I USED TO WORK FOR ROLEX (PART 2) When does new Inventory arrive? How much does Rolex pay?

[@jordan771]

I was thinking of applying for a sales position at Rolex. All I have to do is look arrogant, and say “it’s for display only” and “we have the Datejust and Yacht-Master II available” easy job.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

😂👌🏽

[@bikeman123]

"You want fries with that?"

[@idonjohnson6999]

Ha yes must be the easiest sales person job there is. You know, where you actually don't sell anything.

[@solidstream13]

We have a two tone 31mm ladies date just.

[@sylok6978]

@@solidstream13 with a ton of diamonds of course

[@hustleandflow]

I wanted to buy a rolex for a long time. Travelled to 8 stores in 8 countries couldnt even get on a list. I had the money, got tired of the games and didnt want to pay a reseller. What a shame. I only wanted one watch to own and wear every day until I died. I got over trying and I will never buy one. Now I have a second hand omega. Its great. Probably wear it forever. It should have been a rokex but i stopped caring about it three yeats ago. Now I dont even look at the stores.

[@kareemalmas7580]

Respect.

[@matt_matt_matt6775]

What’s the most and least likely model to get first visit. I would love an Explorer. Not to look rich, but to look like an old school mountaineer 😂

[@bangkokdangerous]

Why would you not buy a secondhand Rolex, but you would buy a secondhand Omega? The OMEGA reseller is good and a Rolex reseller is bad ?

[@NotCommanderShepard]

So sad to hear you died. How did it happen?

[@jasonh8043]

Feel the same way about Rolex. Bought a Seamaster about 6 months ago. Very happy with my purchase. Best to You & Yours.

[@johncollins6891]

When people ask me why I bought such an expensive watch I tell them to each his own. Some people buy expensive motorcycles, cars, or other jewelry. I have always wanted a Rolex and bought my one and only sub mariner 25 years ago. Last year it quit working and I sent it in for its first ever service. Works as good as new now and the AD that was responsible for sending it in for service told me it’s now worth fives times what I paid for it. Not a bad investment in my eyes. Nothing else I own has appreciated like my Rolex. Won’t sell it ever but will pass it on to one of my children. I’m on the “list” supposedly for a new one but I don’t hold out hope that I will ever be called. Rolex is creating a false scarcity (lack of supply) issue with the watches to keep prices high. They wouldn’t do it if it wasn’t working for them. Same principle with diamonds. There is no true scarcity of diamonds. Just a highly controlled market by the diamond cartels. It’s all part of the “mystique” which we all buy into.

[@jeffersonexotic2486]

Hi, I’m enjoying this series of videos offering a view into the world of authorized dealers. Please keep the stories coming. 👍

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you very much. Will do 🤙🏽

[@murraypollard]

You made some interesting statements. I have 3 Rolex watches, the first was used in 1991, (S/G Datejust) I bought from my first bonus. The next was new 2008 (Explorer II) and the 3rd (S/G Submariner) was new 2017. At those times it was walk in, know what I wanted, bought it, walked out with it. I did not have to finance because to me, if I have to finance a watch, I can't afford it. All were from different stores in 2 different countries. A 4th Rolex I bought for my wife (S/G Datejust with diamonds) last year, again, a different store. I bought a Speedmaster from them and we talked about getting a Rolex for my wife. It was clear to me they were checking us out and said I could put in an order for the watch. We went back a week later to get the Speedmaster bracelet adjusted, and I brought up about my order for my wife's watch. Lo and behold, they said "just a minute" and got it from out back. I love watches, I've never sold one, I buy them to keep. They are a reflection/reminder of an event in my life.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome thank you for sharing

[@alyw.7491]

Very nice! I understand and appreciate your purchases. The Speedster is, to me, by far the best watch you own. Followed by the Explorer ll, ..I much prefer the polar (white) dial. ..especially since yours is the 40mm before they increased the size of the case to 42mm in 2011 and became to big. I own several big watches but I think they messed I came across an older Explorer ll white dial in San Fran from a dealers vintage case with some scratches and aged dial and such. I really liked it! The only Rolex I like and from a time when they were still cool.

[@alyw.7491]

That would be Speedmaster of course,....damn autocorrect spelling!

[@PhillipBriscoe27]

It’s so frustrating to be a fan of Rolex. I went into my AD three years ago for a submariner date and/or Daytona and after the three years was up, I still didn’t have one. The sales lady I initially met with never helped me and then retired. Now I’m told I have to start the whole process over again. I’ve never wanted to spend $15k+ more in my life. For the first time I’m considering moving away from the brand.

[@rayneuy3273]

Wow, three years is a long time.

[@RamseyHagaman]

Literally got a Wimbledon 41 jubilee from my AD 5 months after meeting them. After I bought that I waited 7 months went there to look at jewelry. Told the sales person I had the money in a special account for the blue two tone sub. 7 minutes after I left they called me back to sell me the watch.

[@RamseyHagaman]

Try going to a different ad , I had a terrible experience with one in Tampa Florida. Then moved to Colorado they hook it up out here!

