The Fall of Rolex!!! What Went Wrong?

[@TheWatchBros]

We like to keep it real with our channel. A second part to this video coming soon… so subscribe for more of your favorite watch content. 🕓 Do you agree with our take? Comment below!

[@rninnim]

Hi, one thing that really boils my p*ss is the discontinued market, now this isnt the fault of rolex, they would much rather sell you a new watch then let you go some where else to by a used one. Grey market however drives me made when something is discontinued or about to be. The reason its discontinued is because its obsolete out of date and out of fashion, but they use this to charge more than a new one in many cases. The new one is better improved and over all a better purchase, but stupid people buy them, like being offered a brand new sony PS5 and saying " no thanks i am going to get a PS3 at twice the price of the 5, its been used for 6 years solid and is about to die but the dealer says its rare becuase its discontinued" erm Doh.

[@egza2062]

I had a wonderful Breitling for several years, but I’ve seen daily the Rolex on the wrist of my wife. There was always the feeling of “yeah Breitling is nice, but Rolex is perfect”. And yes finally sold my Breitling and got a Rolex (below the list price on grey market). Rolex is a very boring perfect imperfection. But that’s why it will be always classy.

[@DerSnipOr]

Great Video, realized that when I was traveling by plane. So many people with datejusts. Put me off to buy one. - Maybe a turn o graph? Maybe I’ll get a fifty fathoms. Somehow have the feeling that these are more enthusiasts watches and less common to see on every wrist….

[@zaharib]

Great analysis sir 👍🏼 Really look forward to the second part 😊

[@fdloop]

Sorry but my Rolex does not Sucks. However YOU sucks!

[@koolpep]

Buddy of mine complimented a stranger on his “cool sub” the response: “this is not a sub, it’s a Rolex” - haha says it all

[@88Seabass88-n5n]

The sooner the Rolex bubble crashes the better and when it does I hope pretentious pr1cks such as this stop wearing Rolex .

[@OsBMXandHotrods]

@user-oo1mz9cj4s that was just a prick trying to impress others. Same thing in the car world. I see people all the time that have awesome cars that know nothing about them other than the name.

[@markbkjaer]

Haha, gold! :-D

[@TheWatchBros]

😂 exactly

[@ArlenZacks]

Love it! So true.

[@fuzzyschwartz]

My problem with Rolex is I assume every Rolex I see is a fake.

[@malvgik2774]

Can’t fake gold

[@poolmonkey]

I'd love to buy an Explorer, and I've halfway convinced myself that the 36mm Explorer market is not big enough for counterfeit watch makers to even bother, but I'm probably just fooling myself.

[@OngoGablogian185]

@@poolmonkey I picked up the 124270 36mm Explorer a few months ago. It's awesome, and you can obtain it as a first watch. But yes, there's good clones of it. The top Chinese factories make clones of every watch. Who cares, though. Losers buy them because they're only interested in a status symbol. You realize that when you talk to them.

[@eloyrodriguez6980]

@@malvgik2774yeah I got a datejust 41 2 tone yellow gold with the black.

[@idid1866]

@@poolmonkey You are!

[@frednjanice7018]

Business 101: Never make it difficult for a customer to give you their money.

[@maxbeigh]

It works for Rolex but not for me.

[@FireStick-v1w]

Not in fashion and Rolex is a fashion watch learning from Hermes minds.

[@htschmerdtz4465]

Said it better than me.

[@hansamlah2756]

Yes, luxury brands has brainwashed people and no way getting away from it. Everyone wants to look rich out if their insecurities 😁

[@progguy10]

Actually this has been done to great effect

[@trogdor5687]

Same experiences here. Purchased my first white face explorer II in the 90s and it was a great experience. I went to an AD last weekend and was looking at a Deep Sea with the gradient dial. Two on display and neither were for sale. Salesperson said I had to create a profile and a submission to Rolex would be made to see if I was approved to buy the watch. I went to an Omega and they were more than happy to see me an Ultra Deep. What a huge contrast in the experiences.

[@eltrading]

there is no queue for deepsea. you just have to wait a bit

[@Truethatbro]

I live in Geneva, they never ever told me that. Sounds really weird, i'd write to Rolex about this weird AD!

[@neilmitchell8240]

Difference is you can get good resale on a Rolex 😊

[@Truethatbro]

@@neilmitchell8240 At the end of the day, an Omega will have cost you more than the rolex hahaaha

[@abdulseaforth6930]

Damn - who do they think they are!!

[@aspenpilot9755]

Totally agree with your assessment of Rolex. Visited my local AD in San Diego (UTC Mall) and was put on a "waiting list" for a Sky Dweller. My salesman told me he would update me every quarter as to where I stood. After 15 months of no contact, I reached out to him to see where I was. I was told that the CRM application used by the AD had crashed, and that he had no way of telling me where anybody was on the list. I was told to check back in a month. When I visited, in person, three months later, I was again told that the CRM application was still down. When I asked him how he was allocating watches to anybody, I was told he was just selling the Datejust model. He them told me to let him know if there were any other models besides the Sky Dweller I was interested in acquiring, as he would be happy to put me on "The List." I then asked, "I thought your CRM app was down?" To which he just smiled at me. Result: I now own a VC Overseas Dual Time.

[@TheWatchBros]

Stellar timepiece my man! Congrats 👊

[@RevoltingRudi]

that VC looks indeed very nice.

[@psgp298]

you own a MUCH nicer watch than a Sky Dweller. the Overseas is endlessly nicer

[@udosteinhauser5661]

Great choice.

[@Whiskey_Tengu]

As an owner of the Skydweller (blue dial), your VC is better. However, this guy in the video trying to say it's hideous, lol, yeah sure buddy. It's a gorgeous piece and the setting function with the bezel is brilliant. If the dial looks too busy then you must also hate every perpetual calendar and chrono in existence or complications greater than a date function in general. I'm in AZ, and the only reason I have the Skydweller, is because when I started buying from this AD, it was a Grand Seiko I wanted. After that I wanted a IWC Big Pilot. Then the year after that I asked for a Batgirl. Took 4 months. Then asked for a Starbucks the year after, took 2 Months from when I asked. Then earlier this year I asked for a blue Skydweller, they called me in a week. So basically, I acknowledge they saw the purchase history and none of the rollies showed up as flipped yet lol. But I never had to buy anything I didn't want, everything was progressive based on what I wanted at the time. I own Omega, Tudor and JLC as well, but they were from different stores than this AD. Presently, I'd say JLC is my favorite brand. I'm really eyeballing that latest blue dial Triple calendar chrono from the MC line! This guy throwing shade at Rolex though...lol, whatever makes you feel better at the end of the day. They won't cease to be the most sought after brand in the industry over KZbin opinion. They are far too entrenched into the global consumer consciousness.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

"Most people with a Rolex watch on their wrist are not watch enthusiasts or collectors" What a nonsensical statement. Are you advocating only people who are "enthusiasts or collectors" should be able to buy one? Should all Rolls-Royce owners be able to tell you how many other Rolls-Royce they own and how the camshafts work to prove their eligibility.

[@PP-bm7zp]

I’ve never heard such an accurate description of Rolex

[@guyfawkesuThe1]

Look at Invicta watches. Women get fooled by them all the time! ;)

[@Audittr2108]

There are two types of Rolex owners. One who can tell you the model and movement reference and the other who will tell you how much they paid and how much it’s now worth!

[@TheWatchBros]

😂 there's alot of truth in this!

[@tab3Gator]

@@Audittr2108 ok, on this I will agree

[@JustMeTalking]

126711CHNR (3285) literally embedded in my brain. You're welcome :D But then, so are my G-shocks, and Grand Seiko's 😂😂😂 But I'm not any good at my Omega watch references... only the movements 9900 & 9904

[@Audittr2108]

@@JustMeTalking That’s because you’re a watch guy like me!

[@JustMeTalking]

@@Audittr2108 What's your watch collection looking like at the moment?

[@will.a.benjamin]

The fact they interrogate customers who walk in and can readily buy one is ridiculous

[@TheWatchBros]

I know... I hate that treatment. It's uncalled for! - Jason

[@htschmerdtz4465]

I have one rule, learned over five decades of starting and running small businesses: I will never beg anyone to take my money. If I'm your customer, you must value my custom. And when you get into the strata of luxury cars, airplanes and luxury watches, you had better regard me with concierge-level personalization. I have walked out of many stores, shut down more deals and left sellers in silence because they thought they could make me feel awkward or unappreciated. Money is hard to make, if you want mine, you'd better offer value and respect. That's why there are no Rolexes or Seikos in my watch collection.

[@TheChzoronzon]

Seikos? Even if you mean Grand Seiko, I'm still a bit puzzled

[@htschmerdtz4465]

@@TheChzoronzon You're thinking solely about price and prestige; I'm talking about brand seller attitude. You don't have to have the price tag, if the arrogance and seller contempt is in place.

