Hostility!!.......or closet envy??

[stockjock1975]

Hello again all at TRF! Lately, I have encountered a couple unusual responses to my SS Sub that I wear daily on my wrist. Now, I will be the first to admit that 99% of the people walking the planet have no idea of a Rolex compared to a Timex. And I am fine with that - I wear the timepiece that makes ME happy.....and could care less what others think.

Well, about 4 months ago, I was sitting at the bar in a very upscale resturant just having a cocktail and minding my own business when I noticed a couple of professionally dressed businessmen looking my direction. It seemed a little odd, but I didn't give it a second thought. Finally, one of the men, leaned my direction and asked how long I've owned my Sub. I politely responded back. Well, he next pushed up his shirt and asked if I "wanted to see what a REAL timepiece looks like".....and proceeded to flaunt his Patek. I took the high road and commented on how nice it was, then closed my tab and moved on. Still, I could not believe the nerve of someone to make a statement like that. I chaulked it up to excess alcohol consumption on their part and went on with my life.

Well, about 2 weeks ago, I was at a business mixer event and was wearing a golf shirt. Out of the blue a man approached me and struck up a conversation about my Rollie. I was more than happy to talk about watches....afterall, I can only talk about business so much before I want to jump off the nearest cliff, and I thought this would be a refreshing change. I noticed he was wearing a VC (don't know the exact model but it had complications out the wazoo!!! Looked very expensive!) and complemented him on his taste in timepieces. In a very pompous tone, he responded back that if I "ever wanted to upgrade from that conveyor belt brand, he could help set me up with something much better." Wow!!! Talk about an unprevoked cheap shot - and very uncalled for, I might add!

So my question to all of you is very simply this - have you ever been the target of the 'Rolex Haters' out there? If so, what's your story? I must say, that I just don't get it. What gives someone the audacity to insult what I hold dear because they believe they have better. What happened in this world to common courtesy, decency and all around good manners? I have complimented people many times in the past on the Bulovas, Seikos and Citizens on their wrist. Why must the higher end of the watch society get as petty as a group of school children?

Well, thanks for listening to my rant. Best wishes to all!

[Brunotheboxer]

I asked the same thing a while back. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=37588

[kcmo]

Wow, I can't believe those idiots!

You're certainly nicer than I am....I would have come up with a not so lady-like response! Rolex is a fine brand and it's pure arrogance and ignorance that would make anyone put down the brand.

[Bisquitlips]

Only "small" men feel the need to belittle others in any way. Again, it is a need that they have.

I would ignore them. To ignore someone is the worst insult you can give them!

And by the way I have seen some TX watches that rival the looks of a VC. Just my opinion.

[cmr]

Originally Posted by Bisquitlips

Only "small" men feel the need to belittle others in any way. Again, it is a need that they have.

I would ignore them. To ignore someone is the worst insult you can give them!

And by the way I have seen some TX watches that rival the looks of a VC. Just my opinion.

it is amazing to me that somebody would bother to make comments like that.

i totally agree with everything you said.

[BigHat]

I'm aghast at the thought anyone would do that. Who can say where that attitude comes from.

I will tell you this, they are NOT watch lovers, they are snobs. I wear a Timex (TX) at times because it's an interesting model. I would love to have that happen to me. I disagree that they envy you though, they just have a narrow focus.

Now I will say, there are probably more Rolex owners shoving their watches in people's face than the other way around. As most think Rolex is the ultimate, more people of the same ilk wear them.

[Hamilton Carvalho]

Jealousy makes you say stupid things sometimes. What a moron.

Originally Posted by stockjock1975

Hello again all at TRF! Lately, I have encountered a couple unusual responses to my SS Sub that I wear daily on my wrist. Now, I will be the first to admit that 99% of the people walking the planet have no idea of a Rolex compared to a Timex. And I am fine with that - I wear the timepiece that makes ME happy.....and could care less what others think.

Well, about 4 months ago, I was sitting at the bar in a very upscale resturant just having a cocktail and minding my own business when I noticed a couple of professionally dressed businessmen looking my direction. It seemed a little odd, but I didn't give it a second thought. Finally, one of the men, leaned my direction and asked how long I've owned my Sub. I politely responded back. Well, he next pushed up his shirt and asked if I "wanted to see what a REAL timepiece looks like".....and proceeded to flaunt his Patek. I took the high road and commented on how nice it was, then closed my tab and moved on. Still, I could not believe the nerve of someone to make a statement like that. I chaulked it up to excess alcohol consumption on their part and went on with my life.

Well, about 2 weeks ago, I was at a business mixer event and was wearing a golf shirt. Out of the blue a man approached me and struck up a conversation about my Rollie. I was more than happy to talk about watches....afterall, I can only talk about business so much before I want to jump off the nearest cliff, and I thought this would be a refreshing change. I noticed he was wearing a VC (don't know the exact model but it had complications out the wazoo!!! Looked very expensive!) and complemented him on his taste in timepieces. In a very pompous tone, he responded back that if I "ever wanted to upgrade from that conveyor belt brand, he could help set me up with something much better." Wow!!! Talk about an unprevoked cheap shot - and very uncalled for, I might add!

