Rolex is Dying.. Here’s Why

[@richyrich7288]

Long time Rolex purchaser - I agree with you and after decades of being and loyal client I'm done with them. Nothing new but updated dials and boring, boring, boring. Since covid I can't even go in and purchase a watch after all these decades of being a loyal customer. Went to Omega and won't go back to Rolex - looking at others brands to purchase - Thank you Rolex for the extra push to do so :-)

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Well said..

[@xAlphaSpiderx]

San Martin, trust 😊

[@WellAye]

Wow, from one customer to another I’m shocked to hear that. I’m genuinely interested in how you came to your current view. Did you have a bad experience with your AD? Rolex innovation whilst it may not change the world, has always been consistent in terms of updating material and colour ways etc. like Porche, why change something so iconic and popular, the waiting lists are out of the door so to speak. I’ve had many, and traded and switched and swapped etc. I’ve enjoyed the whole journey and my collection reflects my life and moments In it. Whilst they may of treated you badly it isn’t the brand itself, but more the AD and the attitude of selling… Genuinely, interested to hear how you got here? And feel so let down by the brand itself?

[@ronibajralia7008]

I did the same! And i went to IWC and breitling. Got a bunch of watches! (While i had a rolex sub gold black dial on order) took them 2 years to get it for me.

[@Clipsbydominik]

I totally agree with you. when i bought my first rolex 22 years ago i got a 20% discount at bucherer. yes, those times are over. but since covid i don't even get the opportunity to buy a rolex anymore, even though i've bought 20 watches over the years. I don't even want to talk about the bracelets, necklaces and rings that I bought for my wife from Bucherer. well long story short. since covid i have bought other great watches. IWC, AP, Panerai, Tudor, Lange & Söhne and a Breitling. I will certainly never buy a rolex again. greetings from Switzerland

[@jeffhudson2346]

I don't think a lot of Rolex buyers know what a good movement is, a 9F quartz movement from Grand Seiko is +/- 10 seconds a year with a 50 year service interval at 1/3 the price of a sub. I have never even heard of anything comparable from Rolex.

[@beachbumpower7018]

Never was a fan of Rolex. Their dials are small and the designs aren't impressive. I'm enjoying my $50 Invicta right now.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Definitely

[@beachbumpower7018]

@@allthingsrandom8137 when it comes down to it, the main job a watch has is to keep time, it's worthless as a tool if it cannot keep time.. So unless you're loaded and like the high-end, a lower priced watch that appeals to you can do the same job a Rolex could do.

[@drdesign6886]

I don’t hate Rolex. Far from it. But it’s got to the point now that when I see someone wearing one I don’t comment or try to talk watches with them - the Rolex wearer is now predominantly clueless wannabes with as much knowledge about watches as my rose bush.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Yeah….. a once good conversation with a stranger, is now gone

[@eustab.anas-mann9510]

​@@allthingsrandom8137Rolex is not gonna change. Average people want average, fairly robust watches from a recognizable luxury brand. That's how you can tipify 99% of the customers of Rolex. You're assuming Rolex needs to cater to PhD's in Horology with high exacting standards when it comes to dial finishing, in house movements, complications with minute repeaters and tourbillons etc. etc. which Rolex's customers by and large clearly don't have any appreciation for.

[@waynehatton4136]

I bought my Datejust for $300 in 1973. Still accurate and has a beautiful piepan dial. The new ones look tacky with their logo around the dial and are not worth the price.

[@dannysimenauer5745]

waynehatton, to clarify, Rolex made a pie pan dial? I only thought the pie pan dial was made by Omega. What is the Rolex reference number?

[@waynehatton4136]

I don't know the reference number offhand. I would have to look at the papers inside the box. Yes, it is a piepan dial datejust.@@dannysimenauer5745

[@Blastoise-rx3qv]

They’re definitely doing what they can to ensure no customer loyalty by having their ADs only sell to greys.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Even with the news of the new purchase, they are going to start pushing more people away for sure.

[@dannysimenauer5745]

Sad but true, The grey market channels have acknowledged that the ADs are selling direct to the grey market.

[@Milofchg]

In regards to QC, Rolex does not like to waste money on parts. They will recycle everything they can to cut costs (Vintage Tudor cases/Explorer 39mm Mk1 T-Rex hands from the 36mm). Rolex was never about micro perfection. So you will see imperfections under a microscope/loupe. They also never acknowledge mistakes. However, the material and build feels solid. Hold a Oster Perpetual then hold a AP Royal Oak, a Patek (any reference), or a regular Seiko. You will feel the difference. The Seiko will feel cheap (although it will work for years). The high end watches will feel delicate. Not reliable once you knock them around a few times. The only brand that comes close to that solid Rolex feel, is Omega, Grand Seiko, maybe Breitling, and Panerai. If you want attention to detail that goes neck and neck to Patek, VC, JLC or ultra high end brands. Go for Grand Seiko. That's high horology decorated movements, JLC level movement engineering at a Rolex price.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Definitely agree with a lot of what you’re saying. Especially a Watch feeling solid in the hand. My issue with Rolex is everybody says they are luxury and high horology, but if that was the case, they would care about the micro and not just macro. Also, watches like Mido, Christopher Ward, even Tissot divers feel solid. I am looking at a grand Seiko in the future to fill my more high horology. Itch because the finishing is so great. Compared to things like Rolex.

