Buying Your First Rolex (Step-by-step Guide)
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- čas přidán 25. 07. 2024
- I made this video for a good friend of mine, but also for anyoine who is buying their first Rolex. I hope this video helps you even a little bit. And please, leave a comment with ANY questions you have, I will answer them. Also, if anyone has advice to add, please comment as well.
Thank you and enjoy!
And please subscribe!
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If you're here after watching a video by Watchfinder, Paul Thorpe, Austin Daniels, Watchbox, Bruce Williams, Teddy Baldassarre, Jenni Elle, Timeless Watch Channel, Roman Sharf, Timepiece Gentleman, Archieluxury, or any other great watch content creator....welcome. - Zábava
I walked into my local roped AD today. I explained why I was buying a rolex which is for a milestone in my life. I told her which model I was really interested in, the James Cameron Sea Dweller. She gave me a wink and took me into the sales suite. Brand new 2024 in one visit. No history. This is my first
"Milestone in life" story is the most played out, they've heard it countless times.
Good video. Very informative. I do disagree with one thing. Get on an AD list, wait the year or so, buy it at retail. It just takes some patience. And currently that’s the best deal you are going to get. IMO
I agree - I waited a year exactly to get my Explorer from the dealer and it worked out well. I originally wanted a datejust but it was not my style and after I tried on the Explorer I knew it was the watch for me!
Simple, classic and evergreen.
I would also say building a relationship with your AD, by talking to them as humans helps. They will get you your watch and they are also humans under a lot of pressure.
This video is incredible from start to finish I watched it twice to take thorough notes!📝
Thanks for having the time to share all your personal experience and to be honest and transparent. Thanks
I’m a new buyer, I can’t thank you enough for saying the questions I need to be asking.
I’m in the guitar community and I know little things can make the difference between a good guitar and a lemon
I follow most of the well known watch content creators and I think you’ve done an excellent job with your channel in terms of topics, substance and delivery. Kudos and keep it up!
Thank you 🙏 I really appreciate that!
Very good video. A lot of great advice that usually you don't hear. Great job!
A very valuable video. One of the best I have seen. Thank you
Just bought a 126334 and your video guided me through the whole process - thank you!!!
This is a quality video.. honest and informative. Thank you
I have always have been an analog watch guy, but also don’t have a ton of money. I have a Marathon GSAR (Quartz), but have recently been down the rabbit hole with wanting a Rolex. This video was super helpful! Thank you!
Very informative video and helpful in making a decision on my first Rolex.
Really love your honesty!!! I will ask exactly what u said thanks
Dude.....thank you!!! I'm looking into my first Rolex and this was very helpful. Tons of things I didn't think of and I do own some quality Swiss watches. Rolex really does change the whole process.
Great video! Very honest en perfect advice!
Very good information for like me who has a litttle information about rolex. Very appreciated ! Good work Bro
You have good words😂. So right in all your recommendations, and you say it right for the novice to understand. Thanks for helping those just starting in the watch community sir!
Great video thanks for this 🙏🏻 helps a lot
Great video!....I had my '99 16710 Coke serviced by Rolex after buying it new from an AD after 10 years of loving it. I did not like how the red on the bezel faded and it no longer looked like new, and in addition it had some scratches and a little scuff. It came back looking like new. New bezel, and all scratches and scuff gone. What could be wrong?....lol fast forward a decade and now I realize exactly what I did. Thankfully it was only the bezel that was replaced. It still has the original "Swiss" only dial and hands. But yeah, it got polished. Fortunately only lightly, but enough to have taken off the original beveled edge around the case. Since the service 13 years ago, it still looks like new and I love that. I don't wear it often because I am not comfortable waring a watch with that amount of value. Saved for wonderful occasions. Still wear it, just not a daily driver. I also advise getting on an AD list. But never compromise or buying something you don't love. Just my couple of cents to add. Cheers, Peace and Love, and great watches for all!
Great video, thank you.
This is so true !!! I went from an explorer 2 42mm polar dial to a SD43 to now currently happy with my 40mm bluesy.
