We are humbled & blessed to have Charlotte in this video. More Charlotte in future videos please Andrew - her honesty and sense of humour really comes through. 👍
I made my wife sit down and watch the first episode on this channel where Andrew has Charlotte on and her journey into buying her first luxury watch. I'll do anything rn to stop her wearing a fitbit 😂
Getting a call from your AD is like getting a call from your ex. You feel the need to gloat yet honoured but annoyed since it has taken this long for the call to happen. 😅
Ridiculous how this guy shits on Rolex but not only still buys their watch but also came off like a total flipper at the AD by not wanting the watch sized or the boutique experience. Just goes to show that no matter what TH-camrs tell you they still all want Rolex. Even his SO factored in the resale value, something the watchfinder channel loves to dig at. Nice hypocrisy when it comes to your own money.
Glad it worked out well for you. A guy in one of my Facebook groups got the call and it was for a completely different watch, take it or leave it. He took it. Then everybody congratulated him for waiting two years and paying thousands of dollars for a watch he didn't ask for. What a chump.
Oh gosh, I sooo relate! My husbands watch love just kinda "rubbed off" on me too! hahaha! I loved this entire video. And YES YOU HAVE MADE A GIANT MISTAKE! ;) My husband forever regrets getting me into watches because I now take 50% of his watch spending budget >=]
Andrew I’m verklempt. Why wouldn’t you let the AD have it sized for you. Takes 10 minutes, another glass of champagne. The bracelet screws threads come with purple loctite from Rolex.They heat them up with special to tool. The screw comes out like butter. And they apply purple loctite to the screw threads to retighten. You probably marred the screw head and now that screw can loosen up and unscrew itself over time. That could lead to disaster. Lesson here, patience my son.
After the attitude i got from the AD just trying to get in the door, i am not sure i even want to be on their wait list just to feel humbled and blessed.
Good video and thanks for sharing the story, great seeing Charlotte for the first time. Sorry to say id feel the same way you do about it Andrew. Its a lil underwhelming, especially waiting for such a plain Jane. I personally would of been so p**ed i wouldn't of even bothered to pick it up from the ADS. This just made me dislike the brand even more tbh. 2 years for a entry level Rolex.😂. Lange! Patek! I get it. Even the higher end Rolexs i get. But for an Oyster perpetual, Sub or Date just hell nah. Sorry! That's a game i wont play. I sold my YM! Daytona, Date just! (All brought at Watchfinder in Maidstone before 2018 before it went nuts.🤣. And moved on to other brands like Vacheron JLC, Cartier and Sinn. And ive been happy ever since.
I'm uncertain whether the waiting list is managed by Rolex directly or by authorized dealers. When I visited a Rolex dealer, I registered my name for a Rolex Datejust and received a call after two weeks, informing me that the watch was available for collection. After collecting the watch, I expressed my interest in the Rolex Daytona, and three months later, I received a call stating that the Rolex Daytona had arrived at the shop. However, it wasn't the specific one I had chosen with a white dial, commonly known as the Panda model, but rather a black dial with diamond accents. Unfortunately, I was on holiday at that time, and the dealer couldn't wait for five days. During the call, I offered to make an advance payment, but the dealer declined the offer. If dealers are unwilling to sell watches, then I am open to other brands that are willing to accept my money. I decide not wait and buy Omega Speedmaster dark side of the moon apollo 8.
Most ADs have a financial relationship with a grey market dealer and sell their watches directly to them or on consignment. The ADs only offer a watch to waitlist customers when the grey dealer doesn't want it. That's why the Rolex you're offered is usually not the model you're after.
Andrew! Is that your wife? If so, good catch. Stay healthy and happy. That's what is important. The Rolex is way down the list for me. Besides, even a simple Rolex draws attention and envy and that is troublesome in this day and age.
The idea that people think waiting 2 years for a watch that you pay many grands for is something that makes the experience better is insane! You’re not a kid that’s getting a icecream because you’ve been good, you’re a grown ass person you should get treated like one.
@@aquilifergroup well that works both ways. There's a two year waiting list for that watch. That's the point. If you don't want it immediately when offered then they'll go to the next on the list in an instant. I'd be surprised if these two get offered another one from that AD if they want it because they weren't sure they wanted it and still kept themselves on the list.
If you don't want to wait on the waiting list for such a popular watch, you can pay about 20% premium on the grey market. The choice is yours. Many people like doing popular things that have queues and many people don't.
I feel this deeply. My watch obsession resurfaced after many years and my wife couldn't understand because she is very technologically savvy. Then I bought her a beautiful Longines I found for an amazing price. At the current rate of acquirement, her collection will exceed mine within months lol. At least we share the same passion, or sickness? 😂
The whole Rolex "thing" is a load of cobblers. My first one, being a 16012 was in 1985 for what I remember 411 pounds sterling. I did get three others at different times which became a futile exercise on hindsight. There is more to watches than Rolex. Other options should have been considered. Did you get the call as the person on the list before you declined?
You are indeed humbled and blessed, and punching well above your weight there my man. As for Rolex. Yeah, nah, not interested in them now. I would be, but if I'm ponying up more than a couple of grand for a bloody wristwatch then I don't want to feel like the AD is doing me a favour. Thus, Omega would have got my money for an Aqua Terra... but then the price of the things jumped quite sharply since I last looked at them a year ago. Currently can't find anything I particularly like, so sticking with my current trio. Have the money, but just f**k off Rolex AD... just f**k off.