[@210033032]

Spent 2 years on the wait list for my GMT Master 2 in Tulsa OK before I hit the call last November.

[@avarmauk]

It’s frustrating I know. It’s why so many are moving away from Rolex. I ended up buying my Pepsi from a grey market reseller and paid a hefty premium. I justified it because I got a huge bonus at work, but really it left a sour taste in my mouth. But it’s a treasured watch of mine and I’ll never part with it. I bought it around the birth of my son and one day it will be his. But 🤫 don’t tell him 😂 I also have two Tudors and I feel I’ll probably buy more Tudor and not Rolex in the future. They have a similar feel albeit inferior in quality, and but enjoy wearing them.

[@tizombie]

Thank you for sharing you experiences working for an AD. Very educational.

[@Newsthink]

Appreciate this follow up video. Any idea how many pieces each AD gets with each shipment per week, in major cities?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Usually around 10 a week

[@Newsthink]

@@hawaiihardy7285 Cool. Any idea how often they'd get pieces like the Explorer 36? Were they more common or not as common? Sorry for all the questions, the whole process is fascinating (and frustrating)

[@mik3ymomo]

I always enjoy hearing the inside info on how the business model works. I agree. Upper middle class are buying most of these watches.

[@harbzsquadings2277]

Here in london 20 years ago it was mega easy, rolex's that were 5 years old would be stuck on a shelf and the premiums would be gone making the price way cheaper, fast forward to now some AD's even look at your CV to check if you are the real deal, its ridiculous

[@drjonathanrama]

I needed this video for the last bit “those wanting to look rich”. That put it in perspective for me - why do I really want this?

[@Adb07d]

It's was a stupid assumption by the op initally and doubly stupid for you.

[@bottomoftheglass]

Astonishing to hear they're paying so little in such an expensive area and doing that kind of volume. I work at an AD in a suburban area and sold just over $900k last year. I've been there 3 years and made just about $60k

[@KaayJaay]

Thanks for sharing

[@tosinn364]

No way you guys make 60k. That’s sounds so unbelievable

[@bottomoftheglass]

@@tosinn364 I know of a store 45min away that supposedly pays a bit more, but I'm currently less than 5min away from work. I like my schedule as well. It's not worth leaving. Also 60k where I live isn't a bad wage. My wife makes about the same and we're by no means loaded but we don't really worry about bills and have a comfortable life. This job just makes me look rich because I've got tens of thousands of dollars in jewelry, but most of that I got for free.

[@VectorSearch]

60k seems very low

[@bottomoftheglass]

@@VectorSearch The only other jewelry store in the general area that would be worth working at and pay more would be 45min away. I'm currently about 5min away and have a good schedule. It's not worth it. I'm in an area where that's a descent wage. My wife makes about the same, and we're by no means loaded but we don't worry about bills and live comfortably. The tens of thousands of dollars I've accumulated in jewelry make me look rich, but most of it was free.

[@Veagle1319]

I have 5 Rolex..2 gifts from my parents: wedding and medical degree, other 3 got myself from same AD for life accomplishments. Before Covid hype, it was somewhat easy, the first Rolex 2009 parents got $700 discount,,, 😅.. still have the receipt. Strangely, now it seems more rewarding, more genuine, the waiting, the journey, the Internet scrolling of the time piece you want, then getting that call from AD… memory 💯.. for me, nothing else but the Crown for sentimental value. the high quality craftsmanship and timeless design is just unmatched. Continue to keep in touch with your AD, and be realistic with your request, be patient, you’ll get the call. Cheers! Great video.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome. Thanks for sharing

[@yakumotatsuro4886]

I always go gray market.

[@johnrolfe4107]

Now in my '70's, lusted after the Presidential Day Date in the '1960's and loved the brand. I became a true horological fan during the Pandemic and became very interested in other brands, simply because Rolex was so difficult to get. In a way I'm thankful nature took me to other manufacturers with equal or better movements. Even revolutionary movements like GS spring drive! Fascinating Hobby.

[@Elliott23232323]

thank you for your honesty, great insight into the Rolex marketing machine

[@RB-jw8ff]

The last thing you said will really stick with me. Middle class people are buying and aspiring to this brand. This is also consistent with the comments on your first video. The only thing affluent consumers really care about is differentiating themselves from the middle class. Even if that means not caring at all. Rolex is a middle class brand.

[@g43654]

Yup, it's affordable luxury. Rich people start out with Patek, VC, AP or Richard Mille.

[@connerregan9481]

Nothing wrong with being middle-class. Middle-class in America can mean that you are very successful.

[@bikeman123]

That's why the rich waste their money on RM.

[@UrbanEric]

@@g43654 Real rich people buy books, stocks, and rental properties and drive 10 year old cars. Nothing you would ever notice. People trying to look rich buy watches or jewelry.

[@Tchild2]

@@g43654 Wealthy people also wear Rolex.