Nice! I'm happy for you.
Ceramic or pre-ceramic bluesy?
@@DrRolexPhD I went with ceramic
Thank you for this video
Great video. Very informative. :)
that was a great blog i realy learned a lot thanks for the sound advice lol new fan HD NEIL AKA THE KRONK
I subscribed your channel because the way you speak and your facial expression really look like one of my best friends haha it's greatly appreciated for your advice 😁
Very well presented and great content.
Great advice!
Learned a lot! Thank u!
Great video, very straightforward. Makes Rolex feel less pretentious
Thank you 🙏
Blessed to be able to finally pick up my first Rolex a few months back!
Great point about polishing. It irks me that most grey dealers insist on polishing every piece that comes into their inventory without giving potential clients the option of whether they would want an unpolished piece or not. Furthermore, some dealers even go so far as to say you should not pester them with questions about polishing, as it is standard practice. I feel that polishing takes away from the life of the watch, as there is only so much metal you can remove. It should be saved for many years later when the watch has so much abuse that the owner cannot bear to look at it anymore.
I 100% agree with you. It bothers the hell out of me.
"Please don't pester us about polishing, it's standard practice"
Fuck that. You want me to spend thousands of dollars on a frivolous luxury item, but I can't ask any questions?
Whenever I get ANY resistance to ANY of my questions, I move on; not buying a watch from that dealer.
Lovely work mate. Ian from London
Great advice.
Thank you
Informative video overall. A couple things that werent touched on which im typically curious as to others thoughts.....How important do you deem things such as purchase receipt, white outer sleeve, cardboard/cover box, the main typical green box, user manual, warranty manual, warranty card, superlative green tag, hang tag, plastics, bezel cover etc. I feel like touching on everything that it typically comes with from Rolex directly are probably questions most people would be thinking when buying in the open market.
Great vid and very informative. Keep up the good work!! ;-)
Thank you Danny!
Hai hope you’re doing great I am owning my 1st explorer 2 black dial from AD . Now I am planning for another Rolex sports model which one will be great for value for money & future investments
Very very good video.
Thanks.God bless.
Great video ❤
12:46 " in my opinion, ok? but my opinion is right" hahaha amazing!
Thanks for the heads up, I purchased a Tudor and followed your advice. Keep the videos coming.
Thank you 🙏
Which Tudor did you get?
@@DrRolexPhD I purchase a Tudor Pelagos. I am just getting into luxury watches so I got as close to a Rolex as possible.
Fantastic watch. Did you hear about the new Pelagos? I heard it's coming out November 10. Let's see what the come up with!
@@DrRolexPhD yes very nice. I have since purchased a omega sea master 300 from a gray market dealer ( also following you advice) and now saving up for my dream watch the Rolex Submariner 116610LN. 🙏
Nice! I wish you the best. If you have any questions, lmk.
This was a very helpful video. Definitely opened my eyes to some important things to look for when shopping for any watch, let alone Rolexes. I’m about to buy my first, but I’m leery about pulling the trigger for fear that prices will continue to go down. Do you think now is the right time to buy used?
I think prices are healthy now. We are past the peak.
I love the oyster perpetual 41 with the green face it’s my dream watch but I can’t justify paying $7000 for it tho but I want it so bad
New horophile here. This was extremely helpful.
This video saved me 14k! I thank you that, you have a new subscriber :)
That's amazing!! I'm happy to hear that, and thank you!
How exactly did I save you 14k?
@@DrRolexPhD I wanted to buy a Sub, I asked some questions and after you vid, I asked if there is certificate, service card and if it's polished. The seller was kind enough to tell me that it is polished twice already but he has the papers. I passed on it.
Hi. What do you think about 2023 pricing? Will the prices of Rolexes fly up? Go down?
Great Video> I wanted a Rolex Sub back in 2010 and didn't buy it because i considered it too extravagant of a purchase. Boy did i make a mistake . I settled for something i was never truly happy with and ended up buying at 3 x the price.
