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Old 12 May 2017, 12:55 PM   #1
09cs
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Icon7 Possibly buying my first Rolex

Hi everyone! So I may be buying my first Rolex and would love some advice! It is a Submariner (standard black one, no date)

It is from a very trusted dealer by me, it is a 99-00 model, and is asking for $5700. I'm not sure where to start with this so I'll do my best
  • Price? Is this a good price for a 17-18 year old sub?
    What to look for when seeing it in person?
    Does box/papers/tag affect price? I would like to have all that, or at least the box
    Lume- I'm assuming check to make sure it all lights up

Anything else to look for?

Thanks in advance!
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Old 12 May 2017, 01:16 PM   #2
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 09cs View Post
Hi everyone! So I may be buying my first Rolex and would love some advice! It is a Submariner (standard black one, no date)

It is from a very trusted dealer by me, it is a 99-00 model, and is asking for $5700. I'm not sure where to start with this so I'll do my best
  • Price? Is this a good price for a 17-18 year old sub?
    What to look for when seeing it in person?
    Does box/papers/tag affect price? I would like to have all that, or at least the box
    Lume- I'm assuming check to make sure it all lights up

Anything else to look for?

Thanks in advance!
others may be more helpful as to your specific questions but for my money I'd rather spend a few hundred bucks more and buy from someone I trust enough that I don't need to ask these things--around $6k or a shade above ought to be enough for that.

EDIT: also good luck and congrats on the prospective purchase!
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Old 12 May 2017, 01:21 PM   #3
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see below.

Quote:
Originally Posted by 09cs View Post
Hi everyone! So I may be buying my first Rolex and would love some advice! It is a Submariner (standard black one, no date)

It is from a very trusted dealer by me, it is a 99-00 model, and is asking for $5700. I'm not sure where to start with this so I'll do my best
  • Price? Is this a good price for a 17-18 year old sub? With service history, boxes and papers, yes. Without, its about $1k too much with no fees or PP commissions for the seller.
    What to look for when seeing it in person? Get pix based on your specific requests, then post them here. Buckle, face, ser# with the band off if possible.
    Does box/papers/tag affect price? I would like to have all that, or at least the box
    Lume- I'm assuming check to make sure it all lights up. Lume will be good - faint at this point.

Anything else to look for? Post pix and we can help.

Thanks in advance!
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Old 12 May 2017, 01:48 PM   #4
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These were sent to me earlier before I posted, though I hope they help!

20170510_110834.jpg

IMG952494.jpg

IMG952495.jpg
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Old 12 May 2017, 01:51 PM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 09cs View Post
Hi everyone! So I may be buying my first Rolex and would love some advice! It is a Submariner (standard black one, no date)

It is from a very trusted dealer by me, it is a 99-00 model, and is asking for $5700. I'm not sure where to start with this so I'll do my best
  • Price? Is this a good price for a 17-18 year old sub?
    What to look for when seeing it in person?
    Does box/papers/tag affect price? I would like to have all that, or at least the box
    Lume- I'm assuming check to make sure it all lights up

Anything else to look for?

Thanks in advance!
I would suggest a brand new sub ceramic for your first because:
1) 5 year warranty
2) you may not have to service the watch for another 10 years. I value each year at $100.
3) you will know the exact history of that watch. The story starts with you.
4) you can get a new subc for not much more than $5700. Id say $6500 easily, at least for a like new with warranty
5) check out a local, non boutique AD. Or try a trusted seller

I love the new subc.
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Old 12 May 2017, 01:55 PM   #6
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I would suggest a brand new sub ceramic for your first because:
1) 5 year warranty
2) you may not have to service the watch for another 10 years. I value each year at $100.
3) you will know the exact history of that watch. The story starts with you.
4) you can get a new subc for not much more than $5700. Id say $6500 easily, at least for a like new with warranty
5) check out a local, non boutique AD. Or try a trusted seller

I love the new subc.
Is that 6500 for brand new from AD? Or used?
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Old 12 May 2017, 01:55 PM   #7
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Is there a specific reason you're looking for the older 5-digit model?

