Rolex Money vs Rolex Knowledge

[@nateperry405]

I like and agree with what you have to say. But two things can be true at once-modern and vintage Rolex can be great. Vintage Rolex and modern Rolex don’t have to be enemies. They are just different flavors of Rolex. I like and enjoy both.

[@jh-il5sb]

i totally agree with you. i went into my AD yesterday and was trying on some watches. i tried on the "pepsi" and was not expecting to really really like it. i have been looking at older vintage gmt's and discounted the newer ceremic models, but was impressed with the new version. yes, they both can co-exist in someones collection

[@DrRolexPhD]

Yes I totally agree. I think both can/should coexist in a collection.

[@lastminute2607]

Mic drop... What you say here hits the nail on the head. It sums up all the reasons to get into vintage. I think it's a lot of fun to learn the brand and dive into the history and the hunt for an amazing vintage piece. A little bit of your time invested to understand what your looking for goes a long way. Vintage is too often said to be scary when really all it takes is finding a good dealer and they're everywhere these days. That said, I also have a couple modern ceramics and they are amazing too. Technically, they are made better. New materials, upgraded movements, modern manufacturing techniques. But the vibe is different. They don't have the same soul. And if we're being honest, the 5 or 4 digit preceramics are more comfortable and all but disappear on your wrist.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks man! Yeah I totally agree. Yes the modern ceramics are made better. Rolex is a brand whose ethos is progress. Each iteration of a particular model is "better" than the last. And the NEXT iteration will be even better still. But they just don't have the same soul as vintage.

[@Teymurphell2]

The guy who originally bought that pre ceramic watch, he bought the watch that was current then. He didn’t buy a Rolex from the 70s ok. You buy what’s current to your time yes. Say what you will the new ones are just better in every way.

[@jonathanland2218]

Love the GMT2 16713. Beautiful two tone too.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Me too!

[@MountainSalsa]

Great perspective thank you!

[@DrRolexPhD]

My pleasure!

[@fire_watch7735]

I have both and love them equally for different reasons. Cheers

[@DrRolexPhD]

Amen brother!

[@animarku570]

Great content, i saw your video till the end and you covered all the issues, I have been watching KZbin watch channels for more than 5 years intensively and always wanted to buy a submariner date, and finally I bought it last year for my 30th anniversary, 126610LN (41mm) at premium of course, I’ve been saving for years so i go for the new one No need to worry about service history,timekeeping accuracy ,genuine parts ,over polished, bracelet stretch which is serious issue and expensive to repair,btw vintage bracelets are flimsy especially the clasp, but the most fearful thought i had while hunting was that I could possibly ended up buying a frankenstein watch

[@DrRolexPhD]

Congrats on the Sub! I'm happy for you, it's a beautiful watch. And you waited so patiently for it. Well done.

[@animarku570]

@@DrRolexPhD thanks bro 😎

[@WatchUnwind]

Lmao at the people butt hurt by your title and picture slide 😂

[@DrRolexPhD]

Lol, yeah I went a little overboard with it. But whatever!

[@tab3Gator]

Modern Rolex owner here...but I still very much enjoy your perspective and content. Please keep making videos.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks Thomas! I still admire and appreciate modern Rolex, don't get me wrong. I just personally prefer wearing pre-ceramic on a daily basis.

[@dannysoto1973]

Hi love your videos I seen the video you did about the Pepsi value can you do that on a 116520 Pre-ceramics

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks Danny! Yeah ok I'll add it to my list!

[@watchsymposium]

Great response video! I know what it's like to have the villagers break out their pitchforks over a video. :)

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks Austin! Yeah I remember your comments sections back in the day! It's funny how people with the most expensive, exclusive, and desired watches in the world get offended about an opinion. Then those same people, who've never made a video putting their face out there, want to tell you what to say and how to make your videos. Insane!

[@jockdodson9093]

Good morning Doc! You make some great points, if you don’t mind, I will add my opinion. First, when I purchased my GMT Master in the 80s it felt heavy compared to other watches, styles and perspectives change. That same watch with the sleek shape has the classic lines of Rolex but, when the slimmed the lugs of the BLNR they call if feminine. The viewer that said, “it takes money to buy modern Rolex but, it takes knowledge to buy vintage.” I believe he gets parts of the story. Yes, it takes knowledge to buy vintage Rolex but, it sure takes money also. Are you referring to vintage, 4 digit models or neo vintage, 5 digit models. Great post as always. Keep them coming!

