Rolex Market Frustration: Why Collectors Are Turning to Vintage 5-Digit References
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Rolex Market Frustration: Why Collectors Are Turning to Vintage 5-Digit References

By eyyeo · Oct 4, 2020 · 65 replies
eyyeo
WPS member · Rolex forum
65 replies12941 views1 photos
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Eyyeo's candid post from 2020 resonates deeply with collectors who have experienced the shifting landscape of luxury watch acquisition. His frustration with the supply situation for new Rolex and Omega models, despite a decades-long relationship with authorized dealers, highlights a pivotal moment in the industry. This discussion explores the challenges faced by enthusiasts and ADs alike, and the evolving strategies collectors adopt in response to market dynamics.

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Pardon my rant on the current situation with new sports Rolex. I have been collecting watches for 23 years, and have never been as taken aback as what I feel recently. I am tired of the supply situation as a watch enthusiast, and I gave up. I like buying new, preferred buying new, and make it a point to never buy from flippers. I have build my buying relation with several ADs since the 90s over the years. Two recent incidents made me gave up with buying from ADs entirely, and change my course in watch collecting forever. Case 1: SpeedMaster 50th, great watch but not available via ADs, call the boutique a month before to enquire, no one knew what I was talking about. Called 1 week later was told all allocated. Case 2: Rolex Oyster Perpetual colored dial. Call my trusted AD to express my interest immediate at launch, I had to educate them that other than new Subs, there are new Oyster Perpetuals with colored dials. Fast forward 1 month, in my casual chat I found that stocks already came and went, and were "ALLOCATED" to customers. Not sure how entirely new products that no one knew about were already allocated. So I say thank you, I am sick and tired of the current new watch situation. My passion for the brands have not change, while I am disenchanted by the current buying experience. In past weeks I have gone into buying old 5-digit sports model, and probably will never look back given how things are developing into. Once again, pardon my rant. P/S: Photoed 16610LV was not purchased used, but new from my AD back in 2008, I had to post a pic.



About the Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16610LV

The Submariner Date reference 16610LV, often recognized by its distinctive green bezel, was introduced to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner line. This particular reference stands out from the standard Submariner Date models due to its unique colorway, offering a different aesthetic while retaining the core design principles of the collection. It represents a specific period in the Submariner's evolution, bridging classic design with a celebratory touch.

This reference features a 40mm Oyster case crafted from 904L stainless steel, paired with a matching Oyster bracelet. It is equipped with the self-winding Rolex Caliber 3135, a movement known for its precision and reliability, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, and its construction ensures a water resistance rating suitable for its intended use.

For collectors, the 16610LV holds particular appeal due to its limited production run and unique bezel color, distinguishing it from other Submariner Date references. It is a notable variant within the Submariner family, offering a distinct visual identity while maintaining the robust engineering associated with the model. Its place in the lineup is marked by its anniversary significance and its departure from the traditional black bezel.

Specifications

Caliber
3135
Case
904L Stainless Steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
300m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
CO
COUNT DE MONET
Oct 4, 2020

That is how it is, how this world is running. My advice: be content with what you have got and be patient to get what you want. O.K., three are some pieces we will not get, but that should not spoil your love for watches. This hobby is far to exciting for that ...

AM
Ambiorix
Oct 4, 2020

You are just expressing your feeling , about a hobby, something that could/would bring you joy. But the reality is different. Imho: spéculation is fully killing the game. Btw: i share your feeling. Grtz,Dom

CP
Cpt Scarlet
Oct 4, 2020

and Carl Labelfeld ;-)) ... “I am a living label. My name is Labelfeld not Lagerfeld”

LI
LiftAngle51
Oct 4, 2020

The reality you sketch is how things go. The watch companies do everything to have buyers, but the market is difficult. Buyers and retailers are not always happy with each other. Spending huge amounts on shop interiors, and a customer who want a watch almost for free. Do you want a watch from a dirty shop where mise running on the floor? Find fine watch stores where you get a nice experience. Find the ones which share the same passion. Avoid educated personal who only thinks about salary. Avoid

CH
Chronometer (aka yacomino)
Oct 4, 2020

This might be a missed opportunity for the manufacturer because sometime in wanting o create short supply they hurt themselves . One of the few industry where sometime their is too much unbalanced between supply and demand...

LI
LiftAngle51
Oct 4, 2020

I follow the market of submariners. No chance to get a submariner for a fair price. So, they can eat them. I go for other watches.

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