[@Stanza21588]

Yeah…….. I’m a truck driver at the post office and I did not “wanna look rich” lol It’s people out here who just love to wear good and/or great quality watches, who treat themselves after certain successes, who are collectors. Not to take it there but as a black man from an urban area most of us aren’t left with homes, jewelry, furs, designer bags, shoot most of us don’t even have insurance policies. It’s definitely people who do it the right way.

[@vn7889]

I bought my Sub Date 116610LN in 2012 at the grey market. Price was 14 % below retail. I think those times will come again sooner or later.

[@BeerLeagueGoalieGodfather]

I bought the same watch in 2014 for less than MSRP. The Ad offerred me a Hulk at a discount at the time but I thought "who would want a stupid green watch?" ugh. He even showed me how nicely the dial changed colour in the light. Big mistake, but at least my black sub has held it value nicely.

[@beardog1963]

Great Video! I watched your Part 1 video and decided to take your advice! Our 30th wedding anniversary was coming up and we decided to visit our local AD. It worked! I was offered a DateJust to purchase! I think the keys are to be a nice guy, be sincere with your intentions and treat your sales associate with respect. Thanks again for the fine video.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome thank you

[@retiredslo]

Was just in Vegas for a friend's B day. Walked into an AD on Sat morning as they unlocked the door and to my amazement a nice shiny Sky-Dweller in case for sale! I snagged it immediately.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Lucky Saturday. Congratulations

[@retiredslo]

@@hawaiihardy7285 Appreciate the video. Don’t agree about the statement that top 1% don’t buy Rolex. They do, they just also buy AP and P. Or they don’t buy watches at all. But I’m in LA so everyone is showboating, even the 1% haha.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

@@retiredslo agree , yes of course in LA it’s different. Thank you 😊

[@closer71]

@@hawaiihardy7285 Its different in a LOT of places. Not just L.A. Look at Miami, Los Cabos, etc. Typical Americans never think about anything outside their own country. MOST of the Rolex watches in the world are located outside the United States...

[@BLdontM]

@@closer71 That's because the world revolves around the US and is the number 2 market for these things.

[@Collieman1]

First of all, amazing follow up from your first video, bravo sir. Second, I am not sure if you remember me, I told you the story about the black, sub date that I was waitlisted for last year and they never got back to me. Well great news, after a few short days the rep is getting me my watch this week. I actually made a good connection with the rep as we are from the same city/state, our parents live in the same city (once they move from our home state), we were both in the service, and we are both nerds for GoT, LoTR, Etc. He was so genuine and up front with me and even offered me the new Bruce Wayne GMT and I hadn't even picked up my sub yet! He said the sub he was showing me is actually mine, he just has to get the final approval from his manager to release it to me. Thanks again for all your help!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome! Congratulations

[@henrymandell2947]

Bought my first new Rolex at Rolex in Wailea. The manager turned me away the day before but a very nice salesperson the next day got permission to sell me a Datejust 41. It was a great experience. She was a pleasure to deal with.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Congratulations 🎉

[@ZachGrabill]

"Got permission to sell." I'm glad you got the watch you wanted.

[@viktrancestudio6398]

Love the ending. Something I which I knew all along. Most people who buy these watches are the ones who can barely afford them. No different than departmental store employees saving up to buy a Louis Vuitton bag with their annual savings at the end of the year

[@Adb07d]

It's called confirmation bias.

[@MAV511]

Mind you, there are a lot of butlers around the world who are wearing Rolex watches, just as a little Christmas gift from their bosses.

[@Odat]

Thanks for the video. I deal with many wealthy people in real estate and I would say almost most wear Rolexes with the occasional AP or Patek. Everyone buys Rolex…middle class, upper middle class and rich. They are timeless and appeal to everyone.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Ok thanks. I could only share my experience at my location.

[@ssing7113]

Exactly. People thinking every class does this or that. There’s poor who wear them to the Uber wealthy… I mean some sell for $90k. That’s not an average joes watch. That’s a top baller who just wanted to to add to his collection I wish people who stop trying to categorize people. I’m rich and I buy rich ass things 😂. I know other rich people who buy target and ones who have 40 million yachts…. There is no one size fits all………….

[@t-bonemendez9938]

Thank you so much for this informative video, keep it up with part 3! I have couple of questions, is black stainless steel Daytona a bit easier to get than the Panda, or is it pretty much the same? Also, would you recommend Rolex Datejust blue ref 126334 on an oyster bracelet over the jubilee?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you for watching. Yes Panda way harder to get . Datejust blue is beautiful, but has a higher resale value on a jubilee bracelet.

[@TheJMedia]

Love the stories! Please share more! Got my first rolex from my AD last year and its been slightly over a year and waiting for my next piece!

[@crazedgreek]

That line at the end the upper middle class want it to look at themselves in the mirror and show their friends, that hit home thank you

[@Ross-fo2vw]

lol Rolex isn't a brand to look rich. the super rich wear hand crafted pieces from the holy trinity/independent or just don't care. Rolex is mostly tied to an achievement in my opinion. Oh I finally got a job promotion I always wanted. 10 years sober, my kid was born, I finally run my own company so it makes sense it's middleclass/upper class. Its a do it all watch that's a reward for success. I believe that's how Rolex always marketed. That's not to say there aren't people who strictly do that to appear "successful" and don't know movements or models etc. People do be crazy and you would def know better so i'll take your word lol.

