Got the Call I've Waited Years for... and Passed

[deeman54]

Originally Posted by MRBolton

After years of waiting and begging with relatively moderate spend history compared to some of you ballers, I finally got the call for a stainless Daytona 126500LN. I thought I was dreaming. The only "problem" is that it was the black one.
I had emailed the manager a week prior to say how I've been waiting for a long time, got a big promotion, as well as having my first trip to Switzerland this Summer, and this was how I really wanted to celebrate. Funny how quickly something became available for me!
While I had the black on my list and do want it, I knew it would delay getting the white that I've been pining for, as I was told it would be a little bit before they'd sell me another SS Daytona. My SA convinced me to hold out for the white.
Although he couldn't guarantee when it would come for me, he promised that I'd be his first call when it was his turn to sell one. He said he was 80% sure it would come by the end of the year. It was reassuring to hear him say, "The last thing I want you to do is to look down and wish it were the white every time," and that his advice was to wait--saying it was a matter of "when," not "if." I made sure to tell him I could "literally vomit" if it's this time next year and I still don't have the white after I passed on the black.
I did, of course, go by to look at it to make sure I was making the right choice. I cannot express how hard it was to not buy that black. I never knew I had this much self control. I mean come on... the second hardest to get stainless Rolex, and it's right there at retail.... I know I would've worn the heck out of it and loved it, but I know I'd be still losing my mind waiting for the white, whereas I could easily wait for the black if I had the white.
My hope also is that it helped my credibility further to not look like a flipper since I could've had a $13k payday if those were my intentions.

The black definitely looks better in person than it does in pictures. I love the way the subdial rings reflect light. I didn't initially find it as legible as the white, but I'd probably get used to it. It's definitely a lot more understated than the white and oozes sporty class. Feels more like an IYKYK piece. I've tried on the white 126500 once recently, and it's the clear winner of the two in my book. That being said, having both would not feel redundant at all.
Versus the 116500, the new 12 series wears remarkably similar. The case sides being blocky is the most notable difference to me, but you don't even notice that until you look at it from the side. The dial feels a little more refined, and the bezel ring that I hated in the initial promo photos at release I actually don't mind at all; I think it looks quite good, but again... nowhere near as noticeable as I thought it would be. The 126 black is definitely better looking than the 116 black. whereas the white is about even for me. The watch doesn't really wear any thinner to me like it was made out to be initially, but all I had to compare it to was my 116508 YG Daytona. One final observation is how much more the crystal of my 116508 sticks out vs the 126500. I never thought that was a thick crystal until seeing it side by side.

Here's to hoping for the white soon! I just thought I'd share with my fellow enthusiasts what's made me lose some sleep lately! I know some of you prefer the black, but the white has my heart!

I think you made the right choice for yourself. You showed a tenacity most of us don’t have. That alone speaks volume. You’ll get your panda. I’m certain!


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[deeman54]

Originally Posted by MRBolton

After years of waiting and begging with relatively moderate spend history compared to some of you ballers, I finally got the call for a stainless Daytona 126500LN. I thought I was dreaming. The only "problem" is that it was the black one.
I had emailed the manager a week prior to say how I've been waiting for a long time, got a big promotion, as well as having my first trip to Switzerland this Summer, and this was how I really wanted to celebrate. Funny how quickly something became available for me!
While I had the black on my list and do want it, I knew it would delay getting the white that I've been pining for, as I was told it would be a little bit before they'd sell me another SS Daytona. My SA convinced me to hold out for the white.
Although he couldn't guarantee when it would come for me, he promised that I'd be his first call when it was his turn to sell one. He said he was 80% sure it would come by the end of the year. It was reassuring to hear him say, "The last thing I want you to do is to look down and wish it were the white every time," and that his advice was to wait--saying it was a matter of "when," not "if." I made sure to tell him I could "literally vomit" if it's this time next year and I still don't have the white after I passed on the black.
I did, of course, go by to look at it to make sure I was making the right choice. I cannot express how hard it was to not buy that black. I never knew I had this much self control. I mean come on... the second hardest to get stainless Rolex, and it's right there at retail.... I know I would've worn the heck out of it and loved it, but I know I'd be still losing my mind waiting for the white, whereas I could easily wait for the black if I had the white.
My hope also is that it helped my credibility further to not look like a flipper since I could've had a $13k payday if those were my intentions.

