@@Bruce56 wrong how exactly? And what do you mean “sign up”?. If you reduce the demand for an item, then its black market (or flipper market in this case) vanishes. Why would I buy a Rolex over its normal selling price from a flipper when I could walk into a store and buy a new one from an AD? Artificially restricting sales of the watches drives up the price, and the subsequent flipping opportunity.
@@Bruce56 wrong how? The only reason someone can make an easy flip is because the sales are artificially restricted by the ADs. If the dealers simply sold their stock at a competitive price, customers would have no need to pay an inflated price to a flipper, and the flip market would disappear.
What you need to remember is the clients who they are saving models for were buying before the hype and will be long after so it’s important as a business to keep them happy as Joe bloggs who walks in may only buy one watch and although that’s important a return customer is worth more in the long term! This isn’t a new practice it was occurring 15+ years ago
@@colingill47I personally would not buy again just because of the way they treat you 😂 whereas I am 100% certain I will buy another omega because I truely felt welcome and you could feel the entusiasm about their watched. Whereas in the Rolex Store It felt like they were laughing Into your face while putting you on their imaginary waiting list
No I really don’t. I think Rolexes are def the better option to keep your money value but you like what you like I guess. I’ll have to keep losing money!😂
Profiling, discrimination and upfront lies from a retail store. Doesn't make me feel good about ever owning one. That should be a red flag to the Rolex market. Great video. Thanks.
Well put JeffBoyd. Paying this kind of money entitles the buyer to at least feel welcome, rather than feeling like getting in a long line to apply for a crappy job.
Nice. One of the only two former employees at Rolex who tell it like it is on TH-cam, and this video is more in-depth than the other one and not holding back. Don't mind all the haters and complainers. This video is GOLD to those that are actual watch enthusiasts. Former resident of Hawaii. Mahalo, bradda.
I got an Air King way before the big markups. For way under retail. I'm not interested in this bullshit. I feel the same way. My Cartier Tank I got for 1700 is around 4000 now. They all went crazy.
That green dial Moonshine Speedmaster is a grail in my book, but since that's out of reach, I might pick up the Seaweed Master. Still haven't seen the color in person though.
Been a watch buyer, seller, and collector for over 53 years. Had many Rolex’s, never waited to buy, never gave my personal information to buy a watch,and would never ever, absolutely never get on a list or be told to be nice, or beg to be sold anything, especially a generic run of the mill Rolex watch. I’ve had watches made just for me, 1 of 1. There are literally millions upon millions of watches up for sale every second the world spins, Rolex has a tightly controlled branded name for an over priced average time piece. Explore the world for watches, from cheap to expensive there’s a wide, wide, world of watches out there go have fun!
Folks that are just beginning to get in to the hobby currently have a great advantage over us old-timers. The research available to them at a keystroke is priceless. A bit of delving onto the technical specs of brands like Longines and Tudor and comparing to Rolex quickly reveals that there is a ton of value for money to be had in Swiss watchmaking today. Rolex can participate however they see fit, but there are many, many pieces on the market that can match or surpass Rolex for fractions of the price even when paying full retail.
@@stevenfoleyuk9404 they made over 10 billion dollars last year, I don't buy rolex but the people who buy the expensive gold models will keep buying them, the guy upset when his submariner takes too long is not calling the shots.
This kind of behavior by dealers is what gives the flippers their market. There wouldn't be a flipping market if Rolex would sell watches like a normal store and not hold them back. They are creating the secondary market.
The exclusivity of the primary market and the higher prices of the secondary market keep Rolex's bar to entry and prices high. Rolex likes how things are now I'm sure!
@@infxmhc exactly, I'm going through this game with an AD right now for an exp 40 and sick of it, I'm just going to buy secondary. It's all working the way they want.
That's exactly the reason why I went to the Omega, Tudor and Breitling AD instead. Don't treat me like a fool or beggar when I'm willing to pay 8.000€ for a watch 🙃
@@TheBajamin If you go tomorrow to the local Tudor AD you will get the watch that you want most likely instantly. If it's a completely new model (e.g. the Coke GMT or black Monochrome) they will call you in 1-3 months to collect it. But you will never ever have to buy something totally different first to get higher on their priority list to be even able to buy the watch (which is very common at the Rolex AD )
@@highsoflyify you realize that’s still supporting Rolex lol. They WANT you to go and buy the Tudor. Don’t buy either, stop giving that shit company your money.
Best thing you can do is to have an honest and genuine reason, and be able to articulate it well. I wanted a Polar Exp II as my "beat cancer" watch. My first buy from that AD. I anticipated a 2 year wait, which would time perfectly for when I got off cancer monitoring and give me time to save. Told them my goal and timeline. Then they surprised me 6 months later for my 40th birthday. Honestly, I wasn't prepared and had to move some money around, but I made it work. Naturally, that left me with needing a new "beat cancer" watch, lol. Have an easier to get, but harder to afford, grail piece in mind now; Bregeut Tradition Retrograde Seconds. Will have to go used, cause there's no way I could swing that new. I'll circle back for either a Skydweller or DJ eventually. But now that I got the Exp II, I want a grail piece for a grail event.
Ok interesting. Not at the store I used to work at, my District manager was very strict, afraid of losing the partnership with Rolex. Rolex has employees that buy back watches from the gray market and tracks where they were bought from .
Just like De Beers trying to monopolize diamonds, same bs here, Rolex plays games with the rareness of their watches to drive fake demand. Thats called criminal.
Thanks for your video. I used to own a Kermit, and sold it, when I sold my business. So Rolex is a bit in the past for me. I love my Pelagos, which I think is a better watch than my sub. I wear it for everything, and couldn't be happier. Titanium, especially the type 2 wears really well and the usage is beautiful, unlike scratches to SS, which looks scary. Everyone: enjoy the watch YOU love. And be kind to others.
I know of one AD in my city who expects first time clients to buy a Day-Date as their first piece, and I know a handful of clients for this AD who have confirmed this rule. Basically, its a case of "show us how much cash you are willing to spend and maybe one day we'll let you buy a steel GMT or steel Sub". Rolex & their ADs have forgotten who their real clients are... and its not "Piere the investment banker", its "Peter the plumber". Now that the grey wrist watch market is essentially dead, and that watches are no longer being seen as a speculative investment asset, this is really going to bite Rolex hard as a brand in the coming 5-10 years.
