Waiting Game: Navigating the Rolex Waiting Game: A Comparative Perspective
Immersed in the world of watch sales, I find myself pondering the enigma of Rolex's waiting lists. Amidst escalating demand and constrained supply, enthusiasts like myself are left to decipher the intricacies of obtaining these coveted timepieces.
Exploring beyond the realm of authorized dealerships, I ventured into the gray market, where instant access beckoned. An array of Rolex models awaited in Las Vegas, enticing me with their immediate availability. However, I paused, weighing the options. Despite the allure of immediate gratification, I exercised restraint, anticipating the call from authorized dealerships to secure my desired model without paying a premium.
The waiting game extends beyond mere patience; it entails informed decision-making. While the grey market offers swift acquisition, the appeal of acquiring a Rolex directly from an authorized dealer, complete with authenticity and warranty, holds undeniable sway. Thus, I bide my time, confident that the eventual reward will justify the wait.
Waiting lists have become customary in the realm of luxury timepieces. Yet, for enthusiasts like myself, the anticipation only enhances the allure of Rolex ownership—an emblem of prestige and enduring sophistication. Thus, the question lingers: Are you prepared to embrace the wait?
I started my journey in the hospitality industry, where I learned the importance of attention to detail and customer satisfaction. This experience led me to venture into project management, where I ho...
If one's life is devoid of all other forms of joy during the waiting period than I would humbly suggest other more important factors are at play.
In short - No!
Life’s too short to voluntarily surrender any amount of my satisfaction to some Swiss corporate behemoth and a host of flunky ADs.
If Rodger Smith offered to make me a piece unique I would give him a fortnight before going elsewhere. I don't like waiting 😁
Are these type of threads a daily occurrence? The answer, as always, is no, don't get drawn in to this confected nonsense.
“I shouldn’t have to wait - I’m an enthusiast!”
A simple no. No watch is worth this for me. In the grand scheme of things, watches are just things. Yes I like them but do I need them? No! If I can not walk in and purchase what I want, it’s definitely a no go for me.
I go grey market....no waiting, warranty is just the same...I just pay the premium and done....and these days the premium is really low for many models
I am not. I have owned Rolex in the past and find their great watches if severely over priced vs their competition in the price segment.
Rolex is the industry’s and maybe the worlds greatest marketing company that just so happens to also sell watches…….
No. Rolex is not a brand I desire. There are other, higher end brands and others that compete directly with Rolex. Much of the allure of Rolex comes from decades of marketing, nothing more.
I might also add that the idea of having a "history" with the AD is absurd. If I walk into a shop to buy an item, the job of the seller is to sell it to me, period. I am not there to make friends, nor cultivate a long term relationship. I am there to purcgase something.
Why would I want to embrace the wait? It's annoying. If I am on a holiday and feel like buying something nice because I am having a good time, then I want to walk in a shop that sells nice things and buy it. Buying a Rolex feels like actual work these days. It's a horrible experience.
I have had my name down for a Sub Date, I think since last August or September. I was told I should get the call at the end of 2023 or early 2024. Nothing yet but I'm not stressed about it. I lucked out with an Explorer 1 Last December while on travel to Las Vegas (bought at AD at retail with no purchase history with that store) and I am glad. I prefer the design and fit of the Explorer 1 to the Sub.
Not sure what I will do when I get the call.
I don't like the wait, but I had other stuff going on during that time so I didn't think about it, got my Yachtmaster 40mm a little over a year requesting from my local AD
Hey everyone,
I want to express my gratitude for all the comments and engagement today. It’s been quite a mix of opinions and feelings, but I appreciate you sharing your thoughts.
After much consideration, I’ve decided to hold off on making any decisions. I understand some of you might be disappointed, but I’ve considered all your feedback.
In the meantime, I couldn’t respond to every comment individually, but please know that I’ve read them all and appreciate the insights shared.
Thank you again for the lively discussion and for participating in this community. Your input means a lot to me.
Best regards, AeonMvmt
“I shouldn’t have to wait - I’m an enthusiast!”
So weird to me that people are so triggered by being told to wait.
The waiting list wouldn't be a huge issue if it were legitimate and reasonable. Waiting for a product because demand is high and production is low is totally fine (imo). But needing previous purchase history and and a brand telling you it's a privilage to buy a product from them is ridiculous (again imo).
Yep.
Waited 8 months for my Air King and happy to have done so. I've written before (here and here) about the numbers behind Rolex supply and demand, and I have enough patience to not act like my two year old and demand things immediately.