How to Buy a Vintage Daytona?

[BB83]

Wondering what's the best way to buy a vintage Daytona when the time comes... They seem to be in short supply and the good ones go quickly.

Options I see: 1) watch TRF classifieds for them to pop up from time to time; 2) PM TRF sellers like Steve Mulholland who seem to get their hands on these beauties and let them know you're looking; 3) check the auction houses like Christie's (although the ones i saw in their latest auction appear to be in worse condition/more expensive?); and 4) check out retailers known to carry vintage Rolexes (like wanna buy a watch on Melrose in LA).

Thoughts from those lucky enough to own vintage Daytonas?? How did you find yours?

[Frogman4me]

Which model are you looking for? If we are talking 16520 or 116520 then I am sure TRF, Timezone and Vintage Market should suffice as these pop up frequently. If you are looking for a daytona between 1961-1987 such as but not limited to the 6239/6241 or 6263/6265 then I would make sure to contact some of the reputable vintage dealers in the US to see who has what. Every so often one of these models will pop up for sale and its a matter of having the cash available, asking the right questions and seeking provenance to ensure you get a quality original timepiece. Good luck on your search and remember to make sure you get the right one for you and not just the first one you find.

[dhh]

I'm looking for a 6263 right now and the seller is the key to the deal. Steve Mulholland is a great resource and a super well respected seller.

I am not sure of what other vintage watch sellers there are but I would welcome some additional suggestions also.

[glocati]

Check out VRF's Market place. VRF being.... vintagerolexforum.com

[HL65]

I deal a lot with Mark Lerman who has some of the most amazing vintage pieces--mostly 100% complete sets as well. I have been lucky to buy a handful of nice watches out of his own personal collection which were not advertised nor for sale at the time. To me--the best vintage watches are not posted but are in collections--which means you have to know the right people and catch them at the right time!!! I know he has a 6263 for sale now that is a complete set. Happy hunting!!

[Dan Pierce]

Ask Yazo. He was very successful doing just that.
Find the exact reference you want and learn EVERYTHING about it. Then search till it's on your wrist.
Good luck,
dP

[HL65]

I can tell you I found Mark L. through Yazo--wo both deal with him!!! So--good call DP!

[Puffy]

Or speak to Jacek

[BB83]

Originally Posted by SteelerFan1965

I deal a lot with Mark Lerman who has some of the most amazing vintage pieces--mostly 100% complete sets as well. I have been lucky to buy a handful of nice watches out of his own personal collection which were not advertised nor for sale at the time. To me--the best vintage watches are not posted but are in collections--which means you have to know the right people and catch them at the right time!!! I know he has a 6263 for sale now that is a complete set. Happy hunting!!

I completely agree with all this --and the 6263 is exactly what I'll want when I decide to pull the trigger on a vintage... So I'll definitely contact Mark.

Mind PM'ing me his contact info? I couldn't find it through a quick search here on TRF.

[HL65]

Will do now.

[Yazo]

Originally Posted by Frogman4me

Which model are you looking for? If we are talking 16520 or 116520 then I am sure TRF, Timezone and Vintage Market should suffice as these pop up frequently. If you are looking for a daytona between 1961-1987 such as but not limited to the 6239/6241 or 6263/6265 then I would make sure to contact some of the reputable vintage dealers in the US to see who has what. Every so often one of these models will pop up for sale and its a matter of having the cash available, asking the right questions and seeking provenance to ensure you get a quality original timepiece. Good luck on your search and remember to make sure you get the right one for you and not just the first one you find.

VERY sound advice... for a list of some more reputable vintage sellers check out this link on DRSD.com:

http://doubleredseadweller.com/links.htm - I know Stephane and Eric Ku have a couple for sale right now as well. BTW if you're located in the states DO NOT purchase your watch from overseas unless you plan on flying over there to pick it up yourself.

Originally Posted by SteelerFan1965

I deal a lot with Mark Lerman who has some of the most amazing vintage pieces--mostly 100% complete sets as well. I have been lucky to buy a handful of nice watches out of his own personal collection which were not advertised nor for sale at the time. To me--the best vintage watches are not posted but are in collections--which means you have to know the right people and catch them at the right time!!! I know he has a 6263 for sale now that is a complete set. Happy hunting!!

Ken is SPOT ON as well!! Mark is the MAAN!!

Originally Posted by Dan Pierce

Ask Yazo. He was very successful doing just that.
Find the exact reference you want and learn EVERYTHING about it. Then search till it's on your wrist.
Good luck,
dP

Thanks Dan... I stumbled across Mark on ebay of all places :).

Originally Posted by SteelerFan1965

I can tell you I found Mark L. through Yazo--wo both deal with him!!! So--good call DP!

Some GREAT advice in here... LOVE this place!!