Did Hype Ruin the Rolex Daytona? A Closer Look At The Daytona 126500LN

[@SenerS10]

Good watch for 13.000 dollars. Not good for 30.000.

[@markgiles8527]

For $30K we can do without it. 😊

[@kimcoulter806]

Exactly

[@porscheoscar]

I wouldn't pay 13k for an unremarkable movement. This was a dime a dozen watch in the 80s. A $10k watch all day long for over a decade in the the 2000s. Then came social media colliding with crypto bros.😮

[@troisk]

​@@porscheoscar It's been a waitlist model since the 90s after the 16520 became popular. The SS Daytona is the one Rolex model that was already hard to get long before the 2017-2018 hype and 2022 bubble. It's been reselling over MSRP on the grey market for decades. Calling the movement unremarkable when the 4130 is widely recognized as the best auto chrono movement on the market shows you don't much about chronos. Go ahead and find another automatic chrono with better specs (free sprung balance, low amount of parts, vertical clutch, 72hr reserve, 100m WR in a 12mm thick case). It took the great Grand Seiko 5 years to create the SLGC001G, yet they could only manage to house it in a 43mm diameter & 15mm thick case. They even made it out of Titanium to contain the weight and it's still heavier than a SS Daytona... So yeah, SS Daytona grey pricing is nuts, and you may or may not like the design. Plenty of other interesting chronos available for more reasonable prices. But no need to invent that it's hype didn't exist 5 years ago, or that it's not an insanely well engineered watch.

[@UrSSuL]

Can you define what would make a watch 10k ? Seriously now

[@Ryan-fh9fh]

Hype has killed Rolex as a brand for me completely. The whole system of building a "relationship" with an AD to get a watch you want at msrp is frankly immoral. Even if this weren't the case the msrp prices are well above what the watches are actually worth. It feels like I am paying for marketing and flexing rather than a good watch.

[@fhujf]

Yup, they have good watches but the brand just has too much baggage. I'll happily take a watch from a brand like Glashutte, just as well made as a Rolex, but only recognizable to watch nerds.

[@chefsaliva5317]

You watch your mouth. The hobby wouldn’t be where it is today if it wasn’t for Rolex and by extension the luxury industry.

[@fishheadbreakroom]

I moved on to JLC due to their contempt for regular clients. Rolex is not special. I dont want the same watch as the bartender.

[@IamnotJokic]

AP and Patek do the same thing but they explicitly tell you what you have to buy to get the watch you want eventually so they don’t give you false hope like Rolex does.

[@nuffaction5464]

​@@chefsaliva5317 pillock

[@thepathtoawe]

Got my El Primero Daytona in 1996 for $4300. Walked into dealer, bought it on the spot. Stainless Steel / Black Face. It's the only watch I own. Have worn it every day since. Serviced only once, keeps perfect time. Still have box, receipts, and all paper work :)

[@pauln0371]

That's because it's got a Zenith movement 👍👍👍

[@sskumariyer]

lucky! cherish it, keep it forever and ever. you have perhaps the best one of them all.

[@thepathtoawe]

@@sskumariyer thank you... I never knew what I had until just a couple of years ago. Has zero scratches on it even though I have worn it every day. Still looks like the day I bought it.

[@craftiestbrews5246]

Good story. It’s unfortunate the watch is difficult to get because the person that originally likes this watch may not relate to any of the other Rolex watches, being completely different in style.

[@sskumariyer]

@@thepathtoawe as they say, some things are just meant to be. imo, Zenith's contribution to horology is way overlooked & underappreciated- this was THE first Rolex automatic chronograph (before the 'Zenith' Daytona- the Daytona line was manual wind like a Speedy.) The automatic movt. has played a big part in making the Daytona one of the most desired watches imo. Yours is a historically significant Daytona that set the precedent. The modern day Daytona is (mostly) looks- especially the ceramic bezel, etc. etc.

[@GilbertRose-u1u]

Rolex, as brand is now dead to me! I have an old Submariner and have loved it. When I recently wanted to upgrade to a new GMT Master II, I couldn’t get one-at retail. My AD made me feel like a second class citizen, and I have more self respect than that. Yes, Rolex is now dead to me!

