Smart move from Rolex at Basel this year

[bardm]

Rolex was tired of the waiting lists so they scrapped the most poular models and introduced a couple of new models no sensible human would buy.

Smart move - no wating lists anymore.

[GoingPlaces]

I am curious to see if the updated BLNR will have a waitlist. The other models I don't see being difficult to acquire.

[JacksonStone]

Originally Posted by GoingPlaces

I am curious to see if the updated BLNR will have a waitlist. The other models I don't see being difficult to acquire.

I'm curious, too. I don't recall the Pepsi getting this much blowback last year, gripes over bezel color notwithstanding.

[Dirt]

Originally Posted by JacksonStone

I'm curious, too. I don't recall the Pepsi getting this much blowback last year, gripes over bezel color notwithstanding.

There's an awful lot to blow back about.

As far as the bezel colour goes. It was just fine, but the endlinks aren't right IMO.

[GradyPhilpott]

Originally Posted by JacksonStone

I'm curious, too. I don't recall the Pepsi getting this much blowback last year, gripes over bezel color notwithstanding.

I think in the case of the 126710BLRO, people were so surprised and taken aback by the steel BLRO that the complaints about the bezel colors and the Jubilee bracelet were drowned out.

There were plenty of complaints, although not as vociferous as those directed at the new reference, which are well beyond the pale in my judgement.

[cloudplay]

Originally Posted by GoingPlaces

I am curious to see if the updated BLNR will have a waitlist. The other models I don't see being difficult to acquire.

I'd bet my BLNR vs a bag of chips that the new BLNR will be just as difficult to get (i.e., many ADs won't even put new customers on waitlists) until a) Rolex increases supply or b) a real economic downturn or c) Rolex becomes uncool (which has happened to other high-flying businesses before)

[tyler1980]

Originally Posted by GoingPlaces

I am curious to see if the updated BLNR will have a waitlist. The other models I don't see being difficult to acquire.

the BLNR and YM will have WL no question. The SD probably not but its probably not going to collect dust either.

[SWISSAHOLICS]

Rolex could care less about waiting lists....it's the ADs that get bombarded by phone calls.

[SS Oyster]

That's one way of looking at it. I bet the ADs are happy they aren't receiving a million texts asking to get on the "XXX list".

[garbanzo]

To me the most important thing is that Rolex stays conservative, i.e. they don’t commit stupidities like what many brands do with limited editions etc.
This was an ok year but admittedly not a spectacular one

[GoingPlaces]

Originally Posted by garbanzo

To me the most important thing is that Rolex stays conservative, i.e. they don’t commit stupidities like what many brands do with limited editions etc.
This was an ok year but admittedly not a spectacular one

My thoughts as well. Rolex does not need to hit it out of the park every year. They are the only company that reinvents the wheel each year but makes it better, quite genius I think. They've had a pretty strong run of Basel releases the last few years and all of a sudden they need to discontinue this and introduce that or the natives become restless. I like the new pieces, not that I am going to run out and pick one up but I don't see anything wrong with this years new models.

[tudorbaja27]

Originally Posted by GoingPlaces

My thoughts as well. Rolex does not need to hit it out of the park every year. They are the only company that reinvents the wheel each year but makes it better, quite genius I think. They've had a pretty strong run of Basel releases the last few years and all of a sudden they need to discontinue this and introduce that or the natives become restless. I like the new pieces, not that I am going to run out and pick one up but I don't see anything wrong with this years new models.

[crazymcmichael]

Originally Posted by tudorbaja27

[JacksonStone]

Originally Posted by GoingPlaces

My thoughts as well. Rolex does not need to hit it out of the park every year. They are the only company that reinvents the wheel each year but makes it better, quite genius I think. They've had a pretty strong run of Basel releases the last few years and all of a sudden they need to discontinue this and introduce that or the natives become restless. I like the new pieces, not that I am going to run out and pick one up but I don't see anything wrong with this years new models.

The issue I have this year isn't the models themselves, necessarily. I can accept that Rolex doesn't have to hit it out of the park every year, as you say. It's the bigger picture of what's happening to some of the lines, and the general design ethos of the brand - at least with regard to the sports models. (I think the DJ line looks better than ever, actually.) Two years ago, the GMT line was cohesive and complete (except for no Coke); in one release/deletion cycle, it has become a complete mess: no black or other solid-color bezel option (at least for now), SS on Jubilee only*, and THREE Pepsi models, two of which are WG. For bezel variety, if you're not into blue or red, you get brown. It makes no sense.