[@TheChzoronzon]

@@htschmerdtz4465 You can buy a Seiko in any Mall, with exactly zero fuss...much less any "attitude" Again: you must meant Grand Seiko, if anything

[@mrbrisvegas2]

LOL. Concierge service is just paying a premium for some lowly paid workers to flatter you. Nobody who is actually important demands anybody to 'respect' them.

[@TheChzoronzon]

@@mrbrisvegas2 You are so detached from reality that is almost admirable, bravo! :D

[@luysterborgh]

I agree. 100% Went into a store , bought a Grand Seiko Snowflake and went home with it. Enjoying it. No waiting on some imaginary list. Next on MY list is an Omega Speedmaster.

[@andyyoung3233]

There great watches mate ,I don't make much money and what I do have is hard earned and the 3 watches I have are Omega I love them and dont regret one penny I spent. Andy UK.

[@hugoglenn9741]

I’ve had one for over 40 years. Don’t wear it much anymore, wore it back in the day when I was training Astronauts, well just in the simulator. Had to repair it twice and the second time, 20 years ago local watchmakers didn’t want to invest the time in a Chronograph. So I did it myself, soaked up a lot of time. Go for a well made simplistic movement non-ETA, most likely vintage for the better deals.

[@JohnSmith-fj5ew]

Go get your Speedmaster and wear it. People who know, will know.

[@hugoglenn9741]

@@JohnSmith-fj5ew unfortunately my wife doesn’t know these things and for a gift 2 years ago bought me a 2 tone Rolex so you know what I have to wear. I also help people out and I’m like to be throwing wrench 50 percent of the time so neither can be worn. If I can fix a Speedmaster as my first watch attempt I can probably fix most other things and people know it.

[@lesp315]

@@hugoglenn9741 Funny. I had Omega Chronograph for about 30 years and had more problems than all other watches together. I have about 10 watches and the Omega is the only Swiss made. I prefer microbrands. I have some Swiss measuring tool and these are great.

[@geoffwyness2645]

I’ve worn Rolex since 1975 so I don’t give a shit about what nobody’s on social media think of their watches.

[@tismeagen684]

Me too since 1993.

[@kennethjaworski1526]

*nobodies

[@gtman4588]

100% spot on. I am so over dealing with the attitude of Rolex ADs, especially if they are part of a larger jewelry store and push you to buy unwanted jewelry just to get their attention.

[@TheWatchBros]

Exactly 👊

[@modash1231]

I have literally hundreds of thousands with Bucherer over 10+ years, before Covid and all this craziness. I went to ask for a Pepsi GMT 2 (at this point the only Rolex I want and it's only because of my love for flying and Pepsi's links to flying). The lady told me I need a long purchase history and told me to look at their Bucherer branded and used watches. Then she passed me off to a junior associate to show me their used stock. The experience was just so offputting I decided to just sit on the wait list FOREVER if I have to.

[@88Seabass88-n5n]

@@modash1231 I am by no means a serious collector of Rolex but I do have a Pepsi, Daytona and Datejust in my collection. I recently went into an AD to ask about a yachtmaster and was wearing my Pepsi. The look of disdain from the twenty something year old sales dude who said something along the lines of, “..you should know better than to walk in and expect to buy a Rolex. It just doesnt work that way”. Haha I laughed and left.

[@modash1231]

@@88Seabass88-n5nright. It’s actually crazy to me how Bucherer treats me now. They used to sell me Pateks on discount and then bundle day dates on even fatter discounts. They bent over backwards to serve me and find the watches I wanted. Now they won’t even talk to me unless I am ready to take the Bucherer and used stock that nobody wants.

[@poolmonkey]

I went into the Rolex AD store in La Jolla, CA about a month ago to look at the Explorer, and it was a very pleasant experience. Granted, they did not have one to sell me of course, but the woman was extremely patient, helpful, friendly, and let me try on several different models. When I told her I was from out of town, she gave me her tips on how get one from my local AD. Still, I agree it's frustrating and dumb to have a brick and mortar store that won't offer their product to buyers.

[@r.r.r.4844]

I was going to buy a Rolex, but bought a Hamilton, two Loriers, a Sinn, a Citizen, and a Garmin instead...I have a watch for every occasion and still have 6000k left over.

[@APBCTechnique]

But none of your watches will increase in value - they will decrease in value. One thing my friend Rolex isn’t just a watch, it’s an investment too. A submariner can triple in price over 2-3 decades and some models x50 in original price in 30 years. In 30 years all your watches will be garbage mostly

[@zosothezephead837]

@@APBCTechnique So what? he rightly wants to enjoy wearing his watches right now, not hiding them up his sleeve in case he gets mugged, being fearful of scratching them to reduce their resale value or having to keep them in a safe/safety deposit box.

[@glennpearson3056]

@@APBCTechnique Now factor in the costs to have them serviced every 5 years.

[@bellavancepierre5461]

he can wear it too and the value will grow@@zosothezephead837

[@mactepbolsak161]

@@APBCTechnique No new Rolex will 50x the price in 30 years. There is just too many being produced, unless it is some super rare limited edition one. And who cares if a Submariner triples in price in 3 decades, that's 30 years. From 15k to 45k in 30 years is not a great investment. You could make that amount of money in way shorter time on the stock market or other businesses.

[@albertoponce8796]

Very Interesting ideo. Short story, I bought my son the Blancpain-Swatch just a couple of weeks ago as he graduated from primary and I wanted to give him a gift. We were in NY last week and I brought my son to the Blancpain Boutique so he could see the real fifty fathoms. The seller in charge came and I told him I was trying to teach my son about their watches and let me tell something, this guy went far and beyond expelling the history and the different references. thought the years. He gave him 3 amazing books about the brand and let me tell you something. I could take easily forget about Rolex and buy a Plancpain just because that man made our visit to their boutique very special.

[@supermash1]

You are spoiling your son. My guess is he will be dependent on you.

[@bohansun5806]

What I found interesting is Rolex has been fined for 100 million dollars in the end of 2023, yet NO major watch KZbinr made a video about it or mentioned it in any video at all. 100 million fine is a pretty significant number to me, and I think it's supposed to be a big news to the watch world.

[@TheWatchBros]

I'll do some research on this... I'd be happy to make a video discussing this topic. We did just record a video around some lawsuits. So stay tuned for more videos and for other watch brand highlights.

[@dukes70]

You’re wrong about that. Time and Tide did, WatchCrunch, Luxury Bazaar, I believe Adrian Barker did. They may not have made a separate video just about the fine but they certainly talked about it. Not sure who you are considering a major watch KZbinr but those are pretty popular

[@bohansun5806]

@@dukes70 Haven't found any from those watch channel you mentioned, and feel free to send me some links if you don't mind. Some of the "major" KZbinr I follow are Nico, Adrian Barker, Teddy, Watchfinder, Jenni Elle, and Britt Pearce, and please lmk if you see any of them talks about it!

[@shukeelc5177]

​@@ShadyD365$100M is not pocket change. It's mega money for their indemnity insurance provider

[@tezzanewton]

What was the fine for?

[@Yachtmaster_Lou]

“Most Rolex owner are not watch enthusiast” that is soo true. Especially the new Daytona, submariner or gmt guy. They don’t care about watches they only care about how people recognize their watch, and they wearing their ceramic submariner like a Patek thinking they are the biggest dog in the room. They put protection film on a brush steel submariner and is just ridiculous. And they don’t even wear them like it should. I end up selling all my Rolex (Yachtmaster40/Submariner41) and got my self into H Moser and Blancpain. Best decision I ever made

[@TheWatchBros]

Protection film… omg the worst 😂 Agree… I had my AP RO on the other day and I complimented a Rolex on a wrist and the guy asked what I was wearing, and showed him. He looked confused and then asked who made it. I said Audemars Piguet. He said, huh, I’ve never heard of them 🤦‍♂️

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

@@TheWatchBros If you'd said AP, he'd probably have heard of it. Not everybody who wears a watch (or a Rolex) knows every other brand out there. Hell, I've seen many a "watch channel" pronounce the silent "S" or the second name as if it were an F1 driver. Let alone the vast number of "watch experts" who cannot pronounce Jaeger-LeCoultre properly. I'm also a whisky enthusiast, and put hours, days, weeks into learning how to pronounce names like Craigellachie, Tullibardine, and Balvenie correctly. If it's your thing, you take it seriously. If all your interested in is that one watch that you liked, why would you know these kinds of things.

[@daryl9799]

I wear my pagani submariner it looks identical I even learn how to change dials put on a green one looks just like a hulk for 80 bucks 😅.

[@chipchap4658]

You need to understand that not a Single watchmaker produces watches for enthusiasts. They produce products for customers such as any other Company. Most enthusiasts thinking so much about a piece they can bearly afford. Thats a terrible target Group for a Company. Rich people who give a shit about 10 or 20 grand or more... those are the clients they want.