[@mikegp5087]

hmmm sounds more like youre dead to your Rolex AD....

[@GilbertRose-u1u]

I guess guess I never existed! Their loss…Grand Seiko’s gain!

[@0630430]

I agree with you. It's so weird to me that these Rolex AD sales reps treat buyers like shit. At the end of the day, these sales reps work in a retail store selling watches where demand outpaces supply. They don't actually need any real sales skills and they all make less money than the potential buyers who they treat poorly. If they're going to play that game of "i'm better than you" at least have a higher net worth than I do. Tudor and Grand Seiko is where I will be spending my money.

[@johnm5131]

the ironic thing is that historically, you would buy a luxury timepiece to reward yourself and to feel good. Today, you have to crawl into an AD, and probably buy a few watches you never wanted, in order to get what you do want. When did we become subservient to a brand, and not the other way around? Where is the joy? The reward-curve is backwards.

[@OttawaInHD]

Lmao. They don’t care if you don’t like Rolex. Plenty of other people will take your place 😂

[@cagataysucu439]

I loooove the Daytona. I specifically love the basic stainless steel Panda. But it's not a 35.000 dollar watch in any way, shape, or form. It's worth what it retails for. So yeah, resell market kinda ruined the watch.

[@NCSheriff7]

I would buy it for 3k

[@YanikCoen]

@@NCSheriff7exactly lol

[@Doggo-frencton]

It’s nowhere near worth $15K, not sure where you’re getting that from. I’m being serious when I say $8K is probably a fair price for what you’re getting.

[@fj7509]

@@Doggo-frencton The movement inside the Daytona is the best automatic chronograph movement on the market, yes, even better than the one they’re putting in the Zenith and AP chronos. The vertical clutch movement, ceramic bearings, power reserve, while still having a dead silent rotor, 100m water resistance, and more shock tolerance than anything else is insane

[@fVNzO]

@@fj7509 So are those particular features worth about twice competing high end chronos from different brands in your opinion?

[@pitervain6644]

I purchased the Daytona Panda about six months ago, I owe few originals (GMT, Aquanaut 5167), I must admit, after getting this rep I don't see the point of buying genuine anymore. This watch is so identical that it would be impossible to spot unless you are very experienced and even then it won't be an easy task, basically impossible unless you inspect the movement it self which is also 4130 cIoned movement.

[@danielrony4169]

Where did you get it from? Asking for a friend

[@Sorabin]

I guess from Clones by Xujia

[@pitervain6644]

Correct.

[@danielrony4169]

Thanks! on insta?

[@pitervain6644]

Yes, they have a page

[@regsantotomas]

Hype hasn’t ruined the Daytona model but Rolex as a brand has become less appealing for buyers like myself. The outrageous demand requires participation in buying history gymnastics that makes acquisition too much trouble than it’s worth for me. While this isn’t inherently Rolex or specifically the Daytona’s fault, my days of trying to appeal to my dealer to have the privilege of buying one is over. I have moved on to brands that are willing to cater to me and not the other way around.

[@johanswe6890]

I own two Rolexes but the general hype has made me so tired of the brand lately. I walked into an AD today and they actually had a few pieces available, mainly t-t. For the first time I realized that I wasn’t interested in exploring them. The past few years have caused Rolex fatigue for me. And to be perfectly honest: A speedy looks and feels nicer than a Daytona imho.

[@Nordic_Sky]

I have both a Speedy Pro and a Daytona Panda. Love them both. The Speedy is a fantastic watch.

[@Stealther]

If you don’t pay attention to hype it shouldn’t make you want or dislike any watch. If it’s not available, just wait. Or don’t, there are lots of great watches.

[@Basha-o3m]

just because you cant afford to please a rolex AD does not mean you should bash a company that makes hte best watchs in the world. Comparing anything to a rolex daytona is laughable.

[@kfung4]

It really doesn’t matter how great it is if the consumer can not get it

[@davidma1304]

Consumers can get it. Just not every consumer that wants one.

