*** A VISIT TO THE ROLEX AUTHORISED DEALER ***

[@David-nx2vm]

I agree that the equation has changed. All I wanted was an Air-King and when the 126900 was released, that was the Air-King I wanted. I went into one of our three local ADs on a Sunday afternoon several weeks ago, nothing but exhibition watches in the cases, and had a great conversation with the sales manager about what I wanted, why, and we talked about it being a retirement gift to myself (true statement). She was noncommittal but cordial and professional, put my information into their CRM system, said she would keep me in mind and encouraged me to stop in when we were nearby. Next day was a holiday. Next morning, she calls me and says she has an Air-King for me. Picked it up that Friday.

[@TheChapsGuide]

The power of a positive human interaction - something that the internet will never be able to offer - perhaps that is why Rolex do not offer any sales via e-commerce (unlime rivals such as Omega, Oris, et al)

[@davidporter2770]

My story: I am South African, 77, my own business, and a lover of Alfa Romeo cars. I decided after s lot of research, I am keeping my two beautiful Alfas, and would like a new Audi A4 top of the range. I am from Port Elizabeth, a beautiful coastal city, and on the way to the beach one Saturday morning, stopped by the prestigious Audi Dealer, and parked my beloved 13 year old Alfa outside in the parking bays. I walked into the dealer knowing exactly what I wanted, what trim level, colour, what extras etc. I did not have to be sold that car. And I pay with a bank guaranteed cheque. After wandering around the beautiful showroom in my swim shorts, t shirt and Asics shoes, besides looking me up and down, decided that I drive an old car, was in my beach gear, and obviously did not have enough money to buy an Audi. So, I said no more and walked out and drove to another Audi dealer, who was friendly and surprised when he found out that I knew more about the car than he did. But we clinched a deal at a really substantial discount. I saved heaps Two weeks later, in my business clothes, I went to the initial Audi dealer, parked my gleaming new A4 outside the front door. Upon entering I was greeted with a lovely smile from the receptionist and in a flash a salesman, coffee and the GM came to see if they could help me , and asked me where my new A4 came from. Coldly I replied and told them that they lost my cash business. Moral is don't judge people on what they wear. My sales staff were trained that everyone is a potential customer.

[@TheChapsGuide]

A near perfect example of how your appearance influences the reactions of others. Thant you for sharing your experience sir.

[@jamieopulence]

Skip Rolex and go straight to Patek Philippe my fellow Chaps! ❤

[@xu10j4rs1]

Even harder to get…

[@bugsymalone1660]

I reduced my watch collection down from nine watches to four over the last year and a half or so, I’m pretty taken with Patek currently and I’m quite focused on them for my now new fifth watch.

[@pompenchiel]

I've tried to get a Rolex Explorer 36 at a goldsmiths store. I already bought a Datejust 31 there from the shelves. They promised me around a year of waiting, but has been 2 years. Very hard to speak with them also. Crazy times...

[@lplp1546]

I recently inquired about purchasing a new Rolex Submariner Date in oyster steel at my local Rolex AD. I was told that I could be added to the four year waiting list. It’s a good thing that Omega makes incredible watches.

[@admiralcraddock464]

My wife bought me three Rolexes on the grey market but I want a GMT Root beer and don`t want to pay WELL over retail. I made an appointment at WOS and the sales lady there was very helpful, indeed she noticed the Wimbledon Datejust on my wrist which I told her was a present on the grey market from my wife. She took my details and had a pleasant chat about BOTH of our lives etc. I received an email several days later acknowledge my interest and said it could be a while before anything comes available. I`m not holding my breath about anything being available anytime soon but at least I`m on the list.

[@MisterKnightly]

I understand that a lot of this is necessary in the world as it stands. However it seems like a lot of ungentlemanly nonsense to have to endure. At the end of the day, there's always Panerai!

[@phmwu7368]

Most of those "average " high end watch buyers know the term " grey market " !?

[@9er..]

Or JLC

[@stereomike75]

Totally agree. I love these videos by Ash because they're informative and interesting, but my own opinion is that if I see someone wearing a Rolex, I laugh because I know they've had to behave like a little bitch to a salesman. Have some some self-respect people.

[@MisterKnightly]

@@9er.. Or JLC!