[@rickw3243]

I don’t want to become a target by wearing a Rolex watch.

[@Dnooch74]

Used to have 5 Rolex timepieces. I was very self conscious when wearing one, not to mention the danger to my personal safety they drew. Ended up selling all of them and switched to Omega and Grand Seiko. I enjoy these watches much more than I ever did the Rolex pieces.

[@timjkelly2121]

Im still a Rolex guy but those grand seikos are on another level!

[@javierherrera8782]

Rolex are ugly.

[@gcastle4766]

Omega are excellent watches and they get way less attention than Rolex does.

[@tobias8357]

Ok

[@Popescu789]

You and your comment section are full of shit 😂

[@rickdelmonte1682]

I’ve had a GMT Master II Coke model on my wrist for 25 years. My wife bought it at a Dallas jewelry store. She was treated well, given a 5% discount. It had a total price of just under $3,000. It has been a wonderful companion, keeping time within 1 to 2 seconds a day. I am not an investor, I don’t care about its value because it will never be sold. I traveled internationally in my career and this was my working watch.This is what Rolex always used to be about before we started the investor craze in watches and Rolex started pumping up prices: a solid, reliable, good looking timepiece.

[@thewaters100]

It’s a Pepsi not a coke

[@rickdelmonte1682]

since when is Pepsi red and black?

[@hughjanus7354]

@@thewaters100 mwaahahahaha "it's a pepsi not a coke"... man must be a true hype watch connoisseur, you geddme.

[@docholliday342]

@@thewaters100how do you know what color his bezel is if there’s no picture?

[@31-seconds-ago71]

I am not at all a Rolex fan, I don't own a Rolex, but I think this video is not fair to the brand. The Rolex brand is amazing at advertisement, and that is something to be proud of in a capitalist world. The watches are really well made, much better than most omegas, tags, breitlings. Their price is worth it at the dealer. It is not worth what they fetch at the secondary market, which is where hype becomes a problem. But then this video makes me feel like someone is sore that their favourite brand, possibly one of the best brands of all time, is unfortunately also a hype/popular brand, as if this is supposed to be an insult? I don't care to strike conversation with strangers about their watches. I wear them because I like them, and I would take a sub over a 300M any day, if I liked dive watches.

[@johnbrock678]

My son is an attorney. I told him I was on a waiting list for a Pepsi. He rightfully said, “If you are on a waiting list, you aren’t getting the watch.” Meaning, if you are a VIP, they will have the watch you want, when you want it. If you’re not a VIP, forget about it. He’s right.

[@gonzalocampos2256]

Well, I bought three Rolex watches before I got my Pepsi. If this is your first or second watch, forget about it.

[@MAKESQ]

There are no waiting lists. Your name goes straight into the circular file when you leave the store.

[@gonzalocampos2256]

@@MAKESQ Exactly, its all about making a relationship with the dealership and that involves buying certain pieces to get the one that you really want.

[@theprivatecollectors]

Rolex is king. Best watch at the price point. Best value retention (if you buy the right model at the right price). The only brand you can trade and make money.

[@Wild_Danimal]

What does being an attorney have to do with the price of tea in China? Lol

[@bryanj.nevasr.2018]

I've been to both of the Rolex ADs in San Diego, CA and got the same "Waiting List"/"You can grovel at my feet" treatment; now my wife and I are proud owners of his and hers Omega Seamaster Aqua-Terra. As far as I'm concerned Rolex can KMA!

[@seth_5394]

So your feelings are hurt because they didn't grovel at YOUR feet?

[@raredanceclassics]

@@seth_5394 why dick ride a Rolex AD so hard? Lmfao. He clearly just wanted to be treated like a customer instead of a nobody.

[@traviswalker8933]

​@@seth_5394here, have a cookie snowflake.

[@beerkegaard]

Omega boutique will treat you well because you can buy it for 30% off if you buy online slightly pre-owned

[@Robbie-mm8kx]

I agree with alot of this especially the interrogation process at ADs, its embarrassing wtf is that all about. It never stopped me from wanting a sub, its still such an iconic watch and ive appreciatedthem for longer than i can remember. I picked the sub up last wk, now be careful what you wish for, dont get me wrong i love the watch but the wait seems to have been the most exciting part of the process, if your wondering it was a UK AD and the watch was 9k GBP. You start questioning the price when a close friend has a precise clone of the exact watch for 700 quid. That said i wanted a watch a could pass onto my son and i believe the Rolex will fit the bill. Dont forget most clones will be stopped and thrown in the back of the draw after a few yrs if they last that long. I believe Rolex created a very clever buisness model which is constantly discussed but as smart as this may have been i do believe its imploding due to it becoming evermore transparent.

[@AU55IE-368]

I actually thought of purchasing one, but the more I looked at them, the less I liked them. So I ended up with an Omega Seamaster Diver300 which I wear as a „daily“ because of it’s simplicity , classic looks and it’s sturdiness. And at first glance it doesn’t look like something expensive, or at best people think it’s a fake. Meanwhile I also got the Speedmaster Dark Side Of The Moon MK I & II, simply because I love the design and the history behind it. I also got my gf a Breitling Endurance Pro with the orange rubber strap, because it’s her colour. I wouldn’t go so far to call myself a collector, but I do have a thing for unusual watches. Thanks for this video which is completely my line of thinking 😉

[@BT-qv3sg]

I recently went to Rolex in Malibu, they had over 150 displays of every single model and color. None for sale! I have been on the list for a green DJ 41 fluted/jubilee for 2 years and they had 3 displays! Not to mention the experience was horrible, I felt like I was begging to spend 11K! The sales lady named Paris was very condescending and told me “that’s hard to get”! It can’t be too hard to get when you have 3 displays!!!

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

I've had mixed experiences. I was hovering outside an AD, and the salesperson came out and asked if I wanted to try some on. Of course they were all display models and they didn't have anything available, but they were very helpful and reveled in the shared interest in the watches. Then I visited another AD, and while they were accommodating, I felt a certain aloofness that I just didn't vibe with. I didn't stay in that store very long.

[@poolmonkey]

What she meant to say is "that's hard FOR YOU to get." Every AD is different. Some are aloof and snobby, and some are friendly and helpful. Granted, none of them likely will sell you the watch you really want at that moment. Hopefully that will change as the luxury watch market continues to decline.

[@DJSIC82]

if you really want it that bad buy it on the grey market.

[@BT-qv3sg]

@@DJSIC82 not worth the risk, too many fakes

[@DJSIC82]

@@BT-qv3sg if you buy from a trusted jewelry place it's worth it.

[@TomMeanny]

Well said, short & to the point. There are so many of us who feel the exact same way for all the reasons you mentioned. In the end, millions of us have the money to buy a Rolex, but we also have personal dignity. I have avoided going into Rolex ADs for over a year.

[@TheWatchBros]

Great point. Now I wish I would have used those words at the end. Appreciate you watching us and supporting our new channel 👊 - Jason

[@joejohnson1454]

My problem was every 3-4 years the submarnier with date needed cleaning and adjustment,1990’s it was $400-$500. The last time I got it cleaned it was $700-$800 and the watchmaker was retiring. Plenty of JDM watches that outperform the Rolex with little or no maintenance. Selling the Rolex was easy with the original sales receipt from local watchmaker and receipt for the cleaning, etc. like a boat best day is when you buy and the day you sell!!!

[@VideoArchiveGuy]

It is suggested you have your Rolex cleaned and maintenance performed every ten years. Seiko wants you do have it done every TWO.

[@charlietrevisan007]

One thing worth noting: not everyone has a Rolex on their wrist; in fact, many people wear counterfeit ones. This can lead others to assume your Rolex is fake as well, similar to the perception issues with Louis Vuitton bags.

[@gremsa]

Probably but i know my rolex is real and that's all i care about. I just love to look at it. It's like i'm in love

[@Leski12]

I couldn't agree more. I’m currently on vacation, I decided to try buying a GMT (Bruce Wayne). Knowing the reputation of Rolex, I was apprehensive about what might happen (what an amazing feeling to have about buying a $12,000 watch). Nevertheless, I went for it. As expected, they had the watch on display with a jubilee bracelet. I tried it on, but the seller informed me, "There's a waiting list, and you have to be from here (Hamburg, Germany). Are you from here?" We were speaking English, so it was clear I wasn't local. I sensed she was waiting for me to beg for the watch, but I didn't. For me, the buying experience should be enjoyable; it's a hobby g dammit . Nowadays, watches don't serve the same purpose they once did-any phone can tell the time. I would never buy a fake watch however this type of attitude gives me motivation to buy a fake so they never ever see my money. What a shitty way to treat your costumers.

[@TheWatchBros]

I know and hate that you had the experience. Unfortunately, this is common for lots a Rolex buyers.

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

Expand your range and look at older models. There's more out there than just the latest models.