[@Milofchg]

@@allthingsrandom8137 I will go on record as to say the Rolex Sky-Dweller and YM are not even close to high horology. The YM is like a chronograph that was born with autism or major birth defect (with all due respect). Rolex a forced attempt to create something for sponsored boat races. Which no one watches or cares about. The Sky-Dweller is a glorified triple calendar. Sure the movement design is interesting and different, but they put it into a Date Just Oyster case on steroids. Yeah, no... Rolex should stick to sport watches. Leave the complications to artisans. No, Rolex has ever been high horology. In the watch industry Rolex are a mid tier brand. Right in between Seiko and Patek or some ultra high end independent client only bespoke brand. Their movements are basic, and like you said Rolex doesn't innovate new technology. They are always 5-10 years behind the rest of the industry. Rolex is in limbo ever since the mid 90's. They are trying to go up market. Thanks to marketing and Hollywood where you can see a Rolex on the wrists of actors/characters in just about every movie. They were once the Craftsmen/Maytag/John Deer of the watch world. A little pricey yet obtainable for the blue collar man that will last you a lifetime. My dad was a steel worker. He wore his submariner 5513 on the job for 30 years. He was given a Daytona for buying my mom some jewelry and he was sold a GMT back in 1970 (his "dress watch" as he calls it LOL). He wore his Daytona on an electromagnetic crane and the dame thing broke. Too much magnetic energy. There was a reason why they couldn't sell Daytona's back then. Still has it and knows what's it's worth btw. Still needs service. The sale will go to fund my mom's retirement soon. If you want High Horology, go for JLC.... Patek quality at Rolex prices.

[@kevinfehr8100]

Good content and I agree that Rolex is not high horology BUT Rolex will ALWAYS dominate the luxury watch market and no other brand is close. I own a few Rolexes and a Lange and a Breguet. 98% of people compliment the Rolexes when out and about. Maybe 1 out of 200 people actually know Lange or Breguet, even though they are superior products, no one cares😀

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I have always found that funny.

[@billchan6180]

I only watched this because it mentioned rolex....

[@vaughnreedjr6592]

Rolex is overrated

[@kevinfehr8100]

@@vaughnreedjr6592 agree. But reality is reality

[@dannysimenauer5745]

kevinfehr, I agree in the short run about Rolex dominating in the near to medium future. But remember that GM in the US had 50% market share back in the 1960's, and much less today. My point is if you treat customers as if it is a privilege to be allowed to buy a Rolex, then younger new customers will move to other brands that want to sell you a watch. Today, the younger buyers are buying Apple watches, and don't care that Rolex is #1. Plus, given the existing product line of Rolex models, none is a work of art like Patek, AP, or Vacheron, so are not worth what these brands command.

[@RoderickTom-ge1vc]

I agree with u , i bought a Rolex Explorer 39 mm brand new from a Rolex AD and it had dust on the dial. I showed my wife and she was like WTF! I sold it and said no more Rolex, they have poor quality control.

[@bartobruintjes7056]

Instead of one million watches, Rolex are going to produce more than two million watches per year by building a new factory. All Rolex watches are all made by hand🤣. All the marketing of Rolex is a big scam, and people believe in it.🤣

[@alecleamus3280]

I agree with some of your comments, but clearly the object of the exercise here was to get the algorithms cooking, as you said, to be fair. I can see Rolex reverting to a point where you can pick up pieces at retail without much waiting, and perhaps a little discount too. But the notion that Rolex is dying, or will struggle to sell watches, is frankly laughable. Nice try though 😉

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Yeah, they’re not going away. And they are opening a new factory, so maybe the wait list, or secondary market will kind of tank. The one thing I do not appreciate. Is their manipulating the market Yes, they are a business. But a watch brand that’s high horology will produce a watch, and sell a watch. The quality of the brand is what sells the product. Not the branding. And really what has turned me off the most is the authorized dealers

[@bartobruintjes7056]

Instead of one million watches, Rolex are going to produce more than two million watches per year by building a new factory. All Rolex watches are all made by hand🤣. All the marketing of Rolex is a big scam, and people believe in it.🤣

[@jonrichenberger7903]

Agree. Click bait. But had to click to see the comments. Finally a sane one

[@dannysimenauer5745]

@@allthingsrandom8137 Rolex is not going away for sure. But the customer base will move to other brands before continuing to be insulted by Rolex's partners. There is so much market information on the watch industry, that the truth will come out, and consumers will decide to reward Rolex or move to other brands.

[@kyrilkaplan5011]