Congrats to the watch... but honestly, 2 years for a plain black OP in 36mm is ridiculous! What the heck!?!? This is not normal and should not be, it's a freaking basic watch and should be available within 2-3 weeks tops, not years! Rolex is doing a lot of mistakes and they are pi..ing off potential customers (not those a-hole resellers). It's a shame really and we can only hope that this trend stops and real fans and watch enthusiasts can buy their desired watch soon again and not play this but licking game of some BS waiting list...
Bracelet adjustment: you were right to consider heating it up. In boutiques the staff have dedicated bracelet heater which focuses heat on one section and it’s then easier to unscrew and take out the links. With steel models you can sometimes do without the heat but precious metal bracelets require heating every time.
Ofcourse you didn't buy a Rolex, I mean you got about 20 videos why watch X is better then Rolex. OH NO WAIT YOU DID?? Guess the advice on 10 watches cheaper and better then Rolex is just better for other people then?
Congrats! Glad your wife finally received the watch she likes. This reminds me back in 1982 I had to wait 6 months for my brand new Omega Speedmaster Mark 4.5, caliber 1045. They were only sold in Europe and not available in America unless it was special ordered. The day I got that call I dropped everything I was doing and rushed over to the AD to pick it up. I still wear it.
@@tonyhopeful …Mine is in rotation so I wear it about every two weeks. Nice to talk with someone that has one. There aren’t many around. From my research it seems this watch was a disappointment for Omega. They didn’t fly off the shelves the way they expected. To gauge by the price which has risen exponentially it seems this watch commands more respect now than it did when it was new, almost 50 years ago.
At least there is a wait list in your country, come to Singapore ADs, and try out the "wish list", which essentially means, buy a Hublot (or 2) off us or forget about ever getting a Rolex.
Put myself on “the list” for a 36mm Explorer in mid-January, just to see what would come of it. Figured if I didn’t get one by the end of the year, I’d get something else instead, like a high-beat Grand Seiko. To my surprise I got “the call” earlier this month after less than four months. Which was a pleasant surprise as I’ve wanted the Explorer for years but refused to pay gray market prices. Down side though is that high-beat Grand Seiko is even farther away now!
Were you checking in with the AD or did you just simply register interest and leave it? As I have put my name down for an explorer last year in London but have not since visited the AD to go in and "chat". Congratulations!
@@Jack-ol6ss I wander too as I went on the list for an explorer in London in December. Haven't heard anything yet so will have to wander in and make small talk it seems...
Humbled and blessed? This video exemplifies the sheep mentality that Rolex feeds its business off of and that people are all too willing to take part in. Embarassing, really.
I got myself and my wife a blue and mint green Datejust last year, and I must say I was deeply disappointed. It’s not because of the cyclops, but the overall aesthetics, build, finishing, wearing experience were just not on par with my other less hyped watches (Moser, GP Laureato, Blancpain bathyscaphe, etc.)
I went to Harrods and got the cold shoulder from the boutique, then went to the boutique across the road same story, I then popped in to have a coffee with my friend who's the manager of a rather exclusive hotel in knightsbridge, he marched me back to the Rolex boutique and after a rather heated exchange of word's about custom sent there way I had my watch the next day, for my friend I am very humbled and blessed
I spent $24,100.00 after taxes for my Sea Dweller 18k/SS and I didn't even get a coffee! or a hat or any swag at all. Nothing...just the watch and a "thanks for your money" lol
Definitely a good buy and a really nice understated piece with that beautiful dial. It’s refreshing to see Charlotte’s reluctance to give money away which tells us she’s safe and immune from the nasty bug us guys have been bitten by!! Great vid.
Love it when she critiques the 3 annoying things about her Rolex. She actually has a point lol. Eitherway, congratulations. It's always nice to receieve the 'humbled & blessed' call!
I tried one on and it was a solid "meh" for me, so I feel truly humbled and blessed not to have to deal with waiting lists and AD games. I can think of a number of watches I'd rather have for around $6000, and you can just pay and walk out the door with them!
This was way more entertaining than I thought it will be! The way a non watch person describes a watch is awesome and puts you into reality check mode, loved it!! I think you should make this a series "regular person reviews an expensive watch"
Only took 3 months to get the call after I put my name on the list for a Datejust. I turned it down because I'd bought an Aqua Terra instead. I think the inability to buy Rolex is a big part of the draw for a lot of people, but of course, that goes away once you have it.
@@TL-ph5wg Took me 2,5 months for a 36mm explorer. I think it is highly dependent on where you live. If you live in central London, i guess there is higher demand on the dealers. I live in another country, in a city you probably never heard of - which just happen to have a Rolex dealer.
Humbled & Blessed...should be the handle for Charlotte's new TH-cam watch channel. Another great video. The gentrification bit was just spot on. Love the content, keep it coming.
Delete the crown/replace with CW or Seiko emblem and boom...That's the real worth of such 3 hander Rolex game is sooo overhyped... Not willing to be blessed anyway :)
I was finally humbled and blessed to walk into a Rolex AD last week and find not one, but two watches available to try on and indeed purchase. No wait list, no buying the salesperson dinner, just two watches that I could walk home with that very day. Unfortunately they were the most gaudy, gauche, and tacky abominations I've ever seen - two tone Everose gold Datejusts with diamond studded dials, jubilee bracelets, and fluted bezels 🤢 Needless to say I declined the kind offer and went about my day 😂
😂 Free Good Story Time, Andrew ⌚👍 and 🎉 Congratulations To Charlotte Or Rather To You Both 🎉. Nothing Beats Like 👑Rolex👑 As PP aka AC3 would put it, 👑Rolex ... 👑Rolex ... 👑Rolex ... ! Yet I Hate Their So Called "Wished / Wait List" Vetting Game 👎.
