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Bisquitlips · 20 April 2009, 07:55 AM

A sincere question.

Why is it that we go to an AD and purchase brand new at exorbitant prices, when there are so many fine examples of pre-loved Rolexes out there begging for new homes?

Rolex is a lifetime watch and with the proper research and inspection of a timepiece, even a novice like me can make a pretty good determination of whether a watch is worthy of the price being asked. Even if a watch does need some TLC, it would seem to be less expensive by far to have a good watchmaker service it than to pay new prices.

And I don't think warranty is at issue as the vast majority of Rolexes never need service during the warranty period!

So why is it we continue to go to AD's for them? Perhaps the only thing that will drive me to an AD in the future is the hard to come by model with a special dial, or perhaps a new model that has come on the market.

I guess what has spurred this question is that my first Rolex was from an AD in Switzerland. It was really an unexpected gift from my wife, but from an AD. And then my next three were beautiful healthy timepieces with complete packages (except for bezel protectors). One even came with a leather pouch and another with service records, appraisal, and original receipt. I am just as happy with these as I am my first one and much more satisfied with the investment made.

So with the rumor that Rolex is again considering a price hike in May or June, will you still go to an AD or consider a pre-loved timepiece? And will this be a new trend. (In my opinion enough with the wretched price increases!).

I know, I know......... but really, I have had nothing to drink today!

Omega_Precision · 20 April 2009, 07:57 AM

I think we purchase new because we want our names on the warranty and it's the joy of the purchase. Fresh watch and you are the sole owner.

Buying used would get you a good discount as the original owner may take a hit. There are some dealers out there that sell BNIB for a discount too, it's all about secondary market.

mailman · 20 April 2009, 08:03 AM

Someone has to buy BNIB so others can buy them used down the road.

walds11 · 20 April 2009, 01:56 PM

Me, me

Let someone else take the intial hit

Quote:

Originally Posted by mailman

Someone has to buy BNIB so others can buy them used down the road.

Bisquitlips · 20 April 2009, 08:02 AM

Hey Henry,

Good point, but a Rolex is timeless in it's style. Having three very nice "used" ones they are fresh to me and I am now the sole owner.

I agree about the secondary market. There are, for example the Daytona, that didn't give enough of a discount on the secondary to make not buying from an AD that advantageous.

Troy · 20 April 2009, 08:02 AM

I have bought from 2 TRF'S and have been happy both times,for Rolex, 3 but one was banned by the Mod's for being a ahole. Would rather support the forum but being in Canada it is harder as we have the population of Manhattan...lol
but my money spends like anyone Else's

It is all good we have the largest UN- defended boarder for now

diablojota · 20 April 2009, 08:04 AM

my first rolex was new from an AD. My next ones will be either pre-loved or from a GMD. The prices are now beyond what I consider to be reasonable for me. For others that may not be the case. I had my Sub for 5 years before it needed service so the warranty doesn't mean much to me as I know how good these watches are.

The GMT Master · 20 April 2009, 08:09 AM

You make an excellent point, Richard, and there are many good reasons why buying pre-loved is a better way to go. I don't know about you, but there's something about getting a completely fresh watch, pristine in every way, peeling off the stickers for the first time, safely in the knowledge that any marks or knocks it might pick up will have a story and a memory for you, and not for any previous owner. Yes, it does cost more, but if you manage to find a truly great AD who treat you like a king, it makes the whole experience that much more special. I think it's nice that you know that it's 100% yours, no one else has had the chance to enjoy it, and thus it's your own unique, private, personal timepiece. To quote the old Rolex advertising material, "a crown for every achievement," what better reward could you have for working hard, saving up, and earning the prospect of a shining, perfect, brand new luxury timepiece?

Don't get me wrong, I'd certainly consider buying second hand. You can get a nice bit of discount, and, especially in hard financial times like these, find a nice piece that has been taken care of well for a very reasonable price. I suppose a little bit depends on which model you were going for: if it was a sports watch, then it's a far easier choice, but if you, for example, wanted a Datejust with a specific dial/bezel/bracelet combination, then the hunt is always going to be far, far more difficult. In any case, I think there is the right moment for both paths, and I expect I will be buying new and pre-loved in the future.