Well, well, well...there is a lot to unpack here... Now let me make a dairy comparaison, between Rolex and...women ! Oh boy ! Yes, I know : slippery terrain nowadays...but I am not here to be politically correct, right...? So let's take this comparaison that will probably speak to many of us (at least the male audience). You are a teenager, and of course you have a crush on Tiffany - like many guys from the class room. Tiffany is cute, sexy without being smoking hot like Jessica the head of cheerleaders - Tiffany is mid tier, so to say... Now do not get me wrong : you are also your self mid tier, and you know it. I mean, your not like as popular and jacked as Tom the quarter back of the football team. You are kind cute to handsome, with a bit of charm and humour - but you are not smoking hot either. All in all, Tiffany is an average girl as you are an average guy - and that sounds like a pretty reasonable match... Excepted that you are invisible to Tiffany... Tiffany is so over flooded in her social media accounts (Tinder, Bumble, even OF, you name it !) by the tons of simps all around you that you are juste invisible to her. Of course in front of such an abondance, Tiffany has the best time of her life. And after all, in front of all this abundance, why being shy ? Why settle for you when Tom the QB of the football team came to blow her back one night where Jessica was not there to check Tom's schedule...And so Tiffany sems to have sex with everyone except you, of course. Worst, one day you tried your luck and she told you with a clear disdain and with no uncertain doubt that you were not good enough for her, as Chad and Tyroone were soooo better than you... Years passes...you made your life and became a pretty succesfull man and at Christmas you return to your home town, and by chance you bump into Tiffany at the mall. Tiffany is clearly not anymore the girl that she used to be...she is now overwight, has two kids obviously of two different baby dadies, the face is also a bit fat not to say groos, wrinkle are there, she looks tired, there is not anymore this little spark in the eye...in short she has hit the wall and became everything but attractive... Of course she reckognizes you in a blink of an eye and can not help herself to start a conversation, telling her life of failures, her regrets, her mistakes and how she, in fact, always liked you. Now she can not figure out why you never went on a date together. But it's not too late, right, we can still have dinner while you are here, cant we ? In fact she is trying hard to get you now that she is clearly left out of her pas attractive options and that she needs someone to help pay the bills... In front of this pathetic behaviour, you have the terrible impression that now that she is basically over worn by the party years your where not invited to. Now that she needs someone to save her from her mistakes, now you are, at last, good enough for her...And by looking at this flabby skin, you wonder if you are more disgusted by the way she looks or by the fact that she thinks now you are good enough for having her,. In fact you do not understand how she does not get the simple evidence that first you have the spine to refuse such an unattractive proposal, but that on top you have now much better options... Well, this story that I think will appeal to a lot of you, this is the story of many of us with Rolex. Every time we showed hop in a boutique, we had to go trhough disdain, jump through insane hoops, suffer multiple deceptions and all of this...for a mid tier steel watch that it seems they gave to everyone but us, for a watch that is good, but does not worth all the hype and attention it gets... All this ad nauseam rejection from the brand finally pushed you away, and now you pass in front of the windows where all this exposed "for exhibition only" model stands without looking and without regeret. And one day, one of those AD where you once tried to get a Rolex a few years ago and where you left your name to be on a so called waiting list, rings you and in the same way than Tiffany took your mobile phone to arrange and drink and to give you the wonderfull opportunity of being the backup plan. And in the same way the move of Tiffany disgusted you, you are now even more disgusted by the brand, having the impression to be a second rank individual. And this gentleman is the problem of Rolex - on top of selling watches with zero technical innovation (let's see Rolex invent something like the Sprongdrive of Seiko - I'll bring the pop corn), making well made but not that special wtaches, they managed to disguss the watch enthousiast that found wonderfull time pieces better priced at other brands... Is Rolex about to fall ? I do not think so, because as for Tiffany, there will be always a simp ready to pay full price for having her at her worst - and this crowd is huge in the case of Rolex. However, prediction on the Luxuous products that big banks are issuing now are pretty negative. A serious recession is possible, China which used to be a big market for Rolex is probably not that in a good shape : it could be that the wanabee crowd simply disappears with the economic downturn. If that happens, then Rolex could heavily regret their contempt for you, because watch enthousiasts would be the only custommer left. It will be the time to do what you did with Tiffany and refuse the offer, because you they should have known better your worth and now it's too late...

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Oh man! What an explanation! And spot on. Love the analogy and comparison. You are right. There will always be a simp waiting…

[@seayak]

It is hard to justify the modern versions of a Rolex Subby when you could buy any number of microbrand versions e.g (Steinhart, Formex, Squale) with very high quality cases, faces and bracelets, solid ETA or Selitta Swiss movements, at a fraction of the price without sacrificing durability, water resistance appearance or formerly hard-to-find features such as ceramic bezels, saphire crystals and exhibition casebacks. The same applies to the Blancpain fifthy fathoms, still on offer, new, at the price of a BMW sedan. I am wearing a gorgeous Christopher Ward "Orca black" Aquitane GMT that has a box crystal and GMT bezel realized in durable transparent sapphire crystal, an exhibition caseback, water resistance to 20 atmospheres, a Swiss-made Selitta 330-2 caliber, and a superbly designed and executed case and bracelet. Why would I pay the eye-watering dealer price for the "original" that initiated this particular set of features and design language, but which offers literally nothing more at the level of aesthetics and functionality? Bravo to each of these high-end manufacturers for their innovations in movement and watch architecture, but the market has gotten vastly more competitive at the affordable end of the spectrum. Remember when American car manufacturers complacently believe dthat Japanese cars would never be able to compete with the domestic product in terms of quality and value for dollar? I do not concur that the classic Rolex watches are "garbage", they are anything but. They are simply vastly overpriced. The investment Rolex made in developing and manufacturing iconic items like the Submariner or Master GMT must surely have been fully amortized decades ago. The price for those watches just needs to come down for the company to remain competitive, so that people could buy and enjoy them without hard-to-justify financial sacrifices.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

You do make a lot of good points. And a lot of good comparison. One of which is Christopher Ward which I think is one of the best value per dollar right now for swiss Watches for the quality. I don’t think Rolexes are completely garbage. But the pricing is garbage. One of the largest arguments I come in contact with is the fact that people think Rolex is high horology, and the best on the market. And it is anything but. Is a Rolex submariner, a solid, sturdy, bulletproof watch? Sure. For 2 grand. And if they want to list their prices at $100,000 in the market, there’s a fine. One of the biggest issues also is the snobbery that comes around Rolex. Nothing is worse than a brand new purchaser of a Rolex. Who owns nothing else….