So my question to all of you is very simply this - have you ever been the target of the 'Rolex Haters' out there? If so, what's your story? I must say, that I just don't get it. What gives someone the audacity to insult what I hold dear because they believe they have better. What happened in this world to common courtesy, decency and all around good manners? I have complimented people many times in the past on the Bulovas, Seikos and Citizens on their wrist. Why must the higher end of the watch society get as petty as a group of school children?

Well, thanks for listening to my rant. Best wishes to all!

[sfrolex]

Just tell them it was a gift from your dying relative whose last wish was that you wore it for them every day, and that you treasure it and think of them when you wear it. That ought to shut them up.

[RolexDaytona91]

Originally Posted by sfrolex

Just tell them it was a gift from your dying relative whose last wish was that you wore it for them every day, and that you treasure it and think of them when you wear it. That ought to shut them up.

I was about to say something just like that, you beat me to it!

[jdc]

Shows that money cannot buy class and good manners, good for you in taking high road: you definitely had the last laugh
I bet there have been people who suffer from people who own Rolex. The watch does not maketh the man/woman

[cody p]

interesting and funny... that the hostility can come from both sides of the tracks. the have-nots are jealous because a rolex is out of their reach (or at least they think one is), and the haves are jealous because their 'haute horologie' pieces are ignored by the masses, or worse yet, mistaken for complicated citizens. of course there may be other explanations... but good or bad, a rolex does get attention!

[mpkRolex]

Originally Posted by cody p

interesting and funny... that the hostility can come from both sides of the tracks. the have-nots are jealous because a rolex is out of their reach (or at least they think one is), and the haves are jealous because their 'haute horologie' pieces are ignored by the masses, or worse yet, mistaken for complicated citizens. of course there may be other explanations... but good or bad, a rolex does get attention!

Totally agree with this..In that situation I would probably chuckle and say "Is that so? I think mine is more recognized that yours (PP)"

[TempoKing]

Don't feel bad ...Actually my alter ego does that on a daily basis...
calls me... all the names in the Rolex haters book, of course the "conveyor belt" is a new one.
There is another Rolex haters expression ...my alter ego tells me this one all the time
...Buying a Rolex...is similar to.. "want to climb mount Kilimanjaro wearing Loafers'..!!!
Who gives a hoot about mount Kilimanjaro...I can't even climb Capitol Hill...lol...let alone Kilimanjaro..right...???

[mfer]

Just people being people, and I hate people!

Now you people, you aren't people. You're humans I know. Got it?!

Basically, I'm starting to have a negative view on the bulk of society. I just don't understand why there isn't more respect for others.

That is what it comes down to me. 2 kind of people in life.
People who respect - they are no longer people, but humans (TRF has many examples)
People who don't respect - aka the bulk of society (2 yahoos above)

[Time Traveller]

It is a shame that people like that are sporting beautiful watches. Who cares if you are wearing a Rolex, I am wearing a Breguet and another guy is wearing an Blancpain? There are all in the same class!!!!

[Dr S]

Because their wathes are seen as "top tier" - whereas our favorite is seen as just below - but hey I know the history of Rolex - I am true enthusiat of the brand - ask them questions on their watch and see what they know - maybe they really are horologists just like us - but then maybe they are just arse holes!

[DCGuy1965]

Both comments are without a doubt are as classless as they can be. I'm not familiar with the VC brand but a PP from what I gather is soooooooo fragile if you breathe on it a bit too hard the movement can get knocked off kilter. Not to mention if God forbid some water spilled on it what then?

In these cases the sources need to be considered. Most that can afford a watch of that caliber would NOT WANT to flash it in public. Especially to a stranger. Don't think any less of your Sub as a result. I adore the Rolex brand and there are many more that feel the same.

[GradyPhilpott]

People like that are all over the watch boards and in life, in general.

I bought a Rolex for many reason, none of which have anything to do with personal prestige.

A watch won't raise my social status one iota and only a fool thinks that it would.

[valentine]

You are a "gentlemen" for keeping your compsure in those situations....but then again people like that arent worth the time or effort...but with me (being barely 23 with my own business (that i wokred my butt off to get up and going!!!) and a lovely collection of rolexes) I would've shot back with my own cheap shot...hmm...maybe something of the " yeah, thats a nice patek (or VC)...bet it makes up for the lack of your ability to satisfy your own wife in the sack!!" Imsorry in advance ....but I just go for the throat!!

[pz93c]

Good on you.

on 'em, dude.

[diversified]

Funny, I could see myself joking with a friend, but I could never imagine myself being that condescending to stranger with a watch lesser then mine or for that matter anything material lesser then mine.

[Incurable]

Never really been a victim of watch snobbery. I could see it happening though. I'd probably look 'em in the eye and say, "Rolex has served me well..." and leave it at that.

[timetravel125]

ENVY, can cause unhappiness to people. And, the people who had commented on your Rolex watch are filled with envy.

[C. Davidson]

Well, since I am fairly comfortable with my knowledge of Rolex and other Swiss Timepieces in general (Thank you TRF), I would ask either gentleman:

"What makes you think your Pateks/VC's any better?" I would put the ball in their court and let them make their case.