Thank you!
Aghhh, that's heartbreaking.
Good advice on buying pre owned however it’s possible to buy a SS Rolex from an AD. I’ve recently picked up the new Submariner 124060 after a 5 month wait. Unless it’s super collectible, no way would I want to pay over inflated grey market price.
Excellent advice. I appreciate your precise and succinct style of speech. I'm about to purchase my First Rolex and I'm still unsure if I want a Yacht Master 37 or 40. My wrist is 6.5 inches in circumference and I have watches of all different sizes up to 42mm. I don't like that the 37 is sometimes referred to as a ladies watch.
Great Video. Very good advice. I have been looking at a 1966 GMT 1675 from a jeweler friend who brought it to me from his long time connection with a mid-west dealer. Nice looking. No papers. Couple other issues. The dots and hands have some nice patina, although was told that there was some minor water damage which gives me concern. Watch runs well. In addition, the Pepsi bezel does not seem to have the faded aging that one might expect from a 1966 where the hands and dots have some patina. Is that common?
My friend is going to bring it to a Rolex specialist he brings all his Rolexes to who will render an opinion. Obviously, based on your video, you would see some red flags but should I wait for opinion of the Rolex specialist or nix it? The so called perfect GMT 1675 can be very $$.
Thank you 🙏
Oh man, when it comes to REALLY vintage pieces like that, I'd be SUPER careful. If this Rolex expert can be trusted, then I'd wait for his opinion.
However, even if he gives it his blessing, you've gotta be ready to maintain that watch over coming years. Every little thing will be VERY expensive to fix. For example, if the Bezel turns out to be non-original, finding an original bezel for it will cost thousands of dollars. If the watch WAS water damaged and the movement has problems down the line, servicing it and finding replacement parts for it will cost thousands.
If the Rolex expert (Rolexpert) gives it a true, enthusiastic blessing, fine. If he seems reluctant at all, bail.
@@DrRolexPhDThanks for the response. As a follow up, the "Rolexpert" spent time on the watch today and gave it a 2 thumbs up. Everything is original. Tested and keeping great time. The slight corrosion on the hands occurred a long time ago and does not see it progressing. I had the choice between this '66 1675 or one of 2 1990 16710 one of which had a changed out bracelet. 1675 is slightly more $$. No papers but this seems reflected in the price. I think this 1675 is the call.
How would you say the market differs for ladies models? As a lady would I need a purchase history with a dealer to purchase new from an AD or am I stuck buying on the gray market too?
This video is very informative and I learned a lot for it. I'm very interested in purchasing my first Rolex and the knowledge that I have received from your video I will put to use. Thank you for making this video.
No problem, my pleasure! What do you have in mind?
@@DrRolexPhD I like the day date and the date just in yellow gold 36mm
Very nice. I think if you have the money, go for the Day-Date, as long as you don't live in a dangerous area. It's a dream watch of mine and I'm definitely gonna get one one day. Preferably Platinum.
@@DrRolexPhD I know In your video you say if you like a certain mode get it and if its too expensive wait and save up of it, with is why I like the day date and the date just. My question to you is which model Rolex do you recommend I first time buyer to get until they can get what they really want?
@@Jr-ev4zm honestly I think the Datejust is a great first Rolex, especially if you like the day-date form. If you want something more collectible, I'd recommend a GMT from between 1999-2007.
Buy what you like and wear it forever. I have been wearing mine everyday since 1985 (except during service visits)
Great advice. I actually get more comments on my 1969 Precision than any other watch in the stable.
Go figure....
Could you go over quick set vs double quickset? Ive been researching the 126333 with the two tone oyster band w stick dial. I was told this model was discontinued does that make the watch more or less valuable ?
How do you buy a Rolex online? I live in rural NV and have no dealer in my small community. The nearest city to me is Reno which has 1 AD. I want a watch to enjoy and wear on a daily basis. I know exactly the model, dial, and bezel etc that I want. I’m not going to flip or try and make money on it. Im buying a Rolex to wear and enjoy. For me a watch is jewelry. I’ll leave it to someone in my will. When I’m gone I want my sons to say “This is the one mom wore everyday and this one was for special occasions.” Your video was very informative…thank you.