The Yachtmaster line is no better. It already was confused, with two different bezel styles and strap/bracelet options determined by the metal grade. Now they've muddied the waters even more by putting out a lone larger model that looks an awful lot like a Sub on a strap. And don't get me started on the mismatched hands. The line is totally scattershot, with no guiding design principles that I can determine.

And now we have a two-tone saturation diver, complete with an HEV. Uh, OK...

Up to now, I was looking forward to the Sub receiving a movement update, and wondering what interesting twists Rolex might give it. Now I fear whenever the update happens, the line might get gutted the same way the GMT line has been, and am grateful so far the existing line has been left unsullied. Perhaps this is just a momentary lull, and ensuing years will show the wisdom behind these intermediary steps, but for now, I'm seeing the potential signs of a brand that may have lost its way in terms of design.


*Does anyone else find it ironic that the "dressier" Datejust provides the option of either Jubilee or Oyster bracelets, per the purchaser's preference, but the "tool watch" SS GMT is Jubilee only? Why can't GMT purchasers get the same choice?

[ILuvSubs]

I agree with the underwhelming releases. There is a lack of coherence and clear design language that is being articulated. Apart from the YM42, there is nothing that particularly excites me this year. Don't get me started on the Tudor releases...

Originally Posted by JacksonStone

The issue I have this year isn't the models themselves, necessarily. I can accept that Rolex doesn't have to hit it out of the park every year, as you say. It's the bigger picture of what's happening to some of the lines, and the general design ethos of the brand - at least with regard to the sports models. (I think the DJ line looks better than ever, actually.) Two years ago, the GMT line was cohesive and complete (except for no Coke); in one release/deletion cycle, it has become a complete mess: no black or other solid-color bezel option (at least for now), SS on Jubilee only*, and THREE Pepsi models, two of which are WG. For bezel variety, if you're not into blue or red, you get brown. It makes no sense.

The Yachtmaster line is no better. It already was confused, with two different bezel styles and strap/bracelet options determined by the metal grade. Now they've muddied the waters even more by putting out a lone larger model that looks an awful lot like a Sub on a strap. And don't get me started on the mismatched hands. The line is totally scattershot, with no guiding design principles that I can determine.

And now we have a two-tone saturation diver, complete with an HEV. Uh, OK...

Up to now, I was looking forward to the Sub receiving a movement update, and wondering what interesting twists Rolex might give it. Now I fear whenever the update happens, the line might get gutted the same way the GMT line has been, and am grateful so far the existing line has been left unsullied. Perhaps this is just a momentary lull, and ensuing years will show the wisdom behind these intermediary steps, but for now, I'm seeing the potential signs of a brand that may have lost its way in terms of design.


*Does anyone else find it ironic that the "dressier" Datejust provides the option of either Jubilee or Oyster bracelets, per the purchaser's preference, but the "tool watch" SS GMT is Jubilee only? Why can't GMT purchasers get the same choice?

[GoingPlaces]

Originally Posted by JacksonStone

The issue I have this year isn't the models themselves, necessarily. I can accept that Rolex doesn't have to hit it out of the park every year, as you say. It's the bigger picture of what's happening to some of the lines, and the general design ethos of the brand - at least with regard to the sports models. (I think the DJ line looks better than ever, actually.) Two years ago, the GMT line was cohesive and complete (except for no Coke); in one release/deletion cycle, it has become a complete mess: no black bezel option (at least for now), SS on Jubilee only*, and THREE Pepsi models, two of which are WG. For bezel variety, if you're not into blue or red, you get brown. It makes no sense.

The Yachtmaster line is no better. It already was confused, with two different bezel styles and strap/bracelet options determined by the metal grade. Now they've muddied the waters even more by putting out a lone larger model that looks an awful lot like a Sub on a strap. And don't get me started on the mismatched hands. The line is totally scattershot, with no guiding design principles that I can determine.

And now we have a two-tone saturation diver...complete with an HEV. OK...

Up to now, I was looking forward to the Sub receiving an update, and wondering what interesting twists Rolex might give it. Now I fear whenever the update happens, the line might get gutted the same way the GMT line has been. Perhaps this is just a momentary lull, and ensuing years will show the wisdom behind these intermediary steps, but for now, I'm seeing the signs of a brand that may have lost its way in terms of design.


*Does anyone else find it ironic that the "dressier" Datejust provides the option of either Jubilee or Oyster bracelets, per the purchaser's preference, but the "tool watch" SS GMT is Jubilee only? Why can't GMT purchasers get the same choice?