I too was "humbled and blessed" last year. I was made to feel as though I should be incredibly grateful when I picked the watch up - the normal lines between customer and shopkeeper were truly blurred. In the end I felt a little wierd about the whole experience. So I wrote some polite feedback - and now they clearly don't want my money anymore. So much for the customer is king 😊.
Usually the timing sucks . I got a call once to tell me they have the Tudor Pelagos FXD available , just after I purchased my Omega Seamaster 300 heritage
You got the better watch anyway. I was offered a Tudor Ranger but I wanted the Pelagos 39. Because I rejected it I'm struck off the waitlist. It's brutal. They try to force upon a watch you don't want and if you don't take it they take offense to it. I'm not playing their games anymore.
After a decade of not having a Rolex I got the call a couple of months ago for a Yachtmaster. It was a great watch alright but I felt like a ghastly poser wearing it and I have flogged it already.
If you have to get through so much to get the most basic watch they offer and still feel thankful, it becomes childish and embarrassing. The CEO's strategy to multiply references so that each is made in lesser numbers and his carte blanche to ADs to never sell to anyone asking for just one good watch and concentrate all sales on a few VIPs who can feed the secondary market has paid off. You're humbled and blessed indeed to spend on their base model. You should have bought a GS SBGY013 probably. The AD would have thanked you and you'd have something to talk about.
Haha. I told my “call” that I’d been receiving a lot of call lately and I’d put them on a list for me purchase from. Eff Rolex. That line about a gentrified neighborhood is spot on. I’ve found much better watches.
Waited 2,5 years for the 41mm green OP, at two different ADs. I called in and cancelled after that. Numerous emails about 6 months apart. Ordinary BS of "they are handmade". Spent my money on JLC, Omega and Cartier instead. So tierd of Rolex. Also spent 2016-2018 on the list for a Sub. Guess I have to overpay like every other joe
I’ve had THE CALL for 3 Rolex’s,OP 41, Datejust and No date Sub. Sold them all 🤦🏻♂️ The annoying thing about the whole situation is you’re waiting that long you forget and life throws things in the meantime and you spend the watch money on something else.
If Charlotte has a Cartier and Rolex she is well covered for luxury watches. I would recommend the third and final watch to be a very inexpensive beater for activities such a a small dive watch or chronograph.
Seriously, that is the one thing about the watch community that I can’t be ok with. The way people have to debase themselves in the hope rolex will take their $10K is honestly kinda gross. If I ever add a rolex to the collection, I’ll honestly be happy to pay the resale premium, just so I don’t have to be grateful for being one’s customer. That goes for you too Italian rolex (ferarri)
"They've put the crown on upside-down" You tell those lazy jerks Charlotte! ...I'm going to need her opinion on more watches going forward, maybe she'd like to compare the Cartier to this Rolex. Thanks!
@@MrFloRolf Explorer 36. I should point out that I was on the waitlist for 4.1/2 years, with 3 steel sports models, but changed one for the exp 36 when it was launched in 2021. I think a significant number of people are passing on them. Not so lucrative to flip them these days.
36mm OP is an absolutely fantastic watch. Not because it’s better than another brand, or more complicated, flashy, or expensive. It’s the quintessential Rolex.
I’m mad at rolex so I am not the one to ask! Any company that wont sell me a very overpriced item, makes you artificially wait for years. Rolex are not hand made or rare so intentionally hoarding stock to make it rough for the customers is a smack in the face. Then wont leave the packaging alone (protection sticker). Then every 5 years send it back to rolex to be “maintained” insisting on changing out major components like the face! “ please leave my beautifully aged one of a kind antique dial alone!” Nope “F you” give us 2000$ every five years! Its a freakin watch. And really not a very good looking or interesting watch. (In my opinion) Rolex makes you feel like they are leasing you your watch! Yuk
I've also got a call. Well, it was an email after finally made to the top 2year+ waiting list. Now I'm... humbled & blessed to enjoy my steel Helm Vanuatu. Yay!
I think you got the wrong watch. Your wife seems to have its resale value very high on her list of reasons she likes it. If she couldn't get her money back on it would she still like it? I don't think she would.
About 30 years ago I could have had a Submariner for the princely sum of about £600 tax free. It was a lot of money to me then but would have been a good investment.
The first thing you should get... is a new AD. You hear so many comments of others who "got the call" in a matter of weeks! Seems your AD has no pull with HQ. Then tell new AD, I want it within a month or forget about it. F**k Rolex if they can't be decent.
Yes and Hublot :) Having recently got ‘the call’ for an OP I can relate… although I personally love mine. I’ve been an SMP wearer for years and loved it, but Rolex is chuffing Rolex. They suck, but also don’t. Haters gon hate and all that. I hope she/you enjoy(s) the ownership - humbled and blessed, naturally,
I also "got the call" (I hate that expression) for a 36mm Datejust last week. After a 2 year wait. Coincidence? Or is the supply chain easing up in the UK?
Love your tongue in check piss take of the whole sorry situation. Rolexs now are just for dealers to sell amongst themselves to make TikTok content. I've been into watches for over 40 years, and to be honest Rolex have become a bit of a joke now. Who really wants to be seen wearing one 🤦🏻♂️
The deceptive simplicity of the Rolex OP, it's purity and 70 hour power reserve OP will grow on her. The lens barnacle on the 'datejust' is a potential problem for some as is 'Rolex' itself for being so darn weird. Am I waiting for one ? Of course I am! I have also been given the 'stand by' word too - but I cannot afford to jinx it when I am so near the 'tape'.