For $300 more DavidSW's site is listing a 3-year 114060 ceramic model. For about $1000 more he's listing a brand new one with stickers. I personally prefer the 6 digit models because to me, they feel much more solid and I really like the ceramic bezel. However, many like the older model.

Just make sure you're making an informed decision.
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:00 PM   #8
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Possibly buying my first Rolex

I think you need to spend a few months researching Rolex / Sub variants etc.

If you truly trust your dealer - or know the ins and outs of what to buy...you'll have a much better chance of making a good decision.
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:07 PM   #9
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Is there a specific reason you're looking for the older 5-digit model?

For $300 more DavidSW's site is listing a 3-year 114060 ceramic model. For about $1000 more he's listing a brand new one with stickers. I personally prefer the 6 digit models because to me, they feel much more solid and I really like the ceramic bezel. However, many like the older model.

Just make sure you're making an informed decision.
I have smaller wrists, and I've read that these ones are slightly smaller than the newer ones, so that is attractive to me.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Speed View Post
I think you need to spend a few months researching Rolex / Sub variants etc.

If you truly trusted your dealer - or know the ins and outs of what to buy...you'll have a much better chance of making a good decision.
I do trust him. I asked him to find me a good "entry level" sub/rolex, and this is what he came back with.
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:08 PM   #10
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i think you need to spend a few months researching rolex / sub variants etc.

If you truly trust your dealer - or know the ins and outs of what to buy...you'll have a much better chance of making a good decision.
+1
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:12 PM   #11
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Originally Posted by 09cs View Post
I have smaller wrists, and I've read that these ones are slightly smaller than the newer ones, so that is attractive to me.
Ok, stop. You REALLY need to get to an AD and touch and feel these watches. You need to try them on and see for yourself. Then go to a shop that sells used Rolex so you can compare the new models to the older models.

This is a lot of money and it's your first. Don't make a decision you're going to regret. You need to put these on your wrist before you decide.
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:16 PM   #12
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Don't buy used for your first. You can get a good discount on the standard black sub brand new from a dealer.

Also, no $5700 is not a good price for what you're getting.
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Rolex moved to its furthest point of being a tool watch. The new Sea-Dweller and Meteorite GMT seem best suited for raising PGA trophies, and that might be the closest we get to one anyway.
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:17 PM   #13
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Ok, stop. You REALLY need to get to an AD and touch and feel these watches. You need to try them on and see for yourself. Then go to a shop that sells used Rolex so you can compare the new models to the older models.

This is a lot of money and it's your first. Don't make a decision you're going to regret. You need to put these on your wrist before you decide.
I've worn a 90's era sub before when I was looking a while ago, but that deal fell through.

You are right, don't want to regret something with this much money. I am not far from Bob's Watches, are they reputable?
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:19 PM   #14
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Don't buy used for your first. You can get a good discount on the standard black sub brand new from a dealer.

Also, no $5700 is not a good price for what you're getting.
I was under the impression that from a dealer/AD, they price you see is the price you pay?
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:45 PM   #15
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I was under the impression that from a dealer/AD, they price you see is the price you pay?
Nope, you can definitely get a discount. I myself was offered 17% on the standard black sub.

Go into a dealer and try one. If they know you're serious, they'll be open to your haggling.
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Originally Posted by BDL View Post
Rolex moved to its furthest point of being a tool watch. The new Sea-Dweller and Meteorite GMT seem best suited for raising PGA trophies, and that might be the closest we get to one anyway.
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Old 12 May 2017, 02:52 PM   #16
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Originally Posted by kauffee View Post
Ok, stop. You REALLY need to get to an AD and touch and feel these watches. You need to try them on and see for yourself. Then go to a shop that sells used Rolex so you can compare the new models to the older models.