[@aalkurdi]

Very Nicely put sir

[@Joe-cp5ud]

I know this is an older video but thank you for making it. Im going straight to the grey.

[@simonj5615]

I have a couple of Rolex sports models. Recently I contacted my local AD to enquire about a Deep sea that I had been on the waiting list a year for, having been told originally that it would be 3 months. We had a long conversation but the upshot was this: The business had been sold to a much larger concern. They had changed all of the waiting list rules and it was no longer first come first served. Their orders were basically to prosecute the financial position of selling desirable Rolex watches to the max. He politely made it clear that my previous record of buying Rolex sports models put me well and truly at the bottom of any list, despite the fact I still have them. That was a list where others would be slotted in above me constantly. In other words, absolutely no chance.

[@jimmydigital]

great vid. would love to hear your thoughts on a possible vid "how to negotiate" ... after all, most prices when buying cars, watches, etc are negotiable. there's a price the dealer wants to do, what he can't do and then a price he CAN do and it's about sitting down and having a discussion... negotiating a deal.

[@TOMUK420]

Would it be safer to say you got the watch Inherited instead of pre-owned or from the grey market

[@simonj5615]

Kind of depends how old the watch is. I am not sure I would try to kid them that my Grandpa left me a ceramic Pepsi.

[@RoryMacdonald-pfff]

Hint : 15m20s for those wondering when Ash actually gets to the question 😆

[@junomaxzoey5146]

This is now the age that you can never tell who has money just by the person's attire. In fact, if I see someone in a suit & tie in a mall most likely I will associate the person as a car or insurance salesman.

[@nuancedbro9373]

Just dropped into my Rolex store on the way past one day with my brother, both wearing shorts and t shirt and was allowed to try on a seadweller and told the waiting list for six months, we had already bought omegas there though and were wearing them at the time, they said that this was definitely a head start over everyone else. Don’t recommend wearing shorts to anyone else, but previous history is important. This was in Belfast where demand maybe isn’t as high as other areas

[@robynsjp]

So you recommend removing shorts before entering the store 😄 ?

[@karlj1564]

Good point, I never heard back in Guernsey, too much demand.

[@travisogden9426]

Your advice is spot on. It got me an explorer in 3 weeks in June. I have no clue why this generation is so terrified to wear anything other than gym clothes

[@coldworld5]

People aren’t terrified, it’s a style change. People don’t quantify their worth based on how much effort you put in to wearing antiquated clothing choices. Status for under 30’s is based on social media follows and likes. That’s an indication of worth to a potential partner or friend the same way that someone’s postcode/ car/ savile row suit would have been decades ago.

[@iceman4729]

Good call on the Tudor Pelagos. It was my exact thinking that if you have a Rolex Sub, no need to get anything remotely similar

[@b_altmann]

I have heard about the impact of matching the attire of the sales people when you want to buy something and get a deal. This was a general thing already 25 years ago, so it's not just tied to the Rolex game.

[@vforvictor3112]

I know your rationale on the dress attire, but I think when you spend your hard-earned cash 10s of thousands on some occasions it shouldn't really matter on how you dress. On the other hand, I believe the store assistant should be impeccably dressed after all its people like me who keep them in their job's thanks for the video

[@jonathank.delcollo8397]

Great video! This is the ONLY video someone who wants to obtain a Rolex from an AD should view before beginning the journey. I can attest that the tips explained in this video will work. Well done, Ash!

[@9er..]

The transaction may go smoother if you buy an extra tennis bracelet or similarly priced item.

[@MrHammyHunter]

19:56. Classic! I've been on the list for a silver OP41 for a year and have been wondering whether to even contact them. I feel its pointless.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Every journey begins with the first small step - you will never reach any destination unless you first take that initial small step!

[@simonthewatchguy6073]

Did you ever get your OP 41? I was on the waitlist for 12 months and was told to expect another 12 months. I've switched AD's because it's ridiculous to be waiting that long for an entry level Rolex.

[@pauljones2354]

Excellent advice Ash, thank you. I will keep you updated on my journey. Keep up the great work.

[@Manuel421]

Looking forward to the updated sport coat video. Excellent content as always!

[@stewartlogan9894]

I mentioned I wanted to buy a piece and had been looking pre-owned during my interview. The AD replied “Oh, don’t do that” to which I retorted “It’s why I’m here but you told me you don’t know if and/or when I can get it.” She has nothing to reply back.

