should i get a pre-owned or direct from AD or buy online

[stg23]

Hi everyone..

im new here..
Glad to hv found this very helpful forum..
learn a lot here... so thanks..

anyway im looking forward to purchase my very 1st rolex..
fell in luv wif the datejust 116234
now the question is should i get a pre-owned or direct from AD or buy online (stylez.. etc)

still doing my research here..

[Oceanklassik]

Personal preference; no definitive route. It depends on various factors such as budget, habit of purchase (how comfortable who to buy from), type of ownership (will or not resell in future) etc.

[feilong108]

For 1st rolex i prefer to go the AD route...less hassle...and u get peace of mind....

[Watcha]

Agree with dragon bro. First rolex can ask around ads.

Datejust got many variations too.
Also can ask for more discounts, unlike sports model.

[feilong108]

Go to AD to try on wrist...becoz datejust have many diff type of dials...got so many colours,materials,diamonds and such....

Go to a Local AD and buy...hassle-free and do ask around for discounts too...

Happy shopping and do post some pictures in our rolex gallery once the beauty is on your wrist!!!

Cheers,
Feilong108

[triton]

i rule out buying online unless the online shop price is cheaper than local AD and/or preown shops

if this watch is for keeps, go to AD. walk to various AD and check out the price. once you have the price, you may want to post your findings and seek for further advice before buying.

if this watch is likely to be flip, then go for preown. however this will give you more things to look out for.

1) age of watch aka which series if alphanumeric, then best to have warranty card which states the year of purchase.
2) condition of watch, is it polished? if yes, is it over polished especially the lugs area
3) condition of bracelet, is the in between links still taut or it hangs like a bangle
4) availability of box and papers/warranty card
5) any after market bezel etc
6) is the sapphire glass after market

the list continues.

price difference between brand new and pre own can differ from ~1k or more.

[tomasulu]

I got my first rolex, a daytone ss, from rolex forums. simple reason that ADs aren't selling unless you are prepared to pay way above retail. i wired the money and 3 days later, the watch is on my wrist.

[seiko.citizen]

depends on stock and pricing. these days, i bypass the AD and go straight into preowned.