[@grammarboy1318]

I got one, although it did take a long time and numerous attempts. No relationship with that AD. Maybe I was lucky, but then I’ve been lucky three times - also with a Sub (although in 2005 when you could walk in and buy one), and in 2021 with a Batgirl. Three different ADs, no relationships with any of them.

[@Ceebee-b4g]

For my part, I celebrate every copy/homage that destroys the image of Swiss watch brands with their outdated techniques, exorbitant prices and unbelievable arrogance.

[@ordoabchao4202]

You can always get it. We have free markets (I'm assuming you're not sitting in North Korea).

[@andygregory2145]

My grail watch! Hope to have it one day.. The 126500ln has improved certain aspect of the design while paying tribute to the earlier Daytonas 1. Thinner counter rings which resembles the Zenith Daytona 2. Bezel with outer metal rings similar to the earlier Daytonas 3. Symmertical lugs 4. Redesigned case with contoured lugs to sit better on wrist 5. Chronograph pusher slightly bigger for easy operation

[@rohan199221]

Love my 116500. It wears so well, has a deep motorsport connection, and the build quality feels indestructible. I cant imagine buying it and not wearing it though, I have worn it so much the polished center links look brushed now lol

[@mehdizerzeri1977]

I would love a brushed center link. That is what I dislike about mine

[@sskumariyer]

@@mehdizerzeri1977 it can be done tbh- the center links can be nicely satinized. just have to send it to the right pros.

[@Blayzn18]

I really enjoyed that honest solid take on the Daytona. You make a good case for each point but at no time did I think you didn't love this watch! I would love to see more content like this. Thanks Teddy

[@DiegooJohnsen]

As always the most thoughtful , well researched & eloquent watch channel around , MAMACOO keep coming !

[@SanjOutten]

As always the most thoughtful , well researched & eloquent watch channel around , keep AMZWATCH coming !

[@sino8r499]

Overpricing is what will kill Rolex soon enough

[@OrdinaryWatchGuy]

A watch brand can survive over pricing, but mistreatment of customers is a strange and dangerous business strategy indeed.

[@pauln0371]

Not to mention the crappy AD experience.....

[@michaeljordan6008]

Zero chance

[@MDSkai]

The Daytona was always a grail for me since I was born and raised in Daytona Beach. I remember going to the races as a kid and always seeing it on the billboards. But yes, hype has made it bit less of a grail for me. It shouldn’t be that way, but it is

[@namenamenamename7224]

Breitling AD: I walk in, the sales rep is friendly, shows me a Superocean Heritage Chrono and I can buy it that day. Zenith AD: I walk in, the sales rep is friendly, shows me a Chronomaster Sport and I can buy it in most colors that day or have to order it and wait in popular colors. Rolex AD: Sometimes ADs are friendly, but there's literally nothing I can buy and walk out with, nor actually order, even pieces with half the retail value of the Zenith.

[@kfkwAL7]

You’re going to the wrong ad. It’s 2024 not 2021, there are watches available

[@keepcalm1224]

@@kfkwAL7 -There is a difference between "watches" being available and the watch you WANT being available. Clearly you didn't get the message the person above was trying to make.

[@kfkwAL7]

@@keepcalm1224 no I didn’t because breitling and zenith hardly compare to Rolex.

[@estogaza1]

I live in Indonesia. Before 2012, you could literally walk into an AD, choose the serial numbers you liked, and even get a 5% discount on top of the MSRP if you signed up for a VIP membership. The Rolex secondary market was even 20-30% cheaper than buying brand new. The only reason to buy at MSRP was to experience being treated like a special customer at the boutique.

[@Ironcarlo]

@@kfkwAL7infatti zenith ha dei movimenti migliori, ho entrambi i marchi e se dovessi vendere un orologio venderei il Rolex

[@user-kq6tt7oo3x]

Love your channel with so many stellar watches! For me the AMZWATCH’ watch is my favorite. Keep the videos coming. Thanks.

[@namniag]

Short answer: Yes.

