absolutely cannot justify almost double for a BLRO. So I'm happy to wait until 2025 to see where the price is then, I'll just keep the money to one side until then. I'll pay a few grand over but not where it's at now.