[@seayak]

Thanks for this reflective and interesting response!. I own several superb examples of both Christopher Ward and Steinhart watches, and after several years of ownership still have no issues with of any of them. I wear them as appropriate to the activity or occasion, and take delight in having a collection of fine Swiss watches that did not break the bank. I have not encountered watch snobbery in the scientific and academic circles I move in - perhaps because achievement in these realms is not measured in terms of material wealth. At least I can wear a Steinbach Rolex homage without getting shamed, though I do get occasional compliments on how nice these are. Honestly there are few among my peers who even pay attention to watches. I would be happy to wear the "real thing" if, as you say, the price from Rolex represented real value, but in the meantime here is a shout out to companies like Christopher Ward whose direct-to customer sales are upsetting the apple cart in the advertising and endorsement-driven realm of watch marketing. Authorized dealers and waiting lists indeed - phooey!

[@Mr.DippsChad]

Most over rated watch ever made. Almost hard to buy all this hold back that’s why I never buy one.

[@dunderhay9169]

The problem with Rolex is that the image and retail prices are out of step with the watches they make. Twenty five years ago they were a decent quality, reliable and accurate water resistant watch, not high horology, but fairly priced and available in stores. Since then, all the hype and the price increases have pushed their watches up against much more sophisticated watches, so Rolex aren't bad watches, but they are overpriced mass produced watches.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Very well said

[@dunderhay9169]

@@SaintWill70 I would argue the Aquaterra is a better watch with a substantially more advanced movement, so more worthy of its RRP. I can't say I like it though, Omega usually fit horrible hands.

[@jonrichenberger7903]

Overpriced vs what?

[@jolewis8969]

Exactly

[@jchung6082]

Agree! Over price excessively ; no new technologies besides playing colors at best !!

[@kamil151]

I agree with your take. I am in no position to buy any Rolex watch, but I had a chance to hold rolex sky dweller with oyster bracelet and yes it looks nice, but the oyster bracelet was just... well steel bracelet like my watches for 1k euros. I am not saying bad quality, but just normal and nothing special like all these fan boys hype up the oyster bracelet to be. And that was the feeling from the watch regular, I was not amazed at all. For this price, you can actually get proper watchmaking from other brands.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Yes! People have such an issue when I say Rolex is mid tier. It’s not high horology. It’s over priced branding. And good for them. But there are actually high horology watches, hand made, hand finished, in the same price range

[@giraudetxavier3439]

Seems their retail and real estate operations are and will be doing well looking at their last acquisition.

[@bonaadventures897]

Well Rolex just bought Bucherer.

[@megasoid]

Self inflicted wounds. That's part of what they get for their elitist "vetting" of potential customers, a process I'm totally turned off by. I find it ironic how a walk-in to an AD makes more money than the stooge behind the glass counter. Same old tired designs like others in their so-called range. Microbrands are doing it better in some respects. I support them because they support me as a paying customer...their watches are nothing for someone else to determine if I "deserve" them. I can afford a Rolex but haven't set foot in one of their stores for over 30 years. Just subscribed.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I agreed with you. I have walked past the ADs for about 8 years and just won’t waste my time. Thanks for subscribing!

[@DavidSchwartzjr]

Agree with a lot you said here, Chase! Shout out to the Fifty Fathoms! I can say the most impressive thing about my FF is when I take it off or pick it up after sitting for the weekend and put it back on the timegraph, she is always at 0 to -1s per day. A true high horology piece but I’m biased lol

[@allthingsrandom8137]

LOL! It’s a great watch. I’d be bias too

[@M123OCT]

How things have changed: it used to be the perception that Rolex owners were considered snobby about their watch. Now things have turned 180 degrees: people are now snobby and looking down on Rolex (or so they claim - quite often I suspect it's envy). I reckon that the biggest issue is that at the first sign of a Rolex, people now immediately question whether it is a fake. But is Rolex dying? No. And everyone knows it.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I get what you’re saying, I don’t think it’s envy. Rolex is affordable to most people who work hard enough. But nobody wants to go through the goat rope of having to get a watch by buying things they don’t want. I think a lot of people now understand that Rolex isn’t the best, and you’re right they are faked so much that one of the first questions you get from someone is “is it real” I’ve said in the past that Rolex is the “poor man’s Rich Watch”, because most rich people buy something else other than Rolex. But people see it as a status because of Branding. Almost like they are the wealthiest among the middle class… They are still mediocre, they lack innovation, all that is true.