What is a time grapher? How can you tell if the bracelet is the original one?
Great video. When you say a timegrapher do you mean asking the grey dealer to use it or for Rolex service centres to use it?
Asking the grey dealers to use theirs. When you're making your appointment with the grey dealer to see the watch in person, ask them to pop it on the timegrapher before you arrive, and have the results ready for you. Or, if you prefer, to pop the watch on the timegrapher WITH the grey dealer, to see the accuracy for yourself.
Please tell me know what is time Grapher? What do you need to know? Thanks
can you recommend a grey market dealer in the san francisco area? looking for 16710. thanks
Only thing I would add is ask yourself the question of holes? or no holes? I like to swap nato's/leather straps on my watches and holes are a must for me.
I am completely new to watch world. First time planning to buying a Rolex Can any one explain me in details what he says in 2:17 like I planned to buy Daytona model what not sure how to configure i like full gold but in Rolex they offer only 18ct i think they should atleast give 20ct i wish they come with 22ct and is there any pure black model in Rolex ??
The last time I was in “that itching stage” I went to a doctor, not a Rolex dealer. He had the crabs killed in a couple of days. No wait list either.
Hello Dr. Rolex, quick question do you know what is the best way to authenticate a Rolex Submariner 126610LN?
why do some Rolex watches from 1985 more expensive than some watches from 2006 or 2005? How do you determine the prices of a Rolex? is it by how old?
Just discovered your channel today. Good stuff! Any store in particular you recommend buying from in NYC?
Thank you!
In Manhattan, I'd recommend Element in Time.
On Long Island I'd recommend Collectors Coins and Jewelry, simply for their great pre-ceramic (especially Unpolished) selection.
@@DrRolexPhD I finally have the chance to buy a Rolex from an AD overseas. it's a black sea-dweller for $16,400... what are your thoughts on the price? Do you think this watch will appreciate?
@@joeysicily88 hey Joey. It's a great watch to own and wear, assuming you're a big enough guy to pull it off. Investment-wise, I wouldn't put too much hope in it. It's less popular than the Submariner and there are plenty of them out there. Buy it if you plan on wearing it, it's an amazing watch, but if it's for an investment, I'd pass.
How much should I pay for a used 41mm date just? Jubilee bracelet fluted bezel…. Stainless…. 2016 or newer??
Two tudors and a grand seiko...well my AD is happy
Thanks for sharing these valuable tips before buying a Rolex. I have 2 questions, if I am going to buy a used Rolex, how can I tell if the movment is in good condition? Also does Rolex charge you for polishing the watch if you bring it for service? Thanks
My pleasure!
1- it's not easy to tell if the movement is in good condition, but the #1 way to tell the health of a watch movement is to check the timegrapher results. Of course the Rate is important (how fast / slow the movement runs, in seconds per day), but so is Amplitude and Beat Error. If you learn what those two readings mean, you can tell the health of the movement. It won't tell you if the movement has replacement parts or if it's clean (not dirty), but for that, you need to buy the watch from a trustworthy, reputable secondhand dealer.
2- Polishing is including in the service fee at Rolex Service Center. They don't charge you extra, but you also can't JUST get a polish; you must service the watch in order to receive a polish.
I hope that helps, and good luck!
@@DrRolexPhD Thanks for the response. I guess I'll do some research into timegrapher equipment to understand the terms that you just explained. Also I'll likely bring my dad's old day date into Rolex Singapore for servicing soon. Just hope Rolex doesn't burn a big hole on my wallet for servicing. Haha
No problem!
There are many websites that break down timegrapher readings, here's one, for example:
perpetualwatchlover.com/blogs/nieuws/rate-isnt-everything-what-you-need-to-know-about-timegrapher-readings
Thanks for the link. Will read up! 👍🏼
Great channel, I really like it. Are you coming to WatchTime NYC event?
