@@JP-Watch_Addict I have experienced this three times in London with ADS a year ago when asking for a Rolex they basically laugh AT you,offer no explanation,offer nothing in way of why and how else they can help and this is coming in one instance from a woman who is only a shop assistant and myself who had upto £7000 to spend.
Edward R I was just asking a genuine question as I visited a couple of AD’s in London, Just trying to work out why @goonermike67 experience was so bad that if he’s got Rolex RRP monies (let’s face it no discounts) why go straight to Omega.
The largest Rolex AD in The Netherlands told me that all Daytona watches they receive go directly to the directors of the company for them to "allocate"! Can just imagine the shady deals that goes down and favours called in exchange for Daytonas! Quite despicable! At the same time, our grey market stores are stocked to the brim with all the hard to come-by pieces and what they don't have they'll get for you within a couple of days!! Go figure what's really going on!!
When I was studying marketing ages ago, I had a module on retail and branding. They explained how certain luxury brand purposely antagonise and frustrate their customer to trigger this response were the customer will feel humiliated and so he will spend more as a way to demonstrate his wealth and social status. It’s a kinda nasty psychological trick that relies on the social insecurity or personal insecurity of the consumer. It works with everyone, not just rich people, but for them I guess is even worst. Guess when you are rich, time is the most important resource you have.
I have no idea why anyone would get on a waiting list to buy a luxury watch. Luxury is an experience. I own two rolexes and will never ever get on a waiting list for anything. Nobody makes me fucking wait when I’m the one that’s paying.
@@rp-wn5or so you believe that this business model is sustainable? Interesting but I think that eventually it has to catch up with you. Perhaps I am wrong.
@@dab7963 I’m not sure either but just an example of where it has worked is hermes with their kelly and birkin bags. I’m sure there are companies where it hasn’t worked but it IS Rolex…only time will tell. But I will admit that if I’m to beg for a Rolex, I’d rather save up and get a patek even if it means waiting YEARS. Might as well, right?
Another reason not to feel bad is that if you are in the market for such a piece, you likely still have a place to live and food to eat. Always good to stay positive!
Same everywhere . I asked about a Daytona in Geneva in 2017 and they said five years back then , also they don’t want tourists buying the top models when they already have good local customer of their own
Got to admit - about a decade ago, I went to an AD in a mall south of Seattle, and asked to try on a two-tone blue Sub. I was very upfront about how I was in no financial condition to buy that watch (although I might consider buying something from a lower-cost brand like Tissot, which they also carried), and that I just wanted to see how a Rolex felt on my wrist. They not only let me try it on, but tried to talk me into letting them work out a financing deal, so I could take it home that day. I turned them down, because I knew that taking on such a debt load at the time would be foolish if not disastrous - but, I have to admit, I now wish I had taken them up on that offer, because, although it would make the next few years a lot more difficult financially, I could have probably sold that watch right now at a hefty profit…and because, now that I'm at a point where I _could_ have swung such a purchase, the shortage and subsequent prices on the gray market mean I likely never will again.
The irony is you can virtually get all the three watches as many as you wish on C24, which means authorized dealers sold them to grey market dealers and watch manufacturers are actually quite happy with such an arrangement.
Yes that's a shame. I'm aware that Rolex handles it that way. But Patek and AP as well? Don't they just have many private customers who flip the watches to grey market dealers?
I'm fed up with these brands especially Rolex. Wish people would just give up on them ( i know this won't happen) see how quick things would change when nobody wants to buy their product anymore.
Great video. I know that I wasn’t surprised to hear that you wouldn’t get on any particular list easier than anyone else in the world but has the exclusivity of these brands changed your preference to others ? Or do you like being on a wait list in your own country ?
Rolex, Audemars, & Patek could easily increase production of these high demand models. They don't because they want to feed the hype. A concert promoter once told me, "If I'm booking a band and 3 people will come to see them, I'll book the venue that only seats 2." It's a manufactured scarcity. Stop being treated badly by these brands. Just say no.
You're right. Shortage lies at the core of any luxury product. If they'd increase production, they would devalue the brand, which is the most valuable part of the whole operation.
Seems strange to have to beg someone to give them tens of thousands of Euros. If only there was a way for all of us to boycott these brands and have them beg us to buy their products.
How sad and shocking. I used to spend a lot of time in Zürich in the ‘80’s. Walked into many shops on Bahnhofstrasse and came out with exactly the watch I wanted, 2 Datejust, 1 stainless and 1 stainless and gold, IWC Ingenieur, Cartier and Omega dress watches. I remember an Arab gentleman at the viewing table next to me at Rolex asking if there were volume discounts. The attendant told him politely, “The House of Rolex does not offer discounts.” Now, it seems, they do not even offer watches.
I've always been curious as to whether it would be easier/harder to get any of these hot pieces in Switzerland and now I have the answer. By the look of it, it's the same all over the world just varying degrees of wait & how much you have to spend to shorten that wait. What did they say about the Aquanaut that you got to try on? That it was for display only or something like that? I heard that in some stores in Hong Kong they've started stocking Daytona's that you can't buy that are just for trying on. Great video!
Thank's a lot. I didn't even ask why I couldn't buy the Aquanaut that they had in store. But as far as I know, the majority of AD's usually have one of each of the hot models on stock for their VIP clients. I guess they normally don't let people see them to avoid discussions. So I consider myself lucky for at least being able to try it on :-D
It will probably be like in -91. The Swiss watches hit a brick wall. I remember in the late -80 when I tried to buy a day-date at a Swedish AD. They laughed at me then and said I will never be able to get an all gold for list again. In -93 I bought one at the same AD with 15% discount.
Hi. Like Your videos. Like Your style. Have 2 questions. What do You think of Tudor? I'm looking to buy my first entry level lux everyday / sports watch around 3000$. Thinking Black Bay or Longines diver. Do You sqat, lift, bench or all? Will appreciate an answer.
Thank you, glad you like the videos. I like Tudor. You basically get Rolex quality for half the price. So if you like the style of the Black Bay, go to the store and try one on. Longines makes good quality watches as well, but I wouldn't call it a luxury watch. I'd go with the Tudor in your case. Myself I started with a Rolex and only got into cheaper watches when I already had a good collection of luxury pieces. Wearing a 50 Dollar watch while having a few Rolexes at home just feels great :-) while it doesn't feel so great if that's your only watch. I squat/bench/deadlift every day. love it. you too?