[@M123OCT]

@@allthingsrandom8137 Make no mistake, I always advise potential buyers of Rolex NEVER to play the bullsh*t games with Rolex retailers. These are nothing more than shop assistants, selling products, for profit. I have never paid over retail for a Rolex, and anyone who does is a gullible fool who has been a victim of hype. They're watches; they're not important. Anyway, I enjoy your videos, cheers. 👍

[@joedeguzman9283]

@@M123OCT I have still have my Rolexes but I hate wearing it. I love the watch but I hate what it stands for now. Not bitter or related to the shopping experience but it definitely doesn't help. I'm sure other watch nerds like me feel it but can't quite recognize what exactly they are feeling. It also has nothing to do with snobbery. The truth is, "flex" culture destroyed the hobby. New Rolex owners are now more concerned about the status the watch brings them as opposed to the love for these watches. They care more about their flaunting their purchasing power as opposed to identifying the real identity of the watch. Prior to this hype; I've always seen people who wore these watches to be dignified, accomplished, respectable, polished, graceful and genuinely interesting people. The previous custodians to the brand are moving on. The people that made this brand what it is today have been shit on by these AD dealers as well. It definitely doesn't help. I hate being associated with the sleazy grey market dealers peddling this hype. Tacky is what I see when I see a person wearing a Rolex. The cool factor is gone. I truly hope this changes because they are great watches. Honestly, there is not one Rolex watch and AD that can offer me that I would want to buy because of what the brand is starting to represent. Wearing a Rolex now is just about fitting in and it's so lame. Sad to say, that's the reason why the brand's prestige is dying. Maybe that's just the natural evolution of the hobby and my own personal journey. I love my new IWC and Cartier. I just love how they don't come with any extra baggage. @ronibajralia7008 @richyrich7288 @Clipsbydominik @dunderhay9169

[@driller7714]

Rolex watches are nice, if a bit plain. The problem is that they are not as nice as the price tag suggests. I don’t look down on Rolex but I think there are better options out there. In my opinion the price bracket for the steel submariner should be in the $6k range. One can get a comparable watch for that price. Daytona would be good at $8k to 10k for steel. There are many comparable chronographs in this range. Rolex pricing has been rising but there is a ceiling. At some point the pricing will exceed the actual value to the point that people buying into the brand at these grossly inflated prices are going to take a serious loss. I see the bubble popping catastrophically on the Rolex price surge and people who bought these as investments losing substantial amounts of money. There are just too many high quality watches out there for far less for this not to happen. This is the main reason why I opted not to buy Rolex, overinflated pricing and the fact that there are watches I personally like better that happen to be thousands of dollars cheaper.

[@M123OCT]

@@driller7714 I think one of the Rolex 'problems' is that, generally, they hold value or increase. Even the last one I bought, a simple Oyster Perpetual, cost me £4,700. That same watch, from the same year, now sells used for £7k-£8k. I have no interest in buying and selling, but that has to be taken into account in any judgement of 'value'. That said, I have some very low price watches which I adore too.

[@SkywalkerPMs]

Im satisfied with my 16233 blue vignette/diamond dial, 18k jubilee, 36mm. Its perfect for me. I will get a Speedy though, already have an Aqua Terra. Strangely, my pre-Invicta Combat Sub gets more wrist time.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Can’t help what we love

[@marcuslieberman3577]

Great video. As a watch enthusiast and "collector" I would like (one) Rolex. Dollar for dollar Omega is the better watch. I'm about case material; Dial; Hands; Movement. I'm thinking of financing a "Spring Drive" rather than a Rolex.

[@shanephillips8735]

I do like the no date sub, but agree they are mediocre and overpriced

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I am a fan of the no date sub, but better if it was $5000 or under..

[@shanephillips8735]

@@allthingsrandom8137 They are just too expensive for what they are. Rolex snobs will often scoff how good the build quality is, but I've held in my own hand a polar Explorer II and a San Martin, and the difference isn't a million miles away. There are also plenty of micros that scratch the itch for that type of watch, Steinhart etc. I also picked up a Squale for £400, absolute beauty of a watch

[@MrPINKFL0YD]

You can pay £ 200 for a watch with the sub case finished to the same standard with a high beat movment accurate to a second every other day. With BGW9, etc etc. I have one. I also have a Sub and to be honest the only thing that the sub has as an "advantage" is the name. It's extremely well built and highly accurate, but the homage is...

[@johndobbs300]

Rolex has been mediocre for years, the watches are solid for sure and I love my explorer 2 - but the fact remains people vote with their money and clearly the votes are in , Rolex will always be on top until people spend elsewhere and so far that’s not really happening. Rolex is not dead they are not even near it, some people’s enthusiasm may be dying yet still own a rolex if not more

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I admit in the video that they’re still on top. A lot of companies have been on top for a long time until they started to do what Rolex is doing and then eventually sell that’s my point. What is a KZbin channel called company man, who often goes through these large businesses rise and falls. Rolex might not be dead in five years, or 10 years, but in 20 years, they won’t be on top if they continue their same path

[@omarion07]

So you’re telling me that a behemoth the size of Rolex is dead? You do realise Rolex controls 30% of the Swiss luxury watch market and just yesterday they purchased one of the largest watch retailers in the world. Sounds to me like wishful thinking from a hater and someone who wants to increase their small channel views.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Did you get past the first 30 secs? 🤷🏻‍♂️ I should care more, but the engagement is growing my small channel..thanks bud

[@jonrichenberger7903]

I get why people use click bait titles for their videos, but you appear to know enough about the hobby and industry to know that what you're saying is a reach at best. Rolex isn't going to go from 30% of the entire Swiss watch market to "dead". Understand your points about not haut horology, a QC issue here or there, but in the end the crown is what people want. No one cares about a FF that loses 30% of its value the day you put in on your wrist. Not saying other brands are trash just because they don't say "Rolex", but the brand they've built in the last 100 years is stronger than Blancpain or Hublot or virtually any company regardless of industry and will remain that way for the next 100 years. I want to be clear, I'm not trying to come off as a Rolex fanboy or trash your video at all. I understand and respect your points. But it seems more than a little click bait-ey and overzealous.