The black definitely looks better in person than it does in pictures. I love the way the subdial rings reflect light. I didn't initially find it as legible as the white, but I'd probably get used to it. It's definitely a lot more understated than the white and oozes sporty class. Feels more like an IYKYK piece. I've tried on the white 126500 once recently, and it's the clear winner of the two in my book. That being said, having both would not feel redundant at all.
Versus the 116500, the new 12 series wears remarkably similar. The case sides being blocky is the most notable difference to me, but you don't even notice that until you look at it from the side. The dial feels a little more refined, and the bezel ring that I hated in the initial promo photos at release I actually don't mind at all; I think it looks quite good, but again... nowhere near as noticeable as I thought it would be. The 126 black is definitely better looking than the 116 black. whereas the white is about even for me. The watch doesn't really wear any thinner to me like it was made out to be initially, but all I had to compare it to was my 116508 YG Daytona. One final observation is how much more the crystal of my 116508 sticks out vs the 126500. I never thought that was a thick crystal until seeing it side by side.

Here's to hoping for the white soon! I just thought I'd share with my fellow enthusiasts what's made me lose some sleep lately! I know some of you prefer the black, but the white has my heart!

I think you made the right choice for yourself. You showed a tenacity most of us don’t have. That alone speaks volume. You’ll get your panda. I’m certain!


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[rolexnerd]

Any update?

[brandrea]

31,500 views and 11 pages and one member banned later

Cheering for you OP, sometimes it’s worth the wait

[1William]

Let's see how this is working out. Waiting for an update.

[MRBolton]

Finally, a long awaited update and would like some genuine advice. Keep in mind, telling me to get a time machine and take the black 11 months ago isn't advice.

My SA told me in November that I'm high up on the list still, if not next in line, agreeing that my only impediment probably is a whale who asks for it. He said it should come early next year (2025). Through this year, he's been pouring honey in my ear all year. "Yeah, it should be soon, don't worry" and whatnot. I've just been tuning this thread out and being patient.

Well, a couple weeks ago, a friend heard through the grapevine that my AD is losing Rolex for 2025 due to store renovations and won't return until 2026. Perhaps they are just being conservative in saying it will take a year to get back Rolex, and Rolex doesn't want to have their product shown in a construction zone. I've heard the store talk about this renovation for a couple years now, saying how it's going to be a massive expansion for them, which I believe will include adding a Rolex room. Never mentioned losing Rolex.
About 6 months ago, my AD started carrying CPO. About 1.5-2 years ago, they also lost their AD status at another location (which that town has another AD, so it may have been natural selection). All other locations have Rolex. They moved the Rolex watchmaker from the lost location to my location. So, Rolex has granted let them open a service facility and CPO in the very recent past.

My AD is a family owned AD with multiple locations across multiple states. Rolex inventory is shipped to their corporate location and then distributed to the stores.
This is the only location in my state, and there's only one other AD in my state--several hours of driving away round trip. Although I have a budding relationship with the other AD, I don't think there's much hope of getting a panda out of them for years.

I have not talked to my SA or anyone else about it yet. The news of the Rolex loss hasn't been official, but I imagine the Rolex dealer list should reflect the change tomorrow.

I'm trying to figure out the best course of action. At this point, I don't really know how much is going to get done just talking to my SA. His job is to sell me the dream of a Rolex, and if his location doesn't sell Rolex for a year, then the goalpost of that dream is just going to get pushed back another year. During that year, there will be a lot more whales that they will feel the need to make happy in 2026 when Rolex returns. The whole thing just shows how terrible the Rolex distribution system is for a more "normal" collector.

So, if you were me, what would you do? Some possible paths are...