[@OngoGablogian185]

Goodness sake, YOU are the problem, NOT Rolex. Firstly, you go in referring to it by some stupid nickname from internet forums (you will never hear Rolex call it that and it's a sign that you're not a fan of the brand). Secondly, I guarantee you they will have at least 200 people registered their interest for that particular model, and they will be allocated maybe a few a month. It is simply professional to demand that those watches go to local customers first, as that is THEIR local AD. And it is right that it goes to the people who have some history supporting the brand, and who have showed, at least to some extent, that they're not just interested in buying it to stick online the next day for around 4 grand more. You people are so self-entitled it is shocking.

[@poolmonkey]

@@OngoGablogian185 Why does it matter what the customer calls it, as long as they want the watch and can afford it? Nothing he said in his comment indicates that he signaled to the dealer that he might flip the watch. He simply wanted a nice expensive watch and they made him feel like a second class citizen, kind of like you just did with your comment.

[@OngoGablogian185]

@@poolmonkey They did nothing of the sort and neither did I. Listen to yourselves: you sound like professional victims. He wanted something that was unobtainable at the time, that he had little knowledge of, and they politely informed him the truth: that every AD is required to assign these limited watches to their LOCAL customers. It matters what the customer calls it because it's a sign of a serious watch collector or not. Rolex is a huge brand now as well as a fantastic watch maker. Some people go in wanting a Submariner because of its history, their profession, etc. Others go in because they heard their friends talking about a 'Bluesy' and they suddenly want one. Rolex doesn't use the nicknames and most people who collect them don't - the internet hype crowd do, and that's the market they are trying to avoid. Most people today are incredibly narcissistic and this poster sounds like one too. He's motivated to buy a fake now to 'get his own back' because he couldn't walk into an AD from outside his own country and immediately get one of the most high demand watches that have a year-long waiting list, lol. Get real! And these types of people then inspire videos like this. People speak to some guy on the train or plane with his 'Batman' and he has no clue about it. Doesn't know about the brand, makes up some silly story, and comes across as a shallow person. Guess what? He's wearing a fake. The Superclone industry is huge, and people just want the status symbol without having earned it. There's for sure some poor sales clerks out there but Rolex gets so much hate due to ignorant, rude, and self-entitled consumers.

[@vladtv]

Rolex isn't going anywhere

[@vidjoe8320]

Rolex watches are going the same place as Leica cameras and Porsche cars.

[@Electra-xm7lu]

@@vidjoe8320 I don't know where you leave, or in what decade, but Porsche is doing better than ever. As for Leica and Rolex, that's a different story.

[@mvd4436]

You're right. They are losing the Formula 1 sponsorship though which is strange

[@dboysify]

rolex is a flipper watch...mostly a reseller and flippers wear rolex...

[@gremsa]

💯

[@jd4062]

Eventually customers were going to discover that there are more genuine Rolexes in Switzerland being produced then fakes in China.

[@6nosis]

There are more genuine Rolex's in Switzerland; THEN we went over to Chicomland.

[@gwcrispi]

Friend went into Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, told them he wanted a blue datejust, jubilee bracelet, fluted bezel and salesman said give me 3-6 months. Less than three months later they called him and said we have your watch for you. It was his first Rolex. They didn't screw with him at all.

[@TheFabulousTrackPack]

That’s because of oversupply 👍

[@davewordsworth1251]

Marketing - supply and demand. If they wanted to get him one tomoz, they could! Supply and demand laddddy boyyyyy

[@justicedemocrat9357]

Did he at least blow the salesman as a sign of respect and gratitude?

[@wreagfe]

Typical exception to the rule case. Are you a wahmen?

[@htschmerdtz4465]

Too bad all the prospective buyers out there can't funnel into Reis-Nichols

[@TootDubai]

Finally an honest exposure of Rolex. Rolex was to a watch collector a self gift after achieving or experiencing a special moment. Shame how a brand ignored and is looking down at their base customers. Plus, they insist on servicing documented stolen watches, a practice that is putting their loyal customers at risk. I know from a personal experience.

[@r.8742]

Forget Rolex. Walked in AD. And walked out. Totally unacceptable service, products, etc. Went and bought an omega in the same mall and laughed. I would rather support a local gray market company than buy from Rolex. Better service, can buy pieces and have warranty. Sucks. But absolutely not. BOYCOTT ROLEX!!!

[@TheWatchBros]

I know… it’s so frustrating

[@Udansha]

Was in Japan last week. The preowned market there was amazing. They have to be the preowned king of Rolex.. Every type was there for sale

[@TheWatchBros]

@@Udansha Nice! The pre owned market is where it’s at. Japan is the King of a lot of amazing things so I can only imagine the Rolex selection is the same.

[@beyondnetwork324]

@@Udansha Do happen to know where exactly?

[@stillben]

What did you get?

[@dukebeach1]

Numbers regardless, mine’s 22 years old and I’ve worn it every day in all circumstances. It’s been through hell and back. Built like a tank.

[@roywallace3964]

Yep. I bought my submariner in Nam in 1969 and wear it every day. An heirloom going to my grandson. Priceless

[@dukebeach1]

@@roywallace3964 That’s fantastic. Your grandson is a lucky man. I hope he wears it every day like you did. Thank you for your service.

[@paulrogers8411]

Agreed - my sub 14060 - about 26 YO and i've beaten it relentlessly including falls and about 50 dives. Still accurate within 5 secs. Still looks purdy too! I have a Patek which I wear on occasion but nothing beats the old Rolly.

[@kennguyen7326]

100% on everything. And to add more, they think their Rolex is a rare special piece.

[@MikePetro216]

I agree with you 100%. I own 14 mechanical watches, including an Omega, Longines, and others. I never considered Rolex for all of the reasons you mentioned. Last week I attended a really great event put on by a local luxury watch dealer, Teddy Baldassarre, that was well-attended by many out of town guests. I wore my Zenith Chronomaster El Primero A384 Revival, with the ladder bracelet, and I received many unsolicited compliments, plus some photo requests. Not gonna happen wearing just about any Rolex I'd wager.

[@TheWatchBros]

Awesome! Glad you enjoyed our video and hope to see you around for more!

[@shonen84]

Mentioning Teddy as your "local watch dealer". Oh, how I envy you, I always like his content online. That event must have been great!

[@MikePetro216]

@@shonen84 Teddy is an awesome AD with a great range of brands. It's terrific that he's opened a boutique for four of his luxury brands, which is only about 20 minutes away from me. The event was invitation only featuring Grand Seiko, and included a demonstration by one of their top watchmakers, Hiroomi Suzuki. It was very exiting to be able to spend time talking with other other watch aficionados, plus I got to meet Teddy and Joe Kirk, the Brand Curator. I'm so inspired that I'm going to the Windup Watch Fair in Chicago this weekend!

[@balesjo]

If I had the budget for a Rolex, I'd skip it and move to a Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date or a GO PanoMaticLunar, a Girard-Perregaux Laureato, or a Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso. (It'd be a hard decision if I could only buy one!)

[@nickedwards1445]

Why would anyone want a picture of a watch they can see in any AD’s window. Just more BS.

[@6SpeedTA95]

Also you nailed it re: Rolex owners. I try to converse with them regularly and most of them are absolutely clueless.

[@dbob3405]

I have been a minor watch enthusiast since the late 70’s. After years of collecting and trading, 5 years ago I trimmed my collection to 2 Pateks, a Royal Oak offshore, a Ulysses Nardin Diver and my gold and stainless Rolex submariner with blue dial. With the exception of the Pateks, all these watches were decades old, had travelled to some remote parts of the world on fishing and diving trips and all had performed flawlessly. I suspect you are correct about a lot of folks owning a rolex and I can attest that in the decades of wearing all these watches, I have gotten a number of comments from people who recognize the Rolex and only one on the Royal Oak Offshore and one on a Patek despite the rolex clearly being considered the inferior of these 3 brands (Rolex figured marketing out a long, long time ago). However, I believe that marketing is not the only reason people recognize and/or own that Sub or some other rolex; for me, the Rolex Sub design is beautiful . It looks equally good with a diving suit or a tailored suit. And, while it does not keep time with the accuracy of the Pateks, it has never let me down in tough conditions including dives to 130 feet. I haven’t tried to buy a new rolex in decades but from what I have read, the experience has degraded. I hate to hear that because buying a high end watch should be a very enjoyable and exciting experience. I hope Rolex gets its game back together because the Rolex is the gateway watch for a lot of enthusiasts-it certainly was for me. I had actually sworn off buying any more watches but had been fascinated with the hybrid action of the Grand Seiko. I broke-down and purchased one of their chronographs this year and do not regret it. The accuracy is incredible;I like the look; and for a relatively large watch, it is amazingly comfortable. I wear it almost constantly around my farm. I just had to give a little shout out to Rolex because mine has been a great piece for me. However, your points seem to be well taken.