I don't think their client base was ever "Peter the plumber" tbh. I think, like many luxury brands, they sell an idea of their products as something designed for rugged, adventurous sportsmen, but they as well as anyone else knows that the vast majority of these watches are being worn to and from the office by well-paid white collar employees. The whole thing is a fiction. Maybe that was less true in the 40s and 50s than it is today, but it's certainly the case today.
@@FerrisBjust to chime in there clients are the people coming up. I went to Rolex 4yrs ago wanting to build my relationship with them. They ignored and offered me nothing, I KNEW I where I wanted/would be. 5 grey market Rolex’s and now I’m on my second AP from retail. Rolex IS changing for the better however they lost me forever as a customer because of how they treated me when I wanted my starter watch. Now times my story by millions. Peter the plumber could be Peter the CEO one day or just the idea of getting that Rolex after saving up and being laughed at. Now Peter’s kids don’t like Rolex, dominos. Hope that makes sense
@@Ryan40272 because they are scammers. In the time they took to get me a OP I was on my 5th grey rolex. At which point how do I even build a relationship if they made me go elsewhere to buy my starter watches
i was given that very book after i put my information months ago. i would never want to beg for something that i work hard for. so if rolex wouldn't give me my watch then i would gladly move to other brands that would gladly take my money.
Same here. I was placed on an "interest database" and was also given the hardbound catalog after I ordered a Tudor. I doubt I will ever get the call, so I'm now on Chrono to find the watch I want. The thing is, the only Rolexes that I'm interested in are the Explorer and maybe the BLNR on Jubilee. If JLC brings back the Geophysic True Second at some point, I can forget about the GMT Master II.
Disgusting business practices. We moved to Omega and Breitling because of all the childish games Rolex plays. No more Rolex in our home. Should be illegal to conduct business like this.
Great video, very informative and straightforward. As a long-time watch enthusiast who started my collection with my father’s 1601 Datejust, I had never encountered this information before even from watch forums.
Legit advice. I got called 2-months after expressing my interest in a stainless steel sports model. While I was waiting for a link to be taken out my AD straight up said, "The reason I called you is because we can tell you're going to wear the watch, and you're not a flipper". I think the problem is convincing them you're not lying. True story. I don't mind the background check though. Actually like it. If it gets rid or reduces the flipper and gray market, all the better.
I'm not surprised at all!! Appreciate the insights. The very popular models seem to be extremely tough, and I know the full precious metal models and two tones tend to be much easier, but what about popularish models like the Explorer series? Or the Two tone GMTs like the Rootbeer or two tone Bruce Wayne?
I don't fully agree with this. Merely 10 years ago you could basically walk into any AD and buy the watch you wanted. Social media fomo and "iNfLuEnCeRs" did ruin the market to a certain degree. Flippers are part of this. It's not just watches but basically anything exclusive/limited/expensive.
@@rogaldorn252 Absolutely , you nailed it , you can’t even buy an LV or Gucci sweater these days all sold out and you’ll find them in stock x or on other sites for sale at double the value the same with trainers like Yeezy back then having to raffle just for the opportunity to buy at retail .
you can buy rolexes everywhere. how do they control the market? if they dont want to sell to new comers thats their issues. ill just buy mine from a middle man
@@tommyreusse3858 You obviously aren't too aware of Rolexes attempts and Techniques... You honestly think used and BNIB Rolexes would be so expensive if not for their meddling and ridiculous sales barriers?.... NOPE.. We're paying more because of their Market Control.
Exactly why I won’t buy another Rolex! It’s been at least 25 years since I purchased my last Rolex, went to a dealer a couple weeks ago to purchase a Submariner and they started playing this exact game. I’m not going to jump through hoops to purchase an objectively overpriced luxury item. After leaving that dealer and hearing similar stories from others I decided to explore other quality brands. I’m happy I did as I ended up purchasing a new Sinn U212 and I’m very happy with it. Definitely not the same look as Sub but no doubt more capable and a real collectors conversation piece at a fraction of the cost.
Thank for the video, it's nice to get some genuine inside information. I'm "on the list" 🤣 I have way more time than money so I'll wait it out and see what happens.
Thanks for the advice. I will one day get my Explorer II in polar white. I've bought too many other watches to scratch that itch, but I still go back to wanting that Explorer.
A few years ago I was offered the polar Explorer II on my first visit to an AD and I turned it down because I wanted the Explorer. Then later, at another AD, they offered me the Explorer and I didn’t like it. Wish I would’ve taken a look at that polar Explorer II.
As a businessman, I just buy from the grey market and pay the premium. The amount I’ll save from paying retail, even for a Le Mans, is nothing had I just spent the time, effort, and *money* building that AD relationship to my business instead. Unless you’re a celebrity, don’t buy from AD. If you could buy relationship-building watches you probably are rich, and your time is probably worth more than the savings from not paying the premium.
Exactly what I did. I was strung along for 2 years, all the while checking in, kissing *ss, and being suggested to to buy other jewelry. I said forget it! I'd rather pay less and go grey market rather than spend more and be stuck with pieces and jewelry that I didn't want.
Exactly this. You pay grey market premium, but time = money and that alone saves you tons. And the premium is only initially. You would spend a factor more of that building that relationship.
Impossible to catch all flippers. Not all of them sell through social media . Also flippers get more savvy and find more loopholes. Thank you for watching.
@@michaelbishop1 Car Dealerships do the same, basically your paying for the "certified" tag, meaning all the parts are authentic and they look and tested it
It does add up, most of the watches the dealers get are from Trade Shows - People are buying and selling watches all the time, Rich Guy wants a different and new watch, sells his old watch. They do not necessarily have to get them from trade shows.
I waited for a Datejust 41mm Wimbledon (2 tone) for 1.5yrs. Never got the call after repeatedly following up. I bought one grey, took it to the AD to show the salesperson, I get "the call" 2 weeks later for the same watch LOL.
I was looking and looking for a submariner and I finally started leaving negative yelp and Google reviews and made complaints to the BBB… that’s finally when I got one. They wanna play games I’ll play games too.
