Wait for the AD or go ahead and buy another Watch?

[rzw3ch]

Hi all -

New lurker here and wanted to ask for some advice. For several years now, I have lusted after the Sub-date and GMT II (pepsi on jubilee). Frequently trips are made to my AD to make nice and attempt building a relationship such that when one of these models comes in that my story is at the top of their mind. The last couple trips, the salespersons were quite stand-offish and did not even let me try something on--let alone look for too long. Even with an empty store! But, this time David (one of the salespersons) actually paid attention and made an otherwise 'unsuccessful' visit pleasant on an afternoon out. Anyways, at the end David gave me the impression he might call / txt soon but could not promise anything. I simply said "that is ok, no expectations!". The game is well documented on the internet and how it works. However, I can't shake that feeling this might have been the connection required to 'get the call'.

Ok, so here is the catch: I also really like Omega. Especially, the limited edition Speedys. I've been waiting a ton of time for Rolex to come around. Should I just wait a bit more? I cannot afford both an Omega and a Rolex in the same year. I just don't have the disposable income and even the Rolex is going to be something of a huge event. Even my family is surprised by my desire to suspend thriftiness for a luxury good.

So, what do you all think? Wait or spring for the Omega, because Rolex is just not attainable at the moment?

[NYC2023]

Difficult to know. Given that good SAs tend to be really personable, sometimes you can get a false impression. Did he specifically tell you he might get the watch soon? Also worth noting that “quickly” on a desirable model that you’re talking about could be 6 months to a year or more!

If I were you I would just be honest- say you are in need of a watch in the near future and considering buying an Omega. Ask him if the timeline on Rolex is quick enough that you should hold off, or whether it could be a while.

Some people might be less direct, but I think if you ask this in a friendly manner it’s a perfectly reasonable question.

Good luck!

[rzw3ch]

Originally Posted by NYC2023

Difficult to know. Given that good SAs tend to be really personable, sometimes you can get a false impression. Did he specifically tell you he might get the watch soon? Also worth noting that “quickly” on a desirable model that you’re talking about could be 6 months to a year or more!

If I were you I would just be honest- say you are in need of a watch in the near future and considering buying an Omega. Ask him if the timeline on Rolex is quick enough that you should hold off, or whether it could be a while.

Some people might be less direct, but I think if you ask this in a friendly manner it’s a perfectly reasonable question.

Good luck!

That's an interesting idea. This is terrible of me but I almost had my wife go in and ask if it's possible to get one for my birthday on the 28th of Feb. It's truly devious to even consider this, but I'm sure it's been done

[JRell]

Originally Posted by rzw3ch

That's an interesting idea. This is terrible of me but I almost had my wife go in and ask if it's possible to get one for my birthday on the 28th of Feb. It's truly devious to even consider this, but I'm sure it's been done

Not terrible, I had my wife email an AD for the same reason lol! I like the idea of using buying an omega to get the sub date quicker. Who knows might even help you with the BLRO. You go to an AD that sales both brands at retail, you ask about the two Rolex, they give you the run around, then you tell them you are willing to buy the omega, today, if I get the rolex soon. Try this and please let us know the results!

[Obi Wan]

Originally Posted by NYC2023

Difficult to know. Given that good SAs tend to be really personable, sometimes you can get a false impression. Did he specifically tell you he might get the watch soon? Also worth noting that “quickly” on a desirable model that you’re talking about could be 6 months to a year or more!

If I were you I would just be honest- say you are in need of a watch in the near future and considering buying an Omega. Ask him if the timeline on Rolex is quick enough that you should hold off, or whether it could be a while.

Some people might be less direct, but I think if you ask this in a friendly manner it’s a perfectly reasonable question.

Good luck!

I totally agree, I would do exactly the same.

[rzw3ch]

Originally Posted by Obi Wan

I totally agree, I would do exactly the same.

