Buying a New Rolex online.... Is it possible?

[Marneus]

Evening all.

I’ve just come into a small amount of money through a PPi claim & am considering buying a new watch.

I’m liking the simplicity of the Oyster Perpetual 39mm but everywhere I look, the authorised dealers just have a contact page.

I’m not a fan of buying from dealers as the whole fake congratulatory process embarrasses me. My last new watch bought in store was an Omega 10yrs ago & the hand over was cringe worthy. Ever since I’ve bought online. This doesn’t seem to be possible with Rolex.... Why?

[randlemarcus]

To preserve the brand

Or to give ADs the chance to force a precious metal purchase before you get your hands on the steel sports you actually wanted.

Has Sir considered Preloved? Someone like Blowers will be as discreet as you desire, and if you insist on spending the whole windfall, you may be able to jump up a bit.

[Marneus]

I thought as much.

I’m actively looking on the pre loved market but most of them are on eBay & that worries me a bit

[Tony1963]

Please take a look at Milton’s https://www.miltonaires.com/product-category/rolex...

They’re a well regarded dealer in used Rolex, and the owner is an expert in spotting fakes. The prices are non-negotiable but are fair in the first place. They’ve a few branches in the north west, well worth the journey. We travelled from east Anglia to the Chester branch, stayed in the Grosvenor hotel next door.

[randlemarcus]

In your position, I might be happier avoiding private transactions, unless the seller is happy to handover in an AD. Your risk profile may vary, but some of the fakes out there are amazing.

The peace of mind coming from a dealer should be worth the premium.

[Whitean3]

Easily possible- you just have to go to a grey dealer
I got a datejust for the wife earlier this year- brand new, unworn, with 1k off list. THis is in Switzerland, where discounts and bargains are not supposed to exist... So it can be done. Have a look on Chrono24.

[okgo]

I bought from an AD in Mayfair earlier in the year. The process was really no different to anything else you might go and buy. Like a nice pair of shoes or something. In and out in 15 mins. And most of that was getting the strap the right length.

[AndrewCrown]

Marneus

I was in the market for a new Rolex last year to replace a stolen one.. decided after some deliberation I'd go for a new one... bit of a flex budget, agnostic on the model actually.. I like them all.

The only way to really decide is trying them on... see what fits... suits etc.. So went to our local AD (Mappin & Webb) . Utterly unflustered easy experience, glass of wine... a few coffees they had a good selection in.. found the right one...no pressure...I tried every model they had.. sized properly.. all paperwork done in front of me... very happy.. secure good transaction..

I like the memory of the process... just adds to the story... Please don't be put off.. just go for it..

[rog007]

Can also vouch for the official AD experience; mine’s always a pleasure, whether I’m browsing, servicing or purchasing.

[Maxym]

rog007 said:

Can also vouch for the official AD experience; mine’s always a pleasure, whether I’m browsing, servicing or purchasing.

Likewise.

[shep1001]

Marneus said:

I thought as much.

I’m actively looking on the pre loved market but most of them are on eBay & that worries me a bit

Chrono24 or iconic watches in Blackburn? See what Dom Hackett can do for you. Personally I wouldn’t use eBay for such high vale transactions unless they have a retail shop you could go to.

I am in the process of trying to decide which watch to buy, almost certain it will be another Rolex. If I am spending 10k plus on a watch I will be doing it in a showroom not over the internet

Edited by shep1001 on Wednesday 27th November 06:24

[GT03ROB]

Marneus said:

I’m not a fan of buying from dealers as the whole fake congratulatory process embarrasses me. My last new watch bought in store was an Omega 10yrs ago & the hand over was cringe worthy. Ever since I’ve bought online. This doesn’t seem to be possible with Rolex.... Why?

I've bought 2 in store. No congratulatory process at all. was the same as buying just about anything else to be frank!

[Coolbanana]

https://www.authenticwatches.com/

No problem buying online providing you aren't hung up about it being UK-based. Personally, I buy whatever I want from all over the World, never restricted myself.

[Andy OH]

I've bought the last four stainless steel sports Rolex from the same AD and it has been a very pleasant experience. Couldn't fault them to be honest.

I do have a long standing relationship with this particular jeweller so it helps to stay with them and also helps that I do get what I register my interest for.