When I’m ready to buy my first Rolex, I’d like it to be brand new so that I can write my own story with the watch. I don’t want something that’s been worn. I want to start a fresh book.
A Rolex Explorer was a watch I always dreamed of! When I finally had the money to buy it a few years ago, the AD's in California didn't have any and I learned of the games they were playing... Then, I found Tudor and bought a Black Bay 36 which I like a lot more than the Explorer! I have no desire for a Rolex watch now but, I will always like the Brand. Everytime we go to Oahu on vacation, I always took a picture in front of the Rolex dealer in the International Marketplace! Thank you so, much for sharing your honest experience working for Rolex! 😊
Terrific piece. I really enjoyed it and your honesty is commendable. I played the AD game and did get a Datejust after about four months. No bells and whistles. Clean, white dial. Handsome. Bought some jewelry and engaged them for repairs first. Not sure i would do this again. Pre-owned is a better value for me. Thanks!
I made the “list” as a first time buyer and got my first brand new Rolex Polar Explorer II from the AD a year ago in Jan of 2023. Took about 9 months to get it, definitely worth the wait…..I got it for my 50th so I think the next purchase will be for my 55th…..we’ll see, as of now, super happy with my EXP2. Cheers and thanks for the insight!!
Thanks for sharing this video, Hawaii Hardy! SPOT ON. One month after visiting my AD for an Op 41 black dial, I received “The Text.” NO spend history. First Rolex. If it happened to me, it can happen to you. Best of luck to all and thanks again Hawaii Hardy!!
This was such a helpful video - thank you for the real info! I was able to purchase an Explorer 2 at the Ala Moana Rolex using some of your tips within a week of being put on ‘the list’.
I like to buy new old stock Seiko watches on eBay. Many of them are from sellers in Japan, and they usually cost about $100 each. I have about 4 of them. I will admit to having splurged 10 years ago on a new Tissot quartz watch that I paid $300 for (about $550 MSRP).
Very enlightening, and what a shame that a few fools mess up the buying experience for good honest people who would like to buy a Rolex at some point. I was very lucky then really having bought an Explorer 2 polar in 1999, and I still am very happy with it. I will say to anyone not to be put off though - and if you see a pre-owned beauty that you have been looking for in an authorised Rolex dealership then go for it, as 'not used much' Rolex watches don't hang around either!
I wanted to buy an explorer 1, later wanted a 2 and fers did that same to me and I was a first time buyer of the brand. Discovered Longines Spirit Zulu and got that, and now even I still desire an Explorer2 I would never get and try to drive people away from the brand! oh yeah... what happens if no social media or internet presence?
That’s funny how trying to buy your watch from somewhere different than a store you’ve previously done business with can work against you, specially when your end game is to just acquire a watch!
And here I thought it was about making business and building relationships. I've never seen an "empty" watch store in my life until I came across Rolex stores. I did tell them to FO and went to Omega!
Early in my 'career' of buying watch, i did exactly that, told the sales lady that i got and sold my gmt 😂. I was just excited to share watch story and how regretful i was of selling that, but yeah, i knew right away that was a dumb thing to say. Oh well, it was on a vacation trip anyway.
I started buying invictas as a teenager. My first really nice automatic was a Hamilton I bought for $140 at a collectors mall, next was a longines, next was an omega, and finally a pre owned Rolex gmt master ii batman with the oyster bracelet. I absolutely love the Batman and I'll never sell it.
I have owned three Rolex each one gets a little more fancy . I love them ! They are the one luxury item you can buy that you can handown to your grandchildren . Nothing makes a man feel good then being well dressed an a rolex on his wrist . My last one I sold was fifteen years old and looked brand new .
The things people are willing to put up with just for a logo. It's just a watch in the end, and not even as accurate as a good quartz watch when you think about it. If you really need a good mechanical watch that much I would suggest you go with Omega or Longines.
Great information. I have been away from the collecting business for nearly a decade. I own an SS Sub and a Day-Date from the early 2000's and that's about all I'm going to own from Rolex. I got both of them brand new by just walking into an authorized AD back in the day. I guess times have changed.
Really applaud this former employee for telling it like it is... THANK YOU!! STILL, this is damage of Rolex' own making. If I *really* want that Daytona or Blue Sky-Dweller, I can have it in 48 hours - Rolex is the biggest luxury watch maker in the world - the watches aren't that rare or constrained. They know that the majority of that vault full of inventory is going to flippers, despite any "checking out" theatre they have their employees do... IT IS NOT WORKING. I bought my first and only Rolex in 2009 from an AD in NY walking off the street like everyone else. I COULD buy another from the grey market - I just don't want to. I'd rather give my watch budget to companies that actually want to sell to real customers. Rolex simply doesn't care.
If you have rolex money, how do you also not have the pride to match? I would absolutely never beg and grovel to be given a chance to spend my money. I would buy an omega the moment they turned me away
@@richardmorris7063 Its not that simple. A $20 casio will tell time more accurately than the most expensive AP or Rolex ever will. You buy a high end watch not to just tell time, you buy it for the craftsmanship and design. It’s functional jewelry that also happens to tell the time as an added bonus
This is interesting. I appreciate the honesty. It's funny to me that a sales associate-who could probably not afford most of what they sell-would judge someone using stupid methods and take months to call back just to determine they won't flip the watch and are "worthy" of a purchase. This is why I turned down the sub I was offered and bought another brand.
I wonder if the buying experience is different at high end retail jewelry stores that carry Rolex and other brands, rather than Rolex owned and operated stores.
Except your Lexus will lose half of its value in several years while the Rolex will only continue to go up. Certain models are twice the retail price as soon as you receive it. But yea, it’s a big if you will get one from the AD.
What happens to the floor models ? Is that a thing they are now turned into the " certified pre owned models "? Or they just become avaliable for purchase at some point?
I appreciate your response. Thanks ! Good information. And I suppose you kinda answered it there, but all the crap of the exhibition models being fake or not having real movement's in them isn't real?
I'm gonna add my move that has always worked. I go to the store and buy birthday, Christmas and graduation gifts for people there. It's all stuff I would normally buy but instead of getting it someplace else I go to my AD. They see me a lot and when I ask for a watch I get it pretty quickly. I also only buy a watch every few years (to save up) so I think that helps as well. My sales guy told me one time I asked for a watch and he printed out all of my purchases and the owner immediately said "sell it to him".