I bought a 1970s ladies Rolex from Japan and I absolutely love it. It is feminine, elegant and dressy. I didn't have to wait for it and it was less than $2000 Australian.
Do you think your watch youtuber status had something to do with the availability of this oyster? Would a nobody be blessed and humbled in a mere 2-years?
FINALLY someone has had the balls to call the date magnifier on a Rolex what it is....an Abomination!! Thank you!!!....Yes, you did the right thing, your wife is happy and you're right, the OP is probably the nicest Rolex, and you'll never really lose money, or not a significant amount anyway....I'm not a fan of Rolex at all.....Best marketing company in the world, yes! Best watch maker in the world? oh no, definitely not, not by a LONG shot!....but boy, can they market stuff!!.....Would I play the waiting game? NO! not when I can buy a great Omega, for under $10,000 or if I had a little more money, a Zenith and then if we going above $20k, then Breguet, Vacheron or Jeager LeCoulture.
I really dislike the ADs making us feel like we owe them something. I recall the same thing happening to me when I got the call for my Pepsi GMT. I wanted it on the oyster bracelet but they had one in the jubilee. The guy was just a complete jerk, “you can take this one or wait, I have no idea how long”. I mean, cmon! I’m spending my hard earned dollars at your shop, I shouldn’t feel humbled & blessed to get your call.
Im curious what would you have chosen for her if it was entirely up to you. I’d love to buy my wife something like a Cartier Santos, but I have a feeling she’d choose a GShock instead 😂
Looool my wife and i got "The call" while on vacation in Mexico after 1year of awaiting... exactly like you .. blocked number and my wife almost didn't answer 😅... today i am happy and sad($$$ouch) to own a beautiful two tone SD! Rolex know how to create a fun story and make you feel humbled and special lol ! Also after my wife has been my on my ass for spending so much on "it's just a watch" is on THE LIST herself for the 2 tone day just...i wonder what vacation we will be on when the next blocked number calls😅.
Andrew, you asked what next for Charlotte? For goodness sake, don't show her the rhodium Yacht-master 37mm. Jenni Elle has one. It's classy, but not ostentatious and wears slim. I put a Miami blue rubber strap on my 40mm and compliments the blue second hand perfectly.
I can’t imagine waiting 2 years to be pressured to rush in for the “privilege” to pay a ridiculously high price for a black dial stainless steel sports watch. I always hoped to own a Rolex one day, but I’ve honestly kind of written them off. If I had $10k to drop on a watch tomorrow, I’d more likely buy an Omega Speedmaster 57, a Glashutte Origional Panomatic, or a Tudor and an Oris. I’m not interested in encouraging this AD waitlist silliness.
We are humbled & blessed to have Charlotte in this video. More Charlotte in future videos please Andrew - her honesty and sense of humour really comes through. 👍
We need more Charlotte. She should review Andrews's watches.
I made my wife sit down and watch the first episode on this channel where Andrew has Charlotte on and her journey into buying her first luxury watch.
I'll do anything rn to stop her wearing a fitbit 😂
Lol. Those smartwatches are really nifty, but I’m just a old man in a 20 something’s body lol
Getting a call from your AD is like getting a call from your ex. You feel the need to gloat yet honoured but annoyed since it has taken this long for the call to happen. 😅
LOL this made my day lmao
Ridiculous how this guy shits on Rolex but not only still buys their watch but also came off like a total flipper at the AD by not wanting the watch sized or the boutique experience. Just goes to show that no matter what TH-camrs tell you they still all want Rolex.
Even his SO factored in the resale value, something the watchfinder channel loves to dig at. Nice hypocrisy when it comes to your own money.
getting a call from the AD takes as long as King Charles waiting to be crowned!
Very good
@@cosmodoc no, it takes longer
Glad it worked out well for you.
A guy in one of my Facebook groups got the call and it was for a completely different watch, take it or leave it. He took it.
Then everybody congratulated him for waiting two years and paying thousands of dollars for a watch he didn't ask for.
What a chump.
Hahaha I bet the guys at the group teared him a new one. Truly blessed and humbled.
You should be so lucky.
I'm sure he took it to flip and to start an account but it does sound silly to wait so long and pay for a watch you don't want.
Why do we put up with this crap from merchants?
@@aquilifergroup Imagine spending money and they still treat you like you owe them a living.
Oh gosh, I sooo relate! My husbands watch love just kinda "rubbed off" on me too! hahaha! I loved this entire video. And YES YOU HAVE MADE A GIANT MISTAKE! ;) My husband forever regrets getting me into watches because I now take 50% of his watch spending budget >=]
Britt, it will be worth it for hm if you can use your status in the watch world to get him the watch he wants!
Ha so true - my wife has also taken 50% of mine
I was humbled and blessed to just watch this video about how humbled and blessed anyone would be to get a Rolex
🤣
Andrew I’m verklempt. Why wouldn’t you let the AD have it sized for you. Takes 10 minutes, another glass of champagne. The bracelet screws threads come with purple loctite from Rolex.They heat them up with special to tool. The screw comes out like butter. And they apply purple loctite to the screw threads to retighten. You probably marred the screw head and now that screw can loosen up and unscrew itself over time. That could lead to disaster. Lesson here, patience my son.
We need more Mrs. Talking Watches. She's absolutely savage on Ro-LAX.
"Rubbed off" 😅. This is exactly the kind of juvenile humor that I can relate to and love watching you Andrew as well as Matt over at Carwow 😊
Andrew, remember the time tested adage, “happy wife, happy life”! You made the right decision to buy the OP in her size!