1.) The owners of the AD are fairly accessible; I can call one and explain what's happened to me. I'm not a whale, but I am a loyal customer of many years who's been clearly misled about getting my dream watch. I'd go over how it feels like my trust has been betrayed many times. 2021 I was told I’d get one by the end of the year. 2022 same thing, with a bit of mixed messaging. 2023 same, then, “Oh we were going to get you one but didn’t really see any after it got discontinued,” which is likely bull.
Then in 2024 I get offered the black, while at the same time I’m getting pressured by my SA to wait for what I really want that I was told would be pretty quickly. November I’m still getting fed the mirage that it should be soon.
January rolls around, and the rug gets pulled.
I just can't imagine the owner would want a customer to receive this treatment, and I would hope he'd make it right. Since Rolex isn't at my store for a while, I would ask if I could collect one from another store if they couldn't make an exception somehow. The shipment they're getting after the factory closing for Christmas/New Year should definitely have at least one Daytona in it.

2.) Talk to the GM of my store. However, he seems to try to direct as much as possible to the AM or SA, which clearly isn't going well for me so far. This plays into me thinking option 1 may be better. However, I do think it may be better from a chain of command perspective to try to talk to the GM first. Nonetheless, the GM at best would go lobby one of the owners or some other location's GM to sell me one. Those other stores don't know me, so I'd really be counting on my GM to be able to pull out a big favor for me, which I don't know if he'd want to waste one on someone who's not a whale.

3.) Express frustration about the situation to my SA and see where that goes first. I think nothing will go done with this route.

4.) Something else. You guys tell me!

[Cassian739]

Oh man, I feel for you! I’m sorry you’ve been stuck in limbo so long. It’s easy to feel let down when you keep hearing “soon” but never see any real progress, especially with rumors of Rolex leaving your location. If you have access to the family that owns the AD, reaching out seems like the most direct path. I would stay away from saying you've been missled, because that probably won't resonate well with a family that's trying to maximize profit, and has heard this countless times.

Don't worry about the GM at this point, it's not about skipping the chain of command so much as getting a fair shake from someone with real decision-making power. Hopefully they’ll see a loyal, honest customer who deserves better and help make it right. Unfortunately, there probably is a real chance that unless your location builds a standalone Rolex boutique, Rolex will not return to that location. So I say go for it, you have nothing to lose, talk to the family.

Good luck—I really hope you get your Panda Daytona!

[KatGirl]

Originally Posted by Cassian739

Oh man, I feel for you! I’m sorry you’ve been stuck in limbo so long. It’s easy to feel let down when you keep hearing “soon” but never see any real progress, especially with rumors of Rolex leaving your location. If you have access to the family that owns the AD, reaching out seems like the most direct path. I would stay away from saying you've been missled, because that probably won't resonate well with a family that's trying to maximize profit, and has heard this countless times.

Don't worry about the GM at this point, it's not about skipping the chain of command so much as getting a fair shake from someone with real decision-making power. Hopefully they’ll see a loyal, honest customer who deserves better and help make it right. Unfortunately, there probably is a real chance that unless your location builds a standalone Rolex boutique, Rolex will not return to that location. So I say go for it, you have nothing to lose, talk to the family.

Good luck—I really hope you get your Panda Daytona!

One of our trusted sellers is advertising one. If your wallet can handle it, go for it!

Kat


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[SS Oyster]

Except he didn’t get the call he wanted … clickbait


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[Daytona king]

Originally Posted by Cassian739

Oh man, I feel for you! I’m sorry you’ve been stuck in limbo so long. It’s easy to feel let down when you keep hearing “soon” but never see any real progress, especially with rumors of Rolex leaving your location. If you have access to the family that owns the AD, reaching out seems like the most direct path. I would stay away from saying you've been missled, because that probably won't resonate well with a family that's trying to maximize profit, and has heard this countless times.

Don't worry about the GM at this point, it's not about skipping the chain of command so much as getting a fair shake from someone with real decision-making power. Hopefully they’ll see a loyal, honest customer who deserves better and help make it right. Unfortunately, there probably is a real chance that unless your location builds a standalone Rolex boutique, Rolex will not return to that location. So I say go for it, you have nothing to lose, talk to the family.

Good luck—I really hope you get your Panda Daytona!