Went to AD for a DJ with fluted dial but it was discontinued. Waited for Watches and Wonders and decided to ask for an Everose sky Dweller although I’ll probably never see it. Bought from the store before but it was 20 years ago.
All of these tips - do this, don't do this, say that, don't say that - only gave one message - even though you are a customer willing to spend your money to buy a product, Rolex treats you like they're giving you a charity and you must prove that you deserve it.
I just got my first Rolex literally yesterday (Explorer 40). I was on a "wish list" for years, but since I'd purchased previously from WOS I was able to finally get one. No reselling here, that baby's here to stay. And the BEST SA ever, that really helps! Mine was fantastic and hilarious!
This is exactly why I will never own a Rolex. I don’t want to kiss the ass of some retail associate, I don’t want to be researched and spied on. When I spend thousands on a watch, I am the one that wants his ass kissed not the other way around. Rolex can take their watches and shove them were the sun doesn’t shine 😂
I paid more to get the watch I wanted. I don’t regret it because I’m not going to play any game to spend my hard earned money. I just want to buy what I want without games.
The Rolex AD’s are the ones that sell to grey market dealers, the stock that they can’t sell fast, like full gold with diamonds lady stuff, they sell that to grey market dealers, often family members! The wanted pieces are sold to VIP clients. So as a normal buyer you have almost zero chance to get anything from them, except used pieces, so you have to go grey market or just move away from Rolex.
“Flippers” are tiresome, but I still don’t see why Rolex should care what a customer does with his purchase after walking out. They got paid, end of their part in the deal.
It creates frustration within the watch community, if you can't get one or if you're going to be treated like you're doing them a favour handing over your money, you'll go somewhere else. I think this was part of the incentive for Rolex to buy Bucherer. They're fed up of AD's tarnishing their image.
@@casualdudereviewshow does that work? If the AD would simply sell you one, that’s AD experience right there. It’s their own behavior that pushes clients to flippers. Talk about a self fulfilling prophecy.
![[TH] VCT Masters Shanghai Playoffs DAY 3 // FNC vs FUT | EDG vs PRX](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/pw2T5v0ogDI/mqdefault.jpg)
The irony is that if the dealers simply sold to interested customers without restriction, then there would be no market for the flippers
Bravo!
wrong! buying a popular rolex watch at an AD is literally like getting free money. you don't think everybody and their grandma wouldn't sign up?
@@Bruce56 wrong how exactly? And what do you mean “sign up”?. If you reduce the demand for an item, then its black market (or flipper market in this case) vanishes. Why would I buy a Rolex over its normal selling price from a flipper when I could walk into a store and buy a new one from an AD? Artificially restricting sales of the watches drives up the price, and the subsequent flipping opportunity.
@@Bruce56 wrong how? The only reason someone can make an easy flip is because the sales are artificially restricted by the ADs. If the dealers simply sold their stock at a competitive price, customers would have no need to pay an inflated price to a flipper, and the flip market would disappear.
@@Bruce56you May not understand what he said
When companies like Rolex play too hard during a good market, they seem to forget what winter is like.
What you need to remember is the clients who they are saving models for were buying before the hype and will be long after so it’s important as a business to keep them happy as Joe bloggs who walks in may only buy one watch and although that’s important a return customer is worth more in the long term! This isn’t a new practice it was occurring 15+ years ago
Exactly right
@@colingill47I personally would not buy again just because of the way they treat you 😂 whereas I am 100% certain I will buy another omega because I truely felt welcome and you could feel the entusiasm about their watched. Whereas in the Rolex Store It felt like they were laughing Into your face while putting you on their imaginary waiting list
I hope it'll come asap
Wow. I 'd rather buy a different watch. Too many games for me.
Grand Seiko for life!
You still want that retail rolex. Don’t lie to yourself.
No I really don’t. I think Rolexes are def the better option to keep your money value but you like what you like I guess. I’ll have to keep losing money!😂
I sold my 3 Rolex watches. I still have a big collection of watches. Have no desire for Rolex anymore.
@chookchack I have super clones but I would like to have an authentic president in my lifetime.
Profiling, discrimination and upfront lies from a retail store. Doesn't make me feel good about ever owning one. That should be a red flag to the Rolex market. Great video. Thanks.
Well put JeffBoyd. Paying this kind of money entitles the buyer to at least feel welcome, rather than feeling like getting in a long line to apply for a crappy job.
Its what the diamond market has done for 100 years.
Nice. One of the only two former employees at Rolex who tell it like it is on TH-cam, and this video is more in-depth than the other one and not holding back. Don't mind all the haters and complainers. This video is GOLD to those that are actual watch enthusiasts. Former resident of Hawaii. Mahalo, bradda.
Thank you 🤙🏽
I moved on from Rolex years ago and couldn’t be happier. Life’s too short for Rolex BS.
I got an Air King way before the big markups. For way under retail. I'm not interested in this bullshit. I feel the same way. My Cartier Tank I got for 1700 is around 4000 now. They all went crazy.
was on their "list" for 10 years, i bought from grey market since and went on to collect APs since.
What did you move on to?
@@JianDan01 AP's nice choice there.
@@Super-c00n ...Omega
I’ll just walk in to Omega and buy. I’m not playing games with that kind of money
Do it. I did. Loving my Planet Ocean
Omega plays game with watches like Silver Snoopy and 321.
Best watches made
Yep that’s what I did, Omega were more than happy to sell me a wristwatch.
That green dial Moonshine Speedmaster is a grail in my book, but since that's out of reach, I might pick up the Seaweed Master. Still haven't seen the color in person though.
Been a watch buyer, seller, and collector for over 53 years. Had many Rolex’s, never waited to buy, never gave my personal information to buy a watch,and would never ever, absolutely never get on a list or be told to be nice, or beg to be sold anything, especially a generic run of the mill Rolex watch. I’ve had watches made just for me, 1 of 1. There are literally millions upon millions of watches up for sale every second the world spins, Rolex has a tightly controlled branded name for an over priced average time piece. Explore the world for watches, from cheap to expensive there’s a wide, wide, world of watches out there go have fun!
Thank you for sharing
Well said!
Agree 100% !!
Absolutely!
