As someone who has purchased many Rolexes through ADs and have befriended some, this is what I was told about waiting lists. Waiting lists are real but the order is irrelevant. I’m talking about smaller ADs. The owner of one the ADs told me his top priority when he gets watches in so to take care of his top spenders first. After that, he said he sells the watches to the people he likes even if there were people on the list before them. I asked for a Sprite and received it 6 weeks later. When I went to pick it up, I asked him I was surprised I got it so fast. He said he had a long list but that he felt I was a genuine and nice guy and wanted me to have it. So basically they sell the watches to people they like regardless of order on the list!.
Ya thats not really good news. It worked out for you and thats great and im happy for you, but for others its a different story. Its an unfair game, and puts a stain on the watch community, makes Rolex look bad too. Put it simply, bad bussiness practice.
I’ve also heard similar things from an AD employee. The bottom line is that Rolex has leverage because of the amount of money they have spent in marketing and frankly done an excellent job creating greater demand than they really is. Until the market changes, and that does happen for periods of time, there will still be enough people that fuel this frenzy which gives the AD this type of leverage Rolex as a brand has turned away a certain percentage of prospective buyers from ever buying one of their pieces. I have also received feedback of a small percentage of would be buyers that have turned to purchasing super clone versions of the brand.
Wait-list explanation is accurate to the best of my knowledge. I recommend reinstating the original video on the AD. Both can run in tandem. Keep up the great work Mark.
I bought a Tudor BB58 back in June of 2023 at an AD in Seattle, I told her that I was also interested in a Datejust in either blue or mint green. Months later I dropped by on a whim and chatted with her again (she remembered me a little bit, but it took her a moment) and I asked about some straps for the Tudor and ordered the NATO strap they offer. Right after it arrived (mid Janurary 2024), like two weeks after, she emails me saying that I had a choice between getting the blue or a green datejust that were in the store and ready for me!
You actually explained the waitlist very well! I have a super funny story about this... Many branch managers will actually do a small background check on your social media accounts and LinkedIn profile. They want to see if you're financially stable since that's less risk of you flipping a watch they offer. My friend learned this firsthand. He's a software engineer at a successful company in the states, and his position offers him LinkedIn premium. This means he can see which accounts and people view his profile. As he was getting off work, he got a notification on his phone from the Mayors Branch Manager checking out his LinkedIn profile... He knew he was about to get the call, so he went to the storefront, and they offered him his Pepsi on the spot! The look on the SA's face was priceless "Speak of the devil, we were just about to call you!"
So basically, ADs are modern day branches of the Stasi. Call me paranoid, but I have no interest in giving away my life information for the privilege of spending a very substantial amount of my money; I expect a purveyor of goods to take my disposable cash gratefully and ask no questions. If I'm prepared to spend my money in a commercial establishment, I expect the power dynamic to be on my side. If it isn't, then I will move on because obviously that establishment has no need for my custom.
I agree with the sentiment, but in reality this is a very common business practice, not just a Rolex AD practice. Your Omega or GS boutique will have similar information about you if you are a regular customer spending money, and wanting the hot watches. The intentions are to make sure the right people get the right watches, and not to flippers. And don't forget that Google knows far more about you than your wife knows about you!
@@TheRandomWatchDude no problem. I was replying to allenmontr… his feelings on waitlist and the way he feels ad behaves is simply childish. He thinks he can go in and buy a daytona because his money is the same as the other person. That is why i told him to get a reality check. That behavior may work for casio, seiko or longines but not for rolex or any other premium brand. Try walk in a patek or lange boutique and buy a popular piece or just about anything… rolex is decent compared to those brands
New sub. Excellent video and explanation. During my first visit with my wife to our local Rolex AD.a few weeks ago, I had my two tone Tag watch that I wore at our wedding almost 28yrs ago with me. I told him that I keep my watches forever and that I wanted to get my first Rolex to attend my son's graduation from West Point (this month). He asked me what I was looking for and I said a special Daytona. He said he didn't have any Daytonas (of course), but that he would talk with his manager and let me know the following week. He called a week later and offered me a two tone Daytona 126503 steel/yellow gold with the bright black dial with diamonds at the hour markers. It's unbelievable. I bought it that day. I think I found the right sales person at the right time. Glad you worked things out with your AD, but it doesn't erase how you were treated. That type of behavior is never acceptable. Appreciate your videos. Keep them coming.
Thanks for sharing your update with the Hourglass Mark. I am also in Auckland and on the “wait list” with the Hourglass. Interesting that I also recently had a similar experience to yourself when calling in and asking for the assistant Manager, shall we say. There was also numerous staff, not serving hanging around, and when I asked about a Tudor FXD the assist replied that he didn’t know about that model and would get another staff member. Well the short story to this is the assistant Manager was not available and the person to assist me with my Tudor enquiry never materialised so after some time I politely departed the store. The other interesting thing is I have been visiting this store fairly regularly over the past four or so years and been on the so called list for some two years for a GMT which would be my third Rolex and have never had formal notification until my last visit that my interest was in fact validated by a text. So unsure if the system has changed or I was never really on the CRM in the past. Anyway I also have quite a strong spend history with the Hourglass and have purchased six watches in total two being Rolex from them.
Sadly your story sounds very familiar to how I felt, and how I have felt on previous visits. However, I was in there this week and they had loads of hot Tudors for sale in the case. I was told that people aren't buying them at the moment... and unless they sell more, Tudor won't let them have models like the FXD.
I’ve also heard similar things from an AD employee. The bottom line is that Rolex has leverage because of the amount of money they have spent in marketing and frankly done an excellent job creating greater demand than they really is. Until the market changes, and that does happen for periods of time, there will still be enough people that fuel this frenzy which gives the AD this type of leverage Rolex as a brand has turned away a certain percentage of prospective buyers from ever buying one of their pieces. I have also received feedback of a small percentage of would be buyers that have turned to purchasing super clone versions of the brand.
I have 3 Rolex watches, all bought at AD, and I think your description is fairly accurate. One thing I would add is that the amount of time you have spent waiting has little to do with whether or not you get a watch. You need to make sure your salesperson keeps you in mind any time a watch becomes available. So stop in from time to time, text, call, give a gift during holidays, etc. Don't be annoying, but be memorable. And when you get a watch, be thankful. If you do not want to play the game, buy preowned or buy another brand.
Omg this was so helpful! I am on my beginning journey with trying to get my first Rolex from an AD, and I really tried to build a relationship with my sales associate. I told them all about myself and desire to purchase these watches. I even prasied her excellent customer service to her manager😅 She did confirm what you said about putting me on the registry, and she actually stated that they do not make people purchase a lot of items from their store in order to secure the watch you want which was a welcome relief. My top three are Gmt Master II pepsi/batgirl and Sky-dweller, all with jubilee bracelet. I also called the next day to follow up and thank her, and i did get an email confirmation with my three watch choices. Now the wait.
Your description of how allocations work at Rolex AD’s is spot on, and exactly how my UK AD Client Manager explained it to me. My expression of interest list is always transparent and can be updated during each visit, although I would not recommend changing it too often. Keep in mind that your historical spend, and what you have been allocated previously and bought in the past (incl. other brands, jewellery etc.) is also taken into consideration.
Thank you, and yes you're absolutely right about the allocation and history. After I got my Batgirl in 2023 I was told I wouldn't get another hot watch for 12 months! They like to give everyone a chance!