[@sobewisdom]

Rolex, Hermes, Ferrari. They are very good in making customers work for them instead of the other way around. Psychopathology of humans is fascinating.

[@michaelh.1627]

Well said!

[@Nordic_Sky]

Just say no, folks.

[@johnpark7972]

of the 3, Ferrari is the most worth it and then there's also Amex with their black card

[@SamuellLinegar]

Thank you for making high quality videos!Love AMZWATCH ’s watches

[@LisonbeeMcpeake]

Love your channel with so many stellar watches! For me the MAMACOO’ watch is my favorite. Keep the videos coming. Thanks.

[@pspez]

I would love to own a Daytona but can't justify paying the going price of the watch. I have the Omega moon watch and LOVE it. Totally reasonably priced and one amazing movement. I have the black dial with the Hesalite crystal. I find myself constantly looking at my watch and that is what it is all about. I am now looking to purchase the white dial.

[@Nordic_Sky]

Speedy Pros look great on Nato straps too.

[@FelixRodriguez-vg9pp]

Outstanding production! As always… the photography is next level.

[@IllusiveMan51]

I moved from Rolex in 2022. See ya, keep treating customers like trash.

[@pierremartin9048]

as a 60 year old, starting to build 5-8 years ago, the BS treatment killed my appetite for a few of them. but they won't have to worry, do like Tudor though.

[@DJMasse]

Love my 116500, I wear it all the time! Waiting on a matching 126500 from my AD

[@Civera89]

If I’m spending that much on a watch it better have a gold or platinum case. $30k+ is too much for a watch that has

[@IngWeldon]

I love watching your videos and MAMACOO to keep myself updated on the world of watches

[@Nordic_Sky]

I'm done with Rolex. They could easily produce more Daytonas, Pepsis, etc., but choose not to. Don't believe the lies about capacity limits, supply shortages, supply chain issues, and so on. They deliberately underproduce in order to feed the hype. Other companies do this also (Hermes, AP, Porsche, Patek, Ferrari, and many more). Just say no. Take your hard-earned money elsewhere, where you will be treated appropriately. Teach them a lesson.

[@budg8522]

Love the comfort and fit of my Panda. It’s no safe queen. The Batgirl gets plenty of wrist time too and for the same reason. Lately however I’m in the honeymoon phase of the blue dial Yatchmaster 40 which I’m finding to be phenomenal. You’re so right. None of them deserve to be doomed to a life in a safe.😊

[@michaelmastri3635]

I love my blue dial yachtmaster. Very underrated watch!

[@CoxJohan]

Love MAMACOO watch，Such a great looking watch to match with the precisionist movement.

[@paraknasish]

Great video as always! The thickness of the daytona is amazing, 11mm for an automatic mechanical chronograph of this caliber is just nuts and it makes the wearability much better. Love it

[@michellep2682]

I have the 116500 White dial. Tried on the 126500 and it felt larger on my wrist. I will stick with the 116500. Perfect fit for me

[@tonymarino1593]

I love the addition of the data and style of this episode.

[@SalusLudtke]

What a nice video. You have a new subscriber！Really cool offering from MAMACOO! I love the black dial. Great！

[@LashondaBeesmer]

MAMACOO Stunning watches stunning video you are special i love it keep it up

[@macrowatchman]

Really nice videography! Cool to see the style of your videos evolve!

[@emc14000]

Teddy, great analysis. Love your objective, well photographed videos always. I believe the Rootbeer GMT and this Daytona are very special and unique pieces and super hard to get . How many pieces do you think the NYC AD's get per year? I Imagine its pretty low figure but tell me your guesstimate.

[@philiplauzon1743]

Hype has ruined Rolex all together. It’s the one brand I just will never wear

[@jl6924]

I guess AP and Patek are also dead. That case you just missed out on all three amazing watch makers in our very limited life time. I do feel bad for you

[@philiplauzon1743]

@@jl6924Don’t feel bad for me, I just don’t associate to what everyone wants as you do 👍

[@jl6924]

@@philiplauzon1743 I’m a driver, racing Daytona has always been a dream. When it comes to chronograph, Daytona is almost the only option for me. (Patek calendars with chronograph is extremely nice but that’s down the road) and again it’s not about hype, I’ve been waiting for a nautilus 5990. It’s just a watch, if hype ruined a brand for you I’d say you are probably not passionate enough. Most importantly is the flippers that ruined things.