The OP is a friend so I hope no one will pour salt on the wound. I know some will but it’s not necessary. I told him back then I think the black Daytona was the best option. He wanted to wait for the white. Nothing wrong with that. Don’t buy something you don’t want.

I agree with this post. Need to talk to someone who has real decision power at this point. Don’t focus on the negatives but the positives and how you are a loyal client. I think it may work out, but even if it doesn’t now you will know a definitive answer.


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[Akacoke]

Honestly go with soft approach with the GM. Inform him you would go over his head to the owner. Once you talk to the owner, so they can at least try to work it out internally as I hope. If not what's another year or 2. You've waited this long already dont give up and don't lose hope.

[Dave O]

The first thing I would do is try to substantiate the rumor. My AD too will be going through a remodel soon but is not losing their status with Rolex during the remodel. I would check with the GM of the store, stating you heard a rumor and want to know if it is true. If indeed it is, go the route of talking with the owners as you suggested. If not true, I would talk to the GM and reiterate that you are a loyal customer and you feel you have been getting the runaround for quite some time. Ask him point blank if there any hope of you getting a white dial anytime soon. This is not an unreasonable question to ask him.

[ChronoZach]

Op, here are my $0.02, since you know where things will go if you speak GM, make an appointment if possible with the owner in person, be very polite and explain your situation and ask if anything could be done. The worst that can happen is a polite NO.

I’m sure that he will check to see how good of a customer you have been, with all involved and then make a decision.

The SA has no control with allocating anything, upper management only.

Cheers,

[MRBolton]

Thanks, all, for the responses. Curious to hear more.


KatGirl, as for going grey, I would have to sell my 116508 to do that. At grey market prices, I'd rather keep my 116508.

Cassian, I can't really think of any other way to realistically phrase it. I've been told one thing, with another thing happening in reality, multiple times over--culminating in this year where I get the consolation black dial dangled in front of me. How would you phrase it?

Daytona king, thanks for all your advice throughout this year.

Akacoke, I worry if I go to the GM first, I'm "shooting my shot" to the owners in a way that I don't have control over, and it would make it approaching the owners more difficult. I would also feel awkward telling the GM, "Hey I'm going to go over your head if you don't help me out." The GM is fairly soft-spoken and seems a bit timid.

Dave_O, regarding whether it's a rumor, my source heard it firsthand from an employee of the AD. It's very unlikely that it proves to be untrue. However, tomorrow the Rolex website dealer list should be revealing on that front, before I talk to anyone. I could totally see the GM if I asked him point blank just giving a PC non-answer like, "We don't have any visibility right now, but I'll do my best." That's why I feel like an owner at this point would be a potentially better route.

Zach69SS, it would be an undertaking to go handle it in person. It's about a 2.5 hour drive each way to the closest store an owner is at. I think a phone call may be nearly as effective, but honestly... it may be worth the trip.

[Polyesterpig]

Originally Posted by Zerouali

All the folk calling “mistake” are the reason we can’t all get the watch that we want!

Buy what you really want and everyone gets their watch.

Or buy and flip and inflate prices and keep the whole unobtanium merry-go-round going

Well said. Exactly

[Daytona king]

Originally Posted by MRBolton

Thanks, all, for the responses. Curious to hear more.


KatGirl, as for going grey, I would have to sell my 116508 to do that. At grey market prices, I'd rather keep my 116508.

Cassian, I can't really think of any other way to realistically phrase it. I've been told one thing, with another thing happening in reality, multiple times over--culminating in this year where I get the consolation black dial dangled in front of me. How would you phrase it?

Daytona king, thanks for all your advice throughout this year.

Akacoke, I worry if I go to the GM first, I'm "shooting my shot" to the owners in a way that I don't have control over, and it would make it approaching the owners more difficult. I would also feel awkward telling the GM, "Hey I'm going to go over your head if you don't help me out." The GM is fairly soft-spoken and seems a bit timid.

Dave_O, regarding whether it's a rumor, my source heard it firsthand from an employee of the AD. It's very unlikely that it proves to be untrue. However, tomorrow the Rolex website dealer list should be revealing on that front, before I talk to anyone. I could totally see the GM if I asked him point blank just giving a PC non-answer like, "We don't have any visibility right now, but I'll do my best." That's why I feel like an owner at this point would be a potentially better route.