[@tockingwatches2377]

I sold all of my Rolex a couple years ago and have focused on independents since then.

[@TheWatchBros]

Those soooo many independents and micros out there to explore!

[@watchman8817]

Really considering it myself. My 6 Rolexes could turn into a Langematik and an AP 15450

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

@@watchman8817 Lange makes awesome timepieces. I'd love to own one, but they're way out of my range.

[@konamotoogawa5917]

Me too😂

[@TG-mn9cj]

Thinking of doing the same

[@SebastienLeger]

I'm happy that Rolex is (nowadays) fairly hard to get at AD. I do own three, but this way, it made me look elsewhere and I discovered a whole new world of amazing watches, which are not even expensive and are fantastic. Breitling, Tudor and even Tissot (PRX) & Citizen (tsuyota!). Thank you Rolex :)

[@TheWatchBros]

That’s my hope for most of us. There are so many amazing watch houses out there… let’s go explore the hobby!

[@Xandil]

Great comment. I'm doing the same thing and didn't even realize it; just having fun looking at all the other brands and their history.

[@ninjesus4079]

t'as oublié Invicta dans ta liste

[@bobsyeruncle4841]

You are not worthy by default as soon as you enter a Rolex dealership. They think another sucker just walked in let's give him a using.

[@MarkTeseny-wx3cw]

I completely agree with this list, especially the "false rarity" comments. I was watch shopping in Japan at some of the well established 2nd hand watch stores (Ginza, Osaka, etc.), and there were literally hundreds of Rolexes in cases ready to be sold. Now, you may ask "Which models were they"? I have no idea, because THEY ALL LOOK THE DAMN SAME! I'm a relatively new collector, and I'm proud to say that my collection will never contain a Rolex.

[@thatguy6111]

Rolex is an aspirational brand and that works for them. We are giving them free advertising by just having this dialog here and that works for them. Love them or hate them people buy them and talk about them. I have six and I’m on here talking about them…and that works for them. What ever we do short of ignore them, helps them. Heavy sigh.

[@TheWatchBros]

Lots of truth here

[@htschmerdtz4465]

I dunno...all these happy customer stories from people switching to other watch brands can't exactly cause waves of joy to wash over the plant in Geneva.

[@thatguy6111]

@@htschmerdtz4465 Unlike all other “major” watch companies they don’t have shareholders to appease. The company being private and owned/managed by a trust that is not forever trying to increase share price allows them to do their own thing. I’ve sold on Omega, Tudor, Seiko and many others; but I have every Rolex I’ve ever bought. They know they can sell way more watches but choose not to because they don’t need the money. They are genuinely unique in that their business model is not beholden to stock analysts opinions.

[@JohnBowl14690]

I wish I had the money to buy one. I'm strapped for cash. I just spent my last $100K on paying off my house and buying a new used car cash. No debt, but no Rolex either. I'll just have to save up.

[@thatguy6111]

@@JohnBowl14690 with that kind of discipline you will be free to wear what you will when you please. Congratulations on being debt free and truly knowing freedom.

[@charlierauh8011]

100% agree. I am relatively new to the hobby - but when I began to get serious and go for higher end pieces, Rolex was immediately a turn off for all the reasons mentioned. I took an interest in JLC, Grand Seiko, and Panerai for the reasons of : excellent craftsmanship, welcoming client and purchasing experience, unique design language, fantastic technical specs. Rolex almost immediately seemed like it was outside of everything I love about watches.

[@deroy08]

If you want to see how scarce Rolex watches are, go spend a few days at the Masters. My 4 days there last year I probably saw somewhere around 8-10,000 Rolex sports models alone. It was almost appalling

[@silvaanosvs8783]

Thank you for making me feel a bit less weird. Because I have heard so much about Rolex and prestige and wearing one makes you feel great and admired. And I can't make it work. Picturing myself wearing a Rolex, my first impulse is one of... shame, I think. I wouldn't want to be seen wearing one. Because I would look like someone who knew nothing at all about watches and was not interested, but had won some money and had a need to be admired. Every time someone who never cared about watches is in a situation where the matter is adressed - as in the "if I win in the lottery" conversation - they always mention buying a Rolex. And if a razzia at some bandits' den reveals a crate of luxury watches, the caption reads "Blah, blah, Rolex" while ignoring the fact that there is a freakin' A.Lange & Söhne in the picture. The likelihood of your choice of high end watch being a Rolex increases with your lack of interest in and knowledge about the matter. And that puts me off, frankly.

[@MrJamescord]

I got sick and tired of the waiting list. I called Vacheron Constantin and they were kind people at the Highland Park Boutique in Dallas, Texas. The shop was decorated with some cool items. I got to see and try on several watches. Mine took about 5 months to arrive and it was the Triple Calander 1942. It listed at $24,100 and I am glad I just stepped over the whole Rolex AD game and went with one of the Holy Trinity of watch makers.

[@TheWatchBros]

Really glad you found somewhere that made you feel welcomed when spending your money!

[@APBCTechnique]

Cool move, nice buy 👍

[@aggieengineer2635]

Very interesting presentation. I've been a watch enthusiast for over 50 years. I wear a Longines and a Formex. I know that most Rolex owners think I'm impressed, but I quietly suspect that they're unknowingly wearing a counterfeit. Just a matter of numbers. Nothing in the Rolex catalogue interests me, regardless of price.

[@TheWatchBros]

Haha… pretty much 😂

[@nabilzayn]

Harsh take on the brand tbh, Rolex didn’t just become crazy wanted after the pandemic, it was always a symbol of success and achievement, I agree with you that the flippers caused a lot of what’s going on right now in addition to some ADs as well, but my AD here in Florida is amazing, always the best experience and I got 3 Rolexes from them since 2022, a bunch of people in the comment downgrading the brand because they got their butt hurt by an AD, but they don’t say anything about Patek and AP dealers cuz they never been there

[@karlkoch8876]

You call the design boring, I call it classic, timeless and consistent. A secret of Rolex is that the brand does not change the design of its classics, or only changes them carefully. And anyone who doesn't want a Rolex just because everyone has one doesn't understand what makes these watches so fascinating anyway!

[@31276965lmm]

Agree with you completely. Especially with the fact that most owners are just flexing and know absolutely nothing about horology.

[@gregoryadler7806]

I love my Omega Constellation….blue meteorite face and I can see the workings from the back.

[@TheWatchBros]

Really beautiful finish work too!

[@nightclubpeople2077]

Here in the U.K. it’s a bizarre sales process that hopefully the French ruling will change. At the start of the year I visited an AD who firstly refused to talk about Rolex without an appointment despite the store being empty!! After returning to the shop 2 hours later for an agreed appointment I was told an AirKing list comprised of 44 customers already waiting with an annual allocation of 4 watches. So….that’s 11 years then!!

[@TheWatchBros]

Wow! I’m sorry to hear this… that’s too long for that watch 😳

[@intenzityd3181]

The waiting lists are imaginary, they tell you that in the hopes that you will do something to put yourself higher in the "queue" like perhaps buying another watch they want to sell you.

[@nightclubpeople2077]

You could well be right, kind of backfired as I found a beautiful glashutte seaq which I’ll cherish and probably not have any positivity for the Rolex pre sales process!

[@nonconformist9991]

They know that your desire to pretend to be rich is far greater than the quality of the product they sell you.

[@TheWatchBros]

Very well said 👊 - Jason

[@lamentate07]

I work around many people from mainland China and HK with Rolexes, and not a single one of them knows anything about watches. Just the cost/price and status associated with Rolex. They think it is the summit. Don't know or care about other brands and assume they are inferior. Old school Rolex owners who bought at a much lower price point are generally different. A colleague of mine bought one 25 years ago. Walked straight into an AD and made a purchase. In and out. He just wanted a watch built like a tank that looked good, and it still looks good now. He is shocked at how much people pay for them now. Are they good watches? Absolutely, but the hype is out of control and doesn't match reality.

[@TheWatchBros]

This is def why vintage Rolex is one of my favorites 👊

[@keysersoze503]

It's the people who now wear Rolex who've spoiled it's cache. Showoffs, wannabes, flippers and haughty ADs have tarnished the name.

[@tismeagen684]

Been a Rolex watch owner and daily wearer for over thirty years, I don't see what your problem is. If you don't like them don't buy them. No need to be a watch snob.

[@TheWatchBros]

@@tismeagen684 I don’t think the video is turning a nose up to Rolex. I lay out my issues with the brand. I also own Rolex watches, but I think it’s a good thing to discuss problems in hopes that it can create some change and a better experience for us, the customer. - Jason

[@williammcmaster8036]

Asked for an Explorer 39 at a AD in Toronto last Jan. Never owned a Rx, never flipped, wouldn’t know how. Dealer smiled and said “it’ll take a while” and gave me a glossy catalog. In May I got a call “about your watch”. Not to say they had one, but to ask if I still wanted one. It’s now July. If I get a call, I will tell them to shove their tactics. Who does this? BTW I bot a lovely Seiko field watch for 1/20 the price.