Thank you 🙏
It looks awesome and I wish I could, but I work on the weekends
@@DrRolexPhD I live in CT, maybe we can meet some other time. Great job with your channel!
I live in Fort lauderdale went to a AD got put on a list. She said it can take months even over a year, but she said ill be getting the watch. I told her the two I like the most GMT PEPSI OR BATMAN. But I couldn't decide which one. I told her which ever one becomes available that was tge one meant for me. She the also gave me two hard copy rolex books for free. Whats your thoughts, DONT HOLD BACK.
I was very lucky ,got my Rolex sub no date, 2014 got it new for a brilliant price 👍 but now its like £3000 more and a very long waiting list!
Awesome, don't sell it!
Good score
Never purchased from this new AD that I just met and ordered a DJ41 rolesor on September 22 2021 and just got a phone call today that I can pick it up Tuesday. I never spent a dollar with this AD. I called and had a conversation over the phone and we clicked. I told him I would be working on a Blue Face Sub rolesor hopefully within a few months. He told me just let him know when I'm ready.
Wow. That's awesome! Definitely the exception, not the rule. Also, two-tone pieces are decently easier to get, but still, good for you!
@@DrRolexPhD im sure if I tried my luck for a stainless or the Slate Roman dial on the DJ41 it would of taken much longer.
I'm assuming you recommend buying in your own city because of the need to see the watch in person before making a purchase?
Any recommendations of trustworthy dealers in the northeast? I'm based in Boston and I'm thinking of buying my first Rolex!
Is it true that it preserve its price across time like in gold or silver???or only rumours
Liked and subbed :)
Would buying from Europe with tax refund better ? Do those second hand dealer in Europe provide tax free too ?
Will a submariner date adjuat be valuable 50years down the line??
Prices be given with models nowhere prices are mentioned it Rolex no doubt no comparison it unbeatable top master
Yeah great advice for a newbie here, but one thing and you have mentioned this before about buying in your own city. The thing is a lot of people do not live in cities where there is an abundance to choose from, if any at all. My advice in this case is to buy from an established online dealer with a brick and mortar store who give no questions asked return policies. Maybe Crown and Caliber or Bob's. A new buyer should be able to examine the watch; hopefully with someone who actually knows what to look for and ideally needs to be able to take it to a watchmaker or an AD who will verify the parameters they are looking for. Regarding the timegrapher they should know what numbers to be looking for if and when they are shown them. Make sure to be aware of things like amplitude and not just + or - seconds. Also beat error. If I'm being totally honest this type prospective buyer should either have someone who knows what they are doing to help guide them before they spend or spend a few months learning what to look for in a watch. I'd also highly suggest someone's first Rolex should never be a "vintage" piece. Lets keep this watch within 12 to 15 years tops from 2021. The chances of bogus parts is far less with a newer model.
Excellent points Michael, thank you. I'm gonna show my friend your comment. Regarding the timegrapher stuff: you're totally right, I just didn't wanna go into too much detail in one video. I have to assume they're willing to look this stuff up on their own. But thank you for pointing it out.
And yeah, 12-15 years sounds reasonable, I agree.
Thanks for your input. See my updated comment today following a
Although a '66 is older than you believe is prudent, this one was given high marks by a real 47th street watchmaker who specializes in Rolex. All original and passed testing with flying colors.
Imaging that i'm living in Geneva, 20mn from the Rolex HQ, and i'm supposed to receive my Datejust in 2 months after almost a year on a waiting list haha
I'm excited for you!
@@DrRolexPhD Tbh i'm so afraid xD Because she was supposed to arrive in may/june, but have been delayed "FOR SURE" (that what they told me) in november/december ... So i don't want to be disappointed, i'm like she's gonna be here in 2022 x)
That’s crazy. I don’t know why but I always assumed that they were easier to come by in Switzerland.
@@WatchUnwind fresh from the factory.... Still warm!