This is a lot of money and it's your first. Don't make a decision you're going to regret. You need to put these on your wrist before you decide.
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Old 12 May 2017, 10:54 PM   #17
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I have smaller wrists, and I've read that these ones are slightly smaller than the newer ones, so that is attractive to me.



I do trust him. I asked him to find me a good "entry level" sub/rolex, and this is what he came back with.
Well then, throw your money down

No need for these questions, eh?

I would not pay 5,700 for this sample.

If you don't end up liking it...or want something else, you'll take a bath when you sell.
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Old 12 May 2017, 11:20 PM   #18
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Congratulations on your decision to buy a Rolex. Since buying a Rolex is not an inexpensive proposition, here are my thoughts.

1.) First, what you are considering is known as the Submariner. (It is either the Submariner, or Submariner Date; no such item in the Rolex lineup as the "Standard Submariner" or the "No Date").

2.) If buying used, you must be careful; again, this is not an inexpensive purchase. So, what do you know about, and how long have you known this Dealer? What does the Dealer know about the watch history? How many owners? Service History? Does the Dealer's explanation make sense? (In other words, if the watch was "rarely worn", how does the Dealer know that, and watch should be in near-mint condition.)

3.) If service history is unknown, are you prepared to send and have the watch serviced, if to RSC, to the tune of approximately $600 depending upon what is required?

4.) What do you generally know about that model? Did you do your research, both as to variations of the Submariner 14060 v. 14060M and check pricing of those models?

5.) Would I pay $5,700 for that model? Nope. I think that price is too high, and recall better examples listed for sale by well-recognized trusted sellers in this forum.
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Old 12 May 2017, 11:24 PM   #19
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Originally Posted by The Libertine View Post
Congratulations on your decision to buy a Rolex. Since buying a Rolex is not an inexpensive proposition, here are my thoughts.

1.) First, what you are considering is known as the Submariner. (It is either the Submariner, or Submariner Date; no such item in the Rolex lineup as the "Standard Submariner" or the "No Date").

2.) If buying used, you must be careful; again, this is not an inexpensive purchase. So, what do you know about, and how long have you known this Dealer? What does the Dealer know about the watch history? How many owners? Service History? Does the Dealer's explanation make sense? (In other words, if the watch was "rarely worn", how does the Dealer know that, and watch should be in near-mint condition.)

3.) If service history is unknown, are you prepared to send and have the watch serviced, if to RSC, to the tune of approximately $600 depending upon what is required?

4.) What do you generally know about that model? Did you do your research, both as to variations of the Submariner 14060 v. 14060M and check pricing of those models?

5.) Would I pay $5,700 for that model? Nope. I think that price is too high, and recall better examples listed for sale by well-recognized trusted sellers in this forum.

Couldn't agree more with this. How big are your wrists? Having tried on 5 and 6 digit pieces, I think you're going to be much happier with a 6digit
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Old 12 May 2017, 11:25 PM   #20
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That is way to much money for that watch, I would pass. Save a little more and buy new from a AD.

Go shopping at a few local AD's. Let them know you are a cash buyer and get the best price out the door. Compare that with what you can get on this forum from one of the many solid sellers. Many times, you can get just as good of a deal from a local dealer paying cash.
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Old 12 May 2017, 11:27 PM   #21
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I would spend a little more and get it from a trusted seller here. I paid $6200 for my 114060.
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Old 12 May 2017, 11:35 PM   #22
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As others have mentioned, I would go with a trusted seller here and pay a little bit more for a newer model or BNIB. The price your trusted seller gave you is not that good of a deal. good luck!


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Old 12 May 2017, 11:58 PM   #23
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Congratulations on your decision to buy a Rolex. Since buying a Rolex is not an inexpensive proposition, here are my thoughts.

1.) First, what you are considering is known as the Submariner. (It is either the Submariner, or Submariner Date; no such item in the Rolex lineup as the "Standard Submariner" or the "No Date").
-Thanks for clearing that up!