Thanks for raising an interesting question

Bisquitlips · 20 April 2009, 09:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The GMT Master

You make an excellent point, Richard, and there are many good reasons why buying pre-loved is a better way to go. I don't know about you, but there's something about getting a completely fresh watch, pristine in every way, peeling off the stickers for the first time, safely in the knowledge that any marks or knocks it might pick up will have a story and a memory for you, and not for any previous owner. Yes, it does cost more, but if you manage to find a truly great AD who treat you like a king, it makes the whole experience that much more special. I think it's nice that you know that it's 100% yours, no one else has had the chance to enjoy it, and thus it's your own unique, private, personal timepiece. To quote the old Rolex advertising material, "a crown for every achievement," what better reward could you have for working hard, saving up, and earning the prospect of a shining, perfect, brand new luxury timepiece?

Don't get me wrong, I'd certainly consider buying second hand. You can get a nice bit of discount, and, especially in hard financial times like these, find a nice piece that has been taken care of well for a very reasonable price. I suppose a little bit depends on which model you were going for: if it was a sports watch, then it's a far easier choice, but if you, for example, wanted a Datejust with a specific dial/bezel/bracelet combination, then the hunt is always going to be far, far more difficult. In any case, I think there is the right moment for both paths, and I expect I will be buying new and pre-loved in the future.

Thanks for raising an interesting question

Best reasons I have heard so far in support for purchasing new from an AD Chris!

Now let me ask this. If a preowned Rolex does have a few nicks and scratches, I believe that 99.5% of the time every one of those blemishes can be taken out with the only exception being those that are too deep.

I like the point about the experience of it all! I certainly can relate as my first one was from an AD, but now that I have experienced both sides of that fence, I have to ask myself was it worth the extra $4000.00 to $5000.00 it cost me. I sincerely do not think that it was.

When Springer sold me the prettiest A series GMT II I must say I was ecstatic when I put it on for the first time! Just as much so as when I did at Bucherer's in Lucerne. It was pristine and a complete package, so nothing was missing either emotionally or physically from that purchase.

Again, very good points Chris!

Alcan · 20 April 2009, 09:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bisquitlips

nothing was missing either emotionally or physically from that purchase.

Richard, I think you hit the nail on the head with that sentence as to why many buy AD only.

For me its a simple matter of economics. I can buy more watches for less money by buying used.

Bisquitlips · 20 April 2009, 09:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alcan

Richard, I think you hit the nail on the head with that sentence as to why many buy AD only.

For me its a simple matter of economics. I can buy more watches for less money by buying used.

That is another very good thought that I didn't mention. Which would I rather have? One $13K plus tax timepiece from an AD, or 2 $6.5K timepieces from the secondary market.

ijen0311 · 20 April 2009, 08:11 AM

My first was BNIB, but my next ones will most likely be used (if I can find them - example, couldn't find my AK with pink sticks used). I have great respect for my AD and don't mind paying a little more $ to buy from them, but the price difference for new/used is too great...

I6-S54B32 · 20 April 2009, 08:15 AM

I let someone else get raped by markup and taxes, and then I buy the item. Just like any car, you lose some real cash if you sell within the first 4 years.

davidm · 20 April 2009, 08:29 AM

I've purchased one new Rolex from an AD. It was a Sub Date for my son upon graduating from college. I felt it was a worthy acomplishment, and it should be new, so I felt fine paying for it. Me on the other hand, grey market or used only..........David

vh_bu98 · 20 April 2009, 08:29 AM

The three Rolexes that I have purchased have been BNIB from an AD.

1) LV - Difficult to get at the time and the secondary market was over MSRP.

2) Platinum YM - I got 10% off and no tax or shipping charge.

3) Ladies Datejust - It was a discontinued model with a unique dial that I couldn't find any where else.

My next Rolex will most likely be a SS Daytona and the pre-own market doesn't offer enough of a savings to make it worth it.

allanofcalifornia · 20 April 2009, 08:43 AM

I would only purchase a new one from a local AD if that model was popular and very little discount for a pre-owned one (i.e. Daytona). Otherwise, I rather save thousands of dollars and buy a pre-owned Rolex. After leaving the store, just like buying a car, the watch loses a lot of value.

Allan

Lamone · 20 April 2009, 08:52 AM

For peace of mind.

Bisquitlips · 20 April 2009, 09:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lamone

For peace of mind.

Hey Ben,

I certainly can understand that, but I truly think that if you buy the seller, do some research, and look well into your going you will be fine in the transaction.

rajurama · 20 April 2009, 09:02 AM

I really cant explain but a new BINB freshness is just a great feeling unwrapping the plastics! and yea nothing can beat that new car smell!