[@npgatech7]

Let's see your quartz collection instead of this unattainable extravaganza.

[@TrumanBurbankFE]

How nice, first commenter. What is your next purchase and have you considered a gentleman's watch with a leather strap like an A.Lange & Söhne?

[@edo7052]

Very sound advice Ash

[@carbonchain]

I honestly don't think we should extrapolate based on Covid outliers. Prior to 2019 it was possible to purchase most models straight from the AD bar some (for example the Daytona) on the day. In 2024 and onwards I think we are looking at mean reversion where the demand falls back to the normal level, which frankly is more healthy and sustainable.

[@realwarriorscholar]

Love Rolex but not their sales process. Don’t sweat it chaps. You’re the customer. I’m happy buying grey market watches. For me it’s the story. Pre-owned watches have history. My preference. Be cool. Be interesting!

[@c_mcc4952]

Ash my AD confirmed the factory extension was at Tudor not Rolex ☹️

[@wicked-witch-of-the-west]

They aren't adding new people to any waiting lists for steel professionals. Even the OP waiting lists are closed.

[@AmazingMaxStuff]

This. Talking smooth to the dealer, dressing well and doing everything correctly will not put you in any list. They receive what, 10 professional models per year? At my place they told me the list has already dozens of people in it, no chance to get in.

[@montgomerycross8140]

I doubt that would be the case in Germany. No opportunities.

[@陳冠宇-x2n]

Thank you for your sharing, if we receive a call from AD but decline a watch that we expressed in interest before,will the relationship with AD be affected?

[@TheChapsGuide]

Not always.

[@陳冠宇-x2n]

@@TheChapsGuide Thank you so much!

[@Soffex]

I went into a Rolex AD in rural Japan (near where I live) yesterday. I was dressed very professionally and inquired about my interest in a Datejust 41, which from what I understand is an entry level watch that most AD's will offer to new clients. The sales staff walked to the back of the store and came out 3 minutes later saying "sorry we don't have any Datejust 41's in stock, you'll have to come back another time". I tried to inquire about scheduling an interview, and asked questions about their process for getting on a waitlist and the staff just gave me the cold shoulder. They had absolutely zero interest in recording my name or contact information. I drove a 1.5 hour round trip just to spend 10 minutes in the store, so I left feeling quite defeated from the instant rejection. What did I do wrong? I'm planning to revisit next week to request an interview and give them a letter regarding my engineering career and why this Rolex purchase is important to commemorate a recent personal achievement. I hope that they will at least give me a chance.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Sadly your experience is not uncommon with this brand, which is losing admirers on a daily basis. My advice would be to consider other brands, who may offer a comparable watch at a lesser price, as well as treating you with decency and respect. This is a just a personal opinion, but if I had to go to the extent of submitting a letter to allow me the privilege of paying a huge price tag for a modestly capable watch, I think I would give myself a good talking to and head over to the Cartier AD.

[@Soffex]

@@TheChapsGuide Thanks for the reply. At this time, I'm only interested in Rolex. Maybe I'm delusional, but would hope that persistence, professionalism, and being respectful will eventually win one of the staff over

[@frankk6477]

I hope that one day i can afford my own Rolex, I'm very drawn to the Cosmograph Daytona with the meteorite dial as I'm very interrested in space.

[@1970HondaCL100]

Great choice.

[@GM-ii8gs]

I take the view these days grey is retail price, AD is trade, seeing as it's been a very along time since I've been 'interviewed' for anything, plus I'm time short and happy to allocate more capital, I just go grey and not have to dress up, it's very freeing.

[@guitarplayer5611]

Great advice!

[@watchofwallstreet935]

I need more videos like this

[@Sshooter444]

Some people are so entitled in their attitudes that they call others "idiots" for having to negotiate and not look like a slob, in order to purchase something that will increase in value the minute they walk out the door. Who are the real snobs then?

[@andywilliams4887]

I agree re the new Pelagos 39 in that it bears such a close resemblance particularly to the 5-digit Rolex Submariner. I have cherished my 16610 Sub date since I purchased new in 2002 and I have no need for the Tudor, no matter how fetching I find it. BTW back in early noughties I still had to wait over 12 months for the Sub, so it's not a new Rolex phenomenon.