Thanks for the comments, guys, but I would like to know what do u think of my ad experience . I went for a second visit it was pleasant but I discovered the watch I was put down for was a slightly different dial option datejust from the one I was talking to the ad about in the boutique which I find strange . Please could I get some advice ?
I just got put on the waiting list at my local AD. They asked all kinds of questions durring the process, many of them are like this video. I got an email from them thanking me for coming in and asking me to please be patient. I am heading there on Friday to bring them damaged jewelry to repair as well as a bottle of wine as a thank you for putting me on the list. It might not get my watch faster but it does create a good relationship with the AD
Sounds like you have got off to a very good start. Taking them damaged jewelry will be a massive bonus feather in your cap too, as they will remember you as someone who is already a repeat, loyal customer. Personally I wouldn't take the gift as they would see that as trying too hard, but it's viewed culturally differently in different regions so that's your call.
Nice to see a thoughtful, balanced discussion on Rolex ADs and 'waitlists' instead of the typical click-baity garbage you see from other 'watch TH-camrs'. Subscribed to your channel and looking forward to more of your vids.
Hello! I myself was recently allocated a 126270vtnr on a jubilee this past month and upon pickup my SA immediately asked "what's next"..I hesitated for a second then said a black dial Daytona. He told me no problem, might be a couple years but I will get you one.THIS VIDEO IS THE MOST ACCURATE INFORMATION I'VE SEEN IN A WATCH VIDEO. Subscribed! I've created a real relationship with my SA. Not surface level but being genuine and asking questions about hobbies and family. I feel that along with a consistent but not overwhelming spend history has afforded me the opportunity to be allocated certain watches. Have you been to dinner with your SA as well? LOL Would love to have a pint with you my friend! You remind me of my Father. Cheers for an AMAZING video.
Very interesting video 👍🏻 New to your channel because of the video you took down & subscribed straight away after looking at your past videos, keep up the great content.
My AD told me that flippers are a big reason this is happening. Rolex would prefer not to sell to them. When I first stopped in, they told me a no date 41mm Sub was about a year wait. I checked in to say hi and couple of times. I got offered one in 5 weeks. I can only speak for my AD, but they were awesome to deal with. I will definitely do business with them again. I am interested in the new GMT.
Hi Mark firstly well done for being a grownup and and kissing and making up with the Rolex ad .it says a lot about people when they sort out their problems and talk about the issue it good that the Rolex ad where big enough to phone to apologise to you and have dealt with it satisfyingly. Yes I think your right about the wait list you have to no your watches and being a proper enthusiast Rolex will see right though you if your not. For me it took a lot of visits to my ad to build up a relationship as I had no spend history so to get a sports model (bi metal sea dweller)as my first Rolex from a ad was really good . Great video thanks John
I really enjoyed this video a great explanation of the CRM which I imagined was n place especially after my recent interactions with my AD. Thanks Mark, just hit the subscribed button 👍
First time viewer, thanks for showing off your Riddler - it's a wicked killer watch. Nice explanation of things, easy to like and subscribe and ring the bell.
being in Germany I have to say that is roughly the “waitlist” system as you describe, interest is one and them (AD) to order is step two, after step two you will get the watch at some time in the future….when it comes to some ADs etc. Bucherer here, I had bad experience as well. Also due to the past 3 years some ADs thought they are superior, they will come back to base soon and my choice anymore.
The video you removed was the 1st one of yours i have watched...just because i thought the title was ingeresting ...and i subscribed thereafter..it was a good video
I bought an Aquaracer, a Pelagus 39, 2 Cartiers, a hydroconquest and a Skipper in my AD and it still took 3 years for them to allocate me a YM40 - I just got the call yesterday. I would literally never flip a watch - they’re all too precious to me. I think I need assertiveness training.
My AD does not care about spend, he cares about relationship. My first watch was the Pepsi, the second was a Seiko Turtle, the third was a Starbucks, and the fourth was an Oysterflex Daytona in Rose. The next is a Panda Daytona (hopefully) followed by a baguette Daytona.
My new AD said he hasnt seen a single Submariner come in this year. He isnt sure whats going on supply wise with them. I had been on a "list" for 22 months when I was told by my AD that they were no longer carrying Rolex! They said this was not their decision. They said they are slowly cutting down on the small boutiques that offer their products.... Fortunately it was a small chain so hopefully I havent wasted 22 months waiting as there is another location I am working with now.
That must have been hard to swallow when you got the news. Hopefully your details have been correctly passed to the new AD. I would definitely ask some probing questions, just to check that they definitely have me on file!
This is why I buy Omega. Better watches. Better system for buying said watches. I call my AD, send money, Omega is delivered to my home. No Rolex for me. Its all just hype!
Weak move removing the video on the AD. Yes, they reached out to you and kissed your butt, but who is to say they won’t treat others in the same way? Especially those who don’t fit their preferred profile - i.e. Asian. And it’s not racist or xenophobic to say this - I see the same in NYC ADs. My father in law is a “builder done good” who owns a good size firm and turns over millions - wears a bluesy he bought years ago but because he’s not the refined business type, he can’t get a Rolex out of an AD now, even though he could buy the store. It’s a joke.
The great situation your Father-in-law is in is that he doesn't need to get on his knees and beg for an allocation. So he's been profiled really badly by the AD, as he sounds like the perfect Rolex customer to me!
@@gaffs82So you’re speaking from ignorance. I’m Chinese and Japanese, and Rolex runs in both our sides of the family just as whiskies do. We are upper middle class in general. Just respect the strategy over victim hood.
I can’t believe people don’t know this. So many came into this “hobby” since 2019, with minimal long term store relationships. They were used to the way Amazon and Costco work. This ain’t that. This is more like dealing with a full service financial advisor who’s got a limited amount of new issue shares to give to his clients. He gives to the ones who make him the most money and who have highest business prospects going forward.
In short there is no waitlist with Rolex will AD’s have a preferred client list that you will be at the bottom of and never get a watch in most cases. But because your name pops up on a CRM list that means you are on “the waitlist”…just keep waiting
The sales associate at WoS showed me the CRM system, spun his laptop to me and all. You are right, they registered my interest for a BLNR and OP Tiffany. I was told that the store receives more BLNR's than in the past so may have a good chance of securing one this year. Tiffany will be a 6 month wait. But this was after I was told that I had to 'wait 4 years for the BLNR because I only asked to be put on the list a month ago!' I got a bit emotional because I had already been waiting 3 years with a spend history of 25k. But they assured me that they refresh their lists from time to time and the sales associate had re registered me. Hopefully get my hands on one of the pieces soon
'registering your interest' still puts you on a waitlist!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There should be no 'negotiation/arguing between sales reps about who gets what, whoever ordered a watch first gets the watch ahead of everyone who came in after them . This is still an absolute rort and a lottery. F.........Rolex A.D.s Disgraceful conduct and contrary to good customer 'service'. It doesn't matter who you are...your money is as good as anyones. I watched your previous vid about your customer experience at the Auckland Hourglass, despicable treatment if I've ever seen it. Suggest you go elsewhere.
Thanx sir! Recently out of the blue I’ve come across one of your video and I did what You suggested and… after just two months I received my firet DJ Wimbledon 41mm :) now I am waiting for the Submariner 41 no date ( fingers crossed ) and I know I will get one soon :)
Congratulations on the DJ41 - very nice indeed. unless you are a big spender they will probably give you a cooling off period of a few months, maybe a year, before they offer you a Sub. Enjoy the DJ!