[@Idiot-lf4cj]

AD obviously smelled it that you are better off with a Seiko

[@mahmoudghoneim8004]

People buy Rolex for one reason " FOMO " myself included but not anymore since 2016.

[@TheWatchBros]

Been there and have the tshirt to prove it, lol. Excited you’re watching our videos 👊

[@Asm-sg8gb]

I disagree, since I was a kid I wanted a no date submariner and when I had the money I bought one. I bought it for me not to show off, or for an investment nor any other reason than it was my grail watch and I wanted it. The flippers are a pain but you have your blame every idiot that pays over the RRP for anything, same clowns paying £2-3k for a plastic Swatch with Omega on the dial. I love my sub and yes I had to wait for it from the AD but have nothing but praise for Laings who I bought it from as there was none of the ridiculous snobbery I had in goldsmiths or WoS. Ultimately buy the watch you and don’t listen to the neighsayers, it’s your wrist and your money buy what you want and enjoy it be it Rolex, a Sekonda or Casio but never pay over the odds and remember it’s not an investment, it’s a tool to tell the time.

[@BarryDalton]

Actually the reason is to flex to others. Two dudes. One wearing a Sub. The other an A L & S Zeitwerk. Average person on the street would think the Zeitwerk is a quirky toy. Most Rolex wearers buy them for the happy hour flex.

[@mahmoudghoneim8004]

@@BarryDalton flexing is usually done through fakes .

[@BarryDalton]

@@mahmoudghoneim8004 not necessarily.plenty of people in the world with more cash than taste.

[@LawrenceNewman01]

I'm an older watch/car guy. I've owned some beauties but after retirement I gave them to my sons. My last Rolex was a GMT I bought new from an AD at a 20% discount and later sold at a premium. I still keep a few really old favorites, a 1940s Gallet and 1950 Omega Seamaster. I also couldn't resist buying a Tudor BB smiley. The days of rocking a big Rolex and driving a 911 have given way to the comfort of a Tesla and a daily plastic ICE watch. I can still appreciate them but I feel more comfortable these days with less flash.

[@esisolina]

100% agree. I sold my last Rolex a few weeks ago, got more than I paid for it, that was just a bonus, I don't buy watches as investments. I then went to my AD to remove my name from the BS waiting list, I must say I felt empowered as I walked out, somehow I felt free :) I then bought my Grail Watch (non Rolex) and couldn't be happier :) I will someday end up buying a Day Date but only if they eventually become available as a walk in. Rolex a Good brand but I'm sick of the stupid games they play and sick of the way some owners think they are something special because they own a Rolex. I prefer other brands even if they cost more. I also own some cheaper watches that are as good or better.

[@TheWatchBros]

It does feel pretty good when you tell them you want to be removed 😉

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

@@TheWatchBros Then again, the waitlists are there not because Rolex created them, but because the demand far exceeded the supply. The Covid boom is now over, but those waitlists still exist. Over time they will get shorter until AD's can carry stock again, but that may take a while. Especially for certain models. I only hate it when they make you jump through hoops. I don't want your stupid jewelry, and I don't want a ladies watch. Talk to me, assess how serious I am, and whether I will be wearing the watch, putting it in a safe, or flipping it. That should determine the order in which you sell the watches.

[@beerkegaard]

Rolex is not the only brand I like but I do like Rolex 1. Not scarce - you’re right in general however the desirable pieces are not common. ADs get a small number of steel Daytonas. Rolex knows to keep the desirable steel models scarce and then try to sell the higher margin precious metal watches. 2. Terrible customer service - agree, but you’re not going to get a better treatment at Hermes, Patek, etc.. Luxury brands treat you like shit to make the people they let in feel more special. You need to go to a more off beat luxury brand like Zenith or Moser to be treated well. 3. Bland designs - matter of opinion … I think they strike a good balance between iconic design and experimentation. At least they have multiple desirable models: AP just has the Royal Oak. 4. Finishing and movement decoration - agree with you here they could be doing more here, especially with movement decoration 5. Lack of Complications - disagree here. Rolex movements are reliable and that’s what I like about them. If I want complications I’ll buy another brand. 6. Lack of history - yeah Rolex history is definitely full of BS and enhanced by their marketing. 7. Everyone has one - I don’t care what’s on other peoples wrists, but I do agree that the brand may signal “new money” to people

[@TheWatchBros]

Appreciate your breakdown… even if we disagree on a few things here. Atleast you backed up your perspective and I respect that 100%. Hopefully you follow for more content. We have a lot of stuff planned in the near future!

[@balazskertesz5010]

Omega's movements are arguably more interesting, more robust, and definitely better finished than Rolex's. And then there is Grand Seiko...

[@tab3Gator]

@@balazskertesz5010 Omega/ETA movements are machine finished just like Rolex.

[@balazskertesz5010]

@@tab3Gator yes, but you can actually see them... 😀

[@tab3Gator]

@@balazskertesz5010 you can see a NH35 too. And I’d rather not. The speedys have beautiful architecture, the rest …ugh. The FF is a different story.

[@kevinwalker8639]

This is bang on! After being treated with complete disrespect in several ROLEX dealers even though I could and would have purchased a piece I vowed not to deal with them. I ironically added a Matt titanium Aquaracer to my collection a watch that I have worn in five countries and never seen another being worn by anyone else now that is exclusive.

[@fardeenr.168]

As a Rolex owner, I agree - I have moved on to Omega specifically the AT line up and haven’t looked back since.

[@TheWatchBros]

What a great watch house to get into! Congrats!

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

I would never buy an Omega from an AD. The value plummets the moment you step out the door. Better to buy it pre-owned in unworn or new condition. It'll save you thousands.

[@woozertoo]

Tudor is what Rolex used to be: solid, reliable tool watches without the pretension. And Tudor is Rolex’s skunk works, experimenting with new designs, features (love the North Flag’s power reserve) and is not shy about crafting with titanium. ‘The Shield protects the Crown’

[@TheWatchBros]

Agree

[@puruthacker9700]

Tudor movements are definitely inferior though. I wish Tudor would up their game and make their watches thinner and with better movements (maybe the latest black bay gmt is a step in the right direction). If that happens I would never buy another Rolex again.

[@vaughngaminghd]

Started researching watches as I wanted the best mechanical tool watch out there… but was so turned off by the Rolex AD experience. Was quoted $17k for a new no-date sub. Decided to go with a pre-owned Tudor Black Bay Dark instead, which I absolutely love. As you mentioned: The Tudor's solid, reliable and doesn't attract the wrong kind of attention.

[@garrettstupperware3754]

@@puruthacker9700 Black bay 54 is 11.2mm thick. In house movement, COSC certified, 72h power res and +-2 seconds accuracy. The newer Tudors are METAS certified. Less than half the price of Rolex counterparts, and you can just walk in and buy one. What more do you need?

[@Bisley1]

Tudor is awesome. That said, I own both. Got my FXD last month and am thoroughly enjoying it. I‘m considering the 925 58 too though. The Pelagos 39 is awesome too, but I don’t really have room for it in my collection.

[@caduceus33]

I have a Casio F-91W which works fine, but the night light is almost useless. But it is slim and lightweight, and not thick and heavy as I imagine a Rolex is. And it cost me under $15, maybe quite a bit less, but it has been working so long I can't recall what I paid for it. There are possibly 10,000 things I would do with $10,000 before I would buy a watch with it.

[@TheTarrMan]

Rolex makes really good $2,500 Submariner's. . . That they charge $9,000+ for. They are the Harley Davidson of luxury watches. (Anybody who's never ridden a motorcycle thinks Harley Davidson's are "fast bikes", and they are fast but literally any "liter bike" would dust them and even many 600cc would too.) They're just a brand with a catchy name insecure people buy because "somebody at work has one" or whatever. They just have "SUCKER" screaming on their wrist.

[@brandonjoseph3422]

Hey tarrman…I can feel what you said in my gut..you know why, because I ride a hayabusa with a shunbun on my wrist. Both Harley and rolex folks hate me haha

[@jasonolyver6430]

Exactly

[@mrbrisvegas2]

A Submariner is 'worth' about $500. A $1000 Casio Oceanus is far better built.

[@TheTarrMan]

@@mrbrisvegas2 Second hand with light dings and scratches with a cloth/rubber strap, yea. $500 is the low end, yes.

[@SGspecial84]

No, they are the Mercedes Benz of watches. They aren't the highest quality items, just a status symbol.

[@CaptCanuck4444]

Find someone wearing almost any other luxury watch brand, you can safely assume they know something about watches. Rolex owners? Forget it. 9/10 are either wearing a fake or bought it because they thought it would make them look successful. Toxic brand culture. The only exception would be if they're wearing something less popular like a Milgauss or an Explorer II...then there's a chance they actually know something about watches and bought the outlier model for a reason.