I guess best positive news from this video is they don’t discriminate. They laught at you equally for asking to take your money for steel sports models.
Thanks for the great video and perspective. I’ve canceled my flight for now ;). Please tell us more about that Hulk. Just subscribed, please keep up the great work! Cheers! Mark
Thanks a lot, Mark! Maybe I oversold that Hulk story a bit :-D basically I was able to call in a favor from a guy with a really good relationship to his AD.
Hast Du Erfahrungen mit Bucherer 2nd Hand Uhren? Die scheint man einfach so online bestellen zu können. Oder tun die auch nur so, bis man den deal tatsächlich abschliessen möchte?
Just buy a watch which is 50% under retail off Chrono24 like a rose gold Omega Seamaster or Breitling Navitimer or even a Hublot Big Bang. Looks like a better deal to me than a stainless Rolex GMT @18-19k.
In the U.S. buying a Rolex is a joke. My local AD had 2 steel no date Subs in stock, and wouldn't let me buy. They were saving them for "preferred clients". Took my cash to the omega boutique. won't give Rolex a cent for the way I was talked down upon.
Rolex is the point where someone dead become alive. People that after Aquanaut probably had 4-5 Rolex Sport watches, if they can’t get it they are still a fine human. But people that after Rolex mostly are coming from Modern People in slavery cycle that want to escape from the hunger game trap; they will do whatever it takes to get Rolex.
Same thing here, Ryan. But in my opinion not Rolex is to blame, but the AD's. Rolex needs to get a tighter grip on them and enforce some customer appreciation and stop the selling to grey market dealers. The AD's hurt the Rolex brand with their bad behaviour.
@@watchcraft Hi Watchcraft, in the area I live, Rolex dropped these small mom and pop stores as ADs: stores that helped build their company to what it is today. If the ones they've kept are misbehaving, they've got no one to blame but themselves. I like the Tudor Black Bay Blue, but I refuse to give Rolex any more of my money.
I got my Rolex Daytona in Basel during a conference in 2004. They all (Flagship Stores) put me in the waiting list. Had Coffee in a Base-Stadt Cafe near the University and was being served by a Filipina who was married to a Swiss National. We had a nice chat and invited me for dinner with her family because I gave her a local delicacy called Dried Mango which she had craved for many years. I asked her husband where he got his Daytona and he hooked me up with a Filipino who was working in Rolex. He gave me a letter and I got my Daytona! No waiting list with the base price. I guess I was very lucky being a Filipino.
@@watchcraft Yes. spent more 100 Swiss Francs on my excess baggage from Luftansa so it was worth it. I should have bought 2 and sold the other hahahaha
I have been to Cebu, staying in a 5 star resort. There are many (I have seen about 10 ) young Filipino wearing Nautilus and Rolex driving Italian sport cars. But just outside the hotel wearing Rolex or Patek without bodyguards, it’s very dangerous; it is very bad, you can get kidnapped and need pay million $ ransom.
LOL, love your videos and after watching this one, it explains how your Hamilton Khaki Mechanical is "cheap" after buying an expensive watch. For some of us outside CH that's like buying an Aliexpress
you're right, man. if you think about it, it's actually crazy how much people spend on watches. but I'm getting better: thinking about buying a Seiko next for 50$ :-)
I don't get why people buy into this nonsense. It's such a turnoff and reminds me of how Enzo Ferrari treated his customers. Disdain and disregard for your client base should lead to bankruptcy. There are so many great watches out there that aren't from these 3 abusive brands.
@@watchcraft thanks. I respect Enzo's and Ferrari as a company's accomplishments, especially in Formula 1. But I don't think it excuses treating people like shit. That's why even though I don't care for the VW Lamborghini of today, I love that the company was started as a middle finger to Enzo personally. Same with these Swiss companies. They have beautiful timepieces, but the price and the lack of customer service do not justify this.
@@cdb5001 Loved Ferrari in the Formula 1 as well. Schumi was my guy! I must say though that I only had bad experiences with Rolex. Patek and AP might not have sold me watches, but they treated me very nicely. Not comparable to Cartier though. There you feel like a king. Customer service is through the roof.
@@watchcraft I'm a Seiko guy myself, with a family, I can't justify wearing thousands of dollars on my wrist, although I do hope to one day pick up a Grand Seiko spring drive. I hated Schumi but respected his skill. He and Ferrari were so dominant for so long, but I admit, I was a Hakkinen/McLaren fan.
You're right, we don't have a huge privilege to be local, and the waiting list system is the same as elsewhere in the world. That said, I see that you have received your Aquanaut, which shows that anything is possible!
I bought my Omega Seamaster 120 automatic in Geneva in 1971. New, with the beads of rice bracelet it was $63. Total rebuild at the Swiss factory with new dial face and crystal was under $300 in 1989. They were already out of stock of the NOS bracelet so they offered me a Rolex bracelet that I declined. Last I checked a factory rebuild is $1250 plus cost of parts. Now that I am retired I am afraid I might not be able to afford that. I seem to be happy enough with the Omega on a display shelf and wear an Invicta Pro Diver that I am not afraid of damaging.
But Larry, that's too nice of a watch to not wear and enjoy. I would put it on a James Bond Nato strap. Will cost you about 20 Dollars and looks fantastic. I use that strap for my Submariner. And don't worry about damaging. A vintage sports watch is supposed to show some scars.
I had $25,000 to spend on a two tone submariner, and a Pepsi GMT tudor..., I'm not one to buy into this inflated prices.., in the end you have to be realistic..., if you can only afford steel/two tone models then you definitely shouldn't take the risk of paying more than retail. if you can afford a solid gold watch then it is not issue for you. I'm in the steel to 2 tone range..., and after waiting a year and not getting anything.. even though i made it clear to multiple AD's I was willing to spend 25k on not so rare watches..., i just gave up and put the entire amount on my mortgage. Don't buy into hype..., when shit goes south your the one that's left with the overpriced watch.