Folks that are just beginning to get in to the hobby currently have a great advantage over us old-timers. The research available to them at a keystroke is priceless. A bit of delving onto the technical specs of brands like Longines and Tudor and comparing to Rolex quickly reveals that there is a ton of value for money to be had in Swiss watchmaking today. Rolex can participate however they see fit, but there are many, many pieces on the market that can match or surpass Rolex for fractions of the price even when paying full retail.
Rolex need Buyers more than buyers need Rolex . Its time that the consumer realizes that they are the ones calling the shots .
And yet nobody speaks up
Rolex is a non profit trust they don’t need their customers
@@natestern2021 so they dont need cash to sponsor Motor racing , Golf and Tennis ? Rolex Money Grows on Trees?
@@stevenfoleyuk9404 they made over 10 billion dollars last year, I don't buy rolex but the people who buy the expensive gold models will keep buying them, the guy upset when his submariner takes too long is not calling the shots.
Great reasons to bypass Rolex. There are so many alternatives out there now.
Yes. I’ll just look at the time on my iPhone.
@@MrGreggallmanThen you’ve completely missed the point of wearing a watch like this. Nobody actually buys an expensive watch to only tell the time.
Let's all pretend to be blind and not look at the other luxury watch brands that operate the same way shall we?
This kind of behavior by dealers is what gives the flippers their market. There wouldn't be a flipping market if Rolex would sell watches like a normal store and not hold them back. They are creating the secondary market.
The exclusivity of the primary market and the higher prices of the secondary market keep Rolex's bar to entry and prices high. Rolex likes how things are now I'm sure!
@@infxmhc exactly, I'm going through this game with an AD right now for an exp 40 and sick of it, I'm just going to buy secondary. It's all working the way they want.
That's exactly the reason why I went to the Omega, Tudor and Breitling AD instead.
Don't treat me like a fool or beggar when I'm willing to pay 8.000€ for a watch 🙃
You should try Grand Seiko spring drive. They are exquisitely finished and a marvel of engineering.
Lol Tudor is Rolex. You’re literally playing their game.
Omega is way better.
@@TheBajamin
If you go tomorrow to the local Tudor AD you will get the watch that you want most likely instantly. If it's a completely new model (e.g. the Coke GMT or black Monochrome) they will call you in 1-3 months to collect it. But you will never ever have to buy something totally different first to get higher on their priority list to be even able to buy the watch (which is very common at the Rolex AD )
@@highsoflyify you realize that’s still supporting Rolex lol. They WANT you to go and buy the Tudor. Don’t buy either, stop giving that shit company your money.
Your video is a super advertisement - for Omega, Grand Seiko, Longines, Oris, et al. Glad to have this information!
Thanks for watching!
I'm not doing all that. I'm the customer.
It's absolutely ridiculous isn't it?!
Man, be a hell of a day when it does turn up! Good luck, hope you get soon.
Other luxury watch brands operate the same way, you can't get high end watches with no purchase history.
This gentleman told the truth. However, I will not abase myself to buy a watch under the circumstances described.
Best thing you can do is to have an honest and genuine reason, and be able to articulate it well. I wanted a Polar Exp II as my "beat cancer" watch. My first buy from that AD. I anticipated a 2 year wait, which would time perfectly for when I got off cancer monitoring and give me time to save. Told them my goal and timeline. Then they surprised me 6 months later for my 40th birthday. Honestly, I wasn't prepared and had to move some money around, but I made it work.
Naturally, that left me with needing a new "beat cancer" watch, lol. Have an easier to get, but harder to afford, grail piece in mind now; Bregeut Tradition Retrograde Seconds. Will have to go used, cause there's no way I could swing that new. I'll circle back for either a Skydweller or DJ eventually. But now that I got the Exp II, I want a grail piece for a grail event.
Awesome story . Thank you for sharing and Congratulations 🙏🏼
Probably the most real explanation and it makes sense. Thanks for the transparency
ADs sell to flippers all the time, flippers that buy bundles of 10 pieces at a time!
Ok interesting. Not at the store I used to work at, my District manager was very strict, afraid of losing the partnership with Rolex. Rolex has employees that buy back watches from the gray market and tracks where they were bought from .
Agree with the comment, grey market dealers offer Rolexes watches fully stickered!
@@alexsalvador3370 our store manager was extremely strict and we removed all stickers every time before watch was turned over to client .
@@alexsalvador3370Stickers are a red flag that it’s stolen or fake. All Rolex AD’s are required to remove everything.
@@hawaiihardy7285 , yes ! In Miami it’s done all the time
It all makes sense. How could Rolex sell so many watches yet 'never have stock'? Thanks for blowing the whistle. 😉
Just like De Beers trying to monopolize diamonds, same bs here, Rolex plays games with the rareness of their watches to drive fake demand. Thats called criminal.
Thanks for your video. I used to own a Kermit, and sold it, when I sold my business. So Rolex is a bit in the past for me. I love my Pelagos, which I think is a better watch than my sub. I wear it for everything, and couldn't be happier. Titanium, especially the type 2 wears really well and the usage is beautiful, unlike scratches to SS, which looks scary. Everyone: enjoy the watch YOU love. And be kind to others.
Thank you for sharing
I know of one AD in my city who expects first time clients to buy a Day-Date as their first piece, and I know a handful of clients for this AD who have confirmed this rule. Basically, its a case of "show us how much cash you are willing to spend and maybe one day we'll let you buy a steel GMT or steel Sub". Rolex & their ADs have forgotten who their real clients are... and its not "Piere the investment banker", its "Peter the plumber". Now that the grey wrist watch market is essentially dead, and that watches are no longer being seen as a speculative investment asset, this is really going to bite Rolex hard as a brand in the coming 5-10 years.
I don't think their client base was ever "Peter the plumber" tbh. I think, like many luxury brands, they sell an idea of their products as something designed for rugged, adventurous sportsmen, but they as well as anyone else knows that the vast majority of these watches are being worn to and from the office by well-paid white collar employees. The whole thing is a fiction. Maybe that was less true in the 40s and 50s than it is today, but it's certainly the case today.