Mark, I think you should keep some love for the King of Watchmakers if they apologize to you to the extent that they have contacted you personally!! What else do we need a great opportunity to extend your Rolex collection.…. We can not compare any other watch to Rolex on that price changes, Rolex is not a watch but an fine art which will grow its value once gets older!!! Really want to see some other Rolex pieces on your wrist soon ✌️🏼!! Lovely video once again 👍🏽
Thank you and yes I think I will definitely keep my toe in the Rolex pool, but right now there isn't anything screaming at me apart from the 124060. I will get that model eventually, just not now.
Best explanation out there on this ……I’ve gotten a Bkuesy and a Polar Explorer 2 in the past 8 months. I’m in the CRM for a Batgirl now. Just be polite and don’t lie just be real and they will want to give you the watch but yea there are probably a few others in front of you. Patience….. these are wants not needs.
Great video. Thank you. Here's a question - is the CRM the AD's or Rolex's? I.e. could you be penalised by 'registering an interest' with multiple ADs if it's the latter?
Hello and thanks for the feedback. The CRM systems are bespoke to the ADs, and they don't share the information with anyone, as it's very valuable intellectual property. So yes you can register with as many dealerships as you like, and they won't know that you're also registered for the same watches elsewhere. I would encourage you to register with as many as you can, but make sure you actually visit them occasionally too
@@TheRandomWatchDude Brilliant. Thats what I guessed from a conversation with an AD. My experience has been similar to yours, in that you have to actively build a positive relationship with them. Many thanks for taking the time to respond. Much appreciated. Simon
1) Rolex doesn't decide who gets a Rolex watch the AD does, which is usually a separate company completely independent from Rolex . 2) Rolex decides which and how many watches they supply to the AD . There have been countless interviews with ex employees of ADs confirming all this including many people are told they are on but actually don't get put on the expression of interest list at all .
1) Correct, 2) Most ADs are part of larger chains that all get an allocation from Rolex, which is then split amongst the stores. 3) Correct, some people think they've been put on the list when they actually haven't. Very common.
@TheRandomWatchDude hello sir thank you so much for this video. I went for my second visit and I noticed the watch I was put down for was a slightly different dial colour from what I discussed with the ad! What does this mean ? Is this common ?
@@mboy5761 Sounds like they selected the wrong model reference, as there is no reason for them to change your choice. Maybe have a chat with the Manager as that is quite disappointing service, and the Manager will appreciate knowing about it.
How has the Rolex waitlist experience evolved over time for you and your viewers, and what strategies have you found most effective in navigating the waitlist process?
The best strategy that guarantees you will get a hot watch, is to spend a lot of money on other watch brands, and jewellery. You will go to the top of their list of favourites very quickly.
My experience was definitely not an exception, but obviously as I have an active video-logging channel, it was highlighted on this occasion. I am genuinely confident that things will improve there.
I thought it was called a register of interest? I registered interest in May 2022. Had an email to say the watch I wanted was now discontinued, a couple of weeks ago and ( registered for a Datejust 41 stainless, fluted, oyster green motif) Ask if I would like to change it to something else obviously disappointed so asked for a DJ 41 mint green stainless, fluted on a jubilee and had a call this week! Literally days of being two whole years! Already have a GMT 2 116710LN purchased with out the BS in 2007. Obviously going to register in store for something else when I go collect it. May go OP green dial, then a sports obviously a sub with a dream view for the panda Should have register in 2007 but the waitlist was 5 years and I could not be bothered 😕
Congratulations on your latest acquisition! It's a registered interest list / waitlist / shopping list / list that goes in the bin when you walk out the door! All ADs have a slightly different way of taking your name down, but the good ones use a proper process like the one I described.
If you can get 1 Rolex at RRP call it good.” That’s exactly where I’m at. Going to try and get a riddler. Decided today, then I saw your video. I’m going to be shopping in Portland Oregon. If anybody has any contacts or recommendations please let me know. Thanks
Perhaps most AD do distribute desired watches to genuine collectors but obviously there are still some that distribute Rolex hot watches to flippers where they will end up being new and unworn in the grey market. Those AD’s sales personnel who are not keen in entertaining customers may perhaps be complicit in only serving flippers segment. Not trying to sound negative but we cannot deny there are still new Rolex hot watches ending up in the grey market. CRM data is entered manually and can be manipulated if one wishes to unfortunately
@@TheRandomWatchDude Sometimes it also makes me think and wonder if Rolex as a company are really interested in stamping out the grey market and if they are, there will sure be a way like strictly banning AD that sale to flippers (they can know if they uses ‘mystery shoppers’ in the grey market). Reason why Rolex may even be ‘complicit’ is that only the grey market can hype their brand hence giving Rolex the chance to kept raising their watch retail prices frequently. Lets just say Rolex need the grey market for their own benefits
interesting - but it get's exhausting to see the comment "make sure it doesn't go to a flipper", when the Watch buy/sell FB group in my country is full of flippers of Rolex
I genuinely don't think they're really bothered. The most important thing is how you approach it if and when you want to get back on. My view is that in a year or two, there might not even be a list for most watches except the super hot sports anyway
It is fair enough if they want to ban flippers. However, choosing who of the "normal customers" they want to sell to is fundamentally wrong. I really wonder if this is legally allowed.
There are some very common practices at Rolex ADs that, in my view, are immoral. One being that they accept gifts from potential clients. This is a form of bribery and should be utterly condemned by Rolex, but it's allowed to proliferate.
Just another way of saying there is a preferred customer list. If you want to call it a waitlist and that placates some inner demon, okay. However, without an extensive purchase history you have no chance. The only exception is a dog watch that nobody else wants. I know people that have been on the "waitlist" for five or more years and they were in the "system". The AD'S do want to avoid selling to flippers but purchase history drives sales not the CRM nonsense. What do you do for a living? is another way of saying: What is the potential of future sales? The simple fact is the AD'S are at fault and they won't stop. Why would they? It works for them. Go in the back and look in the safe of AD on the planet. You will find plenty of watches to buy. My Dentist has over twenty Rolex pieces. He gets called every few weeks regardless of whether he is in the market or not. He is the first one to tell you he gets called because he buys a lot of product. Not just watches..
Absolutely I wouldn't dispute any of that. If you're buying jewellery, and watch boxes etc then you are always going to be remembered as a cash cow for the AD. So yes you will get offered the decent watches.
Can someone help me, how come my sales representative remembers the first time I walked in and remembers my first words I said to her in that moment but she doesnt remember that Im on the wish list for a gmt (not pepsi)?
That's a customer database, not a wait list. Just because you're in there doesn't mean you'll ever get a call for the watch you want. I'm sure they were very apologetic when they found out you were documenting their poor customer service on TH-cam. I've had similar experience with an AD here in America where nobody acknowledged I'd entered the store. I just walked out and never went back.
The waist list is, of course, a real thing. When people call it a myth, they are doing a poor job of articulating the fact that there’s not a chronological list whereby you’re guaranteed a spot based on the date you come into the store. I’ve never heard of someone who actually believes the list is purely chronological - so when these people call the list a myth, I’m not sure who they’re arguing with. Maybe it’s the six people in the world who believe it’s chronological.
Exactly right. The list is a term we use to over-simplify the CRM expression of interest 'list'. I think most people choose not to understand this, as they are offended that they haven't been chosen!
