Where to buy a used Rolex sub?

[Olivero]

After getting through/surviving a major live event I have decided to treat myself to a Rolex sub. Something from the 70s and on the cheaper side. Doesn't need to be mint but also hopefully won't need a service anytime soon.

Any recommendations of online websites to look at, and ones to avoid?
Can I assume purchasing from any country is basically ok?

[someday]

Have to pay VAT if you import it

[Dolf Stoppard]

Any reason you're looking to the 70s? That's getting into vintage territory and while the days of any Sub being "cheap" are over, one from the 70s might end up being an expensive option.

Out of interest, what's your budget?

[Olivero]

someday said:

Have to pay VAT if you import it

I am currently in the US, so that might not be an issue.

[Olivero]

Dolf Stoppard said:

Any reason you're looking to the 70s? That's getting into vintage territory and while the days of any Sub being "cheap" are over, one from the 70s might end up being an expensive option.

Out of interest, what's your budget?

Only 70s because that was when I was born. I am early in my search, and this will be a keeper so not in a rush.

[GCH]

www.hqmilton.com - If they don't currently have it (and their stock often moves fast) give them a call - they are most helpful and legit. Based in SF.
They currently have a couple from the 80s, and a few from the 70s, although the days of dirt cheap vintage subs are long gone:
https://www.hqmilton.com/timepieces/g3pejxo2/1978-...
https://www.hqmilton.com/timepieces/43zmwv02/1979-...
https://www.hqmilton.com/timepieces/mor4gr0l/1979-...
https://www.hqmilton.com/timepieces/4364ggor/1972-...
https://www.hqmilton.com/timepieces/80xpeq3r/1978-...

Or Jacek, one of hq miltons founders, left and set up www.tropicalwatch.com - also good. He is on instagram as 'watchand' . Also has a good reputation.

Also, www.10pastten.com - eric Ku, although prices are a bit higher.

Those are your best bets for good honest vintage subs, unless you want to roll the dice with chrono24 (buy the seller!) and ebay.
Avoid crown & caliber, and hodinkee pre owned. Also avoid most of the places based on 47th St in NYC unless you know exactly what you are buying and exactly what to look for...that place at times is a shark pool waiting for fresh victims

Edited by GCH on Monday 31st January 19:08

[Regbuser]

Olivero said:

Any recommendations of online websites to look at, and ones to avoid?

Chrono24 is ok, plenty of examples, payment into escrow account, money released once you're satisfied with the item. But there is a premium for this,though not too expensive. Bought several watches on the platform, from various places, no issues.

Olivero said:

Can I assume purchasing from any country is basically ok?

Not necessarily, some countries I'd avoid, bit US and European vendors ok, so far..

[Pupp]

Nicholson Watches in Frodsham might be worth a look… think EBay based but turns over some interesting pieces and is a nice guy