Agreed, Jason. No one should ever pay over retail for a watch that still is in production. How do you like your Tudor? I've never worn one but I'm affraid it might be too thick.
I feel very fortunate that I got both my Pepsi and Royal Oak before they became almost impost to get at the authorised dealers. Unfortunately, I have been waiting about 3 years for the nautilus. I don’t think I will be getting that any time soon, if at all.
Until 2020 it was in the industry for more than 20 years and the best dealers have all 4-5 of the most popular watches in stock. However, these are reserved for the best customers, those who buy watches for several hundred thousand euros or in another currency every year. If these customers also need a simple Submariner as a gift, they don't want to hear, we'll put them on the waiting list and we'll get in touch in 4 years. This then feeds the vanity and importance of these customers. Normally the waiting list is 4 years but really only for you we will set everything in motion and 1 or 2 weeks later the customer will be called that the watch that was in the warehouse for him has arrived. In principle, regular customers are always preferred to the real waiting lists. The industry consists only of vanity and self-importance.
The supposed “waitlist”. A bizarre thing. I was supposedly on one for 3 years before the Rolex shop at One Hyde Park sold out and a new AD took over the flagship store (never got the watch). I went and bought my Daytona from a grey market dealer. Trying to build another relationship with another AD now In London. Good to have various approaches to getting these Rolex timepieces I adore.
Hi great video thank you...I am three years into a five-year wait for a Pepsi but visit the AD. regularly in Melbourne Australia...really great staff always make me feel welcome so you never know!!
@@watchcraft No only Rolex....they have tempted me with a 36 mm gold and diamond ladies Rolex which means I would spend $30k for that to get my Pepsi for $13,500 ..not sure if I want to do that ..cheers and thanks for the response.
In 2016, I bought an AP, RO, OS, QE II Cup Hong Kong 2016 Chronograph, in Rose Gold and Forged Carbon over the counter at an AP Stockist here in Central, Hong Kong .... Now .... The same stockist has just empty glass tables and counters .... To buy a new premium watch now is an impossibility ....
It’s quite clear to me, and probably everyone, that the reason you are never hearing from these ADs is that your doing everything wrong that you can possibly do wrong. Walking in randomly with no purchase history and then expecting to get the super hyped pieces. What should the long time and loyal customers think if you would get such a watch before maybe them?…..
I guess we are there now. I have few Rolex already but I wish to get an AP. I’ve just put my name for RO grey 15510ST. Do you think 🤔 I would get it soon, because of the market conditions ?
The thing is there are so many people chasing the same pieces they inadvertently make themselves victims ... If people sailed their own ship and didn’t feel the need to follow the crowd then this wouldn’t be so common . Personally I would much rather have the overseas above any of the mentioned and this is readily available..
@@babakganji1045 my husband walks in wearing his presidential rolex and chit chat a while with the SA that he's been wanting the 40 ever rose gold with green face, they told us 2yrs waiting. long story short, we about to walk out, the SA brought out Daytona the new model 2021.
@@springday5679 Business perspective it doesnt make sense. Ive spoken with several ADs and they all say that the daytona is reserved for people with a big purchase history. The ADs are all under pressure to sell undesirable models. Why would someone simply walk in and get a daytona when they can bundle it with other jewelry, other expensive watches or even fully diamond rolex models with someone else? Of course anything is possible but financially it doesnt make sense for the AD to do it.... Some ADs told me $100k+ and others $500k+, I guess depending on the city.
@@babakganji1045 That's what I thought too. We just got back from Paris, we went to 3 different ADs none has Daytona nor submariner. When we got back home, my daughter went out on dinner date with her old friend from high school and she saw he has GMT backman on his wrist she took a pic of his watch and told her dad about it. That's how we end up going there to ask for daydate rosegold 40 in green dial. We didn't even ask for Daytona.
I think there is actucally a possibility (not guaranteed, but certainly a better chance) to get said watches earlier. This requires very good connections and a bit of luck. This approach involves you going to the actual manufacturer. Under normal circumstances, you can't just go there and look at the factory, experience the models and meet the watchmakers (museum doesn't count). You have to be invited through a group, club or something similar. They will be more open to discuss the brand and show models. It is possible that they provide you with offers that others can't because you are literally in contact with the manufacturer. Once you have these contacts, it might be worthwile to follow up in the future, because you set yourself apart from the other 1000's of requests. Very nice santos :)
It would be a frosty friday in hell before I wait on these companies for a watch..it is a created scarcity to drive up prices...no thanks..there are many other beautiful watches to be had.
U have to buy 10-20k in jewelry and some not so hot rolex watches to get bumped up. AD's don't make lot's of money off Rolex hence they use the hot pieces as a reward for good customers.
No respect for yourself, I will never and ever give so much money to someone that has 0 consideration about me. I had the same experience in Italy when I was looking for the Rolex sub, gmt or Daytona, I ended buying an Omega Seamster 300m and I still live happily since I bought it with almost 25% of discount.
I got the black ss Daytona a week before it closed, I asked to be in the waitlist for the white ss Daytona and they said they would put me in, do you think I will get it eventually from my AD
Out of all the Rolex models the Daytona probably is the one that's hardest to get. So congrats on the black one, you're a lucky man! I'd say you won't get the white one. But I would have said the same about the black if you would have asked me before. So what do I know? :-D
You are going for the most exclusive/desirable pieces now. But what about a Rolex Datejust 36mm black dial with fluted bezel (ref.126234) or an Oyster Perpetual for example?
Rolex designs are boring and repetitive with very few cosmetic and material changes. Submariner, Sea Dweller, GMT Master, EXPLORER II, Deep Sea, all share the same dial. I don't regret selling my Rolex watches and switching to other brands. Rolex produces 1 million watches per year, where is the exclusivity factor? Paying $20k for a steel watch that shouldn't cost more than $4K is ridiculous, let alone the whole "mafia-style" behavior of ADs. The demand for Rolex It's all artificially created.
Do the A. Lange & Sohne boutiques seem similar in this regard in Switzerland? Perhaps being a German company they want to show off by having availability in Zurich?