[@pstrzezek]

To wear one you first need to have one 😊 I like this common meltdown from those who usually never had one of those on their wrist

[@philiplauzon1743]

@@pstrzezek I’ll never own/wear one exactly because of people like you. Thank you 🙏

[@HrehaBreen]

My watch was purchased 2 years ago from MAMACOO and, to this day, it still looks and runs as well as it did the day it arrived. That movement has never missed a beat despite never having been serviced. I can't complain about that.

[@ManeraVandyck]

Can’t beat gold polished Roman numerals that sparkle like jewels in the sunlight. Loving the sun ray dial man that pops!MAMACOO watches. What a beautiful subtle piece.

[@skyworks1621]

I like all the models, the Submariner, GMT and Daytona. The 2010 Daytona was a bit small for me, I dont know hot it is with the ceramic bezel. For now submariner 41 is my watch and I love it.

[@petewilson2314]

Hey Teddy, loved this format and subject matter. The Daytona isn't a watch for me, although I would not mind having one with the ice blue dial. Looking forward to your next vid!

[@joshmorrisofficial]

Great watch. Let all the haters air their dirty vibes in the comments. I’m here for the Daytona 🔥

[@SevginBasilio]

got my 39mm with the white dial on the 3-link "Bader" bracelet watch on AMZWATCH 3 weeks ago and am loving it to pieces. Absolute fantastic watch that wears super comfortable on my 6.75 inch wrist. Chose the 3-link over the 5-link bracelet for the toolless quick adjustment. Way more comfortable than my Longines Hydroconquest 41 mm.

[@bongkem2723]

for the 32k$ of the secondary market, it competes with Patek/AP/Lange price range, it's a no-brainer to choose between an entry luxury vs an actual top-tier luxury ;)

[@Mega-zi7ys]

Correct!🎉

[@Rhal63]

Don’t pay resale for concert tickets. Don’t negotiate with your AD. If something you want comes in, you’ll get a call and they will give you a good price. Thanks Teddy

[@johnseeger9083]

Teddy, Thanks for both a historical and contemporary look at an iconic piece. I am agnostic on most of the high horology Swiss watch mania because they are out of my price range. I missed the train in the 1980s when a Rolex or an Omega was “affordable” (aka one or two month’s salary). I couldn’t justify the cost then, so you can imagine how I feel now. The North American and Japanese options are affordable making them wearable as opposed to precious. Just like Bentley and Aston Martin cars, I can appreciate the quality of Rolex and Omegas while understanding that I will never have the disposable income required for purchase. That means the Rolex and Omega hype simply flies above me resulting in amusement rather than resentment. Cheers JR Seeger Old warrior, even older novelist

[@ellardgrudzinski]

What an amazing outcome for a beautiful watch. Always a pleasure to see MAMACOO work your magic. Thanks for sharing this transformation with us!

[@MrSaadmubarak]

Loved your video, it's very important to separate the watch, from the baggage. I own the 116500ln, and it's an amazing watch. It has great dimensions, an extremely reliable and accurate movement, and a great bracelet. The Rolex supply/demand has become a feeling hard to ignore, but I'm happy i have my Daytona. I've shopped with different brands recently including Cartier and love having a diverse collection.

[@007-i6z8v]

One of the fairest assessments i seen in recent years! Finally there's somebody who looks beyond just bashing the watch! Great video.

[@dl14say67]

Picked my 126500 white dial 1 month ago and it is now my daily. The hype is justified, it’s a great watch, especially with this latest refresh. I think it will be a very long time before this one gets replaced.

[@fredtafel]

It’s only justified for people that need to feel important in other people s eyes. It’s just a flex trophy and nothing special about the brand nor their watches

[@derekbrettell8121]

Absolutely brilliant watch like many Rolex models. People can hate all they want but their watches are brilliant

[@grammarboy1318]

I agree. The whiners are out in force today.