[@UrbanEric]

@@Ross-fo2vw The super rich don't wear watches. If they do, it's a $30 casio, $300 garmin running watch, or $500 Apple watch that monitors their blood pressure. They have 2 or 3 personal assistants to tell them what time it is.

[@MrHav1k]

@@Ross-fo2vw This. I was a bit surprised when he said that. Of course regularish people wear them, it's Rolex, not Patek. Wait "list" BS aside, the price points for the Steel models are still attainable for individuals/households who make a couple hundred thousand per year. That's objectively quite good money, but it's not yacht level passive income wealthy.

[@rolex517]

I waited over two years to get a Sprite GMT, I stopped in usually every month and tagged the AD a few times over the years. Don’t give a list of watches you want, find the watch you really really want and laser focus on that. I wear the Sprite every day, they are great quality watches and I use it every day.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome. Congratulations

[@cjsmith8319]

I must be an exception to the rule. I walked in to my local AD and had no purchase history. I talked to the salesperson and they asked why I was in the store. I told them that I had been saving up for years to buy my first Rolex. Walked out with my first luxury watch. Probably won’t be getting another one anytime soon, but I had no idea that it was THIS bad.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Congratulations

[@cjsmith8319]

@@hawaiihardy7285 Thank you very much. I loved listening to your videos.

[@vince92615]

🎉🎉🎉What du get?

[@ahill209]

Had a recent trip to a Rolex AD and flat out the sales agent told me they didn't have any OPs and that they hadn't gotten any deliveries for months and wouldn't get any for several more months because Rolex was not shipping them any. Lying to my face. It's hard to "get on the list" when you live several hours away from the AD. I wouldn't characterize all Rolex customers as clueless about how the watch works. There are those of us out there that know how to set a watch, how to read a manual, and what Rolex movements are in what Rolex models.

[@Atlas_Max11]

Watched this and pt 1. It's great to hear from someone on "the inside". I'm echoing the frustration felt by many that want to buy a watch. As much as I'd like to buy a brand new model (the models I have are discontinued and were bought 2nd hand), I give up on trying.

[@asdf4898]

We’re going to Hawaii August, I’ll try to go on the days you’ve said and see if there are available watches to buy. Crossing my fingers

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Good luck

[@saromaliga5937]

I bought a 2023 Rolex and very happy about it. They don’t hesitate to give me one. Surely checked me. I’m a professional. ♥️♥️♥️ I truely was a genuine buyer; they were very happy with us. I’m wearing right now at home and proud of it. Lucky me ❤❤❤

[@nikolastojanov8749]

Will you do a part 3? If yes, I have some questions. Is the demand down in the last year and a half? Is inventory stockpilling ever a thing at Rolex ADs?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Probably will do another part . Demand is definitely down. But we never overstocked. Thank you

[@Greektourguide]

Very interesting videos! I live in Canada and there are 3 Rolex ADs near me. They all sell other brands and jewelry. One of the ADs took my info down a couple of years ago on an iPad but never contacted me. At another AD I managed to buy a stainless steel Datejust with no purchase history 3 years ago. I then bought a pen and a women’s necklace. When I went back last year they offered me a Yachtmaster 40 blue dial which I bought. Both of these ADs told me it helps when you buy other brands and items. I think it also helps if you walk in wearing a nice watch as it can start a conversation with the sales rep and show you are a collector.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome congratulations. Thank you for sharing

[@davyrao]

they wont sell you rolex until you have spend some money on other things

[@Greektourguide]

@@davyraoa few years ago that wasn’t the case but now yes. When I bought my 1st Rolex you could walk in and buy a Datejust 41 or 36 and maybe a less desired two tone sports model

[@yourbeardisnice]

Great example of 'you want what you can't have' Rolex does a fabulous job of creating demand through scarcity. Everything is perception. Love it

[@pintomanuel6215]

Amazing inside info. Thank you. Though I wanted a Rolex sometime back, I am no longer interested. A watch is a watch. What's point in waiting and going through all this pain to get a Rolex. There are other amazing brands out there.

[@danielpresta1938]

Did you ever get allocation to purchase one for yourself or a friend/family member? If you were allocated an opportunity to buy, could you buy any model? Was there ever a discount offered to employees?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Yes there is an employee discount available, but only after 1 year of employment, I did not stay that long, Employees were not able to order Daytonas or Skydweller.

[@VanWatches]

Is it posssible to buy the OP for a first time buyer? (Non-tiffany)? I know djs are more readily available though and perhaps the OP is just luck at that point unless you are a repeat customer?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Yes sure, we used to put OP’s out in the case for sale. Good luck

[@Budoka72984]

Can you buy from the factory in Switzerland? Do they even sell there? Do they have tours?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Tours yes, but you can’t buy there.