How sad that you have to lick the backsides of these AD’s so that you can be “chosen” to have the rare opportunity to buy a Rolex.. how unbearably sad. Think I’d rather stick with a Casio than lower myself
My gut feeling is that a person needs a purchase history and loyalty I went to my local Rolex authorized and told them Rolex is my favorite watch brand and I would like to buy one luxury watch per year every year for the rest of my life there for I would like to build a relationship exclusively with them and only buy from because they are my local authorized dealer I bought from them a Ladydatejust 28 a Wimbledon 41 David Yurman jewelry Express intrest in Cartier watches and Breitling THEY WANT LOYALTY AND PURCHASE HISTORY PERIOD if you buy a gold watch for 45k that’s trading for 32k on the pre owned market a couple watches like that my feelings is you are going to be on the top of the list for watch that trade higher on the pre own market
100% agree with you on all of this, and the majority of the hot watches go to customers like this as a priority. Plebs like me get offered a leftover now and then. Number 52 on the list!
At this point, ive been looking for an experience with an AD that was positive. Your experience tracks with everyone else's. Porsche does this same shit with the low production models, but rolex makes a million of these watches every year. The scarcity is artificial. The way they treat customers would be a turn-off and keep me out of the store.
Agreed, and I happen to know that most ADs have the hard-to-get models in the safe so they are not scarce. They just hand them out once they've hit their target for the month, selling the less desirable models.
Thanks for the great video. Have you ever considered attempting to hack the system, creating a false profile which might be more attractive to the AD community?
That kind of experiment probably wouldn't fly here in NZ as the watch community is so small. But I could see that being a worthy experiment in a more populated region with lots of ADs.
ive been playing the AD game for a few years now, it does suck, just for the hope to get a watch and spend my money, with no guarantee, It makes me wish that omega which really is a better timepiece had the same pedigree as rolex. because omega should everything about the brand and quality of watch is better it is just down to marketing. rolex just has that name that you cant get out of your head and if you want one its either you play the AD game or buy grey market and I refuse to buy grey market
So true! Take the names away from the watches, and jumble them up, and it would be hard to tell which is better quality. But Rolex is Rolex, the king of market hype and allure
I hate wait lists. I was lucky to buy the modern rolexes I like before 2019 (Daytona SS ceramic black dial, Dssdjc, sd43 and my all time favorites explorer2 both in black and white dial). Now I'm done with Rolex and wonder elsewhere to much more interesting and better finished watches like Breguet, jlc, Blancpain, LUC chopard. And adding Zenith pieces to the ones I already own
Hmm, It sounds to me that either A. Hourglass have had a swift kick in the balls from Rolex or B. The Regional Manager of Hourglass got wind of your video and crapped his boxers . Why ? , well Rolex monitor all their dealerships and have it set down how their Authorised Dealers should act in their approach to regular or future Rolex customers , they do not like the Brand being associated with bad vibes and wouldnt give a shit about pulling the dealership from under the feet of Hourglass . Rolex very often send in 'Secret Shoppers' to monitor their ADs , Hourglass need to remember this !!.
Mark, I tip my hat to you sir , and to that GM. THATS how you do great business and resolve problems. Class act , which is exactly what we’ve come to know you as 😂
Mate, what you experienced in the Hour Glass is what foreigners to any predominantly white country experience on a daily basis. The exception is that you are using your white privilege to get on this platform to call out racist behaviour, whereas the countless number of foreigners who go through this suffer in silence. In fact, it doesn’t even need to be a foreigner. I would go so far as to say any non-white person experiences this low-key racism and xenophobia,, even if they are 2nd, 3rd generation kiwi. Anyway, great info on the CRM. Appreciate it.
Owning Rolex is like being in an abusive relationship that you keep going back to 😂😂, I can't believe you took the video down, I wouldn't like you as a friend as you don't stand by your word...... cowardly if you ask me shame
And you, sir, would be a terrible friend as you aren't prepared to forgive and give people a 2nd chance. Stupid comment of the month goes to you - well done!
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As someone who has purchased many Rolexes through ADs and have befriended some, this is what I was told about waiting lists.
Waiting lists are real but the order is irrelevant. I’m talking about smaller ADs. The owner of one the ADs told me his top priority when he gets watches in so to take care of his top spenders first. After that, he said he sells the watches to the people he likes even if there were people on the list before them.
I asked for a Sprite and received it 6 weeks later. When I went to pick it up, I asked him I was surprised I got it so fast. He said he had a long list but that he felt I was a genuine and nice guy and wanted me to have it. So basically they sell the watches to people they like regardless of order on the list!.
Ya thats not really good news. It worked out for you and thats great and im happy for you, but for others its a different story. Its an unfair game, and puts a stain on the watch community, makes Rolex look bad too. Put it simply, bad bussiness practice.
I’ve also heard similar things from an AD employee. The bottom line is that Rolex has leverage because of the amount of money they have spent in marketing and frankly done an excellent job creating greater demand than they really is.
Until the market changes, and that does happen for periods of time, there will still be enough people that fuel this frenzy which gives the AD this type of leverage
Rolex as a brand has turned away a certain percentage of prospective buyers from ever buying one of their pieces. I have also received feedback of a small percentage of would be buyers that have turned to purchasing super clone versions of the brand.
Wait-list explanation is accurate to the best of my knowledge.
I recommend reinstating the original video on the AD. Both can run in tandem.
Keep up the great work Mark.
I bought a Tudor BB58 back in June of 2023 at an AD in Seattle, I told her that I was also interested in a Datejust in either blue or mint green. Months later I dropped by on a whim and chatted with her again (she remembered me a little bit, but it took her a moment) and I asked about some straps for the Tudor and ordered the NATO strap they offer. Right after it arrived (mid Janurary 2024), like two weeks after, she emails me saying that I had a choice between getting the blue or a green datejust that were in the store and ready for me!
Bingo! You built a relationship, visited her again, spent a bit of money, and she convinced her store manager to let you have a DJ! Great work!
You actually explained the waitlist very well! I have a super funny story about this...
Many branch managers will actually do a small background check on your social media accounts and LinkedIn profile. They want to see if you're financially stable since that's less risk of you flipping a watch they offer.
My friend learned this firsthand. He's a software engineer at a successful company in the states, and his position offers him LinkedIn premium. This means he can see which accounts and people view his profile.
As he was getting off work, he got a notification on his phone from the Mayors Branch Manager checking out his LinkedIn profile... He knew he was about to get the call, so he went to the storefront, and they offered him his Pepsi on the spot! The look on the SA's face was priceless "Speak of the devil, we were just about to call you!"
What a great story!! Hilarious!! In a way I'm glad they do this
That is a very good tale. The dude trolled them hard.
So basically, ADs are modern day branches of the Stasi. Call me paranoid, but I have no interest in giving away my life information for the privilege of spending a very substantial amount of my money; I expect a purveyor of goods to take my disposable cash gratefully and ask no questions. If I'm prepared to spend my money in a commercial establishment, I expect the power dynamic to be on my side. If it isn't, then I will move on because obviously that establishment has no need for my custom.
I agree with the sentiment, but in reality this is a very common business practice, not just a Rolex AD practice. Your Omega or GS boutique will have similar information about you if you are a regular customer spending money, and wanting the hot watches. The intentions are to make sure the right people get the right watches, and not to flippers. And don't forget that Google knows far more about you than your wife knows about you!
@@TheRandomWatchDudesame Deal with Porsche
You are not as relevant as you think you are
@@Johnwis-gp9yy would you care to elaborate?