@@DrRolexPhD haha exactly
I wouldn’t say don’t try an AD, I wrote an email to a Rolex AD and the next week they called me and gave me a brand new SD43. Couldn’t have been happier. They also had a few watches in the case.. this was 3 weeks ago in a busy area in Florida. Small AD though. Have Hope!
Inspirational stories like this give me all the hope I need!
I'm also asking for 36mm models, in the hopes that they can spare a measly 36mm model as oppressed to a 40 or 41 or whatever.
If I purchase from an AD July 2022 is it going to be marked up above MSRP ?
yup
Rolex doesn't offer laser welding. When giving the watch to them for a service you also have to mention specifically that you do not want a polish if the watch is a bit older. Cartier advises for example that polishing should not be done more than three times in the lifetime of a watch.
Is it worth getting a 1960s,70s or 80s Rolex
Make sure the serial number matches the invoice ,receipt
Good point, thank you!
So someone can probably get a submariner or gmt 2 if they just wait on an AD list for a year or so? If that is true I might just wait. Great video though!!
Great video. I'm trying to buy Green submariner for my first rolex. Is there any way i can do finance/payment in retail price?
The Cermit Sub (green bezel)?
To be honest, I don't know about financing, but it sounds like it would be different at each AD, so you're gonna have to ask them.
If you're offered a Cermit, do whatever you gotta do to buy it, sell a kidney if you have to. Just don't walk out of the store without it!
@@dalialjene9100 haha. True. I just want to buy it in finance. Not buying after i save money when it is hard to find 😆
If your able to come across that and get it at retail that will be quite the achievement.
This is good to know since I’m not even sure if I want one 😅
You do. A Rolex is a beautiful thing!
@@DrRolexPhD you right all I want is the 114060 😅
Beautiful watch, of course. I owned it, and I probably should've stuck with it.
@@DrRolexPhD yea love the glossy look on the bezel and it’s the traditional size compared to the 124060
Can you make a video tutorial how to identify fake datejust rolex?
Need to wait even a longer time for sure? Me First time buyer
I’m buying a Rolex today at mayors .. it’s a Sea dweller 43. Is it a good investment ? 50 year anniversary edition
wear it carefully and you'll be fine. If you roughen it up then it goes down in value.
So if I'm fine with waiting a year or more then the rolex store is the way to go?
Yeah if the Rolex you truly want is a current production model, then yes, it's worth it, if you're patient enough.
@@DrRolexPhD ok so I'm looking at the sea dweller 43mm reference number 126603. My ultimate goal, when I buy it, is to pass it down to my son. If ever ultimately he decides to either keep it or sell it is up to him, but if he does decide to sell it is that a watch that would retain its value or increase at all? What does make a watch go up in value? Perhaps a video on that would be interesting to make.
I 100% disagree with not getting on a waiting list!! I 100% agree with others in the comments - I put myself on the waiting list at my local MAYORS and was called twice for 2 different Rolex models within one year - DO NOT EVER PAY OVER RETAIL, EVER unless you got money to burn
Thank you for this. As ridiculous how these watch dealers are. lol
Is $14.5 k too much for a 18038?
If you want to sell a Rolex, let’s say a year after you buy it from an AD and you have papers. What is the best way to sell it? Can you sell it to an AD?
I’m glad my Rolex AD isn’t a bunch of snobs like most are. You could be a stranger to them. As long as you have the money to buy the watch, you’ll walk out with it. They always have the date justs and oysters in. A few pre owned hulks, a couple submariners and a few others I can’t think of off the top
Where’s that at? Can’t be in Florida
Where is the AD located??
What should I expect to pay for a 14060m in the USA?
Between 9 and 12 thousand
@@DrRolexPhD Thanks, that is a tough pill to swallow when MSRP is $8,100 for a new one. I am on a waitlist for one, but I really like the look of the Aluminum bezel more.
I know, it sucks, but I only think it'll go up. Between 9 and 12k is a conservative estimate; I see unpolished box & papers examples on Chrono24 for 13k+