[@walterrobertson3265]

The stupidity of gameplay. Rolex loves to play games and we play into it. Meeting quotas? What do you mean meeting quotes? And then you turn around and say that they’re not able to sell the watches to the public? I feel sorry for the sales reps. And also for the public. I think that Rolex should be blackballed.

[@idonjohnson6999]

But that's the whole thing. This is what makes people want a Rolex. Because if you manage to get one in the end, you are parts of "the chosen".

[@PTCMan]

Thanks for the insights & mahalo! As an enthusiast, I’ve been lucky enough to have been offered a few Rolex watches over the years, and they are incredible pieces, but the Rolex AD games are so frustrating. There’s so many other great brands out there like Omega, Grand Seiko, & JLC that can be purchased without the hassle. The past few years have me on the verge of moving on from Rolex for good. IMO, many of the AD’s out there have permanently damaged the brand’s reputation. Thanks again for the video!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you

[@monkeyape456]

What are the models that you can’t skip if they’re for sale and why?

[@dannysimenauer5745]

Total honesty from inside the Crown! Much appreciated. Out of curiosity, what does the Account Manager that works for Rolex earn annually? Since the watches literally sell themselves, what is the Account Manager's responsibilities working for Rolex?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Average salary for account managers was 150-175k annually. They would visit frequently, inspect the stores and share training time , new release Information and promotions.

[@poccipo]

could you elaborate a bit more around the content of the shipments please? did they contain a mix of various kinds of watches? for example, how many hot pieces did you receive a month roughly? thanks

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Yes every week we get a mix of different models. Mostly Datejust and Submariner. Once a Month we got the hot models like Daytona, GMT, like Sprite and Batman, and some Day Date. Good luck

[@BN-jk6of]

Hawaii ADs may be different, but ADs in my area "encourage" you to buy gold/silver to move up the list. The commission on jewelry is much higher, usually like 6% Also, agree with you on middle class folks buying Rolex's. The richest people I know, folks that own their own businesses or run public companies all wear Apple watches oddly enough

[@Ninjadom]

Hold on!! The Paul Newman Daytona was supplied brand new by Rolex to sell? Rolex still keep inventory of these? Or was it part of CPO?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Certified pre owned

[@francinereap1736]

Do you think that the Date Just is difficult to get or would I have to wait until “stock” becomes available? I’m new to the brand I just love that watch

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Datejust was the easiest watch to get at our location. Keep trying - good luck

[@BernardCampbell348]

Should I have my grey market acquired gmt on my wrist when I go to the AD?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

No

[@g43654]

I don't want to look rich. I just think Rolex watches are so easy to wear, have a rich history, fun, sparkly, durable and precisely made, which tickle my OCD brain all the right ways. JLC is my other favourite brand.

[@h-lover7158]

Totally agree. And let's not forget about the excellent quality. Have my watch for over 20 years and never had it serviced 😅

[@petewilson2314]

For me it's about the never ending goal of excellence and quality

[@georgehofgren6123]

Go get your watch serviced.. Lubrication and gaskets are a good thing 👍

[@h-lover7158]

@@georgehofgren6123 Sure will! Thx!

[@g43654]

Here are my questions: do you get any discount working as a Rolex representative, especially as an assistant manager? Any perks? Can you buy a watch you have been allocated to sell? Who decides which watches you have to sell (from a shipment, does the store manager hands out watches in random)? How do you decide which client to call? Do you have to ask for approval on every sale, even though you have been allocated that watch to sell?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Yes there is an employee discount, however you have to be employed with Rolex for 1 year . I only worked 8 months so I didn’t qualify. Once you passed your 1 year you can put in an order for your favorite Rolex, but then still have to a wait a few more months to get it . Inventory cokes from Rolex , we don’t have major influence of what comes in . However we can order a few special request watches for vip clients . Takes a wile to get them . Approvals get pre screened by the Manager and Then presented to the District manager for final approval. We have so many potential clients that we always sell what little inventory comes in . Good luck

[@Soloseas]

Top 1% don’t give a crap about Rolex. They buy Patek etc. look at the price point, almost anyone that makes decent money can save up for a Rolex if that’s what they wanted. Personally I never even looked into the brand until a friend dragged me into a store. Tried on a few of the sports models and began looking into the history of the brand and got interested. Ended up buying a Sub and GMT. I’m also interested in the explorer 2 one day. I’m far from wealthy and just like the watches. I’m also not someone who tries to look wealthy as I drive a modest car and live in a modest home.

[@JTMarlin8]

Plenty of the Top 1% buy Rolex. They just don't fight for stainless subs and GMTs.

[@watchexplorer426]

I’d like to know about how many steel sports did you get on avg each month.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Around 40, mostly Submariners.