So im more on the fresh appeal! I have bought my watches as keepers and never as an investment or sort and I hope and pray I never would need to sell it. However I donot have issues buying a well pre loved watch! :)

SUB4Me · 20 April 2009, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rajurama

I really cant explain but a new BINB freshness is just a great feeling unwrapping the plastics! and yea nothing can beat that new car smell!

So im more on the fresh appeal! I have bought my watches as keepers and never as an investment or sort and I hope and pray I never would need to sell it. However I donot have issues buying a well pre loved watch! :)

Freshness??? Its a watch not an Banana.

JJ Irani · 21 April 2009, 05:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SUB4Me

Freshness??? Its a watch not a Banana.

Says who?

TheVTCGuy · 20 April 2009, 09:11 AM

Excellent question Richard....

I have bought from both, and I must admit, I truly relish the experience of buying from an AD a little more. There is just something about walking in to a fine store like that, (usually) being treated kind of special for a little while (at least until you pay and walk out the door), and just feeling... important ( I guess). I'm making myself sound shallow here, but it's an experience I enjoy, just being honest. Notice the genuine smile on my ugly face in the picture below. I'll never forget that day as I picked up my Grail, a brand new SS Daytona. What a day....

Bisquitlips · 20 April 2009, 09:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheVTCGuy

Excellent question Richard....

I have bought from both, and I must admit, I truly relish the experience of buying from an AD a little more. There is just something about walking in to a fine store like that, (usually) being treated kind of special for a little while (at least until you pay and walk out the door), and just feeling... important ( I guess). I'm making myself sound shallow here, but it's an experience I enjoy, just being honest. Notice the genuine smile on my ugly face in the picture below. I'll never forget that day as I picked up my Grail, a brand new SS Daytona. What a day....

Paul,

You do NOT sound the least bit shallow to me at all! I understand that sentiment completely. And I will do so if I ever need to purchase at an AD as in the example of the Daytona or rarity.

A lot of people put genuine value on the special AD experience!

Good thoughts!

LocoNBroko · 20 April 2009, 02:45 PM

That is the same feeling I get every time I make my way back down to Miami and call my very favorite lady... For that 10 seconds or less (oops, sorry that was from a movie I just watched) I feel special. Again, that is until I pay and walk out the door!
There are so many BNIB clear carded Rolex's in Southern California on the second hand market, there there is almost no reason to buy from an AD. BUT, if that is what is desired, the AD's are willing to work with you.

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheVTCGuy

Excellent question Richard....

There is just something about walking in to a fine store like that, (usually) being treated kind of special for a little while (at least until you pay and walk out the door), and just feeling... important ( I guess).

TempoKing · 20 April 2009, 09:26 AM

He... as well is considering to buy from one of our fellow TRFers..............

But I have no idea Who..???

submariner16610 · 20 April 2009, 09:34 AM

For me its more practical to buy a "like new condition"pre owned on a reliable pre owned dealer or on a reliable person here in trf. coz if u buy brand new, once you wear the watch, you already loose 30% of its value. the moment you slip it on your wrist its already 2nd hand. Not unless i could get 20-25% on ad's, i would consider new.But for the retail price, its not practical to buy a new one. like new would be fine with me.

Some people would really like to go to the ad's to have peace of mind. there are people who really wants brnd new.

My suggestion is if you would really like to go brand new, try the internet sellers.you can get a much better deal. Just do a research before doing the purchase.be sure to check the seller's credibility.

Bisquitlips · 20 April 2009, 12:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by submariner16610

Some people would really like to go to the ad's to have peace of mind. there are people who really wants brnd new.

This statement spurred another thought in me.

Peace of mind? There is something to be said in having the peace of mind that you didn't have to spend more than you had to for a fine timepiece. And the piece of mind not having to pay taxes.

RLX-lvr · 21 April 2009, 10:05 AM

The GMTII C I have now, will be the one and only new watch I'll ever buy.

All others will be used or BNIB from our wonderful members we have here.

Only wish I found this forum years ago.

emagni · 21 April 2009, 10:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RLX-lvr

The GMTII C I have now, will be the one and only new watch I'll ever buy.

All others will be used or BNIB from our wonderful members we have here.

Only wish I found this forum years ago.

Agreed

Bisquitlips · 21 April 2009, 10:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by emagni

Agreed

Double agreed!!

