![]() |
ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX
ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX
![]() |
#1 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Aug 2009
Real Name: Mr. H
Location: Dallas
Watch: them for me!
Posts: 7,180
|
Thing to Consider Before Buying a Pre-Owned AP!!!
I hope this can become a sticky on the AP Forum as I believe a lot of people considering buying a pre-owned AP would benefit from the advice I am giving out.
![]() Always keep in mind the following when making a purchase of a pre-owned AP. Especially when buying a Royal Oak or a Royal Oak Offshore. 1. If you own a vintage AP and don't know the service history on the watch do not send it in for service at AP unless it stops running. Don't let an independent watchmaker work on a vintage AP no matter what. The money you save today, you'll have to pay it tomorrow. 2. If you buy a pre-owned modern AP RO or ROO try to get one that is not very old (F series and up) ideally with some service history and in overall great shape. Don't by a beater even if it's a good deal! You'll pay the difference afterwards. 3. If you buy a 5402 be very careful with the crown and avoid using the quick-set calendar advance feature that comes with cal. 2121. (While the watch doesn't have a date setting crown position, you can quickly advance the date by going with the hands past midnight to around 1am or 2am and then back to 10pm to adjust the date without having to go around 24hrs for each day). This is not an isolated case as on the four 5402s that I've owned I always had problems with the crown stem breaking and the crown coming off will pulling it out to set the time. On one of them this happened twice in a two-year period. When pulling the crown out to set the time, pull very slowly! Another thing to consider will be to wind the watch via the crown by turning it no more than 5-7 turns. 4. On 5402s even after being serviced, AP doesn't guarantee any water-resistance. Don't even get it wet while washing your hands. 5. If you buy a ROO (Pre F-series) make sure it comes with service papers or service history. Otherwise stay away, unless you know the owner or the watch is really flawless. 6. Do not have the watch or bezel polished by independents. You might lose the AP bevels and bezel will become rounded over time and thin out. AP uses a special machine to keep the octagonal shape intact and polished/brushed areas perfectly balanced. 7. If you buy an AP still under warranty make sure to get the warranty registered and get your third year sticker. If the warranty is close to expire send the watch in and work will be done under warranty giving you another 2 years. 8. If you open a case back on a ROO do not attempt to open the anti-magnetic casing that holds the movement inside as those screws are very delicate. If you open the case back you are voiding any warranty on the watch as AP will know it was opened. Get it pressured test it if you do. 9. If you want to go AP make sure you have done your research, tried the watch on and have money ready for the service when the time comes. As Ken accurately mentioned, the service on modern APs will be expensive but not as expensive as it is on a Vintage piece like mine unless something is seriously wrong or other watchmakers before your ownership messed up the movement. 10. Stay away from a RO Quartz as changing the battery is something that needs to be done every 2-3 years. To change the battery you need to disassemble the whole watch. Remove the bezel, dial, hands, crown, etc. to access the movement and then replace the battery. If done by an independent there are a ton of things that can go wrong. Then again you will need to have AP do it and it gets really pricey even when it's just a battery change as they will still force you to do a periodic service. I hope other owners and future owners learn from my experience and use this advice moving forward. I would hate to see anyone else go through the ordeals I've been dealing with this week. ![]()
__________________
WATCHES ARE THE NEW CURRENCY!/ MEMBER 27491/OFFICIALLY DESIGNATED OLD TIMER /AP OWNERS CLUB MEMBER Instagram @watchcollectinglifestyle |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#2 | |
Member
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Sydney, Australia
Posts: 461
|
Omg
Quote:
This is the only established brand-name watch, I have never owned. I believe it has a fabulous movement, second only to Patek Philippe. With such an invaluable advice from you, I may have to rethink about owning a vintage example. The old Royal Oak is on the hit-list but as of now, it will not be a desirable piece, for me. Though, I will not get anything with a quartz movement, it is good to learn the AP battery-change is akin to overhauling a watch. |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#3 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: Here and there
Posts: 935
|
Great advise. Thanks
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#4 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Apr 2010
Real Name: Andrew
Location: Indonesia
Watch: Rolex
Posts: 2,277
|
perfect advise, thanks.
