How to beat the wait?

[Galveo]

Hi Everyone,

This is my first post, so first and foremost hello everyone!

I have always had an interest in watches and currently own an Omega SMP. I have been fortunate enough to own several other brands over the years such as Hamilton and some micro brands.

I have always had an interest in Rolex, but only recently started looking at one as a serious purchase.

I have tired on several models at my local AD here in the UK, it might be the most boring choice to some but i instantly fell in love with the 41mm no date SUB.

I have been on the “registered interest” list for over 7 months and have maintained good contact with the AD to make them know I’m still very interested in purchasing.

Does anyone have any suggestions on expediting the process or how I can ask if any models are available without being too forceful?

Look forward to your feedback.

[skipstar]

Unfortunately lately the only way to beat the list is going grey or spend a ton of money on jewelry you don’t really want.
Good luck

[Bill2e]

Write a check, skip the line.

[Bill2e]

Also, consider an SD43 if you can pull it off. Wait will be much shorter.

[Marcjvr]

ADs operate on the rule “Money talks and BS walks” for the most part.

Go grey.

[JasoninDenver]

Trusted seller here on the forums is the best way to go if you are not willing to wait or spend a ton on other jewelry or watches.

[omar-rye]

You need to ask for a Daytona first, then work down. Eventually, pretend like you'll settle for a Rolex Sub, and they'll get one from the back to get rid of you.

[S’portEye]

Originally Posted by omar-rye

You need to ask for a Daytona first, then work down. Eventually, pretend like you'll settle for a Rolex Sub, and they'll get one from the back to get rid of you.

I can’t tell if you are joking, but that would probably work…

[painexpert]

Originally Posted by JasoninDenver

Trusted seller here on the forums is the best way to go if you are not willing to wait or spend a ton on other jewelry or watches.

The problem is the "trusted sellers" prices are very high.

[Flypanam]

I might have a bit of a different perspective. My most recent purchase was a DJ36 in mint green. I originally expressed interest in a different watch early last year, but last November stopped in and told my AD I wanted to change over to a DJ41. I didn't tell them it was because I actually obtained the other watch from a different AD lol. Still.. Less than a week later, they offered me a mint DJ41 with smooth bezel and oyster bracelet. I declined, as I specifically asked for fluted bezel and jubilee.

AD was understanding, stating I should wait for what I truly want. As a side note - I'm surprised that this sentiment of "buying what you want" is lost on some people who get caught up in the chase for a rolex, any rolex.

Fast forward to last Saturday. I stopped in again, wanting to try a DJ41 vs a DJ36 back to back. I ended up preferring the DJ36 and let them know. 5 days later (literally last Thursday) I was offered a Mint DJ36 with fluted bezel and jubilee, my exact desired watch. I've been enjoying it since!

There are certainly lists, but there is also a distinct component of "right place right time" IMHO. Checking in by text/email is also good, but physically going in and engaging with the salespeople puts a face to your name, builds rapport, and keeps you fresh in their memory. My AD even told me "I saw this DJ36 come in, and thought to myself... wait I just saw a guy that wanted this exact one!".

I think if you look around, you'll find other stories where someone pops into the AD and shortly afterwards they get a call or text.

I have never once paid for anything I didn't actually want from an AD. Not one piece of jewelry. Not one non-Rolex watch (at a Rolex AD). Not one Rolex that I did NOT want. Longest I've ever waited for a watch was about 5-6 months.

[KatGirl]

Originally Posted by Flypanam

I might have a bit of a different perspective. My most recent purchase was a DJ36 in mint green. I originally expressed interest in a different watch early last year, but last November stopped in and told my AD I wanted to change over to a DJ41. I didn't tell them it was because I actually obtained the other watch from a different AD lol. Still.. Less than a week later, they offered me a mint DJ41 with smooth bezel and oyster bracelet. I declined, as I specifically asked for fluted bezel and jubilee.

AD was understanding, stating I should wait for what I truly want. As a side note - I'm surprised that this sentiment of "buying what you want" is lost on some people who get caught up in the chase for a rolex, any rolex.

Fast forward to last Saturday. I stopped in again, wanting to try a DJ41 vs a DJ36 back to back. I ended up preferring the DJ36 and let them know. 5 days later (literally last Thursday) I was offered a Mint DJ36 with fluted bezel and jubilee, my exact desired watch. I've been enjoying it since!

There are certainly lists, but there is also a distinct component of "right place right time" IMHO. Checking in by text/email is also good, but physically going in and engaging with the salespeople puts a face to your name, builds rapport, and keeps you fresh in their memory. My AD even told me "I saw this DJ36 come in, and thought to myself... wait I just saw a guy that wanted this exact one!".

I think if you look around, you'll find other stories where someone pops into the AD and shortly afterwards they get a call or text.

I have never once paid for anything I didn't actually want from an AD. Not one piece of jewelry. Not one non-Rolex watch (at a Rolex AD). Not one Rolex that I did NOT want. Longest I've ever waited for a watch was about 5-6 months.

I can second what this guy says, because I used the same approach. My SA even said to me, “Why should I call someone, who is just a name and a phone number, when I can call someone, whose face I can picture, and with whom I’ve spent some time?” Oh, and a no date Sub is hardly boring, but rather an icon!

Kat


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[Milkshake]

When you go to the supermarket do you think, “how can I skip this line”? I just stand there and accept the situation. But, if another cash suddenly opens I’ll gladly get in right away, maybe motion someone to go first if I’m inclined.