[@drpepper3838]

Whats your opinion about AP? I feel they are a 1 trick pony. How long are they gonna last? Royal oak still looks cool tho.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Funny you say that, on Monday I’m releasing a video called why Audemars piquet is dying.. stay tuned

[@petersmith2040]

Agree with you 110%. The Lowlex of today is about hype, artificial shortage, artificial exclusivity, and artificially high prices just because the market is willing to pay for their ridiculously high prices. It’s a bubble that will burst at any moment, just like the real estate bubble or the Bitcoin bubble, that eventually burst and many people get slaughtered financially in the current rising interest rate environment.

[@dannysimenauer5745]

I would like to own a new GMT Master II, Pepsi and Batman. I would like to buy from my local dealer. I will not prostitute myself on the AD patard of buying things I do not want. I am a patient person, so I buy from other brands that offer great value for the dollar. If I have to do it the "Rolex Way", then I guess I will not be a Rolex customer.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Hopefully you’re able to find a good authorized dealer. There are few and far between, but you can find one. In Alaska we only have Ben bridge, and over the years it’s gone down. I don’t know if it’s because of Rolex, or it’s because of the employees. But I won’t shop there anymore even after spending tens of thousands of dollars. I was good enough back in the day to buy a Rolex from them, but today it’s different. today I’m not good enough.zz

[@philw4053]

You were 24 hours too early with this. 😂. Do you still think they are dying? 😂😂

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I never said that company themselves were dying generally. But even with their massive purchase, they are going to start alienating more people, and it’s gonna be harder to buy their product. It’s going to turn more people away from them.

[@Milofchg]

Just get an Omega Speedmaster, or JLC

[@allthingsrandom8137]

So agree…

[@vincet6730]

good one: high horology versus branded watches.

[@toproll8514]

Rolex is dying when they are the number 1 on the watch and real estate market, and have just consolidated this position by acquiring all of Bucherer ? In the kingdom of the blind, the one-eyed are kings...

[@kevinl6231]

I’ve come to the conclusion that the Rolex is a Sherman tank. It’s largely and hype and flex watch and aside from the metal, they’re not that good. Almost vulgar and showy. I had a Day Date several years but sold it because I had too much money parked in it. A couple meh datejusts. I went over to Omega and Panerai.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I like that…a couple “meh” datejusts…

[@kurthill7030]

Something I have been saying about Rolex for year's nothing new from Rolex didn't make a chronograph watch off there own for year's had their watches from the 60s-70 not well made at all omega zenith made better watch 👍

[@JuanitoSiete]

Yet, Rolex still sells more watches than everyone else not named Apple and Rolex hold their values better than any other brand. What are they doing right?

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Well, that’s not true. Yes Rolex does sell over 1 million watches a year. That’s nothing close to seiko, Casio, Tissot, or multiple other watch brands who sell by volume at a more affordable price. So clearly you don’t understand the Watch market. Do they sell more than Patek Philippe? Sure, because Patak Philippe has higher Horology in Watches. But if we’re comparing apples to apples, Rolex isn’t even close to other brands with the same quality comparison. Not price comparison, quality comparison.

[@bber45]

Good video my man. Well done. I will I have to agree with you some what. , Recently, Rolex was banking on they hype machine and marketing and it paid them well. Very well. But Rolex must have been sleeping Economics 101 and forgot about the law of Diminishing Returns. And like you said, Rolex is boring and they really don't innovate much. The nail in the coffin for them is the shitty AD's playing their little games. I think smart folks with money got sick of it and looked to other watch brands like Omega, AL, Breguit, Glashutte, etc... Sad too, because I've owned 3 Rolex in my time. I remember in the 2000s upon finishing school and military service, you could walk into any Rolex AD and be treated with respect and get good customer service. The AD's were more mom and pop back then but they always talked to me respectfully. I bought my first Rolex which was a Sub 1160 and couldn't have had a better experience. Me and the AD shot the shit, offered me a discount, shook my hand the whole 9 yards. Same for the 2nd and 3rd purchases. Now today, any time you walk into a Rolex Ad, the salesman's is smug as hell, says you need to by "XYZ" and maybe I'll put you on the list for a "XYZ". F*ck em. Not playing their game and if I'm drop serious cash on a watch I want to be able to walk in, try it out, and pay it.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I even think the recent purchase by Rolex is going to make things far worse. Go into a Breitling AD, and you are treated fantastically. Most AD’s are great, but yes, Rolex ADs are smug, stuck up, and only sell watches to the same people, who flip them…. They are going to hurt themselves more, though it’ll take time, just watch..