It was a truly humbling awe inspiring experience listening to a person who got THE HUMBLING AWE INSPIRING CALL. Thank you!
"Even King Charles did not have to wait this long."
😂😂😂
After the attitude i got from the AD just trying to get in the door, i am not sure i even want to be on their wait list just to feel humbled and blessed.
Good video and thanks for sharing the story, great seeing Charlotte for the first time. Sorry to say id feel the same way you do about it Andrew. Its a lil underwhelming, especially waiting for such a plain Jane. I personally would of been so p**ed i wouldn't of even bothered to pick it up from the ADS. This just made me dislike the brand even more tbh.
2 years for a entry level Rolex.😂.
Lange! Patek! I get it. Even the higher end Rolexs i get. But for an Oyster perpetual, Sub or Date just hell nah. Sorry! That's a game i wont play. I sold my YM! Daytona, Date just! (All brought at Watchfinder in Maidstone before 2018 before it went nuts.🤣. And moved on to other brands like Vacheron JLC, Cartier and Sinn. And ive been happy ever since.
I'm uncertain whether the waiting list is managed by Rolex directly or by authorized dealers. When I visited a Rolex dealer, I registered my name for a Rolex Datejust and received a call after two weeks, informing me that the watch was available for collection. After collecting the watch, I expressed my interest in the Rolex Daytona, and three months later, I received a call stating that the Rolex Daytona had arrived at the shop. However, it wasn't the specific one I had chosen with a white dial, commonly known as the Panda model, but rather a black dial with diamond accents. Unfortunately, I was on holiday at that time, and the dealer couldn't wait for five days. During the call, I offered to make an advance payment, but the dealer declined the offer. If dealers are unwilling to sell watches, then I am open to other brands that are willing to accept my money. I decide not wait and buy Omega Speedmaster dark side of the moon apollo 8.
Dark side of the moon is a much better watch imo
Most ADs have a financial relationship with a grey market dealer and sell their watches directly to them or on consignment. The ADs only offer a watch to waitlist customers when the grey dealer doesn't want it. That's why the Rolex you're offered is usually not the model you're after.
Andrew! Is that your wife? If so, good catch. Stay healthy and happy. That's what is important. The Rolex is way down the list for me. Besides, even a simple Rolex draws attention and envy and that is troublesome in this day and age.
I am humbled and blessed to be allowed to watch this video 😉
The idea that people think waiting 2 years for a watch that you pay many grands for is something that makes the experience better is insane! You’re not a kid that’s getting a icecream because you’ve been good, you’re a grown ass person you should get treated like one.
Bravo. My thoughts exactly. If they don’t want your money, others will take it.
@@aquilifergroup well that works both ways. There's a two year waiting list for that watch. That's the point. If you don't want it immediately when offered then they'll go to the next on the list in an instant. I'd be surprised if these two get offered another one from that AD if they want it because they weren't sure they wanted it and still kept themselves on the list.
If you don't want to wait on the waiting list for such a popular watch, you can pay about 20% premium on the grey market. The choice is yours. Many people like doing popular things that have queues and many people don't.
I feel this deeply. My watch obsession resurfaced after many years and my wife couldn't understand because she is very technologically savvy. Then I bought her a beautiful Longines I found for an amazing price. At the current rate of acquirement, her collection will exceed mine within months lol. At least we share the same passion, or sickness? 😂
The whole Rolex "thing" is a load of cobblers. My first one, being a 16012 was in 1985 for what I remember 411 pounds sterling. I did get three others at different times which became a futile exercise on hindsight. There is more to watches than Rolex. Other options should have been considered. Did you get the call as the person on the list before you declined?
You are indeed humbled and blessed, and punching well above your weight there my man.
As for Rolex. Yeah, nah, not interested in them now. I would be, but if I'm ponying up more than a couple of grand for a bloody wristwatch then I don't want to feel like the AD is doing me a favour. Thus, Omega would have got my money for an Aqua Terra... but then the price of the things jumped quite sharply since I last looked at them a year ago. Currently can't find anything I particularly like, so sticking with my current trio. Have the money, but just f**k off Rolex AD... just f**k off.
Congrats to the watch... but honestly, 2 years for a plain black OP in 36mm is ridiculous! What the heck!?!?
This is not normal and should not be, it's a freaking basic watch and should be available within 2-3 weeks tops, not years!
Rolex is doing a lot of mistakes and they are pi..ing off potential customers (not those a-hole resellers).
It's a shame really and we can only hope that this trend stops and real fans and watch enthusiasts can buy their desired watch soon again and not play this but licking game of some BS waiting list...
Bracelet adjustment: you were right to consider heating it up. In boutiques the staff have dedicated bracelet heater which focuses heat on one section and it’s then easier to unscrew and take out the links.
With steel models you can sometimes do without the heat but precious metal bracelets require heating every time.
Ofcourse you didn't buy a Rolex, I mean you got about 20 videos why watch X is better then Rolex.
OH NO WAIT YOU DID??
Guess the advice on 10 watches cheaper and better then Rolex is just better for other people then?
Congrats! Glad your wife finally received the watch she likes. This reminds me back in 1982 I had to wait 6 months for my brand new Omega Speedmaster Mark 4.5, caliber 1045. They were only sold in Europe and not available in America unless it was special ordered. The day I got that call I dropped everything I was doing and rushed over to the AD to pick it up. I still wear it.
