beginning my vintage Rolex Journey

[daysky1]

I've often thought about buying a vintage Rolex or perhaps one that Rolex has discontinued. So I wonder how do you know what you're getting is going to be authentic good quality? How do those of you who purchase the Vintage or perhaps only have the Vintage know what you're getting and can you give me any ideas as to who I can deal with that would be very knowledgeable and trustworthy? I'm especially interested in a GMT prior to the two-tone bezel. And perhaps a Cellini. I want to stay at least 38 mm so that would probably eliminate a lot of the Vintage Rolexs. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[explorerdude]

Super important to buy the seller as much as the watch.

Always check the movement and the engraving between the lugs, check that it’s period correct when checking what the papers say. Aftermarket vintage dials are everywhere so be cautious of that too

[cajuntiger]

lots and lots of research...and just remember, there will always be another one.

[omar-rye]

Run it by the forum before moving forward. Do this by posting a thread with clear photos and any background information. It’s even better if you do your homework before posting. You’ll learn more by researching the right information yourself instead of full depending on the experts. Good luck

[TimeLord2]

Originally Posted by daysky1

I've often thought about buying a vintage Rolex or perhaps one that Rolex has discontinued. So I wonder how do you know what you're getting is going to be authentic good quality? How do those of you who purchase the Vintage or perhaps only have the Vintage know what you're getting and can you give me any ideas as to who I can deal with that would be very knowledgeable and trustworthy? I'm especially interested in a GMT prior to the two-tone bezel. And perhaps a Cellini. I want to stay at least 38 mm so that would probably eliminate a lot of the Vintage Rolexs. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Try https://gmtmaster1675.com/ for information on the 1675. Next iteration is the 16750 introduced in 1979. Which reminds me. @Springer on this forum is the GMT guru, IMHO, and does sell some very nice GMTs on this forum from time to time. He can also advise you on purchases for a very reasonable fee. As far as the Cellini, you can post pics here also of GMTs that you would like to purchase for an evaluation from the knowledgeable members of this forum. Good luck!

[2000-NJDEVILS]

Before you go out and start buying - make sure that you have a very trusted and very experienced local watchmaker who can make all the necessary repairs and adjustments.
Why??? Because going to Rolex may cost you a lot more than you ever thought possible…

[4reRlxGuy]

There are experts like Erik Ku on the west coast, Andrew Shear in the north east, and Matthew Bain in Florida.

No concerns regarding authenticity when buying from them.

[Texasjim]

Please remember, folks have tons of opinions, and are afraid to share them. Part of the journey is research, research, research. It’s OKAY if stuff has service parts, it’s still a Rolex (may effect value),buy what YOU like.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by daysky1

I've often thought about buying a vintage Rolex or perhaps one that Rolex has discontinued. So I wonder how do you know what you're getting is going to be authentic good quality? How do those of you who purchase the Vintage or perhaps only have the Vintage know what you're getting and can you give me any ideas as to who I can deal with that would be very knowledgeable and trustworthy? I'm especially interested in a GMT prior to the two-tone bezel. And perhaps a Cellini. I want to stay at least 38 mm so that would probably eliminate a lot of the Vintage Rolexs. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

How do we know what we're getting? We do a lot of research and study details. That's an option for you, but it requires quite a bit of effort. Alternatively, there is a long thread with a list of recommended dealers in a sticky thread. Personally, I would still be careful buying from most sellers on that list.

[joe100]

Become your own expert. There is enough information in this forum to become reasonable well educated on no any model