[@bber45]

@@allthingsrandom8137 Should do your next video on AP. Talk about being dead. AP has managed to kill it's self pretty quickly and literally turned into Invicta. Ap watches have crashed 40-50% as of August and Ap has killed their line up. You can only ride a one trick pony for so long (Royal Oak) and the market is showing that people got tired of the same old trick.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

@@bber45 yeah, I was really considering that. Thanks for validating the fact that I’ll just make a video next week on it! Because yeah, when you look at their Spider-Man, their Alex collection, and like their black panther. They are essentially INVICTA

[@petervu7230]

You made some good points, but Rolex will never die.. And please never say Hublot is a good brand please :)

[@bartobruintjes7056]

Because of people as you like to be scammed.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

🤣🤣🤣

[@petervu7230]

@@bartobruintjes7056 all brands are marketing based, everything above 1000 dollars is overrated. So don't act like you're a smart luxury brand watch buyer you dumbf

[@thewatchagent2998]

The more you ppl say Rolex is dead or dying, the more publicity they get and it makes ppl want them more. So plz stop saying this BS. And take it as a man. If you can’t afford to buy one. Then get over it. Not everyone has to have a Rolex.

[@spg770]

Great job on the video, I enjoyed it. But I must disagree with you. Rolex is a trusted brand because they are consistent, and have been for decades. You may find more beautiful watches, but you won’t find more reliable ones. Don’t take it from me, ask the watchmakers what they think of Rolex movements. Hell, ask all the dealers, new and preowned, how often Rolexes come back for repair. Give credit where credit is due, building and maintaining a reputation like Rolex has takes very long and hard work. If it was that easy, all the brands would be in high demand. Lastly, Rolex has been an innovator since it’s inception. Just because they don’t make flashy, fragile and impractical complications, doesn’t mean they aren’t pushing the limits of mechanical chronometry. Sometimes the biggest innovations are they ones you can’t even see. If you don’t like what Rolex makes, don’t buy it. It won’t change the fact that they make the best watches in the world.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Like I said, the video was mostly done, and just. However, I do think that Rolex is mediocre. Yes, they’ve built a brand, and that is it. They are not high horology, which everybody wants to argue, which is what I am arguing. I think that Rolex has not built a good reputation because of their authorized dealers. They have bought a major chain, so they’re going to have control of their authorized dealers, which is going to cause the prices to hike, even more, and give more potential customers a bad taste in her mouth. They aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. But remember, GMC and Ford were once at the top of the market for vehicles, and are no longer there. Every brand, and every business has their day. Today it’s Rolexes, but I’m telling you that in 20 years you and I are going to have a different conversation.

[@spg770]

@@allthingsrandom8137 Good talk! I completely understand where you're coming from. I don't always like the company, sometimes I think they're a bit too arrogant and uncaring about the customer experience. Their products are so in demand that almost all AD's are using them as leverage, it's a hard problem to solve. They have fired some AD's for misbehaving, I believe they're doing their best and with time things will improve. I must disagree with you on Rolex being mediocre, they're absolutely not. I've found them to be among the highest quality for their price range (frankly in any price range), and I've seen them all. Name me one brand, that has anything close to the ergonomics of the Rolex Oysterlock clasp + Glidelock? I'll wait. High horology is a different animal. I'm not sure why you're trying fit Rolex into that category. High horology is about artisanship, hand finishing etc.; they're about beautiful and evocative designs - they're not meant to be worn everyday. And if they are, their service intervals get very short, like every one to two years, vs Rolex's 10 years. I've never heard anyone argue that Rolex is high horology, they've never pretended to be that. Bucherer only has 100 stores, Rolex has over 1800 AD's worldwide. It will give them a bit of leverage, but not much, at least not in the short term. They increase their prices anyway, I'm not sure how buying Bucherer will cause a direct price increase. Now hey, everything that goes up must come down. They may not be red hot in 20 years, who knows, they may not even be around. But today, they make the daily watches in the industry.

[@waynehatton4136]

Clean vintage watches are the way to go.

[@azhomeboy2000]

At this point, even if the price of a Rolex was in my wheelhouse, I would pass and get an Omega or Grand Seiko. The spring drive movt. is just awesome.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Completely agree. There’s a video scheduled to release next week about 3 watches better than Rolex… hint…. Grand seiko is one. Cheaper and 10x better finishing.

[@driller7714]

@@allthingsrandom8137People are starting to catch on to the fact that there are many watches that are equal or superior in quality to a Rolex. Rolex brand prestige has and will continue to take them far, but I am willing to bet that quality, especially at a cheaper price, will win out.

[@arodbas]

I agree, they’re overpriced. And they get away with it because of their branding. And thanks to that, they will continue to lead the market. You don’t necessarily need the best product, just the best placement.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Very true

[@rosomak8244]

No. Going "premium" games usually works just for a while. It may be decades indeed but the writing is on the wall: they will have to change or vanish.

[@jacktits2836]

Stop it Ive been wearing my submariner for 21 years never serviced it runs perfect all poppycock

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I’m glad you have an older Rolex. So do I. That being said, buying one today is a total different experience than even when I bought mine 13 years ago. Still mid-tier, and full of snobbery… change my mind…

[@sangkim7241]

Well said.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Thanks

[@lovesautodetail]

Rolex is status. That’s all we care about.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Rolex is only status to the unassuming. Those deep in the Watch world know that it’s not status.

[@kevinpascual]

I can only speak from anecdotal experience. I reached out to a local dealer here in FL and they offered me a 126234 Blue Dial DJ - A watch that I did want. I was in contact for a few months but I was never obligated to buy other pieces and I have no prior history with them. Is my experience an anomaly?