Zach69SS, it would be an undertaking to go handle it in person. It's about a 2.5 hour drive each way to the closest store an owner is at. I think a phone call may be nearly as effective, but honestly... it may be worth the trip.

I think in person if possible is actually the best option. That way you have his full attention and you can read his body language. He would be forced to give you a more direct answer then the runaround and I’ll call you back. Make him make his decision in front of you. It would definitely be harder to tell you no to your face imo.


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[alex.cicollo]

Originally Posted by MRBolton

p
So, if you were me, what would you do? Some possible paths are...

1.) The owners of the AD are fairly accessible; I can call one and explain what's happened to me. I'm not a whale, but I am a loyal customer of many years who's been clearly misled about getting my dream watch.

I would totally do this, you’ve been nothing but kind, courteous, dignified and patient. You have nothing to lose.

[Dave O]

Originally Posted by MRBolton

Thanks, all, for the responses. Curious to hear more.

Dave_O, regarding whether it's a rumor, my source heard it firsthand from an employee of the AD. It's very unlikely that it proves to be untrue. However, tomorrow the Rolex website dealer list should be revealing on that front, before I talk to anyone. I could totally see the GM if I asked him point blank just giving a PC non-answer like, "We don't have any visibility right now, but I'll do my best." That's why I feel like an owner at this point would be a potentially better route.

To be clear, I would only go to the GM if the rumor is untrue. He needs to understand how you feel and how you've been given the runaround. If he gives you a PC answer, the next step is going to the owner. Also, I think an in person discussion would be best. Make an appointment if necessary.

If the rumor is true, go straight to the owner as the GM really can't do anything about the situation.

Anyway, my thoughts for what it is worth. Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

[Fleetlord]

You should have already gotten one. The ones they got went to “whales” already. Who ironically probably didn’t even have to ask..

[Daytona king]

Originally Posted by Dave O

To be clear, I would only go to the GM if the rumor is untrue. He needs to understand how you feel and how you've been given the runaround. If he gives you a PC answer, the next step is going to the owner. Also, I think an in person discussion would be best. Make an appointment if necessary.

If the rumor is true, go straight to the owner as the GM really can't do anything about the situation.

Anyway, my thoughts for what it is worth. Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

Sound advice


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[Daytona king]

Originally Posted by Fleetlord

You should have already gotten one. The ones they got went to “whales” already. Who ironically probably didn’t even have to ask..

This is true. At this point what is there to lose? Can’t lose what you already don’t have


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[MRBolton]

Thanks for the additional dialog. I'm definitely not opposed to doing the meeting in person with one of the owners. I do have to figure out how to set up a meeting, though, where I don't put my cards on the table before the meeting. I don't want to drive there in hopes that he happens to be at the store with the 360+ mile round-trip, and I imagine it's probably a bit unusual for a customer to call to request a meeting without disclosing the topic.
How would you guys (and gals) preface the topic? Just that I've got some concerns with how something has been handled at my local store that I'd like the opportunity to discuss with Mr. ____?

[Fleetlord]

Originally Posted by Daytona king

This is true. At this point what is there to lose? Can’t lose what you already don’t have


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Sure but what’s in it for the AD if they “gift” you a white Daytona?

Will you amp up spending to whale levels? Will you leave them alone…..lol

Essentially, why should they sell you one?

[GW44]

Oh dear…

In the 126 reference the Black dial is way better resolved so as nice as the Panda is it’s no longer the default choice.

Hope the O/P is uber patient and realistic here…..

[Daytona king]

Originally Posted by Fleetlord

Sure but what’s in it for the AD if they “gift” you a white Daytona?

Will you amp up spending to whale levels? Will you leave them alone…..lol

Essentially, why should they sell you one?

I think his case to be made is that they promised him one for the past year. But like I told him the only one who can truly sign off on a 100 percent guarantee is the owner. It’s everyone else’s job who works for said boss is to sell the dream and most importantly BRING IN SALES. That’s why whales eat the most. But there are crumbs for some of us smaller fish. What crumbs are those to be given out would be then up to the GM.