Im guessing (going out on a limb here) that most people who buy a Patek, like most who buy any Swiss Timepiece, have no clue whatsoever about their watch.

Then I would simply "show them the light" through point and counterpoint. It would at least make them think twice about entering the ring with a Rolex WIS.

By the way, WatchTime came out with a Special Issue on Patek Philippe a few years back. Good for basic knowlegde, call 1-888-289-0038 for copy, I think its $15.00. The Ultimate Watch Magazine, 00/24 Dec 07/Feb 08, also has a good article on Patek Philippe.

[C. Davidson]

O.K., now this is really bad, and should probably never be said, but here goes...

So he insults your Rolex and shows you his "superior" Patek. You then yell loudly, "OH MY GOODNESS, YOU HAVE A $30,000 WATCH ON!!!, $30,000, I CANT BELIEVE IT, RIGHT HERE IN FRONT OF ME, ON YOUR WRIST, IS $30,000!!!!"

Hopefully this sudden commotion (which is what he wanted right?), will gain the attention of the less savory people in the bar.

Well, like I said, this would be very childish and sophmoric. Not a way a TRF member should act in public. My apologies for even suggesting this.

[cmr]

you know i have been thinking about this all night while i was at work. everybody i work with knows i like watches and my wife and i wear rolex. about once a week somebody will come and show me their new timex, seiko, bulova or an old watch that their father left them (same type brands). i always tell them the good points about their watch and why it is a great watch. lets face it, most of them are great watches.

i could never bring myself to try and belittle someone because of a watch they were proud enough of to come show me wasn't an expensive swiss watch. all that matters is that they are happy with it. what happened to the op of this thread aggravates me.

[Wooddog44]

In a situation like this there are, of course, various possible response levels;

1. If your assessment were that you can handle this guy deliberately remove your watch and jacket indicating that you mean business. Then inform the offender, without the hint of a smile, that while you agree Rolex is an inferior make of watch yours was a gift from his – insert age appropriate female loved one - wife, sister, daughter, etc... From your last visit with her and that you don’t want to hurt her feelings by not wearing it.

2. If your assessment is that you are not sure you can handle him and/or the situation is not one that would allow further “discussion” perhaps a simple “thanks, for the heads-up, I’ll consider that when making my next watch purchase” is the way to go.

Just a couple thoughts to consider not, necessarily, suggestions.

[toph]

old men caught up in there own importance.

They probably run an office or are some CEO or in an executve position . They are used to shouting orders at staff 24/7 that are then obeyed immediately- They forget how to interact normally with others in a civilised society

[Erix]

Originally Posted by toph

old men caught up in there own importance.

They probably run an office or are some CEO or in an executve position . They are used to shouting orders at staff 24/7 that are then obeyed immediately- They forget how to interact normally with others in a civilised society

x2

[dfndr90]

It's because they are so profoundly embarrassed by the Indians and the Browns that they have to make themselves feel good about something.

Originally Posted by stockjock1975

Hello again all at TRF! Lately, I have encountered a couple unusual responses to my SS Sub that I wear daily on my wrist. Now, I will be the first to admit that 99% of the people walking the planet have no idea of a Rolex compared to a Timex. And I am fine with that - I wear the timepiece that makes ME happy.....and could care less what others think.

Well, about 4 months ago, I was sitting at the bar in a very upscale resturant just having a cocktail and minding my own business when I noticed a couple of professionally dressed businessmen looking my direction. It seemed a little odd, but I didn't give it a second thought. Finally, one of the men, leaned my direction and asked how long I've owned my Sub. I politely responded back. Well, he next pushed up his shirt and asked if I "wanted to see what a REAL timepiece looks like".....and proceeded to flaunt his Patek. I took the high road and commented on how nice it was, then closed my tab and moved on. Still, I could not believe the nerve of someone to make a statement like that. I chaulked it up to excess alcohol consumption on their part and went on with my life.

Well, about 2 weeks ago, I was at a business mixer event and was wearing a golf shirt. Out of the blue a man approached me and struck up a conversation about my Rollie. I was more than happy to talk about watches....afterall, I can only talk about business so much before I want to jump off the nearest cliff, and I thought this would be a refreshing change. I noticed he was wearing a VC (don't know the exact model but it had complications out the wazoo!!! Looked very expensive!) and complemented him on his taste in timepieces. In a very pompous tone, he responded back that if I "ever wanted to upgrade from that conveyor belt brand, he could help set me up with something much better." Wow!!! Talk about an unprevoked cheap shot - and very uncalled for, I might add!

So my question to all of you is very simply this - have you ever been the target of the 'Rolex Haters' out there? If so, what's your story? I must say, that I just don't get it. What gives someone the audacity to insult what I hold dear because they believe they have better. What happened in this world to common courtesy, decency and all around good manners? I have complimented people many times in the past on the Bulovas, Seikos and Citizens on their wrist. Why must the higher end of the watch society get as petty as a group of school children?

Well, thanks for listening to my rant. Best wishes to all!