[@americanpaisareturns9051]

7:54 Doesn’t surprise me one bit. I used to work in the self storage industry and it was in that business that I learned what a homeless person really looks like. The people you see outside living on the sidewalks of LA and Hollywood are there because they want to be. They have access to all kinds of welfare services. Food, medical, Rx drugs, housing etc. They are there because they want to be. Those people were actually some of my best paying customers. Always paid on time and sometimes months in advance. They all paid in cash and many paid in one dollar bills. They followed all the rules. Many told me they just liked living that way and people always wanted to give them money because of the way the looked. They weren’t going to turn down someone one handing them free money. The people who came in with Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi’s, etc. Always acting like a big shot were usually the people who were behind on rent got there stuff auctioned off and were the ones I would catch living inside storage units because they had lost it all. The cars repossessed, the house was lost. They had nowhere to go. They lost everything. The majority of it went down hill for them when they lost their job due to a lay off but where so much in debt that they had no way of climbing out of the hole. They were in to deep. Many had to much pride in asking for help and that’s what lead them down that path. I would pass them info about local public services available to them but again many had to much pride to ask for help even though they had been paying into the systems when they were working. 😔

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Wow awesome story. Thank you for sharing 👍🤙🏽

[@tonyabrego1]

Value seems to be different from one person to another. You mentioned you had to quit for personal reasons. I pray that whatever that was has closure, peace and healing. Wow thanks for those amazing insights on your journey through the company.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you 🙏🏼 😊

[@Alex-rf5xu]

Great video. Question.; I’m currently On the list for a mint skydweller. Do you think buying or getting on a list for a James Cameron deep sea will improve or hurt my chances at get either of the pieces? Cheers!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Mint Skydweller is super hard to get , especially with no purchase history. Definitely get a James Cameron first . Good luck

[@markbolton7561]

I called ahead nearly 3 months in advance a couple years ago, and Alberto at the Whaler's Village store hooked me up while he still there! It made my vacation. Who did you sell stainless Daytonas to?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome, Alberto is amazing, he actually got promoted and transferred to California.

[@tklsee]

Kudos - really great content that no one else has the courage to share online. Rolex has become a truly disrespectful company.

[@dalechristensen3640]

Can't wait for Part 3!

[@Krrish85]

Very interesting! Do you think the long waittimes etc are authentic becuase they simply can't produce them fast enough. Or are they knowingly manipulating production to keep supply low?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

The latter. 🤫

[@CeeJay591]

Thanks for posting this follow-up - while you provide a lot of great information I think the best tip I heard was when you described the typical Rolex buyer - someone who really isn’t that rich but wants to impress his friends and look rich. This is what makes Rolex so popular - sure it’s a good watch but is it really so much better than other brands? Safe to say it isn’t, but that doesn’t matter to the typical Rolex buyer who doesn’t know anything about movements or to how operate or take care of his watch. He just cares about his rich he looks with it.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you

[@rah5500]

I've been waiting 3 years for a BLNR with a spend history of $25k. Went in last week and the saleswoman told me I'd have to wait 4 years because i was only added to 'the list' 1 month ago. I went in again a few days later and spoke to a different salesperson and they said that they refresh the lists from time to time but that doesnt mean I fall to the bottom of the list. I added the OP 36mm Tiffany to my list which i was told could take 6 months to a year. Hopefully get a call soon

[@SFVyokel]

Question from one Hawaii local to another - how much of your business was local and how much was tourist traffic? And since spend history is a factor, how would a tourist be able to scoop up a Rolex, aside from being at the right place at the right time as mentioned in your video? Is there some kind of spend history database of customers shared by ADs?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

It was 60% tourists and 40% locals . We always tried hard to take care of our kamaaina at our Maui store . Go say Hi , talk story . The market has changed for the better , your chances are good to get one . Good luck

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Also our clients owned timeshare, so they would come twice a year and build up their purchase history.

[@reedpeterson719]

Are the rules the same for overseas Rolex stores? Rolex Cebu City told me they get only get deliveries from January thru June, and inventory gets sold quickly

[@hawaiihardy7285]

I am not sure about international dealers . But I know Rolex sends inventory all year . I cant believe it’s only January thru June.

[@deel1312]

I was lucky to buy a watch on my first visit. A datejust 41mm. I guess the AD took a generous liking to me or it was just my time. Mainly bought it to be passed on to my son. What will be my odds of buying an upgrade to what I have in that store?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Congrats, great odds, give it some time like 9 months to 1 year, for the next Model.

[@BANHMIZON]

I wonder how many people would buy Rolex if they knew they play these stupid games with consumers.

[@georgen26]

i left the brand a long time ago, put my name on a list for a few if they call they call. But purchases have moved to others.

[@tm9184]

@@georgen26 If only everyone did that.

[@bradrohrs7748]

I got a day date, Call me superficial, but I expected way more compliments on my watch than I got, it really doesn’t get noticed the way I thought it would.

[@paulvon2378]

I got fed up with my local AD B.S. and passed on Rolex. Mostly paying for the he names anyway

[@georgen26]

@@paulvon2378 agreed, wise minds think alike.

[@NickStrada]

I was patient and got the call for an explorer, sub, and explorer II. Is it unlikely to now qualify for a gmt pepsi?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Yes, I would think so. Pepsi is very tough to get.

[@SomeoneSmarter]

Thank you so much for sharing your insights into Rolex ADs. There are lots of us wanna be customers with the cash waiting to buy a dream Rolex watch but we are getting increasingly frustrated with how they play games with us.