If I really wanted one I would go to the grey market rather than attempt to form a “relationship” with a bunch of salesmen who have a bloated sense of power
some of them are really into the art of watchmaking so you can bond over that. then it's actually fun to form the relationship. but yes, stay away from those who just care about their sales.
Based upon your live experience and according to some TH-cam videos made by respectable people you should know by now that waiting lists are fraud ! That expression is used mostly just to calm down undesirable customers ! Strong and favourable relationship with your dealer is the only way to get the most wanted timepieces ! And you already know that ! Anyway, your video is an honest confession that disspells ilussions ! By the way, I would wery much enjoy listening to you speaking mundart ! P.S. That Patek shop in Zurich - it was Beyer, wasn't it? And Rolex shop in Zurich - Bucherer, probably?
Thanks man. I'm affraid the audience for Mundart watch videos would be quite small :-) Actually I visited more than one Patek store in Zurich, don't quite remember to which one I was referring to. The Rolex shop was Bucherer, correct. But I had a good experience there. The one that treated me badly is not in Zurich.
@@watchcraft, I understand and they have so many models to choose from but, if you can find one that appeals to you, meets your needs, and you can live with that, why not give Omega a shot? I just read somewhere that Omega released some beautiful Speedmasters in yellow gold and I saw one Seamaster Professional with a chocolate brown dial and in yellow gold. Sort of reminded me of a cross between a Datejust and Submariner. And you can probably get them at the Ad instead of having to wait years for a Rolex Pepsi or Daytona. At least you were able to pick up a Hulk. Since you are looking to get a GMT Master two, Omega makes the Aqua Terra GMT. It's a beautiful time piece. The dial pops. Believe me, I'd love to get a Pepsi or Batman-Bat Girl ( I own a Submariner and Datejusdt 41mm) but only way is through Grey Market Dealer and prices are way over retail.
Seiko produce beautiful watches and also no waiting list. But you don’t feel privileged if the watch is so easy to get. The harder to get the more you want.
I went to Patek Phillipe to get a 5711 in Geneva 2016 when I was 16 years old. My dad finally agreed to get me one and when I went in and asked for one. They just let me wear one but told me I can’t get on the list :(
Watchcraft I asked a few people and they told me they did that a long time ago. But back then they were going for $35k in the market. I told myself why would I pay more when I may get it retail. Biggest mistake haha. Btw the 5711 was going for $22k before tax retail. Now its $29k retail. Prices will only go up with the dollar inflation. I still would never get one unless its retail.
I don't have the experience with buying those hot pieces yet, but I've heard many stories that you actually increase your chances just calling to the store every month or so, just showing that you're serious.
Sehr interessantes beispiel 😅. Ih Hätte sonst gedacht das du direkt nach Genf fährst und dort die Hauptsitze nachfragst ob du bei denen direkt kaufen kannst haha
He took 8 min to say no you can't get it in Switzerland
Thank you for saving my time!
Just buy an Apple Watch
At least he is not killing someone in a bomb blast
This is why we need the dislike count back…without your comment everyone would be wasting time
answer's no, save yourself 8 minutes.
Because of how Rolex treat people I'm going to Omega,they make excellent watches.
How do Rolex treat people?
@@JP-Watch_Addict obviously you haven't experienced many Rolex ADs or you would know not to ask a silly question.
@@goonermike6755 he asked a genuine question. You could've just answered instead of being so patronizing.
@@JP-Watch_Addict I have experienced this three times in London with ADS a year ago when asking for a Rolex they basically laugh AT you,offer no explanation,offer nothing in way of why and how else they can help and this is coming in one instance from a woman who is only a shop assistant and myself who had upto £7000 to spend.
Edward R I was just asking a genuine question as I visited a couple of AD’s in London, Just trying to work out why @goonermike67 experience was so bad that if he’s got Rolex RRP monies (let’s face it no discounts) why go straight to Omega.
Third option: don't buy hyped, artificially limited supply watches.
The largest Rolex AD in The Netherlands told me that all Daytona watches they receive go directly to the directors of the company for them to "allocate"! Can just imagine the shady deals that goes down and favours called in exchange for Daytonas! Quite despicable!
At the same time, our grey market stores are stocked to the brim with all the hard to come-by pieces and what they don't have they'll get for you within a couple of days!! Go figure what's really going on!!
How do I contact you so I can purchase in Netherlands ?
When I was studying marketing ages ago, I had a module on retail and branding. They explained how certain luxury brand purposely antagonise and frustrate their customer to trigger this response were the customer will feel humiliated and so he will spend more as a way to demonstrate his wealth and social status. It’s a kinda nasty psychological trick that relies on the social insecurity or personal insecurity of the consumer. It works with everyone, not just rich people, but for them I guess is even worst. Guess when you are rich, time is the most important resource you have.
definitely works on me :-D
I have no idea why anyone would get on a waiting list to buy a luxury watch. Luxury is an experience. I own two rolexes and will never ever get on a waiting list for anything. Nobody makes me fucking wait when I’m the one that’s paying.
Agreed
exactly my thoughts. it ain't luxury if i have to wait in line. id rather take an omega and move on
What if they only get one or two a year? Are you gonna walk out just because they don't have your watch in store on the exact day you ask for it?
7:42 is the answer you want.
Rolex is foolish. You should not need to beg. It's a watch not a kidney. Buyers will get fed up and move on to other brands.
Hermes proves otherwise
@@rp-wn5or so you believe that this business model is sustainable? Interesting but I think that eventually it has to catch up with you. Perhaps I am wrong.
@@dab7963 I’m not sure either but just an example of where it has worked is hermes with their kelly and birkin bags. I’m sure there are companies where it hasn’t worked but it IS Rolex…only time will tell. But I will admit that if I’m to beg for a Rolex, I’d rather save up and get a patek even if it means waiting YEARS. Might as well, right?
"Customer services was great." Not in one of these places were you a customer.
:-(
Another reason not to feel bad is that if you are in the market for such a piece, you likely still have a place to live and food to eat. Always good to stay positive!
Absolutely, Joe!
Any company who refuses my money can go to hell.