@@TheRandomWatchDude no problem. I was replying to allenmontr… his feelings on waitlist and the way he feels ad behaves is simply childish. He thinks he can go in and buy a daytona because his money is the same as the other person. That is why i told him to get a reality check. That behavior may work for casio, seiko or longines but not for rolex or any other premium brand. Try walk in a patek or lange boutique and buy a popular piece or just about anything… rolex is decent compared to those brands
New sub. Excellent video and explanation. During my first visit with my wife to our local Rolex AD.a few weeks ago, I had my two tone Tag watch that I wore at our wedding almost 28yrs ago with me. I told him that I keep my watches forever and that I wanted to get my first Rolex to attend my son's graduation from West Point (this month). He asked me what I was looking for and I said a special Daytona. He said he didn't have any Daytonas (of course), but that he would talk with his manager and let me know the following week. He called a week later and offered me a two tone Daytona 126503 steel/yellow gold with the bright black dial with diamonds at the hour markers. It's unbelievable. I bought it that day. I think I found the right sales person at the right time. Glad you worked things out with your AD, but it doesn't erase how you were treated. That type of behavior is never acceptable. Appreciate your videos. Keep them coming.
Wow James congratulations 🎊 and thank you!
ADs get much higher profit margin on anything that has diamonds on it so they are MUCH easier to obtain, just FYI of coursse
Great outcome for u Mark, always enjoy the honesty of ur vids
Thanks for sharing your update with the Hourglass Mark. I am also in Auckland and on the “wait list” with the Hourglass. Interesting that I also recently had a similar experience to yourself when calling in and asking for the assistant Manager, shall we say. There was also numerous staff, not serving hanging around, and when I asked about a Tudor FXD the assist
replied that he didn’t know about that model and would get another staff member. Well the short story to this is the assistant Manager was not available and the person to assist me with my Tudor enquiry never materialised so after some time I politely departed the store. The other interesting thing is I have been visiting this store fairly regularly over the past four or so years and been on the so called list for some two years for a GMT which would be my third Rolex and have never had formal notification until my last visit that my interest was in fact validated by a text. So unsure if the system has changed or I was never really on the CRM in the past.
Anyway I also have quite a strong spend history with the Hourglass and have purchased six watches in total two being Rolex from them.
Sadly your story sounds very familiar to how I felt, and how I have felt on previous visits. However, I was in there this week and they had loads of hot Tudors for sale in the case. I was told that people aren't buying them at the moment... and unless they sell more, Tudor won't let them have models like the FXD.
I’ve also heard similar things from an AD employee. The bottom line is that Rolex has leverage because of the amount of money they have spent in marketing and frankly done an excellent job creating greater demand than they really is.
Until the market changes, and that does happen for periods of time, there will still be enough people that fuel this frenzy which gives the AD this type of leverage
Rolex as a brand has turned away a certain percentage of prospective buyers from ever buying one of their pieces. I have also received feedback of a small percentage of would be buyers that have turned to purchasing super clone versions of the brand.
I have 3 Rolex watches, all bought at AD, and I think your description is fairly accurate. One thing I would add is that the amount of time you have spent waiting has little to do with whether or not you get a watch. You need to make sure your salesperson keeps you in mind any time a watch becomes available. So stop in from time to time, text, call, give a gift during holidays, etc. Don't be annoying, but be memorable. And when you get a watch, be thankful. If you do not want to play the game, buy preowned or buy another brand.
Give a gift during the holiday???? Yall are wild!
Omg this was so helpful! I am on my beginning journey with trying to get my first Rolex from an AD, and I really tried to build a relationship with my sales associate. I told them all about myself and desire to purchase these watches. I even prasied her excellent customer service to her manager😅 She did confirm what you said about putting me on the registry, and she actually stated that they do not make people purchase a lot of items from their store in order to secure the watch you want which was a welcome relief. My top three are Gmt Master II pepsi/batgirl and Sky-dweller, all with jubilee bracelet. I also called the next day to follow up and thank her, and i did get an email confirmation with my three watch choices. Now the wait.
You've done everything right so far! Just follow up with the occasional visit every few weeks, and it will come
Another good tip is to write a positive review about your experience. The ADs DEFINITELY pay attention to this.
Your description of how allocations work at Rolex AD’s is spot on, and exactly how my UK AD Client Manager explained it to me. My expression of interest list is always transparent and can be updated during each visit, although I would not recommend changing it too often.
Keep in mind that your historical spend, and what you have been allocated previously and bought in the past (incl. other brands, jewellery etc.) is also taken into consideration.
Thank you, and yes you're absolutely right about the allocation and history. After I got my Batgirl in 2023 I was told I wouldn't get another hot watch for 12 months! They like to give everyone a chance!
Thanks for the comments, guys, but I would like to know what do u think of my ad experience . I went for a second visit it was pleasant but I discovered the watch I was put down for was a slightly different dial option datejust from the one I was talking to the ad about in the boutique which I find strange . Please could I get some advice ?
I just got put on the waiting list at my local AD. They asked all kinds of questions durring the process, many of them are like this video. I got an email from them thanking me for coming in and asking me to please be patient. I am heading there on Friday to bring them damaged jewelry to repair as well as a bottle of wine as a thank you for putting me on the list. It might not get my watch faster but it does create a good relationship with the AD
Sounds like you have got off to a very good start. Taking them damaged jewelry will be a massive bonus feather in your cap too, as they will remember you as someone who is already a repeat, loyal customer. Personally I wouldn't take the gift as they would see that as trying too hard, but it's viewed culturally differently in different regions so that's your call.
Nice to see a thoughtful, balanced discussion on Rolex ADs and 'waitlists' instead of the typical click-baity garbage you see from other 'watch TH-camrs'. Subscribed to your channel and looking forward to more of your vids.
Very insightful, thanks for the vid!
Thanks for the info. I'm currently saving up now for my first Rolex and will be going for an Explorer. The info you dispensed is really helpful
Glad to be of use! Good luck with the quest for an explorer. Great watch
My expeierence 100% aligns with how it’s described in the video. Really good explination.
Hello! I myself was recently allocated a 126270vtnr on a jubilee this past month and upon pickup my SA immediately asked "what's next"..I hesitated for a second then said a black dial Daytona. He told me no problem, might be a couple years but I will get you one.THIS VIDEO IS THE MOST ACCURATE INFORMATION I'VE SEEN IN A WATCH VIDEO. Subscribed! I've created a real relationship with my SA. Not surface level but being genuine and asking questions about hobbies and family. I feel that along with a consistent but not overwhelming spend history has afforded me the opportunity to be allocated certain watches. Have you been to dinner with your SA as well? LOL Would love to have a pint with you my friend! You remind me of my Father. Cheers for an AMAZING video.
Yes, they use a CRM system to distribute their watches.
Spot on regarding expression of interest but my AD would not register me due to very long wait list.
Very interesting video 👍🏻
New to your channel because of the video you took down & subscribed straight away after looking at your past videos, keep up the great content.
My AD told me that flippers are a big reason this is happening. Rolex would prefer not to sell to them. When I first stopped in, they told me a no date 41mm Sub was about a year wait. I checked in to say hi and couple of times. I got offered one in 5 weeks. I can only speak for my AD, but they were awesome to deal with. I will definitely do business with them again. I am interested in the new GMT.
Hi Mark firstly well done for being a grownup and and kissing and making up with the Rolex ad .it says a lot about people when they sort out their problems and talk about the issue it good that the Rolex ad where big enough to phone to apologise to you and have dealt with it satisfyingly. Yes I think your right about the wait list you have to no your watches and being a proper enthusiast Rolex will see right though you if your not. For me it took a lot of visits to my ad to build up a relationship as I had no spend history so to get a sports model (bi metal sea dweller)as my first Rolex from a ad was really good . Great video thanks John
Thank you John 😊
Cool video-Look at a Sprite can-looks similar to the Sprite drink-green-white-popular in the USA
Thank you, and yes I definitely see the similarity. We have Sprite here in NZ too. It's a tenuous link but seems to have stuck.