@@FerrisBI’m a plumber… my names not Peter tho
@@FerrisBjust to chime in there clients are the people coming up. I went to Rolex 4yrs ago wanting to build my relationship with them. They ignored and offered me nothing, I KNEW I where I wanted/would be. 5 grey market Rolex’s and now I’m on my second AP from retail. Rolex IS changing for the better however they lost me forever as a customer because of how they treated me when I wanted my starter watch. Now times my story by millions. Peter the plumber could be Peter the CEO one day or just the idea of getting that Rolex after saving up and being laughed at. Now Peter’s kids don’t like Rolex, dominos. Hope that makes sense
Why not push regular oyster perpetuals to first time buyers? Why skip the base model?
@@Ryan40272 because they are scammers. In the time they took to get me a OP I was on my 5th grey rolex. At which point how do I even build a relationship if they made me go elsewhere to buy my starter watches
i was given that very book after i put my information months ago. i would never want to beg for something that i work hard for. so if rolex wouldn't give me my watch then i would gladly move to other brands that would gladly take my money.
LOL yes I put myself on a “list” last month and they also gave me that book.
Same here. I was placed on an "interest database" and was also given the hardbound catalog after I ordered a Tudor. I doubt I will ever get the call, so I'm now on Chrono to find the watch I want. The thing is, the only Rolexes that I'm interested in are the Explorer and maybe the BLNR on Jubilee.
If JLC brings back the Geophysic True Second at some point, I can forget about the GMT Master II.
Disgusting business practices. We moved to Omega and Breitling because of all the childish games Rolex plays. No more Rolex in our home. Should be illegal to conduct business like this.
Great video, very informative and straightforward. As a long-time watch enthusiast who started my collection with my father’s 1601 Datejust, I had never encountered this information before even from watch forums.
Imagine walking into a store to buy a product which they have on the back and them not wanting to sell it to you.
Thank you for this video. It confirms a lot of my suspicions. Take care
Legit advice. I got called 2-months after expressing my interest in a stainless steel sports model. While I was waiting for a link to be taken out my AD straight up said, "The reason I called you is because we can tell you're going to wear the watch, and you're not a flipper". I think the problem is convincing them you're not lying. True story.
I don't mind the background check though. Actually like it. If it gets rid or reduces the flipper and gray market, all the better.
I'm not surprised at all!! Appreciate the insights. The very popular models seem to be extremely tough, and I know the full precious metal models and two tones tend to be much easier, but what about popularish models like the Explorer series? Or the Two tone GMTs like the Rootbeer or two tone Bruce Wayne?
Thanks for your honesty 👍
Flippers never messed anything up..Rolex's desire to totally control the market is the issue.
I don't fully agree with this. Merely 10 years ago you could basically walk into any AD and buy the watch you wanted. Social media fomo and "iNfLuEnCeRs" did ruin the market to a certain degree. Flippers are part of this. It's not just watches but basically anything exclusive/limited/expensive.
@@rogaldorn252 BS... influencer do it for the likes and money to push the crap... they do not really care about the watch... bs
@@rogaldorn252 Absolutely , you nailed it , you can’t even buy an LV or Gucci sweater these days all sold out and you’ll find them in stock x or on other sites for sale at double the value the same with trainers like Yeezy back then having to raffle just for the opportunity to buy at retail .
you can buy rolexes everywhere. how do they control the market? if they dont want to sell to new comers thats their issues. ill just buy mine from a middle man
@@tommyreusse3858 You obviously aren't too aware of Rolexes attempts and Techniques... You honestly think used and BNIB Rolexes would be so expensive if not for their meddling and ridiculous sales barriers?.... NOPE.. We're paying more because of their Market Control.
Thanks for sharing this "insider" information. Explains a lot about the games played that never really made sense before.
Thanks for your integrity. Great video.
👍🏼great video/inside information. Appreciate you! Cheers/B
Thank you for this interesting vid.
Interesting Information Thank you🙏💖
Exactly why I won’t buy another Rolex! It’s been at least 25 years since I purchased my last Rolex, went to a dealer a couple weeks ago to purchase a Submariner and they started playing this exact game. I’m not going to jump through hoops to purchase an objectively overpriced luxury item. After leaving that dealer and hearing similar stories from others I decided to explore other quality brands. I’m happy I did as I ended up purchasing a new Sinn U212 and I’m very happy with it. Definitely not the same look as Sub but no doubt more capable and a real collectors conversation piece at a fraction of the cost.
I bought my first Rolex in the early 80's before all the hype. I am now on my 4th, my 2nd Turn O Graph.
Thanks for sharing!
Thank for the video, it's nice to get some genuine inside information. I'm "on the list" 🤣 I have way more time than money so I'll wait it out and see what happens.
Bought my Tudor black bay 58 on my honeymoon in Maui. Great experience. Lahaina is always in my thoughts.
Thanks for the advice. I will one day get my Explorer II in polar white. I've bought too many other watches to scratch that itch, but I still go back to wanting that Explorer.
A few years ago I was offered the polar Explorer II on my first visit to an AD and I turned it down because I wanted the Explorer. Then later, at another AD, they offered me the Explorer and I didn’t like it. Wish I would’ve taken a look at that polar Explorer II.
As a businessman, I just buy from the grey market and pay the premium. The amount I’ll save from paying retail, even for a Le Mans, is nothing had I just spent the time, effort, and *money* building that AD relationship to my business instead. Unless you’re a celebrity, don’t buy from AD. If you could buy relationship-building watches you probably are rich, and your time is probably worth more than the savings from not paying the premium.
Exactly what I did. I was strung along for 2 years, all the while checking in, kissing *ss, and being suggested to to buy other jewelry. I said forget it! I'd rather pay less and go grey market rather than spend more and be stuck with pieces and jewelry that I didn't want.
Exactly this. You pay grey market premium, but time = money and that alone saves you tons.
And the premium is only initially. You would spend a factor more of that building that relationship.
My guess is that they sell almost all the watches to the secondary market dealers for kickbacks. It is corrupt but it is also "just business".
Thank you so much for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
If ADs are investigating prospective clients that hard and strictly, how come there are so many Rolexes going to the grey market, does not add up
Impossible to catch all flippers. Not all of them sell through social media . Also flippers get more savvy and find more loopholes. Thank you for watching.