Our money is not good enough for them, man. Didn't you know? They only take money that is inhereted :-D
Same everywhere . I asked about a Daytona in Geneva in 2017 and they said five years back then , also they don’t want tourists buying the top models when they already have good local customer of their own
Got to admit - about a decade ago, I went to an AD in a mall south of Seattle, and asked to try on a two-tone blue Sub. I was very upfront about how I was in no financial condition to buy that watch (although I might consider buying something from a lower-cost brand like Tissot, which they also carried), and that I just wanted to see how a Rolex felt on my wrist. They not only let me try it on, but tried to talk me into letting them work out a financing deal, so I could take it home that day. I turned them down, because I knew that taking on such a debt load at the time would be foolish if not disastrous - but, I have to admit, I now wish I had taken them up on that offer, because, although it would make the next few years a lot more difficult financially, I could have probably sold that watch right now at a hefty profit…and because, now that I'm at a point where I _could_ have swung such a purchase, the shortage and subsequent prices on the gray market mean I likely never will again.
Danke, für die Klärung!
Man hört immer wieder dass man in der Schweiz leichter zu den "gesuchten" Uhren kommt.
The irony is you can virtually get all the three watches as many as you wish on C24, which means authorized dealers sold them to grey market dealers and watch manufacturers are actually quite happy with such an arrangement.
Yes that's a shame. I'm aware that Rolex handles it that way. But Patek and AP as well? Don't they just have many private customers who flip the watches to grey market dealers?
If your 8 minutes and 22 seconds are precious to you here is the answer to this video.
No
I'm fed up with these brands especially Rolex. Wish people would just give up on them ( i know this won't happen) see how quick things would change when nobody wants to buy their product anymore.
People always want things that you can’t get there hand on. Lol.
Great video. I know that I wasn’t surprised to hear that you wouldn’t get on any particular list easier than anyone else in the world but has the exclusivity of these brands changed your preference to others ? Or do you like being on a wait list in your own country ?
Rolex, Audemars, & Patek could easily increase production of these high demand models. They don't because they want to feed the hype. A concert promoter once told me, "If I'm booking a band and 3 people will come to see them, I'll book the venue that only seats 2." It's a manufactured scarcity. Stop being treated badly by these brands. Just say no.
You're right. Shortage lies at the core of any luxury product. If they'd increase production, they would devalue the brand, which is the most valuable part of the whole operation.
I bought the Pepsi (The new one) from Rolex in Greece. They treat you really well.
Lucky you
Now the Swiss have gained my respect for this. At least they are fair to everyone.
The waiting list is always fake.
If your a VIP for your AD, no waiting for you.
yes absolutely. Any watch you either get within 3 months or never
100% correct.
Pure insanity...you don’t need any of these watches , you just think you do . 🤔
Seems strange to have to beg someone to give them tens of thousands of Euros. If only there was a way for all of us to boycott these brands and have them beg us to buy their products.
I'm in! Let's start a revolution.
Subscribed! Fascinating video / content. Cheers
Thank you Justin!
How sad and shocking. I used to spend a lot of time in Zürich in the ‘80’s. Walked into many shops on Bahnhofstrasse and came out with exactly the watch I wanted, 2 Datejust, 1 stainless and 1 stainless and gold, IWC Ingenieur, Cartier and Omega dress watches.
I remember an Arab gentleman at the viewing table next to me at Rolex asking if there were volume discounts. The attendant told him politely, “The House of Rolex does not offer discounts.”
Now, it seems, they do not even offer watches.
Very good insight from someone living next door to these companies 👍🏼 always wondered if Switzerland gets a hometown skip-the-line pass
thanks man. i wish that was the case :-)
I've always been curious as to whether it would be easier/harder to get any of these hot pieces in Switzerland and now I have the answer. By the look of it, it's the same all over the world just varying degrees of wait & how much you have to spend to shorten that wait. What did they say about the Aquanaut that you got to try on? That it was for display only or something like that? I heard that in some stores in Hong Kong they've started stocking Daytona's that you can't buy that are just for trying on. Great video!
Thank's a lot. I didn't even ask why I couldn't buy the Aquanaut that they had in store. But as far as I know, the majority of AD's usually have one of each of the hot models on stock for their VIP clients. I guess they normally don't let people see them to avoid discussions. So I consider myself lucky for at least being able to try it on :-D
It will probably be like in -91. The Swiss watches hit a brick wall. I remember in the late -80 when I tried to buy a day-date at a Swedish AD. They laughed at me then and said I will never be able to get an all gold for list again. In -93 I bought one at the same AD with 15% discount.
Hi. Like Your videos. Like Your style. Have 2 questions. What do You think of Tudor? I'm looking to buy my first entry level lux everyday / sports watch around 3000$. Thinking Black Bay or Longines diver. Do You sqat, lift, bench or all? Will appreciate an answer.
Thank you, glad you like the videos.
I like Tudor. You basically get Rolex quality for half the price. So if you like the style of the Black Bay, go to the store and try one on. Longines makes good quality watches as well, but I wouldn't call it a luxury watch. I'd go with the Tudor in your case. Myself I started with a Rolex and only got into cheaper watches when I already had a good collection of luxury pieces. Wearing a 50 Dollar watch while having a few Rolexes at home just feels great :-) while it doesn't feel so great if that's your only watch.
I squat/bench/deadlift every day. love it. you too?
Nice video boss, love the end
I guess best positive news from this video is they don’t discriminate. They laught at you equally for asking to take your money for steel sports models.
Casio always treated me well.
Casio is great
Wow, that was we opening. Good video and content. Thank you.
thanks
Thanks for the great video and perspective. I’ve canceled my flight for now ;). Please tell us more about that Hulk. Just subscribed, please keep up the great work!
Cheers!
Mark
Thanks a lot, Mark!
Maybe I oversold that Hulk story a bit :-D basically I was able to call in a favor from a guy with a really good relationship to his AD.
Watchcraft, that still sounds like a great story! ;) Thanks again...I’ll be tuning in! Mark
I like videos a lot!!!!!!! Well done buddy!!!!!! Good info for ppl
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks!
In UK the waiting time for a Daytona is 10 years, so 3 years is a blessing...
I live in Switzerland and they told me 12 years for a Daytona SS black dial😂 and I’m a good customer
More vids please,
Amazing job on sharing the truth in your experience with buying.
Thank you very much, Isabelle.
