Rolex

descartes1
2787

• Show profile
• Show other posts

I spent some time vintage watch shopping in Rome last weekend

Prices are crazy all over the world right now and Italy is no exception. Yet, I found exactly what I was looking for. A semi-vintage 5 digit Rolex with a full set papers from an authorized dealer in Rome.

The piece I acquired was a 16610 Submariner from 2002. I found it in a sweet little vintage shop just outside the walls of Vatican City. (There are several small vintage dealers in this area with more reasonable pricing than those around Via Condotti and the Corso.)

Now, this is by no means a rare watch. Or a very expensive one in the world of watch collecting. As the old saying goes: "Submariners are like a__holes; everybody has one." But, it is indisputably great, practical and useable. A classic. And I really strongly prefer the size and proportions of this 5 digit reference over the ceramic.

What is especially cool to me is that it came with every scrap of paper when originally sold at Bedetti in Rome, including anchor, sale receipts, papers in Italian. (Interestingly, it was €3500 sold New in 2002). I love the idea that this watch spent its life in Rome, which is probably my favorite city and the capital of Italy, which is a place we visit just about every summer.

Lastly, my daughters were with me for this purchase (one is studying in Italy this year), which makes the whole experience, and the watch, extra special.

I do think these 5 digit semi-vintage pieces are a real sweet spot for Rolex in terms of beauty and wearability. I look forward to taking this one back to Italy when I return late in the summer.

Here are some pics.

Site Info.