So, my wife came in clutch and typed a very nice email to the SA asking if something could happen by my birthday as 29th birthday surprise. Oh, and that we'd much prefer to talk to Rolex, but there are also considering Omega. She expressed that the hope would be to buy from Rolex instead. We'll see what happens.

[codecow]

Originally Posted by rzw3ch

So, my wife came in clutch and typed a very nice email to the SA asking if something could happen by my birthday as 29th birthday surprise. Oh, and that we'd much prefer to talk to Rolex, but there are also considering Omega. She expressed that the hope would be to buy from Rolex instead. We'll see what happens.

You’re 29, if you’re thinking of something like an Omega 321 caliber you can’t go wrong. You have many years ahead of you and that watch will never be overshadowed.

I bought an Omega Seamaster when I was maybe a couple years younger than you and I still have it and enjoy it 25 years later.

[rzw3ch]

Originally Posted by codecow

You’re 29, if you’re thinking of something like an Omega 321 caliber you can’t go wrong. You have many years ahead of you and that watch will never be overshadowed.

I bought an Omega Seamaster when I was maybe a couple years younger than you and I still have it and enjoy it 25 years later.

Yes, I am obscenely lucky. We've worked hard to be in this position, but lucky because of all that work. I did have a seamaster. Unfortunately, I got a bit bored of it and have been searching for the grail haha.

[Langeholic]

Originally Posted by rzw3ch

So, my wife came in clutch and typed a very nice email to the SA asking if something could happen by my birthday as 29th birthday surprise. Oh, and that we'd much prefer to talk to Rolex, but there are also considering Omega. She expressed that the hope would be to buy from Rolex instead. We'll see what happens.

Nice! Crossing my fingers for you, OP.

Originally Posted by codecow

I bought an Omega Seamaster when I was maybe a couple years younger than you and I still have it and enjoy it 25 years later.

I love hearing stories like this. Care to share a pic of that watch?

[NYC2023]

Originally Posted by rzw3ch

So, my wife came in clutch and typed a very nice email to the SA asking if something could happen by my birthday as 29th birthday surprise. Oh, and that we'd much prefer to talk to Rolex, but there are also considering Omega. She expressed that the hope would be to buy from Rolex instead. We'll see what happens.

Nice! Best of luck!

[Harry-57]

This is a question that only you can answer. If I was deviating from my standard practice and pushing my comfort zone limits for something as frivolous as a watch, I wouldn't be asking a collection of strangers how to spend my money.

Personally, if I had a firm plan in place I would be inclined to stick to it. But I can't read the mind of a SA, never mind one who I have never met.

[brandrea]

I’d say if you like the Omega equally, buy it now and enjoy your watch.

If you’re buying the Omega because you can’t get the Rolex, you won’t be happy long term

[amh]

Originally Posted by brandrea

I’d say if you like the Omega equally, buy it now and enjoy your watch.

If you’re buying the Omega because you can’t get the Rolex, you won’t be happy long term

^^^ Yes this.

Getting the Omega is a no-brainer:
- You like it
- They're available at a discount
- Rolex availability likely to improve this year

I'm always quoted 2 years when asking for a GMT so let's say that's also your wait. The eventual "call" will align perfectly with your watch budget and you'll end up with both in your collection.

[Easy E]

Originally Posted by brandrea

I’d say if you like the Omega equally, buy it now and enjoy your watch.

If you’re buying the Omega because you can’t get the Rolex, you won’t be happy long term

Originally Posted by amh

Getting the Omega is a no-brainer:
- You like it
- They're available at a discount
- Rolex availability likely to improve this year
.

Solid points

[Tim Plains]

Anything is possible but I highly doubt you will get a Submariner Date without spending at least $10,000 on other things and $25,000 for a GMT allocation.

[JRell]

Originally Posted by Tim Plains

Anything is possible but I highly doubt you will get a Submariner Date without spending at least $10,000 on other things and $25,000 for a GMT allocation.