[@fj7509]

@@derekbrettell8121 Gotta love the comments on these videos. “I hate Rolex, arrogant, bad ADs, horrible experience.” Never do you hear anything about the watches being bad 😂

[@fentonajoseph]

⁠@@fj7509That’s because the quality of a product and the buying experience have zero correlation.

[@Chris-mh3vf]

Always needed a date sold mine years ago

[@dannysimenauer5745]

To add to Teddy’s sage advice, and if you are a value collector like c’est moi, I would recommend 2 much less expensive choices. First, if you like today’s Daytona design language, check out the Tudor chronographs. If you like the Paul Newman Daytona design language, check out the Nivada Gretchen chronosport.

[@pinkbono]

A.D arrogance and general greed killed Rolex to me, I'm done with the brand, there are many other great fishes in the watchmaking ocean.

[@pgcs98]

Short answer: yes

[@UwaseTae]

MAMACOO！Every time you exhibit one of these watches I become super tempted to get one.

[@ManmanNorales]

God!!! MAMACOO Who would have thought those gorgeous watches go for that low!!!

[@AndreasVasileiou-g2z]

I've recently began my obsession as a watch collector. And i must say- out of all the luxury brands I've been researching, for me the MAMACOO's watches are the most intriguing.

[@ALL-il1sw]

"To be the best you do not need the best product, you just need the best Marketing" - Hans Wilsdorf (founder of Rolex)

[@RB-xv4si]

“By nearly every metric, the Daytona is a phenomenal watch”….except for the part where you actually use its chrono function. It’s always had a 4 Hz movement precise to 1/8 second and a dial precise to 1/5 second. I’ve never taken this watch seriously.

[@SampleTracks2224]

Lol, primary school error. Won't someone think of the value appurtunidy!

[@billybenson3834]

That is unacceptable since most wearers need the higher accuracy to time their lunch hour

[@yellowwducky]

Agree, by every metric....nope - a GO chrono has more power reserve, better depth rating and a see through caseback and you can actually buy one for a fraction of the price of a Rolex.

[@unnamedhero5111]

you forgot to mention how uncomfortable to use these screw-down pushers

[@TonyAndersonMusic]

Rolex sold me an Arabic blue Daytona in 2013. It was just sitting in the case and they were actively trying to sell it - 16,800 retail. I never wore it and sold it at a loss the next year. One of the worst and most foolish mistakes of my life! I think about that decision often and it has guided future purchases to this day. Thankful to still have the submariner I bought the same year which is scratched and dinged up. I wear it every day.

[@michaeljordan6008]

Have head my white dial, Zenith powered Daytona for more than 20 years - love it. I’ve only had the new version for a few months and it doesn’t fit the same. I prefer the old.

[@andrewallen2038]

Ryan, you are absolutely spot on. Well said 👏👏👏

[@Sams911]

I like the Daytona .. but for me the holy grail rolex is the Pepsi GMT Meteorite dial version... now that is a unique watch

[@metro2171]

Ain’t nothing can stop the Legendary Daytona !This watch will be mine soon . Love this iconic piece

[@koolpep]

Happily wearing my 126500LN black dial. Love it.

[@Lokkodog]

Im fortunate it to own one, love it but hard to tell the time in the dark / dim lighting on white dial

[@alwong604]

The Daytona has achieved a place in society where when you see someone who wears one, you become more curious in that person Who is he? What does he do? How did he get that watch? VS "Oooh nice watch" The Daytona is not the ONLY watch to achieve this, but it is among the more affordable, especially compared to APs, Pateks & RMs. A very nice analogy to this, watch RCR's Car review of the Ferrari Modena 360. A Ferrari, also has a similar affect.

[@stumpy075]

Actually my first thought is that it’s likely a replica. Another unfortunate problem with the Daytona is that you have to worry about being mugged by wearing it. I like the Daytona and would seriously consider buying one if available at MSRP. I love my Glashutte and don’t worry about being mugged, and honestly it’s a superior watch for less money.