I do believe people felt the same way you did. It was your choice to pull that video ,but it did resonate with the people.
I really enjoyed this video a great explanation of the CRM which I imagined was n place especially after my recent interactions with my AD. Thanks Mark, just hit the subscribed button 👍
Glad you enjoyed it, and found it helpful. Thanks also for subscribing!
First time viewer, thanks for showing off your Riddler - it's a wicked killer watch. Nice explanation of things, easy to like and subscribe and ring the bell.
Thanks very much for the positive feedback!
being in Germany I have to say that is roughly the “waitlist” system as you describe, interest is one and them (AD) to order is step two, after step two you will get the watch at some time in the future….when it comes to some ADs etc. Bucherer here, I had bad experience as well. Also due to the past 3 years some ADs thought they are superior, they will come back to base soon and my choice anymore.
The video you removed was the 1st one of yours i have watched...just because i thought the title was ingeresting ...and i subscribed thereafter..it was a good video
Thank you much appreciated! 🙏
Is the CRM system viewable for other AD locations as well? Or only for that one particular AD?
The CRM is visible to all ADs who share the same parent company, yes but not any AD anywhere in the world
I bought an Aquaracer, a Pelagus 39, 2 Cartiers, a hydroconquest and a Skipper in my AD and it still took 3 years for them to allocate me a YM40 - I just got the call yesterday. I would literally never flip a watch - they’re all too precious to me.
I think I need assertiveness training.
Congratulations on the YM! Now you can leave the game in peace ✌️
My AD does not care about spend, he cares about relationship. My first watch was the Pepsi, the second was a Seiko Turtle, the third was a Starbucks, and the fourth was an Oysterflex Daytona in Rose. The next is a Panda Daytona (hopefully) followed by a baguette Daytona.
Congratulations! people don't get Pepsi as a first watch ever, regardless of 'relationship' unless you are married to the Manager!
My new AD said he hasnt seen a single Submariner come in this year. He isnt sure whats going on supply wise with them. I had been on a "list" for 22 months when I was told by my AD that they were no longer carrying Rolex! They said this was not their decision. They said they are slowly cutting down on the small boutiques that offer their products.... Fortunately it was a small chain so hopefully I havent wasted 22 months waiting as there is another location I am working with now.
That must have been hard to swallow when you got the news. Hopefully your details have been correctly passed to the new AD. I would definitely ask some probing questions, just to check that they definitely have me on file!
This is why I buy Omega. Better watches. Better system for buying said watches. I call my AD, send money, Omega is delivered to my home. No Rolex for me. Its all just hype!
It was interesting, thanks for sharing these informations! I just found your channel now, happy to subscribe and waiting for the next video!
Thank you! more videos coming soon!
Weak move removing the video on the AD. Yes, they reached out to you and kissed your butt, but who is to say they won’t treat others in the same way? Especially those who don’t fit their preferred profile - i.e. Asian. And it’s not racist or xenophobic to say this - I see the same in NYC ADs. My father in law is a “builder done good” who owns a good size firm and turns over millions - wears a bluesy he bought years ago but because he’s not the refined business type, he can’t get a Rolex out of an AD now, even though he could buy the store. It’s a joke.
The great situation your Father-in-law is in is that he doesn't need to get on his knees and beg for an allocation. So he's been profiled really badly by the AD, as he sounds like the perfect Rolex customer to me!
@@TheRandomWatchDude he’s not Asian, a lawyer or a banker, so doesn’t fit the profile.
@@gaffs82So you’re speaking from ignorance. I’m Chinese and Japanese, and Rolex runs in both our sides of the family just as whiskies do. We are upper middle class in general. Just respect the strategy over victim hood.
@@karaokekannibal I don’t even know what you’re saying. Rolex boutiques kiss the ass of Asian customers. It’s exactly the same in New York City.
This is a great explanation. Thanks for a great content…liked and subscribed😊
Thank you Mark - much appreciated!
Thanks Mark for sharing your experience with us
Can you use a debit card for purchase ?
Cash or card, yes!
I have not seen the original video but have you not put the video up I wonder if you would have received a call and an apology.
Hi John, without question they would not have reacted as they did, if not for the video I'm sure. Cheers
I can’t believe people don’t know this. So many came into this “hobby” since 2019, with minimal long term store relationships. They were used to the way Amazon and Costco work. This ain’t that. This is more like dealing with a full service financial advisor who’s got a limited amount of new issue shares to give to his clients. He gives to the ones who make him the most money and who have highest business prospects going forward.
Great video Mark. Sprite is a play on it being a right handed watch.
In short there is no waitlist with Rolex will AD’s have a preferred client list that you will be at the bottom of and never get a watch in most cases. But because your name pops up on a CRM list that means you are on “the waitlist”…just keep waiting
The sales associate at WoS showed me the CRM system, spun his laptop to me and all. You are right, they registered my interest for a BLNR and OP Tiffany. I was told that the store receives more BLNR's than in the past so may have a good chance of securing one this year. Tiffany will be a 6 month wait. But this was after I was told that I had to 'wait 4 years for the BLNR because I only asked to be put on the list a month ago!' I got a bit emotional because I had already been waiting 3 years with a spend history of 25k. But they assured me that they refresh their lists from time to time and the sales associate had re registered me. Hopefully get my hands on one of the pieces soon
'registering your interest' still puts you on a waitlist!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There should be no 'negotiation/arguing between sales reps about who gets what, whoever ordered a watch first gets the watch ahead of everyone who came in after them . This is still an absolute rort and a lottery. F.........Rolex A.D.s Disgraceful conduct and contrary to good customer 'service'. It doesn't matter who you are...your money is as good as anyones. I watched your previous vid about your customer experience at the Auckland Hourglass, despicable treatment if I've ever seen it. Suggest you go elsewhere.
Dude, just go buy omega or seiko. Rolex is child’s play compared to Patek or even Lange.
Thanx sir! Recently out of the blue I’ve come across one of your video and I did what You suggested and… after just two months I received my firet DJ Wimbledon 41mm :) now I am waiting for the Submariner 41 no date ( fingers crossed ) and I know I will get one soon :)
Congratulations on the DJ41 - very nice indeed. unless you are a big spender they will probably give you a cooling off period of a few months, maybe a year, before they offer you a Sub. Enjoy the DJ!
Mark, I think you should keep some love for the King of Watchmakers if they apologize to you to the extent that they have contacted you personally!!
What else do we need a great opportunity to extend your Rolex collection.….
We can not compare any other watch to Rolex on that price changes, Rolex is not a watch but an fine art which will grow its value once gets older!!!
Really want to see some other Rolex pieces on your wrist soon ✌️🏼!!
Lovely video once again 👍🏽
Thank you and yes I think I will definitely keep my toe in the Rolex pool, but right now there isn't anything screaming at me apart from the 124060. I will get that model eventually, just not now.
Best explanation out there on this ……I’ve gotten a Bkuesy and a Polar Explorer 2 in the past 8 months. I’m in the CRM for a Batgirl now. Just be polite and don’t lie just be real and they will want to give you the watch but yea there are probably a few others in front of you. Patience….. these are wants not needs.