I think I’m super lucky that I got my day date green dial and PP 5711/1R from AD 🙏
Love your sharing. Fans from Hong Kong.
Hast Du Erfahrungen mit Bucherer 2nd Hand Uhren? Die scheint man einfach so online bestellen zu können. Oder tun die auch nur so, bis man den deal tatsächlich abschliessen möchte?
can i ask you in which city where the PP store ?
Just buy a watch which is 50% under retail off Chrono24 like a rose gold Omega Seamaster or Breitling Navitimer or even a Hublot Big Bang. Looks like a better deal to me than a stainless Rolex GMT @18-19k.
notice your video are from 3 years ago, what's it like now? 😉😅😁
In the U.S. buying a Rolex is a joke. My local AD had 2 steel no date Subs in stock, and wouldn't let me buy. They were saving them for "preferred clients". Took my cash to the omega boutique. won't give Rolex a cent for the way I was talked down upon.
Rolex is the point where someone dead become alive.
People that after Aquanaut probably had 4-5 Rolex Sport watches, if they can’t get it they are still a fine human.
But people that after Rolex mostly are coming from Modern People in slavery cycle that want to escape from the hunger game trap; they will do whatever it takes to get Rolex.
Same thing here, Ryan. But in my opinion not Rolex is to blame, but the AD's. Rolex needs to get a tighter grip on them and enforce some customer appreciation and stop the selling to grey market dealers. The AD's hurt the Rolex brand with their bad behaviour.
@@watchcraft Hi Watchcraft, in the area I live, Rolex dropped these small mom and pop stores as ADs: stores that helped build their company to what it is today. If the ones they've kept are misbehaving, they've got no one to blame but themselves. I like the Tudor Black Bay Blue, but I refuse to give Rolex any more of my money.
I got my Rolex Daytona in Basel during a conference in 2004. They all (Flagship Stores) put me in the waiting list. Had Coffee in a Base-Stadt Cafe near the University and was being served by a Filipina who was married to a Swiss National. We had a nice chat and invited me for dinner with her family because I gave her a local delicacy called Dried Mango which she had craved for many years. I asked her husband where he got his Daytona and he hooked me up with a Filipino who was working in Rolex. He gave me a letter and I got my Daytona! No waiting list with the base price. I guess I was very lucky being a Filipino.
So it actually pays out to be friendly with people. For a dried piece of Mango you got back a Daytona!
@@watchcraft Yes. spent more 100 Swiss Francs on my excess baggage from Luftansa so it was worth it. I should have bought 2 and sold the other hahahaha
I have been to Cebu, staying in a 5 star resort. There are many (I have seen about 10 ) young Filipino wearing Nautilus and Rolex driving Italian sport cars.
But just outside the hotel wearing Rolex or Patek without bodyguards, it’s very dangerous; it is very bad, you can get kidnapped and need pay million $ ransom.
I enjoyed your video.Thank you
LOL, love your videos and after watching this one, it explains how your Hamilton Khaki Mechanical is "cheap" after buying an expensive watch. For some of us outside CH that's like buying an Aliexpress
you're right, man. if you think about it, it's actually crazy how much people spend on watches.
but I'm getting better: thinking about buying a Seiko next for 50$ :-)
The AD in Oslo takes your order, notes your email adresse and politiely tells you that since you do not have a customer history we would not be priori
Nice Vid man, btw you re funny, Im from Ch as well & can only confirm all this
I don't get why people buy into this nonsense. It's such a turnoff and reminds me of how Enzo Ferrari treated his customers.
Disdain and disregard for your client base should lead to bankruptcy. There are so many great watches out there that aren't from these 3 abusive brands.
That's a great comparison to Enzo. You're right.
@@watchcraft thanks. I respect Enzo's and Ferrari as a company's accomplishments, especially in Formula 1. But I don't think it excuses treating people like shit.
That's why even though I don't care for the VW Lamborghini of today, I love that the company was started as a middle finger to Enzo personally.
Same with these Swiss companies. They have beautiful timepieces, but the price and the lack of customer service do not justify this.
@@cdb5001 Loved Ferrari in the Formula 1 as well. Schumi was my guy!
I must say though that I only had bad experiences with Rolex. Patek and AP might not have sold me watches, but they treated me very nicely. Not comparable to Cartier though. There you feel like a king. Customer service is through the roof.
@@watchcraft I'm a Seiko guy myself, with a family, I can't justify wearing thousands of dollars on my wrist, although I do hope to one day pick up a Grand Seiko spring drive.
I hated Schumi but respected his skill. He and Ferrari were so dominant for so long, but I admit, I was a Hakkinen/McLaren fan.
Watching this video in january 2022 is funny, the watch current market is so crazy and high now !
You're right, we don't have a huge privilege to be local, and the waiting list system is the same as elsewhere in the world. That said, I see that you have received your Aquanaut, which shows that anything is possible!
Thanks, just requires some patience and work on the relationship with the dealer.
I am looking for a gold Daytona. Can I buy a Daytona in Switzerland?
I bought my Omega Seamaster 120 automatic in Geneva in 1971. New, with the beads of rice bracelet it was $63. Total rebuild at the Swiss factory with new dial face and crystal was under $300 in 1989. They were already out of stock of the NOS bracelet so they offered me a Rolex bracelet that I declined. Last I checked a factory rebuild is $1250 plus cost of parts. Now that I am retired I am afraid I might not be able to afford that. I seem to be happy enough with the Omega on a display shelf and wear an Invicta Pro Diver that I am not afraid of damaging.
But Larry, that's too nice of a watch to not wear and enjoy. I would put it on a James Bond Nato strap. Will cost you about 20 Dollars and looks fantastic. I use that strap for my Submariner.
And don't worry about damaging. A vintage sports watch is supposed to show some scars.
I had $25,000 to spend on a two tone submariner, and a Pepsi GMT tudor..., I'm not one to buy into this inflated prices.., in the end you have to be realistic..., if you can only afford steel/two tone models then you definitely shouldn't take the risk of paying more than retail. if you can afford a solid gold watch then it is not issue for you. I'm in the steel to 2 tone range..., and after waiting a year and not getting anything.. even though i made it clear to multiple AD's I was willing to spend 25k on not so rare watches..., i just gave up and put the entire amount on my mortgage. Don't buy into hype..., when shit goes south your the one that's left with the overpriced watch.