Below that imo the other managers or Sales associates have no juice to give out a panda to Their clients without higher consent.


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[4 Aussies]

Contact a trusted seller from this site and get it in a few days. All the time thinking and wondering day after day week after week, each time the phone rings hoping it's your AD. If you transfer that energy to your business or personal relationships, you will be much further ahead. Dollars can be earned but days to enjoy the watch grow shorter and shorter, get that beauty on your wrist now while you are able to enjoy it, tomorrow is promised to no one! Looking forward to your pics, good luck!

[BlackandBlue80]

Originally Posted by 4 Aussies

Contact a trusted seller from this site and get it in a few days. All the time thinking and wondering day after day week after week, each time the phone rings hoping it's your AD. If you transfer that energy to your business or personal relationships, you will be much further ahead. Dollars can be earned but days to enjoy the watch grow shorter and shorter, get that beauty on your wrist now while you are able to enjoy it, tomorrow is promised to no one! Looking forward to your pics, good luck!

I could not agree more! I was on “the list” for a black dial Daytona for years! I heard my AD lost status and that meant my years of waiting were for nothing. I really loved the watch and found a fair price from a trusted seller and bought it from the grey market this week. No more waiting and I will have my watch to enjoy in the new year! Life is too damn short to be playing games with retailers. If you wait 7-10 years for the watch, that is a huge percentage of your life where you could have enjoyed it.

That being said, calling the AD owners would be your best bet. Remember, the owners are in business to maximize profit. They want happy customers, but also want to earn the most for their family. They will allocate the Daytonas accordingly. A quick call to them to discuss this and find out if there is anyway you could possibly be able to get your dream watch would be your best bet. The buck stops with them, so if they want it to happen it will happen. Be sure to let them know you would be happy to drive and meet them or pick it up.
Best of luck to you and have a healthy and happy new year!

[Akacoke]

Originally Posted by MRBolton

Thanks, all, for the responses. Curious to hear more.


Akacoke, I worry if I go to the GM first, I'm "shooting my shot" to the owners in a way that I don't have control over, and it would make it approaching the owners more difficult. I would also feel awkward telling the GM, "Hey I'm going to go over your head if you don't help me out." The GM is fairly soft-spoken and seems a bit timid.

While your thought process make perfect sense, but it's not what I was indicating. I don't mean for you to talk to the GM and wait for a response. Sorry I was not clear when I posted. So my opinion after accessing the situation is : I'm seeing a few panda incoming across all social media/forums platforms in both US and Chinese social media all happened in dec. Your AD possibly have a panda Daytona in the store or at the very minimum at one of the chain stores. From Feb till now they for sure would've gotten a few pandas. This is not to add salt to wound , it's just me trying to rationalize the ADs process. My thinking is the GM can't or wouldn't authorize it to be sold to you for whatever reason he has. He had plenty of chances to sell you a panda since feb. So you have to go over his head. But you don't wanna burn the bridge with him no matter how timid he is. So if I were you I will Make the owner put pressure on him to make it happen. Because he for sure knows who you are at this point, but for whatever reason made him not offer you the panda, you will need to persuade the owner to give him an "order". I don't know your SA or GM personally, but us human by nature like to be respected and included. So giving him a ahead up that he's gonna hear from the owne, and you wanna contact the owner right before you go see or talk to the GM without him getting a chance to talk to the owner. It'd easy his surprise when he does hear from the owner.

But whatever it is that you or your AD decide to do. Life it's too short. Maybe just move on.

Happy new year!

[colonelpurple]

I dont think your decision should be influenced by resale or swap, just colour. If you are buying the panda because that is the colourway you genuinely like, then I say you made the right decision. If you are only buying it because you know its the most sought after, then I would say its a mistake. Personally I like the black dial one more ....

[BlackandBlue80]

Kudos to you for waiting for what you really want. I hope you can get some clarity soon.

Best of luck to you. I hope you get the watch you want and deserve. Happy New Year to you!