[@perfectsmile8493]

I hardly and rarely comment on anyone’s video but i gotta tell u. I love this video. Thank you.

[@TheWatchBros]

@@perfectsmile8493 we appreciate it! Hope you sub for more stuff we have planned! Thanks 👊 - Jason

[@perfectsmile8493]

@@TheWatchBros ok man

[@sevenerson]

The main reason new buyers 2017-present want a rolex is because they can’t get one easily. Something about “wanting what you can’t have” mindset. You’re right though after you actually get the watch it becomes bluh. My planet ocean is sooo much easier to read time on than my submarine or gmt.

[@TheWatchBros]

Agree… there’s something about the human psyche that craves things we can’t have.

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

I have no problems reading the time on my James Cameron or my '13 Planet Ocean (currently out for service).

[@seth_5394]

This is the most accurate comment I've seen yet. Some people are desperate to feel included.

[@TheAngryPotato]

Rolex is the iPhone of watches

[@TheWatchBros]

It feels like that sometimes

[@adrianhargreaves2854]

Rolex and the iPhone are best in class

[@modash1231]

@@adrianhargreaves2854 iPhones are pretty much only game in town. Rolexes are not.

[@adrianhargreaves2854]

@@modash1231 oh yes they are

[@nickvin7447]

Holds its value and a lot of people want it? Sadly yes.

[@billshuey7422]

I have virtually stopped wearing a Rolex. At the same time I stopped, I had a close call wearing a $15K gold bracelet here in Thailand. Now, I virtually always wear an Omega, Ball, Engineering or a Chinese watch. JUST PLAIN SAVER.

[@jamesquaid2544]

Safer?

[@DennisFutball2396]

I would add… the main reason they can sell 1.2 million units is that ADs are forced to buy shipments sight-unseen. If they could choose what to buy, Rolex would have to build another warehouse to hold the unsold stock every year.

[@BufanMuayThai]

This is a myth. AD’s and Bucherer place orders with Rolex as master data every month. On some items there are set number of allocations, but within that, they mostly decide them self what models, dial colours, bands and bracelets they choose, and how many watches they want to purchase. High sought after items like Pepsis and SS Daytonas are some of the models there are quotas on, and AD’s who sell a lot of inventory of other items, are rewarded with things like extra Pepsis and Dayton allocations.

[@Vaquero666]

Great video! I would ad that wearing some Rolex models in some cities is a real risk of being attack. That is my biggest problem with Rolex. Other than that I do not hate the brand, I own a modern DJ that is very versatile, but that is it. Great video.

[@TheWatchBros]

You're absolutely right. Being the most recognized watch in the world, it can be quite dangerous in some places to sport it on your wrist. Thanks for watching the video and I'll plan on discussing this in a future video!

[@miltonwillis112]

Remember, when you buy a Rolex you are actually purchasing two watches! One for you and one for the celebrity who gets one for free!

[@zezog]

Most of your observations are towards how the public perceives rolex and not criticism towards rolex itself, it is fair to say that rolex has done an amazing job and therefore earned the level of hype it has achieved, whether you think the hype is overestimated or not.

[@poulwinther]

Amazing job is correct. Amazing marketing job is accurate.

[@Artandluxury]

Hi there! Im a Swiss citizen and watch enthusiast since 30+ years and all I can say is that Rolex is the perfect watch for being immediately recognized. It is a watch that screams loud „I made it and I can afford a luxury item that makes me feel realized“. I agree with your opinion about Rolex buyers not necessarily being watch enthusiasts. At the same time I need to admit that Rolexes are timeless: their design and most of the configurations make them evergreens. It‘s difficult to get bored ot a Rolex, it matches almost all possible outfits whether you are wearing bermudas and a t-shirt or a suit. Of all watches I know and I had the privilege to call my own, probably Vacheron Constantin is the most refined, most versatile, most advanced in terms of movement finishing. I love the Oversea‘s Collection and the fact that you can switch the bands gives you almost inifinite possibilities in terms of matching the strap with your current outfit. Sure, we‘re speaking about a completely different price-point. A steel Vacheron Overseas is north of USD 25,000 while a steel Rolex is little above 10k. But the quality difference is simply astonishing. Getting back to Rolex, the only Rolex I truly appreciate and that I would buy is a Daytona Oysterflex, especially in white gold: it looks quite understated and give you a high degree of versatility / it‘s very wearable and less flashy than a two-tone Sub or GMT which costs 40% less.

[@TheWatchBros]

Thanks for commenting and can align with some of your points. Thanks for finding us and hope you follow for more in the future!

[@morpheus3190]

Sorry I don’t agree, if you want to be recognized as you made it than buy something from Jacob and company like a 3 or 4 axis tourbillion . Rolexes were supposed to be tool watches,but morphed into boring luxury watches that never change. I simply don’t see anything special about a 50 year old design. And they don’t keep good time.

[@Artandluxury]

@@morpheus3190 Hello! I respect that fact that you don’t see anything special in a Rolex, but let’s be honest here, Jacobs & Co is a brand that most o people out there do not even know. If you cross Milan at night with a Jacob & Co. nothing is gonna happen to you, if you do the same with a golden Daytona you are instantly robbed and stabbed. And that’s why Rolexes are so recognizable even among people who are not watch enthusiasts. Furthermore they are a liquid asset, much easier to be sold as a Jacobs & Co. since the scale of their request is so wide.

[@venom5809]

I don't consider a Rolex an I made it item. I write Submariner sized checks on a regular basis. There are a lot of I made it items out there but a five figure watch isn't one of them. Multimillion dollar home, Ferrari, big powerboat or yacht, 45 foot motorhome etc are I made it items, not a silly watch.

[@Artandluxury]

@@venom5809 it depends where you live. In Italy I can assure you that if you walk around with a golden Daytona „wealth“ and „i made ir“ are the messages you delivery. In Zürich Switzerland not really. Furthermore it depends on your perception of luxury. I own a Ferrari and I got so used to it that it is nothing special anymore to me, I don‘t feel for sure I am flexing any muscles by driving it, nor that „I made it“. So, to keep things general, I think that 99% of the world‘s population would agree that wearing a 10 even 5k watch is something extremely luxurious. Where do 70% of all those produced Rolexes go? To the Asian market, where those with newly acquired purchasing power wish to be recognized by wearing brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Rolex.

[@roadguide123]

The 4 number in the dial fell off…took it to the dealership and they glued it back. I thought that was really bad making.

[@Scrub_Zero]

I agree with everything you said here. As a watch collector and a nerd, rolex isn't some cool badge of honor for an enthusiast anymore. It means absolutely nothing to anyone, outside of it being a silly status symbol. I was listening to a podcast about watches the other day, and the hosts were talking about rolex and the rolexes they had owned. One of the shills, ....er I mean hosts, was saying a rolex he had owned in the past "didn't count because he didn't get to share the moment!" And by 'share the moment,' he was referring to buying it from an A.D. and sharing the moment with the salesman! 😂 The whole thing is just incredibly cringy. I don't care if one person every 3 years notices I'm wearing an expensive watch, so why in the world would I buy a rolex?

[@santaclause2875]

Spot on !!!!

[@MattMcCormick-on6hv]

So here’s the deal. Bascially, 90% of what you say is correct. Rolex are not great watches from a collectors or real watch persons perspective. My Brother who is a real watch guy, and spends 100k - 200k on watches, sees Rolex’s as a joke. And it is true, most peeps who wear them know nothing about watches. I got my first Rolex when I was was 23 - new college grad and paid over time. There are tons of fakes out there, but most people know just by looking at the person if they are wearing a real one or fake - so lets put that to the side. So the question is why, are there 10,000 Rolex’s at the Masters??? - No, all these guys are not buying them because everyone else is… it’s a really simple answer. I can’t speak for woman… but for most guys, when they put them on their wrist they look amazing. I have tried lots of watches, and have owned over 20 Rolex watches over my life…. And I know they are not great, but nothing in my opinion ever looks better for guy looking at his wrist than a Rolex. That to me, is why they are desired and bought. Bottom line. It’s why a guy looks better in a Ferrari than a Corvette, as great is a Corvette is, it does not look nearly as good on your wrist. That’s it in a nutshell.

[@MeestroDavid]

Not really much to argue with and I’m hearing more people express similar feelings these days. I was talking with a friend who works at my local AD and even he was saying that they’re now regularly getting passes from customers on the waitlist when their watches come in and can’t sell a few models at all. It’s karma coming back around as people realize…it’s just another luxury watch.