Great video. Thank you. Here's a question - is the CRM the AD's or Rolex's? I.e. could you be penalised by 'registering an interest' with multiple ADs if it's the latter?
Hello and thanks for the feedback. The CRM systems are bespoke to the ADs, and they don't share the information with anyone, as it's very valuable intellectual property. So yes you can register with as many dealerships as you like, and they won't know that you're also registered for the same watches elsewhere. I would encourage you to register with as many as you can, but make sure you actually visit them occasionally too
@@TheRandomWatchDude Brilliant. Thats what I guessed from a conversation with an AD. My experience has been similar to yours, in that you have to actively build a positive relationship with them. Many thanks for taking the time to respond. Much appreciated. Simon
This video has confirmed that I’m never getting the Pepsi GMT, I’ve been patiently waiting two and a half years and counting for.
Sorry to hear that. What makes you think so?
1) Rolex doesn't decide who gets a Rolex watch the AD does, which is usually a separate company completely independent from Rolex . 2) Rolex decides which and how many watches they supply to the AD . There have been countless interviews with ex employees of ADs confirming all this including many people are told they are on but actually don't get put on the expression of interest list at all .
1) Correct, 2) Most ADs are part of larger chains that all get an allocation from Rolex, which is then split amongst the stores. 3) Correct, some people think they've been put on the list when they actually haven't. Very common.
@TheRandomWatchDude hello sir thank you so much for this video. I went for my second visit and I noticed the watch I was put down for was a slightly different dial colour from what I discussed with the ad! What does this mean ? Is this common ?
@@mboy5761 Hello! What watch did you put your name down for, and what watch did they actually register for you? It's probably just a mistake.
@@TheRandomWatchDude hello sir thank you for your reply it was for a diamond dial DJ41 and they put me down for a blue motif
@@mboy5761 Sounds like they selected the wrong model reference, as there is no reason for them to change your choice. Maybe have a chat with the Manager as that is quite disappointing service, and the Manager will appreciate knowing about it.
Enjoy the wait! Omega paradise on the other side!😊🎉🎉🎉❤
Did you get your Riddler at retail?
It's my dream watch.
Hello yes I got it at retail in early 2023. I was shocked!
How has the Rolex waitlist experience evolved over time for you and your viewers, and what strategies have you found most effective in navigating the waitlist process?
The best strategy that guarantees you will get a hot watch, is to spend a lot of money on other watch brands, and jewellery. You will go to the top of their list of favourites very quickly.
Terrific explanation of “the waitlist” works 👍👏👏
The Riddler is a far better name than Sprite. Having the crown on the left is a bit of a riddle.
Hi I’m interested in trading in my Sea Dweller 16600 for a 126600. Do you have an idea of how much I’d need to add to make the switch?
Hello in reality there is not much difference in value there. If yours has box and papers and in reasonable condition there won't be much between them
I’m thinking how many people got the same treatment you did but went un-noticed. Though always glad to hear a happy end to a story.
My experience was definitely not an exception, but obviously as I have an active video-logging channel, it was highlighted on this occasion. I am genuinely confident that things will improve there.
Very sensible information 🙏
I thought it was called a register of interest?
I registered interest in May 2022.
Had an email to say the watch I wanted was now discontinued, a couple of weeks ago and ( registered for a Datejust 41 stainless, fluted, oyster green motif)
Ask if I would like to change it to something else obviously disappointed so asked for a DJ 41 mint green stainless, fluted on a jubilee and had a call this week!
Literally days of being two whole years!
Already have a GMT 2 116710LN purchased with out the BS in 2007.
Obviously going to register in store for something else when I go collect it.
May go OP green dial, then a sports obviously a sub with a dream view for the panda
Should have register in 2007 but the waitlist was 5 years and I could not be bothered 😕
Congratulations on your latest acquisition! It's a registered interest list / waitlist / shopping list / list that goes in the bin when you walk out the door! All ADs have a slightly different way of taking your name down, but the good ones use a proper process like the one I described.
Great insight and interesting video!
I also subscribed from your AD experience. Im discussed by the Hourglass!
If you can get 1 Rolex at RRP call it good.” That’s exactly where I’m at. Going to try and get a riddler. Decided today, then I saw your video. I’m going to be shopping in Portland Oregon. If anybody has any contacts or recommendations please let me know. Thanks
Good luck. I think you're right about getting the call for one Rolex and call it quits! If only I could take my own advice!
Perhaps most AD do distribute desired watches to genuine collectors but obviously there are still some that distribute Rolex hot watches to flippers where they will end up being new and unworn in the grey market. Those AD’s sales personnel who are not keen in entertaining customers may perhaps be complicit in only serving flippers segment. Not trying to sound negative but we cannot deny there are still new Rolex hot watches ending up in the grey market. CRM data is entered manually and can be manipulated if one wishes to unfortunately
Absolutely agree 100% with you. Power corrupts, and if someone has the ability to manipulate for their own benefit, unfortunately sometimes they do.
@@TheRandomWatchDude Sometimes it also makes me think and wonder if Rolex as a company are really interested in stamping out the grey market and if they are, there will sure be a way like strictly banning AD that sale to flippers (they can know if they uses ‘mystery shoppers’ in the grey market). Reason why Rolex may even be ‘complicit’ is that only the grey market can hype their brand hence giving Rolex the chance to kept raising their watch retail prices frequently. Lets just say Rolex need the grey market for their own benefits
Being left handed tried on the riddler today at AD, looked great on right wrist, but looked tiny next to my 136660 deepsea! ,,,,pass
Well, compared to a Deepsea...🤣
@@TheRandomWatchDude still a great watch though, that black and green pops cuz
interesting - but it get's exhausting to see the comment "make sure it doesn't go to a flipper", when the Watch buy/sell FB group in my country is full of flippers of Rolex
Yes I totally agree. The concept works if people are honest, but so many people on both sides of this fence are dishonest.
Do people think that removing yourself from a "waitlist" puts a black mark on your file with that AD?
I genuinely don't think they're really bothered. The most important thing is how you approach it if and when you want to get back on. My view is that in a year or two, there might not even be a list for most watches except the super hot sports anyway
You sir are a gentleman. Thank you.
It is fair enough if they want to ban flippers.
However, choosing who of the "normal customers" they want to sell to is fundamentally wrong.
I really wonder if this is legally allowed.
There are some very common practices at Rolex ADs that, in my view, are immoral. One being that they accept gifts from potential clients. This is a form of bribery and should be utterly condemned by Rolex, but it's allowed to proliferate.
Just another way of saying there is a preferred customer list. If you want to call it a waitlist and that placates some inner demon, okay. However, without an extensive purchase history you have no chance. The only exception is a dog watch that nobody else wants.
I know people that have been on the "waitlist" for five or more years and they were in the "system". The AD'S do want to avoid selling to flippers but purchase history drives sales not the CRM nonsense. What do you do for a living? is another way of saying: What is the potential of future sales?
The simple fact is the AD'S are at fault and they won't stop. Why would they? It works for them.
Go in the back and look in the safe of AD on the planet. You will find plenty of watches to buy.
My Dentist has over twenty Rolex pieces. He gets called every few weeks regardless of whether he is in the market or not. He is the first one to tell you he gets called because he buys a lot of product. Not just watches..
Absolutely I wouldn't dispute any of that. If you're buying jewellery, and watch boxes etc then you are always going to be remembered as a cash cow for the AD. So yes you will get offered the decent watches.