20 April 2009, 07:55 AM	#1
Bisquitlips 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Richard Location: USA Watch: YM Deep Space Posts: 12,521	Why do we purchase new from an AD when.... A sincere question. Why is it that we go to an AD and purchase brand new at exorbitant prices, when there are so many fine examples of pre-loved Rolexes out there begging for new homes? Rolex is a lifetime watch and with the proper research and inspection of a timepiece, even a novice like me can make a pretty good determination of whether a watch is worthy of the price being asked. Even if a watch does need some TLC, it would seem to be less expensive by far to have a good watchmaker service it than to pay new prices. And I don't think warranty is at issue as the vast majority of Rolexes never need service during the warranty period! So why is it we continue to go to AD's for them? Perhaps the only thing that will drive me to an AD in the future is the hard to come by model with a special dial, or perhaps a new model that has come on the market. I guess what has spurred this question is that my first Rolex was from an AD in Switzerland. It was really an unexpected gift from my wife, but from an AD. And then my next three were beautiful healthy timepieces with complete packages (except for bezel protectors). One even came with a leather pouch and another with service records, appraisal, and original receipt. I am just as happy with these as I am my first one and much more satisfied with the investment made. So with the rumor that Rolex is again considering a price hike in May or June, will you still go to an AD or consider a pre-loved timepiece? And will this be a new trend. (In my opinion enough with the wretched price increases!). I know, I know......... but really, I have had nothing to drink today! __________________ Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm (SS-YG / Deep Space MOP) 16623 Breitling Aerospace Titanium / 18K with UTC. Omega Speedmaster 3510.50 Oris TT1 Pro Diver Regulator 43MM

20 April 2009, 08:03 AM	#3
mailman TRF Moderator & SubLV41 2024 Patron Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: . Watch: 126610LN Posts: 35,502	Someone has to buy BNIB so others can buy them used down the road. __________________ JJ

20 April 2009, 08:02 AM	#5
Bisquitlips 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Richard Location: USA Watch: YM Deep Space Posts: 12,521	Hey Henry, Good point, but a Rolex is timeless in it's style. Having three very nice "used" ones they are fresh to me and I am now the sole owner. I agree about the secondary market. There are, for example the Daytona, that didn't give enough of a discount on the secondary to make not buying from an AD that advantageous. __________________ Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm (SS-YG / Deep Space MOP) 16623 Breitling Aerospace Titanium / 18K with UTC. Omega Speedmaster 3510.50 Oris TT1 Pro Diver Regulator 43MM

20 April 2009, 08:04 AM	#7
diablojota "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Real Name: Frank Location: Chattanooga, TN Watch: SS Submariner Date Posts: 4,042	my first rolex was new from an AD. My next ones will be either pre-loved or from a GMD. The prices are now beyond what I consider to be reasonable for me. For others that may not be the case. I had my Sub for 5 years before it needed service so the warranty doesn't mean much to me as I know how good these watches are. __________________ RTFT - Read The Friggin' Thread FcB

20 April 2009, 08:15 AM	#13
I6-S54B32 Banned Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Virginia Posts: 54	I don't. . . I let someone else get raped by markup and taxes, and then I buy the item. Just like any car, you lose some real cash if you sell within the first 4 years.

20 April 2009, 07:57 AM	#2
Omega_Precision Banned Join Date: Dec 2008 Real Name: Henry Location: CA, US Watch: ing basketball Posts: 2,977	I think we purchase new because we want our names on the warranty and it's the joy of the purchase. Fresh watch and you are the sole owner. Buying used would get you a good discount as the original owner may take a hit. There are some dealers out there that sell BNIB for a discount too, it's all about secondary market.

20 April 2009, 08:02 AM	#6
Troy Banned Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Troy Location: Calgary, Alberta Watch: Tudor Sub. 7928 Posts: 1,275	I have bought from 2 TRF'S and have been happy both times,for Rolex, 3 but one was banned by the Mod's for being a ahole. Would rather support the forum but being in Canada it is harder as we have the population of Manhattan...lol but my money spends like anyone Else's It is all good we have the largest UN- defended boarder for now