Ha! Got the same watch in '77- in England though. Still have mine also, but not worn much anymore
Bought a speedy125 from the dealer in stock in the mid 70s. No wait
@@tonyhopeful …Mine is in rotation so I wear it about every two weeks. Nice to talk with someone that has one. There aren’t many around. From my research it seems this watch was a disappointment for Omega. They didn’t fly off the shelves the way they expected. To gauge by the price which has risen exponentially it seems this watch commands more respect now than it did when it was new, almost 50 years ago.
At least there is a wait list in your country, come to Singapore ADs, and try out the "wish list", which essentially means, buy a Hublot (or 2) off us or forget about ever getting a Rolex.
Put myself on “the list” for a 36mm Explorer in mid-January, just to see what would come of it. Figured if I didn’t get one by the end of the year, I’d get something else instead, like a high-beat Grand Seiko. To my surprise I got “the call” earlier this month after less than four months. Which was a pleasant surprise as I’ve wanted the Explorer for years but refused to pay gray market prices. Down side though is that high-beat Grand Seiko is even farther away now!
I got "the text" for my Explore II after 5 months, which was a pleasant surprise. Congrats on your Explorer.
Congrats to both of you!
Were you checking in with the AD or did you just simply register interest and leave it? As I have put my name down for an explorer last year in London but have not since visited the AD to go in and "chat". Congratulations!
@@Jack-ol6ss I personally did check in regularly with the AD. A visit or two in that time, and texts with the sales rep.
@@Jack-ol6ss I wander too as I went on the list for an explorer in London in December. Haven't heard anything yet so will have to wander in and make small talk it seems...
Congrats on the purchase, Rolex are so underwhelming though….. i see no more than 1.5k worth of watch in these….
Humbled and blessed? This video exemplifies the sheep mentality that Rolex feeds its business off of and that people are all too willing to take part in. Embarassing, really.
I got myself and my wife a blue and mint green Datejust last year, and I must say I was deeply disappointed.
It’s not because of the cyclops, but the overall aesthetics, build, finishing, wearing experience were just not on par with my other less hyped watches (Moser, GP Laureato, Blancpain bathyscaphe, etc.)
Reading that list no wonder you were disappointed. Those are all superb watch brands
Thank you Andrew, your humor is contagious. I look forward to more videos like this one.
Yeah, nah... don't like Rolex. Longines or nuffink.
Loved this story. Very real and wonderful to meet your wife 😊
mr. Hands now specializes in torturing is wife to be on camera...LOL
😂 Humbled and blessed. Very good! That was an excellent summary. Loved it
"Even King Charles didn't wait this long" hahaha
Dude you hit a homerun with your wife in more ways than one!
I went to Harrods and got the cold shoulder from the boutique, then went to the boutique across the road same story, I then popped in to have a coffee with my friend who's the manager of a rather exclusive hotel in knightsbridge, he marched me back to the Rolex boutique and after a rather heated exchange of word's about custom sent there way I had my watch the next day, for my friend I am very humbled and blessed
I spent $24,100.00 after taxes for my Sea Dweller 18k/SS and I didn't even get a coffee! or a hat or any swag at all. Nothing...just the watch and a "thanks for your money" lol
Definitely a good buy and a really nice understated piece with that beautiful dial. It’s refreshing to see Charlotte’s reluctance to give money away which tells us she’s safe and immune from the nasty bug us guys have been bitten by!! Great vid.
I think you should have said yes, made them wait till you'd got home and then said no. Might be nice for them to see the other side
Charlotte seems really cool. Maybe you should have bought a Tudor BB 36 ?!
"and all the people who live there now are a**holes." Rolex in a nutshell.
Lovely video. Two points:
1. You’re 🇬🇧, so it is
lever‘idge not levver’edge
2. Yes, Rolex dealers do use heat to remove link-pins.
Why are the British so scared of being British? Greetings from Sydney
Love it when she critiques the 3 annoying things about her Rolex. She actually has a point lol. Eitherway, congratulations. It's always nice to receieve the 'humbled & blessed' call!
I tried one on and it was a solid "meh" for me, so I feel truly humbled and blessed not to have to deal with waiting lists and AD games.
I can think of a number of watches I'd rather have for around $6000, and you can just pay and walk out the door with them!
This was way more entertaining than I thought it will be!
The way a non watch person describes a watch is awesome and puts you into reality check mode, loved it!!
I think you should make this a series "regular person reviews an expensive watch"
The AD calls when I’m broke.
Only took 3 months to get the call after I put my name on the list for a Datejust. I turned it down because I'd bought an Aqua Terra instead. I think the inability to buy Rolex is a big part of the draw for a lot of people, but of course, that goes away once you have it.
Well you must be so lucky, I can’t even put my BMAT on the list for anything. They actually said sorry list is closed. That was it.
@@TL-ph5wg Took me 2,5 months for a 36mm explorer. I think it is highly dependent on where you live. If you live in central London, i guess there is higher demand on the dealers. I live in another country, in a city you probably never heard of - which just happen to have a Rolex dealer.
I’ve had my Rolex 126300 since last year. The aww of finally getting one hasn’t gone away. So idk about that feeling going away
I'm hearing more stories of getting the AD call.
You got a better watch with a better movement for less money. Enjoy!
Humbled & Blessed...should be the handle for Charlotte's new TH-cam watch channel. Another great video. The gentrification bit was just spot on. Love the content, keep it coming.
OP 36 in black is the only Rolex I would consider to buy.