Can someone help me, how come my sales representative remembers the first time I walked in and remembers my first words I said to her in that moment but she doesnt remember that Im on the wish list for a gmt (not pepsi)?
Priorities! We all have an amazing memory for faces and expressions, but not expressions of interest for watches!
The Power of the Dark side of the Force... I smell a deal with the Devil.
I smell more Omegas!
That's a customer database, not a wait list. Just because you're in there doesn't mean you'll ever get a call for the watch you want.
I'm sure they were very apologetic when they found out you were documenting their poor customer service on TH-cam. I've had similar experience with an AD here in America where nobody acknowledged I'd entered the store. I just walked out and never went back.
Database, waitlist, CRM system, we call it lots of things, but it doesn't mean you'll ever get a watch - correct!
I’m bribing my kids to read “Build the Life you Want” @ €25 a pop 😅. You’re demonstrating a lot of those principles Mark , keep going …..
The waist list is, of course, a real thing. When people call it a myth, they are doing a poor job of articulating the fact that there’s not a chronological list whereby you’re guaranteed a spot based on the date you come into the store. I’ve never heard of someone who actually believes the list is purely chronological - so when these people call the list a myth, I’m not sure who they’re arguing with. Maybe it’s the six people in the world who believe it’s chronological.
Exactly right. The list is a term we use to over-simplify the CRM expression of interest 'list'. I think most people choose not to understand this, as they are offended that they haven't been chosen!
How sad that you have to lick the backsides of these AD’s so that you can be “chosen” to have the rare opportunity to buy a Rolex.. how unbearably sad. Think I’d rather stick with a Casio than lower myself
Yes it's a sorry state of affairs, and truly a first world problem
My gut feeling is that a person needs a purchase history and loyalty I went to my local Rolex authorized and told them Rolex is my favorite watch brand and I would like to buy one luxury watch per year every year for the rest of my life there for I would like to build a relationship exclusively with them and only buy from because they are my local authorized dealer I bought from them a Ladydatejust 28 a Wimbledon 41 David Yurman jewelry Express intrest in Cartier watches and Breitling THEY WANT LOYALTY AND PURCHASE HISTORY PERIOD if you buy a gold watch for 45k that’s trading for 32k on the pre owned market a couple watches like that my feelings is you are going to be on the top of the list for watch that trade higher on the pre own market
100% agree with you on all of this, and the majority of the hot watches go to customers like this as a priority. Plebs like me get offered a leftover now and then. Number 52 on the list!
At this point, ive been looking for an experience with an AD that was positive. Your experience tracks with everyone else's.
Porsche does this same shit with the low production models, but rolex makes a million of these watches every year. The scarcity is artificial. The way they treat customers would be a turn-off and keep me out of the store.
Agreed, and I happen to know that most ADs have the hard-to-get models in the safe so they are not scarce. They just hand them out once they've hit their target for the month, selling the less desirable models.
Thanks for the great video.
Have you ever considered attempting to hack the system, creating a false profile which might be more attractive to the AD community?
That kind of experiment probably wouldn't fly here in NZ as the watch community is so small. But I could see that being a worthy experiment in a more populated region with lots of ADs.
ive been playing the AD game for a few years now, it does suck, just for the hope to get a watch and spend my money, with no guarantee, It makes me wish that omega which really is a better timepiece had the same pedigree as rolex. because omega should everything about the brand and quality of watch is better it is just down to marketing. rolex just has that name that you cant get out of your head and if you want one its either you play the AD game or buy grey market and I refuse to buy grey market
So true! Take the names away from the watches, and jumble them up, and it would be hard to tell which is better quality. But Rolex is Rolex, the king of market hype and allure
The green and black is the Starbucks
Green and Black Submariner is the Starbucks, not the GMT though
They call it Sprite because of the other nick names like Starbucks, Pepsi and Coke ;)
What about Batman and Hulk? They're superheroes, not sugary fattening drinks!
Right decision to take it down - but let’s face it, the Rolex AD experience is not great which is a shame as the watches themselves are good
With the coming economic collapse they will be begging for customers and that when I will just laugh and say you screwed yourself by playing games!
You might have a valid point but you spent so long rambling that I nearly lost the will to live and never got to hear it.
TikTok might be a better place for you then?
@@TheRandomWatchDude - as long as you don't post there I'll check it out.
Thanks for the tip.
@@JammyDodger45 You definitely won't find me or my kind there, so good luck and thanks for everything
You're welcome, I'm always happy to help the less fortunate and gifted.
@JammyDodger45 haha 😄 good luck, and enjoy yourself somewhere else 😉
I hate wait lists. I was lucky to buy the modern rolexes I like before 2019 (Daytona SS ceramic black dial, Dssdjc, sd43 and my all time favorites explorer2 both in black and white dial). Now I'm done with Rolex and wonder elsewhere to much more interesting and better finished watches like Breguet, jlc, Blancpain, LUC chopard. And adding Zenith pieces to the ones I already own
I'm lucky my Sales associate Is the head manager of watches
A definite advantage! 👍
@@TheRandomWatchDudewhats the story with your gmts? All from an ad?
@@warhammerfaction Yes both mine from an AD. One from each that I had a relationship with.
Probably doesnt hurt that you look just like Richard Gere. Sales people probably running to you other than your one experience.
Hmm, It sounds to me that either A. Hourglass have had a swift kick in the balls from Rolex or B. The Regional Manager of Hourglass got wind of your video and crapped his boxers . Why ? , well Rolex monitor all their dealerships and have it set down how their Authorised Dealers should act in their approach to regular or future Rolex customers , they do not like the Brand being associated with bad vibes and wouldnt give a shit about pulling the dealership from under the feet of Hourglass . Rolex very often send in 'Secret Shoppers' to monitor their ADs , Hourglass need to remember this !!.
That is ridiculous that you took the video down
Thanks!
Some of us are the perfect grey market customers.
I guess we are all suited to the grey market. It's like going to the grocery store. You get what you want, but pay more
Surely supporting Man Utd automatically bars you from the list for life? 😅
Yes you're right! Everyone here is suddenly a Man City fan! But we all know that United are the greatest football team!
Aw shucks Mark. You said Man U! LOL
Meh, oh well. Great video by the way, very valuable info!
Yes well I'm a southerner, so of course I support United! LOL
It sounds like you've been made an honorary Asian by the Hourglass Auckland
Haha yes you could put it like that!
Mark, I tip my hat to you sir , and to that GM. THATS how you do great business and resolve problems. Class act , which is exactly what we’ve come to know you as 😂
That's very generous feedback sir, thank you 😊
riddler is a good name haha
Mate, what you experienced in the Hour Glass is what foreigners to any predominantly white country experience on a daily basis. The exception is that you are using your white privilege to get on this platform to call out racist behaviour, whereas the countless number of foreigners who go through this suffer in silence. In fact, it doesn’t even need to be a foreigner. I would go so far as to say any non-white person experiences this low-key racism and xenophobia,, even if they are 2nd, 3rd generation kiwi.
Anyway, great info on the CRM. Appreciate it.
Well it's not a white privilege to make videos on TH-cam, which is a global platform, but I think I see where you're coming from. Thanks
Boy this guy is chatty
😁
Owning Rolex is like being in an abusive relationship that you keep going back to 😂😂, I can't believe you took the video down, I wouldn't like you as a friend as you don't stand by your word...... cowardly if you ask me shame
And you, sir, would be a terrible friend as you aren't prepared to forgive and give people a 2nd chance. Stupid comment of the month goes to you - well done!