__________________
Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#5 |
Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: N/A
Posts: 36
|
thumbs up for these great tips
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#6 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Australia
Posts: 4,688
|
Wow, a lot of do's and dont's, thanks for the headsup. Wondering why the independents are not good enough to service vintage AP's though if decided to leave it unpolished, especially since I just saw a thread about AP quoting a 4 grand servicing bill on a vintage AP.
__________________
Last thing I remember, I was Running outta sight I had to find the passage back,To the place I was before. ’Relax,’ said this Rolex place,We are programmed to receive. You can checkout any time you like, But you can never leave! |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#7 |
2024 Pledge Member
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: USA & France
Posts: 11,078
|
Informative. Thanks.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#8 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Illinois
Posts: 61
|
Great information, thanks!!
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#9 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: May 2010
Real Name: Dan
Location: USA
Watch: This N That
Posts: 34,251
|
7. If you buy an AP still under warranty make sure to get the warranty registered and get your third year sticker. If the warranty is close to expire send the watch in and work will be done under warranty giving you another 2 years.
This one only applies if somethings is wrong with the watch within the initial warranty perios or are you recomending sending it in regardless? Also I understand to get the three year warranty the watch much be water proof checked before the 2 years is up. How would you go about this if you don't live near a Boutique? Very informative, thanks. Dan
__________________
When it captures your imagination, that's when you know you have found your passion. Loyal Foot Soldier of The Nylon Nation. Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#10 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Feb 2009
Real Name: TSW
Location: Le Brassus
Watch: Rolex & AP's
Posts: 27,449
|
Quote:
![]() And yes send it in regardless!
__________________
AP Owners Club IG @swiss.watch.connection |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#11 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: May 2010
Real Name: Dan
Location: USA
Watch: This N That
Posts: 34,251
|
Quote:
![]()
__________________
When it captures your imagination, that's when you know you have found your passion. Loyal Foot Soldier of The Nylon Nation. Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#12 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: planet
Posts: 1,517
|
Quote:
![]()
__________________
Dream the impossible, and make it possible! |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#13 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Jun 2010
Real Name: Ashley
Location: Brisbane
Watch: Rolex Sub 1680 '79
Posts: 2,301
|
Do you guys have some service cost examples (both for regular servicing and for major overhauls).
__________________
-- Omega Seamaster Grand-Lux Stepped Pie-Pan 14K Gold OJ2627 '53 --
-- Omega Cal 320 Chronograph 18K Gold OT2872 '58 -- -- Omega Cal 321 Speedmaster Pro 145.012 '67 -- -- Rolex Submariner 1680 "Ghost" '79 -- -- Rolex SS Daytona 116520 '04 -- |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#14 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Feb 2009
Real Name: TSW
Location: Le Brassus
Watch: Rolex & AP's
Posts: 27,449
|
Quote:
A vintage AP overhaul completely different story.
__________________
AP Owners Club IG @swiss.watch.connection |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#15 |
Banned
Join Date: Jan 2009
Real Name: Mark-O!
Location: Arlington, TX
Watch: Rolex
Posts: 12,714
|
Good Lord! I was actually considering buying an AP, but with all this information, I'm not sure it's worth it. Think I'll stick with Rolex for now...
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#16 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: May 2007
Location: .
Posts: 17,898
|
Quote:
![]() |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#17 | |
TRF Moderator & 2024 DATE-JUST41 Patron
Join Date: Dec 2007
Real Name: Ken
Location: SW Florida
Watch: One on my wrist.
Posts: 63,702
|
Quote:
![]()
__________________
SPEM SUCCESSUS ALIT |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#18 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Real Name: nope
Location: S of Mason-Dixon
Watch: NDSub/PAM176/R1931
Posts: 262
|
Quote:
As far as vintage APs, about as reliable as a Jag from the same year? ![]() If you get a 15300 for $10K, preloved, today. In 5 years you send it in for service that runs about or greater than 10% of the value of the watch? Sounds like something straight out of the Maserati playbook. ![]() I guess you gotta pay to play! ![]() |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#19 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: May 2007
Location: .
Posts: 17,898
|
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#20 | |
TRF Moderator & 2024 DATE-JUST41 Patron
Join Date: Dec 2007
Real Name: Ken
Location: SW Florida
Watch: One on my wrist.