Delete the crown/replace with CW or Seiko emblem and boom...That's the real worth of such 3 hander
Rolex game is sooo overhyped... Not willing to be blessed anyway :)
5:15 my wife's proposal reaction
best excuse for a late engagement present :D
Its so nice to see and hear from Charlotte! Maybe her next watch should be a Grand Seiko? Or a JLC?
I was finally humbled and blessed to walk into a Rolex AD last week and find not one, but two watches available to try on and indeed purchase. No wait list, no buying the salesperson dinner, just two watches that I could walk home with that very day. Unfortunately they were the most gaudy, gauche, and tacky abominations I've ever seen - two tone Everose gold Datejusts with diamond studded dials, jubilee bracelets, and fluted bezels 🤢
Needless to say I declined the kind offer and went about my day 😂
We must’ve walked into the same AD. 😂😭
Wonderful story masterfully told. Enjoy being humble and blessed.
😂 Free Good Story Time, Andrew ⌚👍 and 🎉 Congratulations To Charlotte Or Rather To You Both 🎉.
Nothing Beats Like 👑Rolex👑 As PP aka AC3 would put it, 👑Rolex ... 👑Rolex ... 👑Rolex ... !
Yet I Hate Their So Called "Wished / Wait List" Vetting Game 👎.
Excellent video. To anybody that has not had the fun adventure of reading your books, they need to buy them right now!
I too was "humbled and blessed" last year. I was made to feel as though I should be incredibly grateful when I picked the watch up - the normal lines between customer and shopkeeper were truly blurred. In the end I felt a little wierd about the whole experience. So I wrote some polite feedback - and now they clearly don't want my money anymore. So much for the customer is king 😊.
You had us with that GS teaser. 😅
Truly blessed and humbled... Rolex are absolute Jack a$$es. 😂
Usually the timing sucks . I got a call once to tell me they have the Tudor Pelagos FXD available , just after I purchased my Omega Seamaster 300 heritage
You got the better watch anyway. I was offered a Tudor Ranger but I wanted the Pelagos 39. Because I rejected it I'm struck off the waitlist. It's brutal. They try to force upon a watch you don't want and if you don't take it they take offense to it. I'm not playing their games anymore.
After a decade of not having a Rolex I got the call a couple of months ago for a Yachtmaster. It was a great watch alright but I felt like a ghastly poser wearing it and I have flogged it already.
Ghastly poser! Lol
Watched your reel with the Sugess Tourbillon Master SU8230SW. Only went and pushed the button. Pleased with it.
If you have to get through so much to get the most basic watch they offer and still feel thankful, it becomes childish and embarrassing. The CEO's strategy to multiply references so that each is made in lesser numbers and his carte blanche to ADs to never sell to anyone asking for just one good watch and concentrate all sales on a few VIPs who can feed the secondary market has paid off. You're humbled and blessed indeed to spend on their base model. You should have bought a GS SBGY013 probably. The AD would have thanked you and you'd have something to talk about.
Haha.
I told my “call” that I’d been receiving a lot of call lately and I’d put them on a list for me purchase from.
Eff Rolex. That line about a gentrified neighborhood is spot on.
I’ve found much better watches.
Charlotte should definitely get an H Moser next. After that, she'll look at her Rolex like it's a Timex.
Waited 2,5 years for the 41mm green OP, at two different ADs. I called in and cancelled after that. Numerous emails about 6 months apart. Ordinary BS of "they are handmade". Spent my money on JLC, Omega and Cartier instead. So tierd of Rolex.
Also spent 2016-2018 on the list for a Sub.
Guess I have to overpay like every other joe
I’ve had THE CALL for 3 Rolex’s,OP 41, Datejust and No date Sub. Sold them all 🤦🏻♂️ The annoying thing about the whole situation is you’re waiting that long you forget and life throws things in the meantime and you spend the watch money on something else.
No doubt at a large profit. And that’s why people who really want a Rolex can’t get them at list price.
If Charlotte has a Cartier and Rolex she is well covered for luxury watches. I would recommend the third and final watch to be a very inexpensive beater for activities such a a small dive watch or chronograph.
Seriously, that is the one thing about the watch community that I can’t be ok with. The way people have to debase themselves in the hope rolex will take their $10K is honestly kinda gross. If I ever add a rolex to the collection, I’ll honestly be happy to pay the resale premium, just so I don’t have to be grateful for being one’s customer.
That goes for you too Italian rolex (ferarri)
"They've put the crown on upside-down"
You tell those lazy jerks Charlotte! ...I'm going to need her opinion on more watches going forward, maybe she'd like to compare the Cartier to this Rolex. Thanks!
Ha! Your best video to date! I love Charlotte and her feedback. More of her, please. Humbled and blessed. Ha!
Weird! I got ‘the call’ this morning, after 4 and a half years. No kidding.
For what if I may ask? :)
@@MrFloRolf Explorer 36. I should point out that I was on the waitlist for 4.1/2 years, with 3 steel sports models, but changed one for the exp 36 when it was launched in 2021.
I think a significant number of people are passing on them. Not so lucrative to flip them these days.
I feel humbled and blessed to be able to watch this review...truly humbled and blessed.
36mm OP is an absolutely fantastic watch.
Not because it’s better than another brand, or more complicated, flashy, or expensive.
It’s the quintessential Rolex.
I’m mad at rolex so I am not the one to ask! Any company that wont sell me a very overpriced item, makes you artificially wait for years. Rolex are not hand made or rare so intentionally hoarding stock to make it rough for the customers is a smack in the face. Then wont leave the packaging alone (protection sticker). Then every 5 years send it back to rolex to be “maintained” insisting on changing out major components like the face! “ please leave my beautifully aged one of a kind antique dial alone!”