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks Jock! I appreciate your points. I will add though: yes 4 and 5 digit models take knowledge AND money nowadays; they're not cheap. But I'd argue their premiums are organic, at least, more so than those of modern Rolex. So when you buy 4 or 5 digit Rolex on the secondary market, you're truly paying "market price".

[@jockdodson9093]

@@DrRolexPhD absolutely true. Best not to pay the premium. I have for a couple of watches but, always until $10K.

[@thewatchagent2998]

Awesome content. I have been in jewelry and watch business and collecting for over 12 years. Putting AP, Patek and RM to the side, Rolex is *(was) an entire luxury watch brand to start with, in which that contents its value over time. Unlike omega or beritlings that do look nice but they depreciate very very fast. I can see in the past 2 years every Joe has a Rolex on his wrist. For us watch lovers and collectors it’s no longer a no longer a passion of collecting. It’s became a game. And it’s sad.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thank you! I agree, many aspects of modern Rolex are sad. Fortunately though, we have these beautiful relics of a Rolex past in vintage and pre-ceramic watches.

[@davecorry7723]

Whenever I see a Rolex on someone's wrist in the wild (which is very rare), I get a little burst of happiness. Not really sure why. Just such ... a pleasant little surprise.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Me too! Especially if it's a pre-ceramic. I saw a beautiful polar 16570 on the train and I had to fight every urge in my body to go talk to the guy.

[@WatchesJourney]

For me the satisfaction was in the journey to get my watches at retail. I've contacted almost all European AD's and after many disappointments I've successfully established some good contacts. Luckily I was able to buy all my Rolex and AP watches at the AD's for retail, without side business or previous buying history, but it took patience some positiveness and consistency.

[@WatchesJourney]

Thanks for replying to my earlier comment. Fair point that doing your due diligence can be part of the journey and satisfaction. However, even some experienced enthousiasts have made mistakes buying a non 100% authentic vintage Rolex. You have to accept this risk and also be able to feel comfortable not knowing if your watch is 100% "correct". But if you succeed, the satisfaction can be greater than buying a safe new/modern watch.

[@BB-gl7zt]

I met a friend who bought a 16700 GMT Master I. I expected something flimsy and fragile. Boy was I wrong. Even for it's age, it felt solid and wow was it a looker. Made me rethink my desire for modern Rolex.

[@DrRolexPhD]

I'm happy to hear that! 16700 is such a beauty. Undervalued, imo. Last of the GMT 1s.

[@Condor_Bodo]

Thx for your video. I am absolutely agree with you. I like the thin case of the older models. I am very proud about my 1675 Pepsi... The 16710 was also great. But with plexi and tritium looks for me much better. And also what you said. The history of older models... to collect all Infos before buying the right one... It was a challenge. I love that. To buy a new model is so easy and boring... For me :-) But the most guys are not interested to spend time for Recherche and so on. I am happy now to become more and more an expert... Specially the 1675 with a lot of different types.... I learned a lot.

[@DrRolexPhD]

My pleasure! That's an awesome, awesome watch. Congrats! You can go shop for beautiful bezels. The 1675, in my opinion, has the most beautiful bezels in the world.

[@Condor_Bodo]

@@DrRolexPhD many thx. Absolutely. I am very proud to have the original pepsi bezel with red back too :-) I am so happy watching the hole day at my watch. I have the same opinion as you about older models.. But your robbery video take me a little afraid.. Buf it's also possible and true... Not closing the eyes for that.

[@gregsaga682]

I have many vintage (bought at auction) and new Rolexes (bought at ADs). I really enjoy both but completely different experiences. All of them have been researched extensively and very difficult to obtain. I never wear them in public, only at home. I really enjoy looking at them on my wrist. Great brand with impressive heritage.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Yeah I definitely appreciate both. I prefer pre-ceramic for my money, but I appreciate both.

[@theladder06]

Words of wisdom-I totally agree. Knowledge is power when it comes to vintage and not getting taken advantage of…or just knowing exactly what you’re purchasing.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks! Yeah you gotta have the knowledge. If you're not an informed buyer (with anything, not just Rolex) you'll be taken advantage of.

