5740 AD Path

[watchman124]

I've recently started thinking more about acquiring a 5740. I don't have a Patek AD relationship at the moment. But debating the merits of creating a relationship and working towards one or just going gray. What's the path towards a piece like a 5740 at retail? Is that 1/2 more expensive dressier pieces or is it more like 5/6 other pieces? I'm sure there will be other pieces I'd like to get in future but I hated dealing with AP at retail so much that I'm not sure I have the stomach to do it again with a different brand.

Any insights or purchase history journeys from others would be helpful.

[sampelligrino]

Just 1 data point from a nobody, but I would go grey for that

I don't think the premium over MSRP on the secondary market is that bad compared to what you'd likely need to do starting fresh with an AD to get that allocation, and how many other bundles and pieces you'd need to absorb to get there likely outweighing that current market premium

The only outlier is if you truly desire to build and establish a connection with an AD over time to be one of those clients, likely a big spender, and open up opportunities for other desirable pieces, that may mean more to you than the delta between MSRP and grey market pricing on 5740

Just for me, I've never ever wanted an AD or SA's temperament to dictate whether I get the timepiece I want or not, and put that in someone else's hands, some AD's are even losing Patek status to factors outside of their control.. the price is dictated by supply and demand and either I can get it or I can't. The time convenience and "certainty" appeal to me, but I respect the other side of the equation fostering that relationship and being rewarded with that special piece you really want down the road

[APhound]

Grey is the way to go for that. It’s not that bad. Plus you can get it when the timing is right for you.


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[Pw92676]

My opinion:
If someone is genuinely engaged with the brand, go AD route and you’ll be happy whenever it leads
If someone is only looking for one particular watch, especially hard to get, go grey. By the time you reach the point where you are eligible for said watch, what if it is discontinued?

[mickyd329]

The road to a 5740 from AD is a long and expensive one with the ever looming possibility of that AD losing Patek IMO. If the 5740 is the only PP you really want, then going grey seems to be the direction.

[Ubiquitous1984]

An AD will only receive a couple of these per year, if you’re lucky. It may also be discontinued whilst you’re waiting.

Go grey IMO.

[bobernet]

Another vote for grey.

[Daytonaman799]

Just too hard AD Wis and way too much soend

[ts3]

I got on the list for the 5740 in 2019 after getting a 5711 in 2018. Unfortunately my SA was at a training in Geneva at the time and the guy I spoke with left. When I told my SA she appeared to be pi...ed that I had talked to her colleague. She also held the 5711 against me. By now they have been discontinued by Patek...

Long story short, it may be best to go grey if you do want the watch.

[smugtech]

Originally Posted by ts3

I got on the list for the 5740 in 2019 after getting a 5711 in 2018. Unfortunately my SA was at a training in Geneva at the time and the guy I spoke with left. When I told my SA she appeared to be pi...ed that I had talked to her colleague. She also held the 5711 against me. By now they have been discontinued by Patek...

Long story short, it may be best to go grey if you do want the watch.

Stories like these just ruin it for watch aficionado's. You spend years building a relationship and one move can "ruin" it. Extremely bad culture in high end watch buying.

[Gelateria]

If you hated AP then you're in for a treat at patek
Unless you're the luckiest 0.01% otherwise patek is miles worse than dealing with AP

[watchman124]

Originally Posted by Gelateria

If you hated AP then you're in for a treat at patek
Unless you're the luckiest 0.01% otherwise patek is miles worse than dealing with AP

Then I think I have my answer. Gray market it is