[@sstanforddpt]

What would you suggest they do? It sucks I can't go buy what I want, but there's excessive demand that wasn't there 3 years ago.

[@brianwang7106]

Thank you so much for the nice video! How often you think should I follow up with my sales in AD? Would twice a month be much? Or just a once a month? Thanks!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Once a month is perfect. Good luck

[@SLCPunch]

Great insight! I’ve been on my AD list for a Submariner for over 2 years with monthly checkins with the salesman and keep getting the “hopefully later this year” regarding the status. Am I low on his priority list? I’ve purchased about $15K in watches from other brands in the past two years so they know I’m a serious buyer. Thanks again!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

That sounds way too long for a Submariner. Especially since you have a purchase history. We would get Submariners weekly . Keep trying , good luck

[@billyjack5957]

I was born and raised on Oahu our family were family friends with a local AD and my Father was heavy into Rolex this was in the early 80's into the 90's back then blank papers were the norm and a stainless Daytona was under 3,500 in 88 simpler times. Back then the Japanese tourists wanted every Rolex they could get.

[@AlexP253]

Cool video series. I bought my Sub in 2018, Etihad Towers location in Abu Dhabi. I was celebrating a professional achievement. I waited about 4 months to get it. I like the Sub because it looks like million other watches to the general public. Now and then someone with a good eye will comment “nice watch”. But it’s a generally understated piece. No regrets.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Congratulations, thank you for sharing.

[@emojiman4560]

My 1st Rolex was a Ladies 26mm Datejust that I found at the outlet mall parking lot on S. Las Vegas Blvd back in 1996. I took it to a jewelry store to make sure it was authentic which it was, waited for a while then packaged it up and sent to my friends wife as a gift for being nice to me by opening their home while I had no other place to go.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome, thanks for sharing

[@logwind]

Appreciate your honesty man! Interesting stuff.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thanks for watching!

[@bryan6192]

I had a great experience at the Rolex Boutique in Whalers Village. The manager there was a great guy who allocated me a 126710 (Batman) while on vacation. This is all great information you are putting out there!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thanks for sharing!

[@billb.7346]

Thoughts on buying a Tudor instead? I like some of the models. They are affordable and attainable.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Yes go for it ! Tudor is amazing! Great value- great brand

[@MrHav1k]

Tudor is what Rolex used to be. Both affordability and now design wise. Go for it!!

[@kofiofosu9051]

I used to feel lucky to get a Rolex at retail. I now buy much cheaper watches that I enjoy even more because they’re less stressful to obtain and afford.

[@intesaralam2576]

thank you for your insight! I really enjoyed your video. I'm saving for my first piece. My question is - how much more available do you think the watches are now that prices have gone down?. what is your advice to get a 41 DJ two tone or a yachmaster steel and platinum with grey dial or a no date sub? Thank you!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

I heard inventory is way better now. Depends on where you live. DJ 41 and Sub no date should be available, Yachtmaster is very hard to get. Good luck

[@alonso11h]

wow amazing insights, i really appreciate it to hear it as it is. i dont think you damage the brand at all, it is actually refreshing to get answers to questions that one always wonders. rolex still remains rolex, but its great to hear it from inside, many thanks

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you

[@raydollerz]

Exhibition are sold as brand new pieces as well and sometimes converted to walk in purchase pieces. Along with sometimes being allocated to fullfill request.

[@alohatraveler]

Appreciate this video. I live on kaua'i and just visited the waikiki rolex store and got put on a wait list for a batman. Did i make a mistake? Curious what you think

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Not at all, can't hurt. Also, if you have a chance try Ben-bridge at Ala Moana. Good luck

[@TubeYouDSilvy]

I would disagree about the characterization of who buys/owns Rolex - however it’s perhaps more subtle. To someone fairly wealthy - a $10k submariner is not a big deal - but they may still like the watch because it is rugged, and attractive. And it will last a very long time and can be passed down from one generation to the next. To someone making $200k a year, that same submariner will be a huge status symbol. The rich person can afford a Nautilus or a Royal Oak - which are generally much more refined than Rolex - but less recognizable to most people. But if I’m just going to a bar with my mates or taking kids to playground, I’d probably rather wear the sub or a g-shock, regardless how much money I have. Not trying to impress anyone. Not everything is about displaying your wealth. Believe it or not, some people prefer to NOT display their wealth.

[@theige01]

Eye opening. I went to my first dealer yesterday then saw this. The process you described is exactly what I went through. Bummer. I’m not a flipper. At least what I want is available online…

[@waynoh5229]

I was treated with borderline disrespect by an AD in Vancouver (guessing wrong nationality). While in Toronto I met with a lovely Rolex sales lady in an AD and 8 months later got a call from her for a gorgeous Skydweller. Flew in the next day and was treated like royalty in the store. As great as the SD is, I have a super new friend. Will never forget the wonderful experience in the Toronto.😀

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Awesome, Congratulations

[@DecemberNames]

super interesting, thx for sharing.