[@pnproduction2934]

My first watch was the 16570 Polar, no holes w solid end links. To me this was the perfect first Rolex as it gave me the 5 digit sleekness and charm and was not a cliché piece that everyone has. But for my second Rolex I purchased a 41mm sub date from the AD, I wanted the retail experience that is nearly impossible to come by these days, and wanted the robustness of a modern piece. I appreciate both models for what they are and plan to keep both for life.

[@Steve01362]

A lot of solid points made. Similar to your circumstances, I have had several modern Rolex models, and sold them all, incl. a 2020 two-tone sub after 3 months. The idea of them in my mind is better than the reality of having it. So I’m in the middle of the vintage hunt now. Great video bro!

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks Steve! Well said. The IDEA of owning a modern Rolex excites me too, even knowing what I now know. For example, I'm still waiting, hoping, and praying for the call from my AD for the 36mm Explorer. Why? Idk, I just feel like I SHOULD be trying to buy from the AD. But what would I rather put 8k towards? If I'm being totally honest: a beautiful birthyear 1994 steel Datejust.

[@Steve01362]

@@DrRolexPhD Man, I totally relate to that sentiment. That’s definitely a tough choice when the time comes. Maybe one modern wouldn’t hurt? Make the collection a little eclectic? Both are classic and timeless - There’s no wrong choice.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Exactly. I definitely think both modern and vintage can/should coexist in a collection.

[@Steve01362]

@@DrRolexPhD I wanted to ask you a complicated watch question. Cool if I fb pm?

[@amickinflorida9008]

My question is how do you know a watch is unpolished? A good jeweler can polish a watch two or three times and it would still have perfect looking lugs that are not too thin. So how do you define and determine “unpolished“?

[@DrRolexPhD]

Well yes, there are the top 1 or 2% of non-Rolex polishing jobs that will be perfect and imperceptible. But my experience is that the other 98% don't get the lines right. They cut into the chamfers, the brushing on the bracelet is not perfectly straight, tricky places like the crown guards get rounded, etc. It's impossible to polish a watch without removing metal. So if you've looked at hundreds of them (some in person, some online, etc) you can pretty easily tell which have been polished.

[@borjator2996]

Who’s gonna get my 1989 coke GMT? My son is… knowledge is king

[@bgandjsco1]

Good video. I have a Ceramic Sub, and i also have a Tudor BB58 and i can honestly say the BB58 is a better wearing experience. But what i like about the Sub is the scratch resistant Bezel and Glass. I like new looking watches better and to find them Pre-Ceramic can be Trickey and also expensive too . I'll have to keep my eyes open, the pre ceramic subs are starting to really grow on me

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thank you! Yeah I love the BB58, beautiful watch. I wanna get one soon. I appreciate the ceramic bezels, but they're not for me. I want the bezel to age with the watch, and that won't happen with ceramic. But if you like the new shiny look, enjoy it! It's all preference.

[@bgandjsco1]

@@DrRolexPhD I can imagine that the BB58 is a close wearing experience to the Pre-Ceramic sub. The next time Rolex makes changes to the Sub it should go back t0 the Pre-Ceramic specs. True they brought in the Lugs, but they also increased the width of the Bracelet, so I've heard it wears a little larger than the ceramic 40

[@Saints-Forever]

I own the 5 and 6 digits sub and gmt and the 5 digits gets most of my wrist time due to its classical aesthetics and comfort. I personally feel the 6 digits are more a statement pieces nowadays due to the current market hype unfortunately

[@DrRolexPhD]

Yes, it is unfortunate. That's how I felt with the ceramic Sub: like I was trying to make a statement.

[@dannyg6592]

Great video. I also prefer pre-ceramics. The lugs and cases are more elegant and they are more comfortable to wear. Modern ceramics are very blingy. Not a fan of the super case at all.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thank you! Same here man, couldn't agree more. I like certain things about modern Rolex...but not much.

[@Heater-lk7fc]

Very well said

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thank you!

[@Heater-lk7fc]

@@DrRolexPhD I have the same 16710 Pepsi and all black. And I have the 116610 sub, but the 5 digit has my heart

[@DrRolexPhD]

@@Heater-lk7fc nice! Yeah same here. It's got a hold on me!