Can't say I disagree, all excellent points. Not having a GMT in black is bizarre to say the least, I mean it's a cornerstone professional series watch. Personally I would have left the GMT line alone this year. There was and is plenty going on there, ok maybe discontinue the BLNR but that's it. I have to admit, no way i saw that one coming.

As for the YM, maybe it's me but I never understood the line. It is scattered. I do like the OF on the two PM models but why not the WG in a 40? Also, 27K is steep in my book for that piece.

The DJ line is strong, very strong as it needs to be since so many other pieces are near impossible to source and that market base needs to grow. Personally I would like to see more dial variations at the DD40 line.

Curiously, I wonder what effect the current supply/demand waitlist situation has on the design and release process now. Do they keep feeding the machine with hard to get or try to tamp it down with more muted releases? Prior to today's releases, it seemed that Rolex could do no wrong other than produce watches that no one could get. One mediocre Basel and it's the end of the world, or so it seems. Again, I don't see offense in any of the releases but that is my own opinion. I guess next year will provide us with a gauge as to which direction they are going.

[FrontHeadlock]

Originally Posted by JacksonStone

The issue I have this year isn't the models themselves, necessarily. I can accept that Rolex doesn't have to hit it out of the park every year, as you say. It's the bigger picture of what's happening to some of the lines, and the general design ethos of the brand - at least with regard to the sports models. (I think the DJ line looks better than ever, actually.) Two years ago, the GMT line was cohesive and complete (except for no Coke); in one release/deletion cycle, it has become a complete mess: no black or other solid-color bezel option (at least for now), SS on Jubilee only*, and THREE Pepsi models, two of which are WG. For bezel variety, if you're not into blue or red, you get brown. It makes no sense.

The Yachtmaster line is no better. It already was confused, with two different bezel styles and strap/bracelet options determined by the metal grade. Now they've muddied the waters even more by putting out a lone larger model that looks an awful lot like a Sub on a strap. And don't get me started on the mismatched hands. The line is totally scattershot, with no guiding design principles that I can determine.

And now we have a two-tone saturation diver, complete with an HEV. Uh, OK...

Up to now, I was looking forward to the Sub receiving a movement update, and wondering what interesting twists Rolex might give it. Now I fear whenever the update happens, the line might get gutted the same way the GMT line has been, and am grateful so far the existing line has been left unsullied. Perhaps this is just a momentary lull, and ensuing years will show the wisdom behind these intermediary steps, but for now, I'm seeing the potential signs of a brand that may have lost its way in terms of design.


*Does anyone else find it ironic that the "dressier" Datejust provides the option of either Jubilee or Oyster bracelets, per the purchaser's preference, but the "tool watch" SS GMT is Jubilee only? Why can't GMT purchasers get the same choice?

This is an excellent post. Agree with all of it.

The DJ line looks fantastic. Literally overnight I pretty much went from being unsure whether to get a DJ 36 or a GMT LN to having the decision made for me.

The GMT was my favorite professional line by far, and in one Baselworld the got rid of my FOUR favorite versions: SS LN, Batman on oyster, TT LN and YG LN. I mean, wow.

[Swaye]

Originally Posted by JacksonStone

The issue I have this year isn't the models themselves, necessarily. I can accept that Rolex doesn't have to hit it out of the park every year, as you say. It's the bigger picture of what's happening to some of the lines, and the general design ethos of the brand - at least with regard to the sports models. (I think the DJ line looks better than ever, actually.) Two years ago, the GMT line was cohesive and complete (except for no Coke); in one release/deletion cycle, it has become a complete mess: no black or other solid-color bezel option (at least for now), SS on Jubilee only*, and THREE Pepsi models, two of which are WG. For bezel variety, if you're not into blue or red, you get brown. It makes no sense.

The Yachtmaster line is no better. It already was confused, with two different bezel styles and strap/bracelet options determined by the metal grade. Now they've muddied the waters even more by putting out a lone larger model that looks an awful lot like a Sub on a strap. And don't get me started on the mismatched hands. The line is totally scattershot, with no guiding design principles that I can determine.

And now we have a two-tone saturation diver, complete with an HEV. Uh, OK...

Up to now, I was looking forward to the Sub receiving a movement update, and wondering what interesting twists Rolex might give it. Now I fear whenever the update happens, the line might get gutted the same way the GMT line has been, and am grateful so far the existing line has been left unsullied. Perhaps this is just a momentary lull, and ensuing years will show the wisdom behind these intermediary steps, but for now, I'm seeing the potential signs of a brand that may have lost its way in terms of design.