[@allthingsrandom8137]

For sure it was. But I’m glad you had someone who was professional and worked with you. It’s very rare for Rolex

[@kevinpascual]

@@allthingsrandom8137 perhaps lightning in a bottle, I wanted a piece they couldn’t sell immediately

[@Itsgotit]

Yup

[@Nexus.Achiles]

Boring is fine. In the long run, boring tends to be the tried and tested. Boring is the result of success. To be boring, you have to be around for a long time. Fancy wancy on the other hand is great for a short while, then comes a point when you can't stand it anymore. Fancy wancy doesn't stick, doesn't stand the test of time. For the long term, get a timeless design with proven and reliable technology. Let others beta test the new stuff. Let others be fancy wancy, while you're having a good laugh.

[@muffemod]

Truth hurts.

[@rtwoods]

Rolex is the ultimate in resting on their laurels.

[@thewatchguyinc.7429]

You are looking at this from one angle point of view. Some people buy things also because of exclusivity … you cannot compare Rolex to Mido or Zelos…

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I get what you’re saying. Rolex is not exclusive necessarily because I can go purchase anything on the gray market right now. Over priced yes.. and that’s the funny thing is they produce over 1 million watch of the year, and they’re really not that exclusive It’s the perception of exclusivity, and the authorized dealers that bug me the most. Prices are about to go down even more than what they’ve already been. Rolex will always be one of the top ones because of branding and that’s it. Not because of quality.

[@thewatchguyinc.7429]

@@allthingsrandom8137 it’s exclusive vs Mido, Zelos and Omega …. You cannot walk into an AD and purchase a Pepsi, Batman , Daytona or a Skydweller. You have to buy a much higher premium to access that (yes now less than last 2 years) but it’s still an exclusivity. You can order Mido, Zelos or others online (Zero exclusivity)

[@thewatchguyinc.7429]

Some people like exclusivity … I’m not sure when you walk into a room and you are rocking a Mido you will have a wow reaction but you may with a Rolex. People, dig that and identify sometimes as such. Part of the Rolex club

[@raylang339]

Every time I wear my Bulova Marine Star, I ask myself why doesn't Rolex come up with something as beautiful and enjoyable as it is.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Indeed..

[@keithsproson4328]

Yep , a lot better watches out there now.

[@jolewis8969]

Overpriced garbage!!! Now you are talking rubbish. Pardon the pun

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Totally overpriced. Take off the brand, the quality of the watch is maybe a grand.. maybe 2. Mid-tier, basic, poor quality control for the price.

[@pikachus5m166]

The two most iconic homages, Rolex Submariner (Breitling 50 Fathoms) and the Omega Speedmaster (Rodania Chronograph). Best bang for the money homage, Casioak.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Very well said..

[@elpillo7281]

what about buying super reps of rolex :-d

[@omar10213245]

lol this is ridiculous. Rolex is going to be at the top of the mountain for a lonnnnng time to come.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

Perhaps.

[@TM99099]

I Hope they going to buy other brands, so I can buy Rolex again at my ad anytime I want 😊 no more fighting. Hihihi he said Rolex is dead 😂

[@user-xo3uy5bp4g]

If Rolex was so bad it would not be so popular for so long! Rolex bought bucherer.Rolex will be king for awhile.

[@thofMay]

You are another who has bought one of their waaaaayyyy overpriced watches. There are a lot of you, but probably can only afford one purchase in your lifetime. Enjoy the coming shit-show, for coming it most certainly is. You/me/everybody can spend 6£450 to buy a watch that is, to all intents and purposes, a Rolex (super clone). You wouldn't be able to tell the difference, but hey, you were fleeced for the 'real deal'...

[@roflagain1]

Rolex is dead? 25% of all Swiss watch sales. 4 times the revenue of Omega, Cartier, etc. Supply exceeds demand so much that models like Batman, Pepsi, Daytona are worth more than retail.

[@WellAye]

Ha! The hate is strong on this channel. Bookmarked to come back in 3 years and laugh.. The shit people talk on the internet. Haven’t got a clue. “I dont speak to people who wear a Rolex” Lmao, that’s statement says ALOT about you rather a Rolex wearer/customer. Honestly… wtf. Lol

[@allthingsrandom8137]

I don’t think you have any clue… and I don’t think you watched the whole video. Trust me… in the Watch community I am in line with 99% of reviewers. 🤷🏻‍♂️. In three years my two Rolex’s will be 50% sold, and my collection will have turned 6 or 7 times. Rolex will be harder to get, more expensive for less quality, and people will still talk shit. See you in 3 years

[@WellAye]

@@allthingsrandom8137 gladly. Rolex will still be making more than any other watch brand out there. Guaranteed. Behave yourself. Hater. I bet you have a closet full of G shock and Hugo Boss watches.

[@allthingsrandom8137]

@@WellAye see, you’ve never watch the channel. I have a 2 rolexs, purchased 12 to 13 years ago from an authorized dealer But then again, you’re just a troll who talks shit. Continue to comment it’ll just push the algorithm. Doesn’t bother me.

[@thofMay]

Hey pal, China produces more movements/watches than anywhere else in the World, not fucking Switzerland. China is where all the west's parts are made. You haven't a friggin' clue pal. China will rule the watch world, very soon... I'll enjoy my rolex suoer clone, and you couldn't tell the difference from a 'real' one@@WellAye