[@yidong5567]

I too agree vintage rolex wear better aesthetically, but I can't argue anything with modern rolex quality wise. I guess why rolex is the king. They attract both watch collectors and ppl who just wanna flex. And even experienced collectors with huge budget and verarity of vintage rolexes still wanting to get new steel sport models. I think one thing vintage rolex lovers are struggling with is that how the heck op41 is more expansive than the kermit and ceramic pepsi is more expansive than single red sub 1680...... but the market dictates pricing I guess

[@Loosetooth]

I own both modern (116600 & 39mm Exp) and pre-ceramic (16713 root beer) and in my experience pre-ceramic is more fun. You get to do the research, look at bezel variations, clasps, bracelets, explore straps, figure out if crystals have laser etched coronets etc. I tried on ceramic 40mm sub at my AD and didn’t like the fit with super case. Everyone has their own definition of what they find fun though. For me pre-ceramic is my preference for size and comfort but tastes can change. I will say it’s kind of a minefield but not Neo-vintage say around late 90s thru early 2000s onward isn’t as bad as true vintage.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Yes, 100% agree with everything there. All the little details about pre-ceramic and vintage are so much fun. Endless, really.

[@stewartlogan9894]

Pre-ceramic is for people who love character, understand that perfection is flawed, and are willing to put their likes above public perception. Or so I want to think.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Haha, will said Stewart. I totally agree!

[@stewartlogan9894]

@@thepiemaster0933 Opinions are like arseholes - everyone has one. And I’m an arsehole. Again, just an opinion that I want to believe. My view is that of a person who likes vintage and neo-vintage (own a 5-digit Rolex, a 20 year old Jeep, and a 120 year old house) over that of newer, modern designs. Just how I view it, not attempting to disparage anyone.

[@tiempodesobrahn]

Nice vid. To have an opinion you need to have on hand experience with both pre-ceramic and modern. Modern Rolex tend to be on the larger side like the sub/gmt/sead/sky etc they are not for everyone you need a larger wrist size but they do look f'awesome. I'd say if you have a 7 inch wrist you can do either no problem. I have seen guys with tiny wrists wearing big watches and viceversa. I have a 7 inch wrist size and I prefer pre-ceramic for 2 reasons alone... they are NOT being made anymore and the craftsmanship seems higher. Like you say just be careful what you buy don't be a sucker!!

[@DrRolexPhD]

Amen brother! I have a 7.75 inch wrist and I still thought the ceramic Sub was too big on my wrist. I prefer the subtilty and grace of the pre-ceramics. There's a picture of it on my wrist on my Instagram, @drrolexphd (not plugging it, just saying, you can see it there for reference).

[@Jack-S4097]

You are getting too judgmental and spending too much time in the forums.. It’s a hobby and there’s room for everyone

[@DrRolexPhD]

Absolutely. Idk how many times I have to say things like "this is just my opinion", but yes, of course, there's room for everyone. When have I ever said anything to the contrary?

[@KK-qi6mt]

I find modern GMTMASTER or SUB a little bit too nice. It is sterile. You put them on your wrist and you want to like them but they sit too high, they are a jewellery item that you don’t want to scratch them. Whereas the pre ceramic fit like a glove, they are more tool like and built the reputation that Rolex now enjoys. You can liken it to a new Mercedes vs an Old Mercedes. The newer is more expensive and you are meant to be happy with it but it is often a let down. The old Mercedes, BMW, Peugeot or whatever just satisfies. Maybe it is because you have less expectation from it. I don’t know. That is how I feel about Rolex.

[@MA89.]

Great video as always. Pre ceramic are now the watch enthusiasts Rolex. The modern Ceramics are great but losing their appeal due to everyone having them now. My point being no one will ‘flex’ pre ceramic. Pre ceramic is all about the hunt and making sure you do your research

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks man! Totally agree. Modern Rolex, unfortunately, is the watch of the braggart; the douchebag.

[@MA89.]

@@DrRolexPhD yeah sadly the new Rolex designs are bringing down the brand imo. The odd exception such as the Rolex explorer, milguass etc could be argued as watch enthusiast friendly, that’s only down to not seeing many in the wild. I do love the submariner but just it’s what everyone has. So instead got a late Tudor sub, most comfortable one I have

[@DrRolexPhD]

Ooh, beautiful! I love those Tudor subs. Everyone says they should bring it back. I agree only if they do an almost 1:1 reissue of the original. If they do some beefy modern Rolex or black Bay style, I'm not interested.