2.) If buying used, you must be careful; again, this is not an inexpensive purchase. So, what do you know about, and how long have you known this Dealer? What does the Dealer know about the watch history? How many owners? Service History? Does the Dealer's explanation make sense? (In other words, if the watch was "rarely worn", how does the Dealer know that, and watch should be in near-mint condition.)

I've known this dealer for probably over 10 years. I think he found this in his network of people/dealers selling it. Unfortunately he didn't send condition status over, just the price and the pictures etc. Those are questions I need to ask still.

3.) If service history is unknown, are you prepared to send and have the watch serviced, if to RSC, to the tune of approximately $600 depending upon what is required?
A very good point!

4.) What do you generally know about that model? Did you do your research, both as to variations of the Submariner 14060 v. 14060M and check pricing of those models?
I may be wrong but here's what I know about 14060 v. M: The M has an updated movement, as well as some cosmetic changes I believe on the dial. Otherwise, they are pretty identical. Not in reference to the 14060 v. M, but more to the new ceramic versions, I think those have more squared off lugs, hence why I've been told they "wear large"

5.) Would I pay $5,700 for that model? Nope. I think that price is too high, and recall better examples listed for sale by well-recognized trusted sellers in this forum.
Thanks for being honest! Since I'm new, what do you mean by 6 digit piece?What would an example like the one I posted go for?

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Originally Posted by uncufunc View Post
Couldn't agree more with this. How big are your wrists? Having tried on 5 and 6 digit pieces, I think you're going to be much happier with a 6digit
If I measured right (put a watch on with a nato strap, got it to the tightness I like, took off and measured) was about 6 1/2" I believe. Though I will remeasure if there is a better method



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That is way to much money for that watch, I would pass. Save a little more and buy new from a AD.

Go shopping at a few local AD's. Let them know you are a cash buyer and get the best price out the door. Compare that with what you can get on this forum from one of the many solid sellers. Many times, you can get just as good of a deal from a local dealer paying cash.

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As others have mentioned, I would go with a trusted seller here and pay a little bit more for a newer model or BNIB. The price your trusted seller gave you is not that good of a deal. good luck!


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No deal there, I think he found another dealer selling it and that's the price the other dealer wants.
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Old 13 May 2017, 12:00 AM   #24
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Nope, you can definitely get a discount. I myself was offered 17% on the standard black sub.

Go into a dealer and try one. If they know you're serious, they'll be open to your haggling.
Wow, definitely didn't know that! 17%?! If I can swing that, it brings a new one within $600 of this one! Any tips to talk em down?!
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Old 13 May 2017, 12:02 AM   #25
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Buy a NEW sub from a trusted dealer on this site. PM them for a price.
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Old 13 May 2017, 12:13 AM   #26
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Buy a new watch.
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Old 13 May 2017, 12:15 AM   #27
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Agree with others who suggest you should get a new 114060, whether from a dealer, trusted seller, or gray market. Your first Rolex should be a special one and not one that you constantly second-guess or regret.

Good luck.
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Old 13 May 2017, 12:17 AM   #28
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Wow, definitely didn't know that! 17%?! If I can swing that, it brings a new one within $600 of this one! Any tips to talk em down?!


Please.

This is not normal.

If you are in a town in the sticks and your local AD is desperate for a sale...maybe. Or...you are a regular big-spending customer - not a newbie looking to pinch pennies.
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Old 13 May 2017, 12:31 AM   #29
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You really should heed the advice given here and shop around some more before you purchase the watch you posted.
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Old 13 May 2017, 12:41 AM   #30
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Agree with many of the above. Go to an AD and try on the new sub before you exclude it. There is nothing wrong with the older model, I have a 16610 and love it, but for the price you're being offered you can get the newer one under warranty for a few hundred more. Comb through the sales ads here and use that to start a negotiation with your closest AD. If he can get to that number, or within a couple hundred, go for it. If not, call up one of the sellers here and work a deal. Best of luck
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