Same with ADs. Get in line, hopefully luck will have it you won’t have to wait as long as expected.

[Calatrava r]

Well apparently, it is not the "most boring" choice to Rolex buyers and hence, it is hard to get from an AD.

The advice given is good. If you want the watch now without going through a long process with an AD including spending money there on unneeded things, buy one used, in new unworn condition, from a reliable seller.

Welcome to the Forum.

[rushca01]

Visiting in person is nice if there is one close, the two closest to me are 2 and 3 hours away…

[Harry-57]

If they don't sell other things you want (because being in the shop spending money gets you noticed and remembered) I suggest you go to the pre owned market and pay the difference. Reminding an AD that you want a best selling icon probably won't move the needle.

The Swiss Watch Co. and Tempo and Time are two in the UK I would not hesitate to recommend. There are plenty of others with good reputations. Chrono 24 is a start point for researching the UK market and the companies who sell in it. Always buy the seller before you even consider parting with your money.

[csaltphoto]

The markup on a Sub (ND) isn't all that bad and remember, you can always sell if for about what you paid.

There are no shortcuts. You either wait longer than you want, buy stuff you don't want, or go to a reseller.

[sierra11b]

Originally Posted by omar-rye

You need to ask for a Daytona first, then work down. Eventually, pretend like you'll settle for a Rolex Sub, and they'll get one from the back to get rid of you.

That's actually a worthwhile strategy!

Otherwise, OP, go grey, and leave the shenanigans behind... Life is too short. You'll save fuel depending on your location to your AD, valuable time, headache, and a sense of dignity in massaging the AD's ego. Whether that sense of "dignity" means paying more is entirely on you. According to your post, looks like you're halfway there!

Lastly, don't be afraid to at least negotiate with the grey seller, depending on what reference you're after.

[Fleetlord]

They really don't have a reason to sell one to you

Sounds stupid, but they need that watch to sell to others who buy continually and spend $$$$.

[Kevin of Larchmont]

There’s no way to game the system, OP. Be patient, be kind and show steady interest or buy your way to the front of the line with a trusted seller. Patient and kind has always worked for me but it’s your call.

Welcome to the forum.

[Halifax Daytona UK]

Go grey , the premium on a new one isn’t that bad or ask for a sea dweller the wait for those isn’t as bad.

[BroncoOne]

In person visits work best. That’s if you want to wait.

And a Sub is a classic. If offered, buy it!

Otherwise, go grey and negotiate hard on the watch. Stick only to established and trusted sellers, don’t avoid that just because someone has a lower price. You are buying the seller and security.

[prushkovez]

Originally Posted by painexpert

The problem is the "trusted sellers" prices are very high.

Typically prices at local “trusted sellers” are on average 30% ridiculously higher in comparison with brick and mortar grey guys… but surprisingly for some reason they are constantly promoted here…

[1William]

Find the watch you want from a Trusted source other than an AD. Negotiate the best price possible and pay. Have the watch you want without the wait and frustration. No such thing as lists and AD sell watches to who they want, when they want. Good luck and the Submariner-C ND is a great watch and my current favorite.

[Galveo]

Well what a response! I’m absolutely overwhelmed by all the feedback, advice and warm welcome. Thanks so much for all the comments.

I’m going to digest all the feedback people have given so far and have a think about my next steps.

I’m certainly in no rush, but at the same point I don’t want to wait years.

Thanks so much and I welcome in any more comments .

[Submariner868]

Originally Posted by Galveo

Hi Everyone,

This is my first post, so first and foremost hello everyone!

I have always had an interest in watches and currently own an Omega SMP. I have been fortunate enough to own several other brands over the years such as Hamilton and some micro brands.

I have always had an interest in Rolex, but only recently started looking at one as a serious purchase.

I have tired on several models at my local AD here in the UK, it might be the most boring choice to some but i instantly fell in love with the 41mm no date SUB.

I have been on the “registered interest” list for over 7 months and have maintained good contact with the AD to make them know I’m still very interested in purchasing.

Does anyone have any suggestions on expediting the process or how I can ask if any models are available without being too forceful?

Look forward to your feedback.

If I may - 7 months is not that long of a wait for a Sub. Folks wait a lot longer. My advice is to maintain patience and presence with the AD.

[KatGirl]

Originally Posted by Submariner868

If I may - 7 months is not that long of a wait for a Sub. Folks wait a lot longer. My advice is to maintain patience and presence with the AD.

Yup! Check in, in person, monthly. Also, keep in mind, I waited a full year for my Oyster Perpetual, and you are waiting on a Sub.

Kat


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[GotRolex]

Pay a premium for lightning lane


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[jfmiii]

Especially for ND Sub which trades relatively close to retail, I’d go grey. No sense waiting for that watch. Pay a few extra bucks and jump the line.

[Bill2e]

Originally Posted by csaltphoto

The markup on a Sub (ND) isn't all that bad and remember, you can always sell if for about what you paid.

There are no shortcuts. You either wait longer than you want, buy stuff you don't want, or go to a reseller.

I disagree.

Got my SD43 pretty quick in the heat of the hype. Yes, I know not a sub, but I like it better. Correct watch for me.

Got my Explorer II Polar about 8 months later.

Now my Ad is in a remodel or I am certain I would have got something else.

No worries, I am good. Picked up a Pelagos 42 Blue and a Super Ocean for my wife in the meantime. My Ad knows I am genuine, I am happy with my collection.

BTW, the Blue Pelagos is an amazing watch. Realize happy with the purchase

[Hollie_Rollie]

Easy. Buy diamonds


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