Agreed, Jason. No one should ever pay over retail for a watch that still is in production.
How do you like your Tudor? I've never worn one but I'm affraid it might be too thick.
I feel very fortunate that I got both my Pepsi and Royal Oak before they became almost impost to get at the authorised dealers. Unfortunately, I have been waiting about 3 years for the nautilus. I don’t think I will be getting that any time soon, if at all.
That store sounds very familiar...
Until 2020 it was in the industry for more than 20 years and the best dealers have all 4-5 of the most popular watches in stock. However, these are reserved for the best customers, those who buy watches for several hundred thousand euros or in another currency every year. If these customers also need a simple Submariner as a gift, they don't want to hear, we'll put them on the waiting list and we'll get in touch in 4 years. This then feeds the vanity and importance of these customers. Normally the waiting list is 4 years but really only for you we will set everything in motion and 1 or 2 weeks later the customer will be called that the watch that was in the warehouse for him has arrived. In principle, regular customers are always preferred to the real waiting lists. The industry consists only of vanity and self-importance.
Great video just subscribed thanks....
thanks Steven
I went into the Patek shop, was told 3 years waiting list. I just put my name down anyways.
The supposed “waitlist”. A bizarre thing. I was supposedly on one for 3 years before the Rolex shop at One Hyde Park sold out and a new AD took over the flagship store (never got the watch). I went and bought my Daytona from a grey market dealer. Trying to build another relationship with another AD now In London. Good to have various approaches to getting these Rolex timepieces I adore.
Agreed, and thanks for sharing
Hi great video thank you...I am three years into a five-year wait for a Pepsi but visit the AD. regularly in Melbourne Australia...really great staff always make me feel welcome so you never know!!
Thank you. Do they have other inexpensive brands? My advise would be to buy something else. Might put you ahead on that list.
@@watchcraft No only Rolex....they have tempted me with a 36 mm gold and diamond ladies Rolex which means I would spend $30k for that to get my Pepsi for $13,500 ..not sure if I want to do that ..cheers and thanks for the response.
@@ilukatube1972 No that's too much. A bit shady that they suggest to you what you should buy before getting a Pepsi. I'd find a different AD asap.
In 2016, I bought an AP, RO, OS, QE II Cup Hong Kong 2016 Chronograph, in Rose Gold and Forged Carbon over the counter at an AP Stockist here in Central, Hong Kong .... Now .... The same stockist has just empty glass tables and counters .... To buy a new premium watch now is an impossibility ....
Why on earth would you want to be put on a waiting list when you can buy one instantly second hand is beyond me.
It’s quite clear to me, and probably everyone, that the reason you are never hearing from these ADs is that your doing everything wrong that you can possibly do wrong. Walking in randomly with no purchase history and then expecting to get the super hyped pieces. What should the long time and loyal customers think if you would get such a watch before maybe them?…..
‘4 to 6 years’ just means when the economy crashes/slumps they might give you a call
Exactly and this will come in the next 1-2years
@@abu.goldjunge we are there now 😀
I guess we are there now. I have few Rolex already but I wish to get an AP. I’ve just put my name for RO grey 15510ST. Do you think 🤔 I would get it soon, because of the market conditions ?
Good advice.
Guys try out the VC line , you will not regret it
Love VC
Like those Rogue weights in the back!
Hell yeah!
but it looks like you don't use them to often
The thing is there are so many people chasing the same pieces they inadvertently make themselves victims ... If people sailed their own ship and didn’t feel the need to follow the crowd then this wouldn’t be so common . Personally I would much rather have the overseas above any of the mentioned and this is readily available..
yeah but resale value.... good feeling if you know you can sell your watch anytime for even more than you paid for
I listened intently with hope lol. Man, this watch sh*t is ridiculous.
You’ve got to shop at the smaller cities in the USA. Both my Pepsi and Sub took less than two months from different dealerships.
wow congrats!
no way it took 2 months without a purchase history. congrats regardless
@@babakganji1045 my husband walks in wearing his presidential rolex and chit chat a while with the SA that he's been wanting the 40 ever rose gold with green face, they told us 2yrs waiting. long story short, we about to walk out, the SA brought out Daytona the new model 2021.
@@springday5679 Business perspective it doesnt make sense. Ive spoken with several ADs and they all say that the daytona is reserved for people with a big purchase history. The ADs are all under pressure to sell undesirable models. Why would someone simply walk in and get a daytona when they can bundle it with other jewelry, other expensive watches or even fully diamond rolex models with someone else? Of course anything is possible but financially it doesnt make sense for the AD to do it.... Some ADs told me $100k+ and others $500k+, I guess depending on the city.
@@babakganji1045 That's what I thought too. We just got back from Paris, we went to 3 different ADs none has Daytona nor submariner. When we got back home, my daughter went out on dinner date with her old friend from high school and she saw he has GMT backman on his wrist she took a pic of his watch and told her dad about it. That's how we end up going there to ask for daydate rosegold 40 in green dial. We didn't even ask for Daytona.
I think there is actucally a possibility (not guaranteed, but certainly a better chance) to get said watches earlier. This requires very good connections and a bit of luck. This approach involves you going to the actual manufacturer. Under normal circumstances, you can't just go there and look at the factory, experience the models and meet the watchmakers (museum doesn't count). You have to be invited through a group, club or something similar. They will be more open to discuss the brand and show models. It is possible that they provide you with offers that others can't because you are literally in contact with the manufacturer. Once you have these contacts, it might be worthwile to follow up in the future, because you set yourself apart from the other 1000's of requests. Very nice santos :)
So how we get ourselves invited?
It would be a frosty friday in hell before I wait on these companies for a watch..it is a created scarcity to drive up prices...no thanks..there are many other beautiful watches to be had.
great video. same here in canada. :(
Thanks, Arin.
Interesting video, thank you.
thanks Scott
U have to buy 10-20k in jewelry and some not so hot rolex watches to get bumped up. AD's don't make lot's of money off Rolex hence they use the hot pieces as a reward for good customers.