Posts: 63,702
|
Quote:
![]()
__________________
SPEM SUCCESSUS ALIT |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#21 |
2024 Pledge Member
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Cave
Watch: Sundial
Posts: 33,906
|
I have a swear jar that I contribute $1 every time I cuss. The funds go towards watch maintenance. I swear too much. Sh!t it's better than drinking coffee or smoking. At this rate I'll have enough to service ALL my watches within the year..
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#22 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Real Name: nope
Location: S of Mason-Dixon
Watch: NDSub/PAM176/R1931
Posts: 262
|
Quote:
Analogy: $6K to service a $250K late model Ferrari, that you can sell in a few years for for not too much off of what you paid is one thing. But $6K on a Maserati which will be worth 60 to 70K, and even less the next time around, not a great value unless you really love Maserati. BTW That Gran Turismo sure is purrrrty.... Back to watches: Service fees amounting >10% of a watch that doesn't hold its value like others... Not a great value proposition. Just sayin'... Not that buying a luxury watch is a "rational" decision in the first place... I am just asking myself how badly I want the 15300... |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#23 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Real Name: nope
Location: S of Mason-Dixon
Watch: NDSub/PAM176/R1931
Posts: 262
|
Quote:
![]() but in foreign languages... It makes me feel more worldly! |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#24 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Not Mars
Posts: 1,004
|
dimitros,
honestly speaking, I've seen the 15300 pre-loved increased from around 7.5-8kish 2 years ago for a G serial to go 10-10.5k for it... don't think it's losing that much value... my 0.01 cents |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#25 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Real Name: nope
Location: S of Mason-Dixon
Watch: NDSub/PAM176/R1931
Posts: 262
|
Quote:
To one of our esteemed moderators, Maybe I am not lucky or smart enough at this point in life to be able to afford multiple haute grand complications piece like some here. I am from modest means and have worked hard to get where I am, but I won't stay where I am or improve my standing by making imprudent decisions. I assure you I can afford the pieces that I own or I wouldn't have bought them in the first place. I can afford the 15300 easily, I could stretch into a grand complication. But to imply I shouldn't be into luxury watches in general, I find a little harsh. But I respect that opinion. I am a but a WIS acloyte, seeking someday to become a member of the horological cloth. Thanks for your input S'. Thats what I love about this board, its a community of enthusiasts who are willing to share opinions, experiences and useful insight about this hobby. ![]() |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#26 | |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: May 2007
Location: .
Posts: 17,898
|
Quote:
Okay so are you settled on a 15300 ![]() ![]() |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#27 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Aug 2009
Real Name: Mr. H
Location: Dallas
Watch: them for me!
Posts: 7,180
|
My thread is informative and shouldn't deter anyone from buying AP. IMHO this is a brand that it's worth every penny. I love how discreet APs are among non-WIS people and being part of the holy trinity of watchmaking is something else. I just wanted to help people make more educated buys. We all know that this hobby involves a lot of impulse buying and that could be dangerous. All I can say at this time is GO FOR THE 15300!!!
![]() Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk. Watches are the new currency!
__________________
WATCHES ARE THE NEW CURRENCY!/ MEMBER 27491/OFFICIALLY DESIGNATED OLD TIMER /AP OWNERS CLUB MEMBER Instagram @watchcollectinglifestyle |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#28 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Ny
Posts: 44
|
I be wanting to buy an ap roo and that was the best info I ever heard by anyone about this watch I've been holding back because I don't want Pre owned and brand new is up there but love that watch Thankx for that info I will probably get one through an authorized dealer cause I'm very particular about my watches Thankx SUBMARINO
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#29 |
Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: US
Posts: 138
|
I am interested in the 44mm AP ROO chronograph, ref 26400 stainless steel. Any experts can advice if this a good time piece to own as in the following.
1. Cost of maintaince 2. Value of investment (any idea how many % des AP increase fees yearly) 3. How much should I pay a Preowned watch? Thank you for your help. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#30 |
"TRF" Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
Real Name: Leo
Location: Planet Earth
Watch: 16610LV 116610LV
Posts: 989
|
Thanks for this great info, H!
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests) | |
|
|
*Banners
Of The Month*
This space is provided to horological resources.