[@TheWatchBros]

I've seen the same thing

[@Mega-zi7ys]

​@@TheWatchBrosI got 1 for a friend who needed to get on "the list" then they offered me a couple which I turned down. I do have a few 5 digit models that I keep but never intend to wear as they're just crass nowadays. Best regards 🎉

[@squicker]

I bought my Explorer 2 in 2006, just walked into the AD and selected it for, I think, about £2000. I was travelling a lot at the time and just planning a 7 month trip to South America, so I wanted a time zone watch. Amazingly, back then, there was still some use for this complication because the places I'd be going often were cut off with no mobile carrier or power. But of course, I also wanted a watch to celebrate my travels! I still wear this watch as it's light, comfortable, super reliable, has huge sentimental value, and it's not your typical Rolex. In fact, I think many people wonder why I have this instead of a Sub. Well, everyone I know has a Sub, and I've always been a bit of a contrarian. My other main watch I wear is a Speedmaster, there's probably a huge amount of those around, but I think it's an elegant watch and I love the history and so on. But yes, I agree with all your points, Rolex seem overdone to me.

[@MarkMcAllister-ni9sf]

When I was in Asia you can buy a Rolex copy so good that Jewlers have a hard time telling the difference, for less than 1 grand. If your watch can be reproduced exactly for 5-10% of the price, your product is only valuable due to hype.

[@robinhenrywatches]

Great video! I follow you on instagram and found your channel through that. Agree on all your points. I sell Rolex but only vintage models and for the reasons you state your 'beef' with them. I try and get my clients to pursue other brands with a genuine rich history like Cartier. Also on the production, really well shot, lighting, framing, editing etc. Wish you all the best with your channel. James

[@TheWatchBros]

Appreciate the kinds words 🙏 I love vintage Rolex… a much different company back then. I felt like I could air out my frustrations since I’ve been a Rolex owner for many, many years now 😉. Share with your friends, we would love to gain some traction and start building a great watch community 👊

[@tungstencalais3201]

This is the point I wanted to make too - this video has excellent production value for such a low channel subscriber count

[@jckbquck]

I have two Omegas, one Breitling, one Longines, one GP (very old, sentimental piece), three Seikos, and one Glasshute Muhle; all automatic watches; all goregous. A relative of mine who's into Rolex said to me, "Oh man! Why did you get all these watches? With the money, you could have bought a top of the line Rolex!" LOL! He's exactly right! I have nine beautiful watches instead of one overpriced Rolex.

[@marchorne7546]

1. Maybe not rare but hard to get for multiple reasons, so probably better described as exclusive. Tag make fewer as fewer want a tag. 2. You don't like being interviewed but disliked flippers? This is the reason for the interview... 3. Skydweller dial too busy then suggest a Breitling chrono? 4. Hate that everyone has one? Do you also hate G_shock etc..? I avoided Rolex for years, told myself the same as you've just said but had to experience it eventually. A Rolex is a Rolex. Be an enthusiast who has a Rolex too if you can. These issues have been around for years, the watches haven't changed so how can the "great" now be the "hate"?

[@TheWatchBros]

The Breitling chrono has much better design language and is balanced, but that's just my opinion. We'll disagree on some things but hope you stick around and watch our other videos that will be coming out. Thanks for find us!

[@venom5809]

Eh, I have owned stuff from almost every watch brand and Rolex was garbage to be honest. I loved my Breitling and my Bell and Ross on the other hand. My Tag with the tire tread band was definitely one of the coolest.

[@htschmerdtz4465]

I think most people here would agree the watches are nice, although not great intrinsic value; rather, it is the marketing and sales practices that are so off-putting.

[@kaladze09]

You’re absolutely right, all Rolex watches suck. Except the 2024 Sub no date I just purchased!! It’s just a fucking masterpiece!

[@TheWatchBros]

I like the no date Sub a ton!

[@DoubleRyeNCoke]

😂

[@whamdirect8618]

Rolex is a disaster. I got the interview but I think they expect you to come back for a second interview.

[@TheWatchBros]

Exactly - Jason

[@JG-OK]

I totally agree with all your points. I got my first rolex 13 years ago - a “hulk” - wayyyy before the hype. Back then if you knew you knew and that was it. If i ever saw someone wearing a Rolex there would be this quiet respect and maybe a nod of recognition. Now because of social media and cheap credit every dirtbag has one, plus everyone knows what they look like so have to be really security conscious - i said to my mrs just today that i spend more time taking my Rolexs off than putting them on these days to avoid wearing in certain area and scenarios

[@Thomas-vq5pb]

Yes on every point, no longer what it used to be. I don't know how a marketing department could think that making the buying experience horrible was going to be a good thing for the brand. Now wearing. an IWC as a daily.

[@TheWatchBros]

Amazing daily my friend! 😳

[@htschmerdtz4465]

Exactly, the brand is running on inertia. Yes, putting the car in Neutral will slow things down slowly, but that car will eventually come to a stop.

[@prlinding]

I was on the market for a Rolex in 2018-19 I couldn't walk into an AD and buy the Explorer I wanted. There was a waiting list before the pandemic.

[@cinelliist]

A rare honest take on Rolex. Well done.

[@JekP0rkins]

I concur 100% with what you have stated, I wouldn’t give a Rolex AD or store the satisfaction of treating me like they are doing me a favor and for the people who jump through those hoops just to get a Rolex, I think they need to get some backbone.

[@TheWatchBros]

Yes… that’s why we posted this video. We knew it was a risk but we decided it’s better to just speak how you truthfully feel. So yeah… now we got this video up, lol 👊

[@jeremywest8132]

Watched this twice!!! I've been long bothered by this idea that Rolex is anything other than a fashion brand. An expensive, well made, and storied fashion brand. Thanks for the great take!

[@tauronval1404]

I agree with some of your statements, but Rolex doesn’t need to frequently change the shape and models of its watches because people want them as they are, and they are beautiful! Other brands that constantly change shapes and colors do so to attract buyers, but the classic, which is always in demand, don’t need to change so much👌🏻…

[@TheWatchBros]

Yeah, I wouldn't say change the shape. It would be nice for them to introduce some different lines where they experiment with other case shapes and design language.

[@adrianhargreaves2854]

No totally agree with th op Rolex is not dissimilar to a Porsche 911

[@cookingwithwatches]

Because of Rolex, I discovered a Tudor. A true workhorse. Even if it has the pink dial 😊

[@TheWatchBros]

Well done sir!

[@mrlong6267]

I own a Tudor GMT and I wear mines daily. Great watch with a robust movement…cheers!

[@nemomilo333]

@@mrlong6267Me as well :) Still wanting to own a Rolex one day though. I just can’t justify spending 10k+ on a watch yet

[@dainluke]

Same company

[@cookingwithwatches]

@@dainluke I got scolded in Tudor Facebook group by calling Tudor and Rolex the same company 😀

[@andymiltner1713]

My first good watch was an Omega SMP 300. I bought the ETA 2892-A2 version back in the mid-90s and I only just sent it back to Omega a couple of months ago because it finally started losing time and power. Along the way I also bought a Speedy Moon. When the Subs were available for $4-5K, I considered buying one, but for some reason never got around to it. When the prices began skyrocketing, I stopped looking at Rolex. Somewhere along the way, I realized that I didn't like the image that came with Rolex. The image used to be quite different, but it changed over the years. The Omega image has certainly changed as well, but I still fancy them as less flashy and showy. I know what I have wear on my wrist, and I don't need anyone else to know. With all the watch prices going up drastically, I began looking at other watches. I recently bought a Ball Chronometer grade Engineer III Legend II. This purchase reminded me of how many really good watch manufacturers there are, and the quality of their products. It also reminded me of the history that exists with so many smaller companies. Rolex is okay, but they lost me when they doubled there prices in 20 years. Its simply not that good.

[@dank5015]

When I can buy a San Martin for 150 bucks and it actually feels like a quality time piece, begging a store to pay 10k seems crazy.

[@poolmonkey]

It is crazy, unless your goal is to signal to those around you that you are wealthy and successful enough to afford a Rolex. It's not the actual watch people want, it's the status symbol people want. Those who are fascinated by mechanical watches and know everything about luxury watches are often those who can least afford to shell out $10k for one, like me.

[@rosomak8244]

@@poolmonkey You can have that for 1/10 th the price. You get a good fake for that money. So it's still creasy.

[@TheRealHawKing]

@@poolmonkey A rolex dont means you are successful hahah, A FP Journe or AP... yup this can works

[@TheSkatereel]

@@poolmonkey 💯. People have zero business sense in here. Rolex makes their watches “boring “ for a reason: they are instantly recognizable from across the room even if you can’t see the crown on the dial. It’s the same reason people wear and drive higher end goods; it’s to signal to the world their success and/or wealth. By far Rolex is the most recognizable watch brand in the world

[@intenzityd3181]

@@TheSkatereel Except anyone can buy an invicta or steinhart and fool people into thinking it's a sub from 3m away.

[@alexx1713]

Rolex's customer service in a nutshell: It has turned a rolex into a cuckold watch.