What if AD's are the greatest flippers of Rolex 😂@@hawaiihardy7285
I was wondering what is the scam for the Certified Preowned. Use the “shortage” to clip an impulse buyer.
@@michaelbishop1 Car Dealerships do the same, basically your paying for the "certified" tag, meaning all the parts are authentic and they look and tested it
It does add up, most of the watches the dealers get are from Trade Shows - People are buying and selling watches all the time, Rich Guy wants a different and new watch, sells his old watch. They do not necessarily have to get them from trade shows.
I waited for a Datejust 41mm Wimbledon (2 tone) for 1.5yrs. Never got the call after repeatedly following up. I bought one grey, took it to the AD to show the salesperson, I get "the call" 2 weeks later for the same watch LOL.
so they want you to buy 2? lol
@@picanha694Yes and I said no because I'll have 2 of the same models lol.
@@tony8826but you could’ve bought the second Wimbledon and flipped it 😉
Hawaii Hardy! Mahalo for the information. 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽
Fascinating!
I was looking and looking for a submariner and I finally started leaving negative yelp and Google reviews and made complaints to the BBB… that’s finally when I got one. They wanna play games I’ll play games too.
Wow awesome. Congratulations 😂👍🏼
Damn that’s petty
When I’m ready to buy my first Rolex, I’d like it to be brand new so that I can write my own story with the watch. I don’t want something that’s been worn. I want to start a fresh book.
A Rolex Explorer was a watch I always dreamed of! When I finally had the money to buy it a few years ago, the AD's in California didn't have any and I learned of the games they were playing... Then, I found Tudor and bought a Black Bay 36 which I like a lot more than the Explorer! I have no desire for a Rolex watch now but, I will always like the Brand.
Everytime we go to Oahu on vacation, I always took a picture in front of the Rolex dealer in the International Marketplace! Thank you so, much for sharing your honest experience working for Rolex! 😊
Thank you for sharing
Terrific piece. I really enjoyed it and your honesty is commendable. I played the AD game and did get a Datejust after about four months. No bells and whistles. Clean, white dial. Handsome. Bought some jewelry and engaged them for repairs first. Not sure i would do this again. Pre-owned is a better value for me. Thanks!
Thanks for sharing!
Not earth-shattering info, but I found it interesting that ADs lie about not having inventory. Thanks for the insights!
I found the looking for your social media stuff even more surprising.
I made the “list” as a first time buyer and got my first brand new Rolex Polar Explorer II from the AD a year ago in Jan of 2023. Took about 9 months to get it, definitely worth the wait…..I got it for my 50th so I think the next purchase will be for my 55th…..we’ll see, as of now, super happy with my EXP2. Cheers and thanks for the insight!!
Great to hear!
Thanks for sharing this video, Hawaii Hardy!
SPOT ON.
One month after visiting my AD for an Op 41 black dial, I received
“The Text.”
NO spend history.
First Rolex.
If it happened to me, it can happen to you.
Best of luck to all and thanks again Hawaii Hardy!!
Thank you so much for your interesting and insightful information!
My pleasure!
Your facts, only enhances the broader view of the Rolex bs game! Thanks!
My pleasure!
They are doing the right thing!
Buying a Rolex from an authorised dealer is an interesting game. The only winning move is not to play…
Thanks for sharing bro 🎊
This was such a helpful video - thank you for the real info! I was able to purchase an Explorer 2 at the Ala Moana Rolex using some of your tips within a week of being put on ‘the list’.
AWESOME, congrats !!!
People hate on this but tbh it’s the reason why Rolex is Rolex as a brand
They make 1.2 million watches a year. It blows my mind they play games like that and sell as many as they do
I like to buy new old stock Seiko watches on eBay. Many of them are from sellers in Japan, and they usually cost about $100 each. I have about 4 of them. I will admit to having splurged 10 years ago on a new Tissot quartz watch that I paid $300 for (about $550 MSRP).
Thanks for sharing
Very enlightening, and what a shame that a few fools mess up the buying experience for good honest people who would like to buy a Rolex at some point. I was very lucky then really having bought an Explorer 2 polar in 1999, and I still am very happy with it. I will say to anyone not to be put off though - and if you see a pre-owned beauty that you have been looking for in an authorised Rolex dealership then go for it, as 'not used much' Rolex watches don't hang around either!
Thank you.
I wanted to buy an explorer 1, later wanted a 2 and fers did that same to me and I was a first time buyer of the brand. Discovered Longines Spirit Zulu and got that, and now even I still desire an Explorer2 I would never get and try to drive people away from the brand! oh yeah... what happens if no social media or internet presence?
Thanks great information
That’s funny how trying to buy your watch from somewhere different than a store you’ve previously done business with can work against you, specially when your end game is to just acquire a watch!
One of many reasons I buy Rolex clones!
And here I thought it was about making business and building relationships. I've never seen an "empty" watch store in my life until I came across Rolex stores. I did tell them to FO and went to Omega!
Thanks man. Good to know this stuff 👍🏾
Early in my 'career' of buying watch, i did exactly that, told the sales lady that i got and sold my gmt 😂. I was just excited to share watch story and how regretful i was of selling that, but yeah, i knew right away that was a dumb thing to say. Oh well, it was on a vacation trip anyway.
I started buying invictas as a teenager. My first really nice automatic was a Hamilton I bought for $140 at a collectors mall, next was a longines, next was an omega, and finally a pre owned Rolex gmt master ii batman with the oyster bracelet. I absolutely love the Batman and I'll never sell it.
Awesome thank you
I have owned three Rolex each one gets a little more fancy . I love them ! They are the one luxury item you can buy that you can handown to your grandchildren . Nothing makes a man feel good then being well dressed an a rolex on his wrist . My last one I sold was fifteen years old and looked brand new .
Walk in with a Tissot, and walk out with a Tissot. You’ll be far intact.✨
Agreed, great brand with prestige, reliable, and good value for money.
Great video, thank you
The things people are willing to put up with just for a logo. It's just a watch in the end, and not even as accurate as a good quartz watch when you think about it. If you really need a good mechanical watch that much I would suggest you go with Omega or Longines.
Rolex its the icon of success . Not longiness
Thank you for the info brother!
Great information. I have been away from the collecting business for nearly a decade. I own an SS Sub and a Day-Date from the early 2000's and that's about all I'm going to own from Rolex. I got both of them brand new by just walking into an authorized AD back in the day.