No respect for yourself, I will never and ever give so much money to someone that has 0 consideration about me. I had the same experience in Italy when I was looking for the Rolex sub, gmt or Daytona, I ended buying an Omega Seamster 300m and I still live happily since I bought it with almost 25% of discount.
Love the Seamaster. Great choice.
I got the black ss Daytona a week before it closed, I asked to be in the waitlist for the white ss Daytona and they said they would put me in, do you think I will get it eventually from my AD
Out of all the Rolex models the Daytona probably is the one that's hardest to get. So congrats on the black one, you're a lucky man!
I'd say you won't get the white one. But I would have said the same about the black if you would have asked me before. So what do I know? :-D
Go Independent! Forget those corporate bullies!
You are going for the most exclusive/desirable pieces now. But what about a Rolex Datejust 36mm black dial with fluted bezel (ref.126234) or an Oyster Perpetual for example?
Datejust should still be easy to get unless it's the palm dial. Oyster Perpetual are sought after these days. You might have to wait a few months.
Thank you for confirming what I thought was true. I would like to visit Switzerland anyway.
It's definitely worth a trip. We got great chocolate too that you can shop, not just watches :-)
Rolex designs are boring and repetitive with very few cosmetic and material changes. Submariner, Sea Dweller, GMT Master, EXPLORER II, Deep Sea, all share the same dial. I don't regret selling my Rolex watches and switching to other brands. Rolex produces 1 million watches per year, where is the exclusivity factor? Paying $20k for a steel watch that shouldn't cost more than $4K is ridiculous, let alone the whole "mafia-style" behavior of ADs. The demand for Rolex It's all artificially created.
There’s a large value added tax in Europe too.
How about if your not trying to get one of the rare timepieces and just a regular one like a Datejust, is it still that hard?
No you can get a Datejust right away. Oyster Perpetual within 3 months without relationship.
Do the A. Lange & Sohne boutiques seem similar in this regard in Switzerland? Perhaps being a German company they want to show off by having availability in Zurich?
honestly I have zero experience with Lange. they are above my budget for now
If I really wanted one I would go to the grey market rather than attempt to form a “relationship” with a bunch of salesmen who have a bloated sense of power
some of them are really into the art of watchmaking so you can bond over that. then it's actually fun to form the relationship. but yes, stay away from those who just care about their sales.
Based upon your live experience and according to some TH-cam videos made by respectable people you should know by now that waiting lists are fraud ! That expression is used mostly just to calm down undesirable customers ! Strong and favourable relationship with your dealer is the only way to get the most wanted timepieces ! And you already know that !
Anyway, your video is an honest confession that disspells ilussions !
By the way, I would wery much enjoy listening to you speaking mundart !
P.S. That Patek shop in Zurich - it was Beyer, wasn't it? And Rolex shop in Zurich - Bucherer, probably?
Thanks man. I'm affraid the audience for Mundart watch videos would be quite small :-)
Actually I visited more than one Patek store in Zurich, don't quite remember to which one I was referring to. The Rolex shop was Bucherer, correct. But I had a good experience there. The one that treated me badly is not in Zurich.
Time to move to Omega. No wait list for their watches and excellent quality equal or better to Rolex.
They are high quality indeed. But every other watch seems to be a "limited edition." I feel like they want to cheat me into buying.
@@watchcraft, I understand and they have so many models to choose from but, if you can find one that appeals to you, meets your needs, and you can live with that, why not give Omega a shot? I just read somewhere that Omega released some beautiful Speedmasters in yellow gold and I saw one Seamaster Professional with a chocolate brown dial and in yellow gold. Sort of reminded me of a cross between a Datejust and Submariner. And you can probably get them at the Ad instead of having to wait years for a Rolex Pepsi or Daytona. At least you were able to pick up a Hulk. Since you are looking to get a GMT Master two, Omega makes the Aqua Terra GMT. It's a beautiful time piece. The dial pops. Believe me, I'd love to get a Pepsi or Batman-Bat Girl ( I own a Submariner and Datejusdt 41mm) but only way is through Grey Market Dealer and prices are way over retail.
Seiko produce beautiful watches and also no waiting list. But you don’t feel privileged if the watch is so easy to get. The harder to get the more you want.
@@smr32061 Thanks for the tip, Steven. I'll check out the Aquaterra. I also like the Speedmaster Snoopy edition with the white dial.
I like their new Seamaster 300 Diver, but no wish it also came in a 40mm size. The current 42mm diameter is just to big for me
I went to Patek Phillipe to get a 5711 in Geneva 2016 when I was 16 years old. My dad finally agreed to get me one and when I went in and asked for one. They just let me wear one but told me I can’t get on the list :(
Thanks for sharing. I wasn't aware that they already did this in 2016.
Watchcraft I asked a few people and they told me they did that a long time ago. But back then they were going for $35k in the market. I told myself why would I pay more when I may get it retail. Biggest mistake haha. Btw the 5711 was going for $22k before tax retail. Now its $29k retail. Prices will only go up with the dollar inflation. I still would never get one unless its retail.
@@MSALSARRAF I absolutely agree. Not paying one dollar over retail.
Just buy something else, it is all in the mind, just a game they play.
I like bottom line part. Lol
thanks man
Imagine they didn’t have authorized dealers !!! Shame on Rolex for supplying them knowing they will re sell
Nice gym equipment!
thanks man, i'm into powerlifting
I don't have the experience with buying those hot pieces yet, but I've heard many stories that you actually increase your chances just calling to the store every month or so, just showing that you're serious.
But not too often, to not piss them off :-D it's a fine line, I think.
I have heard sales person in Rolex shouting swearing on the phone to someone begging to be put on wait list.
@@benhogan2663 OMG, that's unacceptable 😓
Ad's really stereotype a lot of watch buyers especially if you have no history of purchasing that certain watch. How bad
Sehr interessantes beispiel 😅.
Ih Hätte sonst gedacht das du direkt nach Genf fährst und dort die Hauptsitze nachfragst ob du bei denen direkt kaufen kannst haha
so einfach ist es leider nicht :-)
Naaa the ad's are flipping the hottest pieces to grey market dealers.
That happens for sure. In Switzerland most pieces go to preferred clients though.