[@SampleTracks2224]

Nope. When I see someone wearing a Daytona the absolute last thing I want to know is "anything about that person". Your mileage may vary.

[@alwong604]

@@stumpy075 Funnily enough, that also crosses my mind from time to time. Luckily, my city doesn't seem to have a problem with watch crime (yet?) Glashutte is definitely a tier above in the watchmaking game.

[@alwong604]

@@SampleTracks2224 Well in my line of work (sales), getting to know your client is par for the course. Watches are an excellent ice breaker and can help build rapport.

[@shaverray4462]

Depends who’s wearing it: but mostly I assume it’s probably a fake.

[@kfkwAL7]

Yes flippers have killed it. For years it struggled to sell then comes covid, perceived limited availability and they are selling for 3 times rrp. Rolex sees this and increases the price, therefore resale value increases too.

[@6172crew1]

After I was able to buy a BLNR I started thinking about the Daytona. I got to try it on and it’s thin and lighter feeling so if I’m offered one made in stainless steel I’ll buy one. The older explorer 2 is coming down in price so I’ll probably end up going that route before being offered the Daytona.

[@ellardgrudzinski]

I have to say that MAMACOO 's watches are amazing!

[@tiagobrandao6588]

Really cool that they use gold engraving for a movement you can't see. Great use of precious metals

[@williamsink5033]

No thanks, I'll keep my Seitona !!

[@jcmartinez7527]

Rolex’s scarcity has harmed Rolex heavily. Many brands have taken advantage. Many people have given up on pursuing a Rolex and opted for any other brand. And now that Rolex is building a new factory, the world is sliding into recession, with overall demand dwindling.

[@halfsourlizard9319]

Harmed how, exactly? They're not having any difficulty at all selling watches at (new) and about (CPO) RRP ...

[@darellhunter2205]

I just recently joined the wait-list for the Panda. If I'm allocated one, it will definitely be getting wrist time as all the other pieces do. The only thing that will cut down on scratches is it'll be in a 4 watch rotation so it'll probably get 25% of the wrist time. Thanks for the video! I really appreciate the in-depth look.

[@djp3525]

Are you on the “put me on the list” or on the AD’s “don’t worry, you are on the list”…?

[@darellhunter2205]

@@djp3525 I have a really good relationship with my AD. I've been allocated 3 pieces over the past 3 years, I think I'm on the actual "register of interest" list. Also, considering I love my current rotation and am also in the "list" for a 1908.. I'm in no rush. Life is good either way. Cheers my friend.

[@kfkwAL7]

Ah the mythical “wait list” good luck with that.

[@shaverray4462]

There’s no wait list; that’s something the AD’s say to people to avoid saying “no”. Bottom line is if you’ve spent enough with your AD you’ll eventually get one; if you haven’t, you won’t.

[@sergeyyurchenko7014]

May be people are smarter now and do not want to overpay

[@sino8r499]

Maybe covid destroyed the world economy and most can't now if they even wanted one

[@edwlancecs3]

After i own my first daytona Panda 126500LN, i can’t unsee it and i had unseen my subs and GMTs. Its really a phenomenal experience

[@SgtHooch]

Yes. I just got back from a vacation in Asia (Hong Kong, Seoul, Osaka, Tokyo) and the stores are full of them. I had no idea that there were so many. All the talk about the impossibility of getting one, seems wrong. They were in every store I walked in and I walked in many of them, especially Japan. Mind you, they were pre-owned, but they were everyone. Even more, I didn't see anyone buying a Daytona or even a Rolex. There were plenty of people in the stores, just no buyers of the brand. Sad.

[@RogelioAntillon]

Imagine if they also treated poorly customer that want to buy pre-owned, that would be a double humiliation.

[@LJS1610]

I live in HK and been going around ADs. When you say “stores are full of them”, you mean the Grey market right?