20 April 2009, 08:09 AM	#8
The GMT Master "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: Chris Location: England Posts: 8,150	You make an excellent point, Richard, and there are many good reasons why buying pre-loved is a better way to go. I don't know about you, but there's something about getting a completely fresh watch, pristine in every way, peeling off the stickers for the first time, safely in the knowledge that any marks or knocks it might pick up will have a story and a memory for you, and not for any previous owner. Yes, it does cost more, but if you manage to find a truly great AD who treat you like a king, it makes the whole experience that much more special. I think it's nice that you know that it's 100% yours, no one else has had the chance to enjoy it, and thus it's your own unique, private, personal timepiece. To quote the old Rolex advertising material, "a crown for every achievement," what better reward could you have for working hard, saving up, and earning the prospect of a shining, perfect, brand new luxury timepiece? Don't get me wrong, I'd certainly consider buying second hand. You can get a nice bit of discount, and, especially in hard financial times like these, find a nice piece that has been taken care of well for a very reasonable price. I suppose a little bit depends on which model you were going for: if it was a sports watch, then it's a far easier choice, but if you, for example, wanted a Datejust with a specific dial/bezel/bracelet combination, then the hunt is always going to be far, far more difficult. In any case, I think there is the right moment for both paths, and I expect I will be buying new and pre-loved in the future. Thanks for raising an interesting question

20 April 2009, 08:11 AM	#12
ijen0311 "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Real Name: Jen Location: Jax, FL Watch: Sea-Dweller Posts: 3,977	My first was BNIB, but my next ones will most likely be used (if I can find them - example, couldn't find my AK with pink sticks used). I have great respect for my AD and don't mind paying a little more $ to buy from them, but the price difference for new/used is too great...

20 April 2009, 08:29 AM	#14
davidm Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Real Name: David Moose Location: North Augusta S.C Watch: IWC Posts: 64	some of us don't................ I've purchased one new Rolex from an AD. It was a Sub Date for my son upon graduating from college. I felt it was a worthy acomplishment, and it should be new, so I felt fine paying for it. Me on the other hand, grey market or used only..........David

20 April 2009, 08:29 AM	#15
vh_bu98 "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Real Name: Vu Location: Dallas area Watch: Platinum YM Posts: 2,646	The three Rolexes that I have purchased have been BNIB from an AD. 1) LV - Difficult to get at the time and the secondary market was over MSRP. 2) Platinum YM - I got 10% off and no tax or shipping charge. 3) Ladies Datejust - It was a discontinued model with a unique dial that I couldn't find any where else. My next Rolex will most likely be a SS Daytona and the pre-own market doesn't offer enough of a savings to make it worth it.

20 April 2009, 08:43 AM	#16
allanofcalifornia "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Real Name: Allan Location: California Posts: 3,210	I would only purchase a new one from a local AD if that model was popular and very little discount for a pre-owned one (i.e. Daytona). Otherwise, I rather save thousands of dollars and buy a pre-owned Rolex. After leaving the store, just like buying a car, the watch loses a lot of value. Allan

20 April 2009, 08:52 AM	#17
Lamone Banned Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: NYC Watch: ya mawt! Posts: 3,448	For peace of mind.

20 April 2009, 09:02 AM	#19
rajurama "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Real Name: Rick Location: Wakanda Watch: amacallit Posts: 2,086	I really cant explain but a new BINB freshness is just a great feeling unwrapping the plastics! and yea nothing can beat that new car smell! So im more on the fresh appeal! I have bought my watches as keepers and never as an investment or sort and I hope and pray I never would need to sell it. However I donot have issues buying a well pre loved watch! :)

20 April 2009, 09:26 AM	#25
TempoKing Banned Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Anastasios Location: Athens Greece Watch: Rolex GMT 1675 Posts: 8,497	He... as well is considering to buy from one of our fellow TRFers.............. But I have no idea Who..???

20 April 2009, 09:34 AM	#26
submariner16610 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: united states Watch: submariner,daytona Posts: 707	For me its more practical to buy a "like new condition"pre owned on a reliable pre owned dealer or on a reliable person here in trf. coz if u buy brand new, once you wear the watch, you already loose 30% of its value. the moment you slip it on your wrist its already 2nd hand. Not unless i could get 20-25% on ad's, i would consider new.But for the retail price, its not practical to buy a new one. like new would be fine with me. Some people would really like to go to the ad's to have peace of mind. there are people who really wants brnd new. My suggestion is if you would really like to go brand new, try the internet sellers.you can get a much better deal. Just do a research before doing the purchase.be sure to check the seller's credibility.

21 April 2009, 10:05 AM	#28
RLX-lvr "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Jeff Location: Toronto Posts: 1,947	The GMTII C I have now, will be the one and only new watch I'll ever buy. All others will be used or BNIB from our wonderful members we have here. Only wish I found this forum years ago.

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