Nope “F you” give us 2000$ every five years!
Its a freakin watch. And really not a very good looking or interesting watch. (In my opinion) Rolex makes you feel like they are leasing you your watch! Yuk
I've also got a call. Well, it was an email after finally made to the top 2year+ waiting list. Now I'm... humbled & blessed to enjoy my steel Helm Vanuatu. Yay!
I find it crazy you work for warchfinder and actually are the person that everybody associates with the company and still they didnt get you a 36 OP?
Love the story Andrew, and props to Charlotte for sharing her interring contribution
Rolex playing games. It’s just a watch. A boring watch at that. Crazy being on a waiting list for such a meh watch. Obviously over hyped price.
I think you got the wrong watch. Your wife seems to have its resale value very high on her list of reasons she likes it. If she couldn't get her money back on it would she still like it? I don't think she would.
The worse you treat customers, the more they like you. I will never understand that.
Thanks for the video, very entertaining!
About 30 years ago I could have had a Submariner for the princely sum of about £600 tax free. It was a lot of money to me then but would have been a good investment.
The first thing you should get... is a new AD. You hear so many comments of others who "got the call" in a matter of weeks! Seems your AD has no pull with HQ. Then tell new AD, I want it within a month or forget about it. F**k Rolex if they can't be decent.
Yes and Hublot :)
Having recently got ‘the call’ for an OP I can relate… although I personally love mine. I’ve been an SMP wearer for years and loved it, but Rolex is chuffing Rolex. They suck, but also don’t. Haters gon hate and all that.
I hope she/you enjoy(s) the ownership - humbled and blessed, naturally,
Well, this video is a more extended version of the sentence "My wife has bought an OP36" hahaha. Congratulations, wear it in good health!!!!
I also "got the call" (I hate that expression) for a 36mm Datejust last week. After a 2 year wait. Coincidence? Or is the supply chain easing up in the UK?
Love your tongue in check piss take of the whole sorry situation. Rolexs now are just for dealers to sell amongst themselves to make TikTok content. I've been into watches for over 40 years, and to be honest Rolex have become a bit of a joke now. Who really wants to be seen wearing one 🤦🏻♂️
The deceptive simplicity of the Rolex OP, it's purity and 70 hour power reserve OP will grow on her. The lens barnacle on the 'datejust' is a potential problem for some as is 'Rolex' itself for being so darn weird. Am I waiting for one ? Of course I am! I have also been given the 'stand by' word too - but I cannot afford to jinx it when I am so near the 'tape'.
I bought a 1970s ladies Rolex from Japan and I absolutely love it. It is feminine, elegant and dressy. I didn't have to wait for it and it was less than $2000 Australian.
Do you think your watch youtuber status had something to do with the availability of this oyster? Would a nobody be blessed and humbled in a mere 2-years?
FINALLY someone has had the balls to call the date magnifier on a Rolex what it is....an Abomination!! Thank you!!!....Yes, you did the right thing, your wife is happy and you're right, the OP is probably the nicest Rolex, and you'll never really lose money, or not a significant amount anyway....I'm not a fan of Rolex at all.....Best marketing company in the world, yes! Best watch maker in the world? oh no, definitely not, not by a LONG shot!....but boy, can they market stuff!!.....Would I play the waiting game? NO! not when I can buy a great Omega, for under $10,000 or if I had a little more money, a Zenith and then if we going above $20k, then Breguet, Vacheron or Jeager LeCoulture.
I really dislike the ADs making us feel like we owe them something. I recall the same thing happening to me when I got the call for my Pepsi GMT. I wanted it on the oyster bracelet but they had one in the jubilee. The guy was just a complete jerk, “you can take this one or wait, I have no idea how long”.
I mean, cmon! I’m spending my hard earned dollars at your shop, I shouldn’t feel humbled & blessed to get your call.
Im curious what would you have chosen for her if it was entirely up to you. I’d love to buy my wife something like a Cartier Santos, but I have a feeling she’d choose a GShock instead 😂
The thought of Hublot even being in your head is the sign of delusion. In the words of Paul Pluta “you need to add more Rolex, GET ROLEX!!!”
Looool my wife and i got "The call" while on vacation in Mexico after 1year of awaiting... exactly like you .. blocked number and my wife almost didn't answer 😅... today i am happy and sad($$$ouch) to own a beautiful two tone SD! Rolex know how to create a fun story and make you feel humbled and special lol ! Also after my wife has been my on my ass for spending so much on "it's just a watch" is on THE LIST herself for the 2 tone day just...i wonder what vacation we will be on when the next blocked number calls😅.
😂😂 it's a religious experience..... humbled and blessed! 🤪 buying a Rolex is a truly shit experience which is not befitting of their brand!
If you take advantage of Invicta’s ‘Buy Two,Get Four Free’ promotion you can have three each😉👍
Well played!
Andrew, you asked what next for Charlotte? For goodness sake, don't show her the rhodium Yacht-master 37mm. Jenni Elle has one. It's classy, but not ostentatious and wears slim.
I put a Miami blue rubber strap on my 40mm and compliments the blue second hand perfectly.
I can’t imagine waiting 2 years to be pressured to rush in for the “privilege” to pay a ridiculously high price for a black dial stainless steel sports watch. I always hoped to own a Rolex one day, but I’ve honestly kind of written them off. If I had $10k to drop on a watch tomorrow, I’d more likely buy an Omega Speedmaster 57, a Glashutte Origional Panomatic, or a Tudor and an Oris. I’m not interested in encouraging this AD waitlist silliness.