Do the exhibition watches have working movements in them?

[dannyp]

Originally Posted by Osmin

Sure, Rolex produces thousands and thousands „exhibition watches“ instead of producing real ones. And then what? They are send back & forth from the ADs to Rolex? All watches here are real, despite the sign “exhibition“. It’s only to prevent they typical walk in „can I buy the watch from the window“ guys

Originally Posted by Phwtch1

That's a lot of money spent for watches that won't be sold eventually.
Anyways, it's a big brand already so that won't mean much.

I've always figured that the non-working ones are eventually sent back, made working, and:

1. Are made available at cost to Rolex employees
2. Are distributed as CPO stock

Another theory I had, that makes sense but there's been no evidence of, is that these are made working, then donated to the Wilsdorf foundation to be sold on secondary market.

[Tanalasta]

Originally Posted by Cigars&Watches

Was at an AD a couple of days ago and the SA made a simple point about this. How is he supposed to show a client how the GMT, day, date functions work if they are not fully functional. Also, the client needs to feel the weight of the watch as well before dropping big coin. Interesting point he made which I dont think Ive ever read before is that they rotate out their exhibition models with other ADs

My understand was exhibition watches are eventually allocated


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[Cassian739]

Originally Posted by dannyp

I've posted this before but will again. Based on my (albeit somewhat limited) experience and numerous anecdotes on here, I've concluded that watches on display fall into four categories:

1. Exhibition-only, non-working. Watches contain movements, and by some accounts can even be set, just not wound. Bought/leased by dealers from Rolex, not part of allocation. There was a typical set/subset sent to AD.

2. Exhibition-only, working. Fully functional watches. Sent without boxes or paperwork to prevent their sale. Unclear whether boxes/papers eventually sent or if these sent back to Rolex. Also "typical" set of models.

3. Exhibition-only (for now), working. Part of dealer's allocation, on display either for certain amount of time or until "right" buyer shows up. Ensuring full display cases at all times.

3b. Exhibition-only (to you), working. Part of dealer's allocation, already allocated, doing their "time" in the display case until pick-up. Varying reports as to whether others are even allowed to handle these.

4. Available. Just like the old days, watches that are on display, available for purchase to whomever expresses interest.

This is the most accurate description. I purchased my SubLV directly out of a “For Exhibition Only” back wall cube display case that is meant for only one watch.

[Calatrava r]

Originally Posted by JRell

From what I understand they are normal watches without a the warranty card associated with them, so they can’t sell them.

What I have seen also.