[@gertdevries7192]

Aloha from the Netherlands! Thanks for your insight. As a half century long watch collector I can state you hit the bell. I collect for the movement, the complication or sheer simple quality. When I tell people I collect, 90% will ask the question “do you own a Rolex?” It is the myth around the brand that owning a Rolex means you’re rich. Not for nothing it is the most replicated brand.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you for sharing.

[@sspicasso]

What a lovely guy you sound like! Thank you for your video. Really interesting. Very best wishes, Steve.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you 😊

[@Cpt_Tack]

Great info. I am in the Kalākaua location every year on our annual vacation to Hawaii looking for my chance to purchase as Rolex. The sales person has mentioned a few of your points to me in the store so it’s funny hearing you say it. 1. Delivery dates 2. Moving inventory 3. No watch nicknames in the AD 4. 48 hrs to show up if you get a call.

[@Master-xl9ms]

Thank you for the info. Is it required to leave a deposit if they don’t have your watch? If so, how much?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

No we don’t take deposits on watches not in inventory. Thank you

[@backatbragg]

Sir thank you for this post. I am have been trying to get a Sub 41 for the longest time but I never get the call. I did get the call from my AD last year for the Sea Dweller 43. What recommendation do you have if I have been visiting my ADS quite frequently but not getting the Sub? Thanks

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Wow, congratulations on the Sea Dweller, the same AD should be able to get you a sub, especially since its been a year, keep following up, tell them its for a special occasion, good luck

[@copterguy]

Howzit! I left Oahu in 2022 after 15 years, had to go. 🥴 got 2 Datejusts from the AD on Kalakaua (Tourneau). Was always staring at watches... Still do. 😊

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Shoots 🤙🏽

[@2001waldo]

I was on the list for 5 weeks for a DJ41 Azzurro Blue and Jubilee (just like in the book). During that wait I purchased jewlery at around 10K. When I got the call I noticed that the display version of my watch was not on the wall any longer. Do you think I got he display piece. I am 100% ok with that by the way.

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Yes it sounds like you did, because the blue dial is hard to get and 5 weeks is fast, but display Models are fine, did it have all stickers still on it? Congratulations by the way

[@2001waldo]

@@hawaiihardy7285 No stickers but none of the display watches I looked at had them that I can remember. It had the white tag / all links / box and all papers. I am fine if it was on display. I was super excited to get it and am wearing it daily. Now the bug has bitten and deciding on what I need next :)

[@hawaiihardy7285]

@@2001waldo wow they sold it without stickers ? Technically it would be considered pre-owned without stickers. At least that’s how we did it at our Location.

[@Alexander-xq1gr]

Top 1% does not wear Rolex. Definitely true. Same with all conspicuous "luxury" brands.

[@g43654]

I'm sure they do, but never in public since most of their watches are 6 figures at least.

[@pa5482]

Hermes does the same, they want to control the customer. You have to go to the store, cant call and check inventory.

[@toshitominaga3911]

It's a silly game to play to get high-end watches. I don't play it as I'd rather spend time more effectively. However, thanks to the little market you can usually make money when you want to sell a unit later. That's definitely a plus!

[@jo.scorpio2010]

I remember a long long time ago we could just walk in to an AD and walk out with a brand new watch at a discount as steep as 12% off the RRP. It was fun shopping around to see which AD offered the highest discount. Today i just read an article on how to suck up to the sales people at the AD in order to get bumped up the waiting list and i was totally outraged! Whatever happened to the customer is king? Now i hv to kowtow to the people making a commission from my purchase? No way!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Thank you for sharing. My District manager told me that back in those days sales were less because there was so much inventory available and there was no urgency to buy . Discounts nowadays?? Never .

[@jo.scorpio2010]

@@hawaiihardy7285 thank you for sharing the behind-the-scenes secrets 🙂

[@joshrodriguez5718]

How often should i follow up once im jn the wait list? Thanks!

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Every 2-3 months at least. Good luck 🍀

[@joshrodriguez5718]

@@hawaiihardy7285 thanks!

[@off-roadingcars]

If a person is a legit watch collector (and never flips), how often can one get another Rolex to add to the collection at a high volume store?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Typically once a year , maybe once every 8 months, depending on the Model. Good luck

[@tex24]

Our local AD here in Texas recently told me that you have to pay cash for a new Rolex. They do not take credit cards. Is that true?

[@hawaiihardy7285]

Absolutely not true, that sounds crazy. They are up to no good . Stay away .

[@mr.l3785]

A salesperson at Thomas Markle Jewelers, a Rolex AD in Texas, told me the same thing. The salesperson told me they tell prospective customers they have to buy the watch with a wire transfer or cash as a way to filter out flippers as most of them use credit cards. They do take credit cards however.

[@tex24]

@@mr.l3785 So what should I tell my AD if they tell me to wire the money or pay cash?

[@tex24]

@@mr.l3785 I'm confused. So they require wire the money or they'll let you use a credit card?

[@mr.l3785]

@@tex24 If you are a new customer, they may tell you they do not take credit cards and they require cash payment (wire). I was informed they do this to filter out flippers who are often using credit cards and do not necessarily have the cash to buy watches.