*Does anyone else find it ironic that the "dressier" Datejust provides the option of either Jubilee or Oyster bracelets, per the purchaser's preference, but the "tool watch" SS GMT is Jubilee only? Why can't GMT purchasers get the same choice?

This.

[Easy E]

Originally Posted by garbanzo

To me the most important thing is that Rolex stays conservative, i.e. they don’t commit stupidities like what many brands do with limited editions etc.
This was an ok year but admittedly not a spectacular one

Have you seen the meteorite GMT? That may qualify.

[crazymcmichael]

I think they tried to sort of scare of ''flippers'' and ''investors'' and i think the production of blro's and blnr's will be much more than past year(s) my guess is that those that bought a blro as a investment far above list better let it go sooner than later so this far it was a sort of okeish move i guess. They bring the market back to the persons where it is for.. I really think this is their strategy

I find it a big pitty that they made a TT sd...
It really sort of destroys the unique SD feelin

[GarbanzoNegro]

Originally Posted by bardm

Rolex was tired of the waiting lists so they scrapped the most poular models and introduced a couple of new models no sensible human would buy.



Smart move - no wating lists anymore.

Disagree.

Now more people will get on the waiting list to get the old models before they are discontinued and replaced by future Basel launches.

[Madman37]

There were40 people at least outside one of the Bond Street ADs to get on new BLNR list

[Thanos]

The only plan Rolex has is no plan. Alienating customers, catering to greys/flippers etc. Sooner or later Rolex becomes the punchline on all watch jokes. Hopefully they wake up and get it together for 2019. I doubt it though. At this point Rolex & many ADs no longer care about the 'watch enthusiast'. Disappointing to say the least.

[CoveWatch]

Originally Posted by bardm

Rolex was tired of the waiting lists so they scrapped the most poular models and introduced a couple of new models no sensible human would buy.

Smart move - no wating lists anymore.

They didnt scrap any of the most popular models at all and we have to remember TRF is just a small % of Rolex buyers.. To the average buyer, they may be thinking its a kickass basel!

And there will certainly be waiting lists, the new BLNR will definitely get much more difficult to attain.

A lot of people are complaining that Rolex didnt release anything exciting to them, but from Rolex's point of view.. You guys already fight each other to buy my products, evident by the empty cases, so I'm going to make some higher margin products for you to buy instead when you can't buy a hot piece.

Makes sense to me

[Andad]

Originally Posted by CoveWatch

They didnt scrap any of the most popular models at all and we have to remember TRF is just a small % of Rolex buyers.. To the average buyer, they may be thinking its a kickass basel!

And there will certainly be waiting lists, the new BLNR will definitely get much more difficult to attain.

A lot of people are complaining that Rolex didnt release anything exciting to them, but from Rolex's point of view.. You guys already fight each other to buy my products, evident by the empty cases, so I'm going to make some higher margin products for you to buy instead when you can't buy a hot piece.

Makes sense to me

Have you checked the numbers lately?

If the prices were right I would probably have bought at least three more in the past two years.

Rolex are shooting themselves.

[woof]

Rolex would tighten the supply on the new BLNR to keep the wait list going if its not popular.

[Stet hog]

I'm quite happy with my BLNR, she's a daily wearer for me. I see no need to add a jubilee to it.

[2001jesper]

Wondering if Rolex simpely chose to cost optimise this year. Production has been standardised across models e.g. GMT on Jubilee only, All DJs now with oysterclasp + less dial variations as see it (also for DD36), new movement spreading, cant rationalise the new YM, smaller price increases

[bonovox]

Two years ago, the GMT line was cohesive and complete (except for no Coke); in one release/deletion cycle, it has become a complete mess: no black or other solid-color bezel option (at least for now), SS on Jubilee only*, and THREE Pepsi models, two of which are WG. For bezel variety, if you're not into blue or red, you get brown. It makes no sense.

Agreed!

[GMT Aviator]

I wore a Pepsi on Jubilee for years and eventually tired of the look and switched up to 5 digit LN on a brushed oyster. I then bought a ceramic LN and put that on a brushed sub glidelock bracelet and it’s been my tool watch ever since.
I like jubilee bracelets but not so much on the tool watch lines and I think Rolex would be wise to offer the option of both bracelets for these watches. Forcing people down one path or the other will just hit sales to some extent and muddy the image of the watch IMHO.