[@MA89.]

@@DrRolexPhD yeah totally agree. What I love about them is their proper vintage but half the cost of the comparable 1675 etc. I’ve got a 1998 with matte dial and full tritium plots. I’ve updated my profile pic so hopefully can get a look at it. Faded bezel is my favourite touch

[@MA89.]

1680*

[@slavaboggu]

I like both :)

[@DrRolexPhD]

Amen brother!

[@pumaadidas]

have sd43 personally wouldn't touch vintage/ pre ceramic Rolex due to poor cond,poor finishing, Frankenstein movements,dial changes etc I'm not an expert on vintage Rolex don't want my fingers burned totally agree it takes money for modern Rolex knowledge for vintage

[@DrRolexPhD]

Hey man, I can't argue with that. Buying modern is definitely easier and less risky.

[@pumaadidas]

@@DrRolexPhD only if you can get a modern rolex these days I feel people are to fixated on certain models they are not willing to explore other rolex models

[@DrRolexPhD]

@@pumaadidas you're probably right. But what "other" Rolex models are there these days? Everything is impossible to get.

[@pumaadidas]

@@DrRolexPhD bimetal may be

[@gregsaga682]

Always great videos. A privilege and honor to be first. Keep’em coming!

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks Greg! I appreciate that. You're often here first, right?

[@amickinflorida9008]

Doctor, many patients will not like what you prescribe. You have to use you best judgement and advise them accordingly. If they get side effects from your therapy, then they can treat themselves. I have both modern and vintage. For me they are different animals to be enjoyed QD PRN.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Well then I guess they'll just have to go out-of-network for their next doc! I agree, and I think both can/should coexist in a collection.

[@webbezzy]

I liked them both and will take either one if offered to me :-)

[@DrRolexPhD]

Amen, me too!

[@et4920]

Great video, love the content. We may not have the same opinions, but I appreciate your work! I think you’d have an entertaining livestream.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks ET! I appreciate the vote of confidence. I want to do a livestream, but I wanna wait until I have a good deal to talk about.

[@nelsonyswong]

Can’t agree no more professor, vintage is where Rolex’s true texture lies, new ones are just like commodity, less details for the case and printings on the dial... quite sad really, like the brand is not evolving in the right way 🥶

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks Nelson! Yeah the modern stuff definitely feels cold to me, too 🥶

[@loriosterweil982]

I say, whatever floats your boat.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Amen Lori!

[@tainancowboy4318]

keep the faith-

[@colinmacdonald9750]

I prefer the modern sub better heft and build quality. I felt it on my wrist It's a bloody watch man .Man up use some dumbells Great content mind 👌

[@DrRolexPhD]

Thanks man! Hey, to each is own. I prefer the subtilty and grace of the pre-ceramics.

[@Tiger.x801]

I LOVE ROLEX❤️

[@DrRolexPhD]

Amen!

[@stevenwebb9861]

Great perspective but hey, new today will be vintage tomorrow. I want to travel the journey from start to finish with my watch.

[@DrRolexPhD]

Good point, can't argue with that!

[@justinstowe6021]

I have both ,pre ceramic is defo not as good as ceramic your going on price you pay and what you get and on availability from the AD that’s nothing to do with the watch !!! the fit is far better on the modern 2020 watches with the slimmer lugs also back is slimmer less wrist gap fits more flush plus anti reflective coating on modern Rolex nobody seems to know this 🤷‍♂️!!!

[@DrRolexPhD]

Well, I disagree with everything there.

[@justinstowe6021]

@@DrRolexPhD everyone has their own opinion mate cheers 👍

[@DrRolexPhD]

Amen brother!

[@justinstowe6021]

@@DrRolexPhD I’m gonna ask is it as bad in the US to get Rolex as you say here in the UK I’ve no had too much of a problem with the AD got a bluesy two tone a deep sea and a 41 mm date just rose gold two tone chocolate diamond dial 🤷‍♂️maybe it’s just because I’m not asking for the most popular

[@DrRolexPhD]

@@justinstowe6021 yeah that's probably it. I honestly think that if people asked for less popular models, they'd eventually get them. Good for you, that's awesome! I'm jealous!