I guess times have changed.
Really applaud this former employee for telling it like it is... THANK YOU!! STILL, this is damage of Rolex' own making. If I *really* want that Daytona or Blue Sky-Dweller, I can have it in 48 hours - Rolex is the biggest luxury watch maker in the world - the watches aren't that rare or constrained. They know that the majority of that vault full of inventory is going to flippers, despite any "checking out" theatre they have their employees do... IT IS NOT WORKING. I bought my first and only Rolex in 2009 from an AD in NY walking off the street like everyone else. I COULD buy another from the grey market - I just don't want to. I'd rather give my watch budget to companies that actually want to sell to real customers. Rolex simply doesn't care.
If you have rolex money, how do you also not have the pride to match? I would absolutely never beg and grovel to be given a chance to spend my money. I would buy an omega the moment they turned me away
The problem is, there isn’t an omega that comes close to most Rolex.
@@ragetobe cap. The speedmaster is absolutely peak
@@SteveDonev It’s the peak of branding and advertising, I had one and found it extremely disappointing.
A watch tells time right? I'm pretty sure my 300$ Bulova does that.
@@richardmorris7063 Its not that simple. A $20 casio will tell time more accurately than the most expensive AP or Rolex ever will. You buy a high end watch not to just tell time, you buy it for the craftsmanship and design. It’s functional jewelry that also happens to tell the time as an added bonus
This is interesting. I appreciate the honesty. It's funny to me that a sales associate-who could probably not afford most of what they sell-would judge someone using stupid methods and take months to call back just to determine they won't flip the watch and are "worthy" of a purchase. This is why I turned down the sub I was offered and bought another brand.
I wonder if the buying experience is different at high end retail jewelry stores that carry Rolex and other brands, rather than Rolex owned and operated stores.
Yes for sure
I managed to buy a Lexus GX460 highest trim which is a $75K luxury SUV much easier than buying a Rolex watch, go figure 🤨
You can get a patek GMT 200k faster than a 10k rolex... think about that!
Except your Lexus will lose half of its value in several years while the Rolex will only continue to go up. Certain models are twice the retail price as soon as you receive it. But yea, it’s a big if you will get one from the AD.
@@dennischen8887treating these watches like an investment is silly. Adjust for REAL inflation and you’re losing money or flat. It’s just a watch
@@gwills9337 when did I say I bought it as an investment genius? I said it holds value way better than a Lexus.
You sir have good taste in cars. Reliable and luxury nice.
What happens to the floor models ? Is that a thing they are now turned into the " certified pre owned models "? Or they just become avaliable for purchase at some point?
Yes some get turned into certified pre-owned . Some get sent back to Rolex . Most of them stay as display for a long time . Thank you for watching.
I appreciate your response. Thanks ! Good information. And I suppose you kinda answered it there, but all the crap of the exhibition models being fake or not having real movement's in them isn't real?
@@MrGMT1992 all of our display models were functional with movement.
I'm gonna add my move that has always worked. I go to the store and buy birthday, Christmas and graduation gifts for people there. It's all stuff I would normally buy but instead of getting it someplace else I go to my AD. They see me a lot and when I ask for a watch I get it pretty quickly. I also only buy a watch every few years (to save up) so I think that helps as well. My sales guy told me one time I asked for a watch and he printed out all of my purchases and the owner immediately said "sell it to him".
I’m so sad, I wanted to buy my first Rolex ever and really liked the BatGirl. The sales person put me on their list they said but it’s fake so sad.
This is very interesting, Hardy
Thank you. I appreciate your support. Safe travels home 🤙🏽
@@hawaiihardy7285cute watch
Went to AD for a DJ with fluted dial but it was discontinued. Waited for Watches and Wonders and decided to ask for an Everose sky Dweller although I’ll probably never see it. Bought from the store before but it was 20 years ago.
Interesting
I can afford Rolex but Aliexpress always have inventory and they love my business!
All of these tips - do this, don't do this, say that, don't say that - only gave one message - even though you are a customer willing to spend your money to buy a product, Rolex treats you like they're giving you a charity and you must prove that you deserve it.
I just got my first Rolex literally yesterday (Explorer 40). I was on a "wish list" for years, but since I'd purchased previously from WOS I was able to finally get one. No reselling here, that baby's here to stay. And the BEST SA ever, that really helps! Mine was fantastic and hilarious!
Congratulations
Well done👍eye opener😊
This is exactly why I will never own a Rolex. I don’t want to kiss the ass of some retail associate, I don’t want to be researched and spied on. When I spend thousands on a watch, I am the one that wants his ass kissed not the other way around. Rolex can take their watches and shove them were the sun doesn’t shine 😂
I paid more to get the watch I wanted. I don’t regret it because I’m not going to play any game to spend my hard earned money. I just want to buy what I want without games.
got some news for ya buddy....
My first luxury watch is going to be a Grand Seiko. Not got time for Rolex games.
Rolexes are made by machines. Anyone who thinks there is a shortage simply refuses to think logically
The Rolex AD’s are the ones that sell to grey market dealers, the stock that they can’t sell fast, like full gold with diamonds lady stuff, they sell that to grey market dealers, often family members! The wanted pieces are sold to VIP clients. So as a normal buyer you have almost zero chance to get anything from them, except used pieces, so you have to go grey market or just move away from Rolex.
“Flippers” are tiresome, but I still don’t see why Rolex should care what a customer does with his purchase after walking out. They got paid, end of their part in the deal.
It creates frustration within the watch community, if you can't get one or if you're going to be treated like you're doing them a favour handing over your money, you'll go somewhere else. I think this was part of the incentive for Rolex to buy Bucherer. They're fed up of AD's tarnishing their image.
Because if you are buying from a flipper at more than retail, Rolex loses the ability to control the customer experience.
It’s terrible for branding.
@@casualdudereviewsindeed
@@casualdudereviews Make more watches. It's not rocket surgery.
@@casualdudereviewshow does that work? If the AD would simply sell you one, that’s AD experience right there. It’s their own behavior that pushes clients to flippers. Talk about a self fulfilling prophecy.
thanks for your honesty. I'm currently on the "waiting list" for the new gold deep sea, here's hoping