[@tockingwatches2377]

I agree with dressing according to the occasion. It’s unfortunate that, in general, people have become so sloppy in their dress.

[@tockingwatches2377]

@@squicker ok

[@thepiemaster0933]

Sub was updated in 2020

[@ml2799]

As a Rolex owner and fan of Rolex watches, I have to say Ash (with the utmost respect), this is all nonsense. Can we all agree that the Rolex buying experience is at best awful. Having to wait months or even years to put a watch on your wrist, and then only having a few minutes to make up your mind if you actually want the damn thing is ridiculous!, if you aren’t lucky enough to try and purchase the watch you want, try another brand. Brands like Grand Seiko give you so much more for your money, no other brand works harder and gives you more. It’s all subjective of course, after all, they are only watches! 😉🍻

[@flasherol3764]

I wish Paul the best of luck purchase A Rolex watch. I'm surprised that you declined the Tudor watch. Nice video.

[@StruanRobertson29]

Cardigan is very nice

[@JFK-1984]

I bought my Air-king last week had a good chat with the AD and the wanted to sell it to me. In love with this piece.

[@jamesrobert4106]

The Watchfinder & Co music 😮 Who got there first?

[@p.a7775]

Great video as always Ash! I agree with everything you said but I have a question.. After what period of time do you think it would be exceptable to sell a rolex without being penalised and be considered a flipper? Or is it ever deemed OK?

[@TheChapsGuide]

Good question - no clear answer really, but if you are selling a watch to free up funds to buy a new watch, I would suggest this is just part of any chap's watch evolution. I would have the discussion with my Rolex AD and make them aware that it is your plan to trade up. As long as they are the long term beneficiaries, I really don't think they would have an issue.

[@tlk0216]

The people who buy gray are what causes availability issues and production.

[@JohnAdams-kc8wx]

Where’s the cardigan from Ash ? Very smart.

[@TheChapsGuide]

North Sea Clothing - full review coming very soon.

[@Sasquatchi]

Hi Ash, how would you answer this if the watch in question had come from a different AD, and not the grey market? Assume the model is a new stainless steel sports model, but not one of the hyper desirable pieces. Thank you!

[@TheChapsGuide]

I would simply say where I had bought it - this has actually happened to me a few times (as I have purchased pieces from 3 different stores in my locality). They all appreciate your custom and I have not experienced a negative outcome from being honest.

[@simonassouline1230]

Kissing Ass to a Rolex AD is ludicrous! Waiting list’s, are nonexistent! VIP client’s and long term clients, are all reserved Daytona’s, GMT’s, and Submariners, all are locked up in the back safe! I know the Rolex game well! If someone is family member or a terrific friend of a sales manager, owner, or sales associate of a Rolex Boutique! A well hyped GMT, like a Batman, Pepsi, and batgirl, submariner Cermit date or Submariner black date! That person that’s connected, will the that watch in a matter of weeks or months, without any purchase history or phony waiting list! Normal consumer’s, will have to wait years and years on the phony waiting list!

[@coldworld5]

I know how this comes across but ( depending on the model ) I’d genuinely rather just pick up from the grey market than have to go in to a store and beg a person to buy a watch. It’s mutual, I’d never go in and not show respect, I’d never go in to Tesco and not show respect, but I’m not going to revise to buy a watch, I’m not going to pretend that certain aspects of a watch have sentimental value to me just to buy a watch. It’s a ridiculous process and one of the main reasons that a lot of watch collectors are looking to other brands. Also, let’s be honest. You’re paying 5-10 k you’re hardly buying a Patek Philippe Nautilus.

[@verykeen2please]

i do wonder why then there are so many on the grey market?

[@TheChapsGuide]

Greed sir... pure greed.

[@daniell2217]

Another aspect of ‘dressing the part’ is this - Rolex wants good brand ambassadors. That is, people who reflect the image Rolex wants associated with its products. Classic, successful, accomplished, professional. Wearing a suit projects those attributes, whether they’re actually true of you or not, and it creates a valuable, favorable first impression with the AD. Of course, you can easily screw it all up the minute you open your mouth. But, that’s a different issue. Finally, for all the haters, the “I shouldn’t have to…”s, and the classless, philistines who want everything degraded to the lowest-common-denominator - Rolex doesn’t need you or your money. You want a Rolex? Start by looking the part. Because, if you show up looking like Joe Dirt, it’s probably not happening…no matter how much cash is dripping out of your cargo shorts pockets.