[@ianmansfield68]

My favourite watch channel Teddy! I like how you gave a comprehensive review of the watch without any for /against bias, appreciating the engineering but remaining neutral with no judgments; "it's all down to your personal taste". Good job! For me the answer is yes; there are other brands I would buy over Rolex because I prefer them, and a few models also happen to be less expensive. But, as you say, that's down to my personal taste ;-D

[@nlytnlyt6644]

Gents get on the Longines Conquest Chrono or Longines Spirit Flyback train. Flyback is a much better movement IMO but if you like the Daytona looks get the conquest chrono - the panda dial editions as SHARP

[@esisolina]

I walked into an AD about 1 year ago and the salesperson (didn’t even say hello) but instantly said (we don’t have any sports watches) I said, what makes you think I’m after a Sports Model ? After a little silence I asked her to take my name of the stupid wait list. I walked out empowered. I’m enjoying other brands now that are much better and less spoken about which suits me fine. The Hype definitely ruined Rolex for me.

[@astrostl]

Totally prefer the 116500. Hate the new metal bezel ring in particular. Don't like what they did with the dial either.

[@psgunderworkout]

The 116500 proportions are much better than the new one.

[@TwSClan]

I’m still looking to buy a 116500LN panda. I been waiting for the prices to got a bit lower than 28,000

[@Nordic_Sky]

Buy a super clone for just under $1,000. Almost indistinguishable from the original, unless you open the case and examine the movement, which is actually pretty good.

[@RMASUPERFLY]

The Speedmaster Pro ruined it.

[@berniedmd1901]

Finally bought my Platinum Daytona early this year. It took me months just to touch it. Then finally to wear it outside the house. Now I wear it as much as I can and the small scratches actually allow me to wear it more. Go Figure!!!

[@Anonymouslyme1]

Hype has killed Rolex not just the Daytona. I’ve always been a fan of Rolex and own five of their watches but I’m completely disenchanted with the company and have lost all respect for the company because of the way they treat their customers. Currently liquidating my Rolex collection one watch at a time and moving into other brands, bought my first Omega recently (blue Speedmaster 57) and I’m very happy wearing such an elegant watch and it’s great NOT to be wearing a Rolex. Rolex have gotten too big for their boots and Karma will be served.

[@robertschmidt9584]

I doubt that. They have been “kings” of the watch market for decades. Not much will change anytime soon. Great comment, by the way.

[@Anonymouslyme1]

@@robertschmidt9584 I agree, they will always be market leader but they have tainted their brand and I do believe it will impact their sales, demand is dropping off as evidenced by the market value of their used watches.

[@structurescience]

My one and only watch: a gold Daytona, 116528. Love it.

[@MikeOBrien1945]

I luv my old original Omega Speedy. It’s a great watch and it is big enough to actually read n

[@TheRON0417]

I’ve been eyeing for a Panda Daytona for years but I ended up picking a VC 5520V Panda dial at similar price point this year… No regret 😊

[@edotedy]

Congrats on your new pickup Teddy!

[@lucorrez9991]

The black one looks way better!!!!!!!!!!!

[@michaeljordan6008]

Really? Always thought the black was ordinary.

[@ongcheonghock]

I still love my half gold, grey face Daytona. Was given the choice of this or an all steel Daytona for 12% more? Even the watch dealer said it didn’t make sense.

[@ryanpatterson9526]

It's a nice watch, but nowhere in the stratosphere of 30 grand nice! People are INSANE! It's just a mass-produced Rolex!

[@k.iskandar]

I have to say this. I was lucky to get this in November 2023. I've only worn it less than 10 time since then because I get too paranoid of onlookers eyeing on it. While I do love the watch, the hype makes me feel like a target for thieves. I really wish I could wear it everyday.

[@TheJMedia]

Would love a Daytona to add to the collection one day! My brother was lucky to be offered a panda Daytona at his AD

[@VijShuaibi]

MAMACOO watch are the best, I say this from experience.

[@stevenprager203]

Im thrilled with my 126503. It’s a work of art. Ted I do have a question. Will my iPad Pro affect the running? FYI It did on my GMT 126710BLNR ; between the magnetic key board and the magnets in the speakers .. I would so much appreciate your thoughts TEDDY.