Depends where you live, I got my friend a black sub date from my AD in 4 days. I would say 3-6 months is a realistic wait with no spend. The LV is much harder to get. The BLRO, I agree with you completely.

[bluestreak]

Originally Posted by Tim Plains

Anything is possible but I highly doubt you will get a Submariner Date without spending at least $10,000 on other things and $25,000 for a GMT allocation.

Markets and AD’s vary so much. I never understand why people throw out numbers as if they hard and fast or based in any type of fact.

[JRell]

My opinion, the black sub date is obtainable, the BLRO is a long shot at the AD. If I was you and I also liked omega, get one that is a good pair with the sub date and tell your AD you want the sub date in 24. You get the omega you want right now and wear and you have the sub date to look forward to.

[rzw3ch]

Originally Posted by JRell

My opinion, the black sub date is obtainable, the BLRO is a long shot at the AD. If I was you and I also liked omega, get one that is a good pair with the sub date and tell your AD you want the sub date in 24. You get the omega you want right now and wear and you have the sub date to look forward to.

That's not a terrible idea. I would very much enjoy a speedy and they are not terrible in the grey market.

[Cigars&Watches]

I don't think the Omega will scratch that itch, wait for the sub date

[mikkey]

First of all, welcome to the forum.
I would say you get the Omega for now and enjoy it until you 'get the call' then you can always resell and buy your preferred at the time.
This is just in my honest opinion.

[2thdock]

I’ve been on “the list” for a black sub date, since last July at my local AD. Nothing in site. Went to visit last week and tried on a SD43. Very nice. Possible too big for me but I do like bigger watches. I currently wear a blue Seamaster 300M and do love it. The Sub is 1mm smaller and the SD 1 mm bigger. The AD thinks a SD43 will be available before a Sub. As another post said, if you have an Omega in mind that will compliment a black Submariner, why not go for it and enjoy it while you wait. That’s if you have the budget for two expensive watches. It is a push for me but I traded datejust for my Omega and bought it preowned. No regrets. In fact when I bought my Omega I didn’t even have my sites on another Rolex.

[Kiddodoc]

Agree with the others that it is up to you. Few watches can give the satisfaction of Rolex if you are really wanting one. Others love other brands. Only you can answer that question. For me, if you Omega, you are settling.

[Calatrava r]

I would wait, the Rolex Sub could turn up this year. I would also pursue this through another AD. Subs are attainable from ADs.

[strafer_kid]

Originally Posted by Calatrava r

I would wait, the Rolex Sub could turn up this year. I would also pursue this through another AD. Subs are attainable from ADs.

Might indeed be the way to go?

[vesnyder]

I am in a similar situation. I have a "watch only" history with my AD, but have been waiting for almost a year for the GMT II VTNR. Looking at the grey market price of the VTNR, these must still be in demand.

[beshannon]

Welcome to the forum

[rzw3ch]

Thanks everyone for the engagement. I'm leaning towards just waiting a bit longer. I think if I buy the Omega rashly there will be a bit of regret -- especially if the AD calls and can't swing the cost. Guess I'll just be jealous of everyone else's incoming posts for awhile.

[indianmachine]

Consider going grey? Premium you have to pay on a sub date is coming down.

Or you could also buy a neovintage Sub (16610) and get a great watch whlie probably saving a few bucks. This is what I did.

[1William]

Complicated games and ones that I do not find in the least amusing or acceptable. I would set a date and if they deliver by then, great. If not, then I would move on. Not to Omega, though, to Rolex through our Trusted Sellers. Get the Rolex and wear it for a bit and if you still want an Omega then at some point down the road get one. But you maybe satisfied with the Rolex if it is first. My personal observation is that prices have adjusted downward and have now started to move back the other way. With the watch Shows, Watches & Wonders coming up it will add enthusiasm back into the market. Sales and prices will start the spring climb and will not flatten again until mid to late summer. All of that is speculation on my part based on decades of watching the watch markets. Good luck and keep us posted.