[@simonj5615]

ADs want to make money. They are a business like any other with big overheads. They want to prosecute the fact they are selling you a watch for £10k that is worth £15k to the absolute maximum, up to the point that they do not pee Rolex off. Trust me, the owner thinks some of that £5k differential should belong to him or her.

[@simonj5615]

My view is that what you say and how you act is far more important than what you wear. Ultimately however, the jackpot for the AD is the person who has a buying history with them that does not include Rolex watches. Jewellery is the ultimate as the mark up is up to 400% as opposed to 25% on an item they could sell 1000 times over. It is just business.

[@thepiemaster0933]

The sub was upgraded in 2020

[@matlindell5022]

These so called good clients are most of the time the flippers 🤔😉🤣

[@simonj5615]

Trust me, I can assure you that if your only history with my local AD is buying Rolex sports models, you are at the very bottom of any list to get another.

[@thepiemaster0933]

Also I buy watches for its looks don’t care about the history. No disrespect sir. Anyhow keep up the good work

[@Steve-qs9eq]

Hopefully the day will return where you don't have to be arbitrarily approved to hand over 10k.

[@stevenv.surawski1178]

What are you cooking up today?

[@gregoryenright4544]

Great Video you do a awesome job

[@TheChapsGuide]

Thank you!

[@terrydrums]

Yeah, I don’t think resellers are the only ones they don’t consider to be “right people.” I’m pretty sure a non-yacht owner like me wouldn’t be fit to sweep their floors.

[@Year_Of_The_Cat]

Hi, thanks for these videos. Can you do a video on underwear? As in, can I wear a t-shirt underneath a dress shirt? Is it true that men should not show skin while wearing trousers and the socks should come up above the calf muscle due to the trouser rising up when sitting down? And which socks should I wear? Should socks match the trousers or shoes? Basically a comprehensive guide to underwear for different occasions is what I’m trying to say, formal, casual etc 😊 Thanks again for these vids, my apologies if this question isn’t to articulate, but I hope the message I am trying to convey is clear.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Great ideas for future content sir - if you have those thoughts, well so must many other chaps and I will certainly try and offer some useful advice.,

[@Year_Of_The_Cat]

@@TheChapsGuide Appreciate it, cheers chap!

[@robynsjp]

As a vintage 1960s sports watches lover (it includes a 5513), a modern piece is irrelevant. 2 exceptions : a couple of quality, non-bling all-rounders, no specific need for Rolex. Second, a modern watch that still sings very much to me, to me it's the discontinued Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Ocean Commitment III. Modern Rolex ? Simply not my taste, and I dislike the modern image of Rolex. So would I go through such an exercise for a nice vintage piece ? No, this must remain a pleasant experience, not some sort of police interrogation.

[@johng5939]

Completely agree. They'll be no doffing of caps to purchase a grossly overpriced item. I'd rather stick to the vintage market - better sized, more pleasing brand heritage and considerably more appreciated by others (if that's important to an owner).

[@the_shadow_realm5110]

Ash is a gent, scholar and a sex symbol.

[@RobinsWatchJourney]

I have long been a proponent of dressing businesslike when doing business. Others will show you more respect when you are dressed smartly. Like it or not, that’s just the way it is.

[@danielbarnard8069]

It’s all a bit cringeworthy. Needing to earn the money first I have limited time to commit to a fictional character and script with an AD. Liking the watch should be enough. Whilst I choose to learn the serial numbers and buy into the story behind the watches - it’s truly bizarre that it’s necessary. People with their get rich quick schemes - like whack-a-mole with whichever commodity is trending. All that said - I want another Rolex, please can you all stop buying them and paying exorbitant secondhand prices. 😅

[@rlkinnard]

Sir, I would not put up with this shit from Rolex. I can live with an apple watch that does more and can be ordered online with no fuss. Or a Seiko quartz which is more accurate than any Rolex.

[@simonj5615]

Just type in 'how to get upgraded to business class on a flight'. You will get the same hackneyed and outdated tips that will not work.