Advice on Buying a Rolex Air King (First Watch, £3k Budget)

[Nathann]

Hi everyone! This is my first watch related post somewhat continuing on from a thread posted by my dad - https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&... .

I've been looking to purchase my first watch within a budget of £3000-£3500 and I've seen a lot of very nice watches but have finally decided on the 5500 Rolex Air King with the black dial. I found the watch listed on Chrono24 (an online watch selling platform) for £3056 (not including tax or shipping). Unfortunately the seller is based in America, so I’m concerned that once VAT, import duty and shipping are added, it’ll push the total well beyond my budget.

I’ve tried to find the same watch for sale in the UK but haven’t had much luck so far.

I’ve also noticed that most other listings — for example one in France at £3,997 — are priced quite a bit higher, so I would appreciate it if someone knew if this watch is being priced fairly, or if giving the sellers a slightly lower offer would be acceptable.

If anyone here had some advice regarding how best to go about the situation, whether to look for a cheaper watch or to wait for one to become available in the UK, I would greatly appreciate any advice.

[Macneil]

I'd advise patience and wait for a UK seller with a reputation, even if it's more expensive to buy. While you're waiting you could add to your budget month by month...

[apotek]

The advice on here generally is have a word with Dominic Hackett, a genuine pleasure to deal with.

[TimboCD1]

apotek said:

The advice on here generally is have a word with Dominic Hackett, a genuine pleasure to deal with.

Second this.

[Geertsen]

H & T Pawnbrokers have quite a few Air Kings on their website. Not exactly your model but around your budget. They can send them to a local branch for viewing if you have one nearby.