Calling LLJsmom :)

[kgizo]

Hi @LLJsmom ,

Moved our chat over here so as not to clog up the SMTB with my questions.

First off, thanks so much for your detailed reply in the other thread - it is super helpful!!

To give some background, about 4 yrs ago we were at a local jeweler that had just gotten in a DJ that DH liked but thought was too much money (similar to this one but a slightly lighter blue). After thinking about it for 6 mo DH decided to buy it, but in the meantime the owner had decided he really liked it and kept it for his personal collection. Since then DH looks whenever we are at watch stores, but hasn’t seen anything as nice. I was at the store Fri and owner’s son mentioned he just got a similar one in (ignore the one on the left, was told it’s a “Kermit”, rare and out of my budget, oh well). They send them out to be authenticated so it hasn’t been priced yet (thanks for the details about what you’ve done to authenticate yours. I need to get a better understanding of what the local jeweler does). It is a 2014, 41mm, has box and I forgot to ask if it had papers/original receipt. In the meantime, I’m trying to do some research so I’ll know if the price he comes back with is fair or not. I’m happy to share more but don’t think I can here so feel free to reach out to me via LT if you have any advise / concerns about the local jeweler.
https://loupetroop.com/listings/bands/contact-for-kgizo-on-ps

I’m not familiar with Chrono24 and took a look - what a great resource! DH prefers to try things on and every watched he owns has been an in person purchase. If the local watch isn’t an option I’ll tee up looking at Chrono24 to see if he’s willing to try. Do you know if those prices are firm or if there is room for negotiation?

Thanks again for all of your help!

 

[kgizo]

Here is what he wears (besides Shinola. Loves Shinola and I’m not sure how many he actually has). As you can see, it’s a lot of black which is why I thought the blue would be a nice change for him.

 

[LLJsmom]

Here is what he wears (besides Shinola. Loves Shinola and I’m not sure how many he actually has). As you can see, it’s a lot of black which is why I thought the blue would be a nice change for him.

Yes I can see why you are considering blue. I think it’s a great idea, fabulous really. The blue is really beautiful. I think he would love it. And I am considering a Shinola watch too. The dials are so cool and retro.

 

[LLJsmom]

I assume that since your local dealer is sending the watch to get authenticated that they are not a Rolex AD. So I think it’s a matter of these things.
1. If they say it’s authentic do you believe it? I would believe it only if it was authenticated by a Rolex AD or if it was sent to the Rolex service center and some work was done on it. Or if you are comfortable with your local jeweler. If you send it to get serviced by Rolex and there are any issues with the authenticity can. You get a full refund?
2. Is this configuration and age one that is the one you want? If you’re buying second hand anyway why not get exactly the config and age you want?
3. If it is the config you want is it a reasonable price? You can check this by using chrono24 to see comparables.

Although, I do get how buying a watch you can touch and feel Is more comforting.

I think it doesn’t hurt to try to negotiate. I was dumb and didn’t but I think lots of people do. There are so many that if one does not work out you can easily follow up on another.

 

[LLJsmom]

Oh, btw, the watch you linked in the other thread had a fluted bezel while this one with your local jeweler has a smooth bezel. Which would your DH prefer? The smooth bezel looks sportier to me while the fluted won’t show scratches as easily.

 

[kgizo]

I assume that since your local dealer is sending the watch to get authenticated that they are not a Rolex AD. So I think it’s a matter of these things.
1. If they say it’s authentic do you believe it? I would believe it only if it was authenticated by a Rolex AD or if it was sent to the Rolex service center and some work was done on it. Or if you are comfortable with your local jeweler. If you send it to get serviced by Rolex and there are any issues with the authenticity can. You get a full refund?
2. Is this configuration and age one that is the one you want? If you’re buying second hand anyway why not get exactly the config and age you want?
3. If it is the config you want is it a reasonable price? You can check this by using chrono24 to see comparables.

Although, I do get how buying a watch you can touch and feel Is more comforting.

I think it doesn’t hurt to try to negotiate. I was dumb and didn’t but I think lots of people do. There are so many that if one does not work out you can easily follow up on another.

Thanks for this list. The jeweler isn’t a Rolex AD so if I pursue it I will need a better understanding of how they are authenticating it as you helpfully outlined.

 

[kgizo]

Oh, btw, the watch you linked in the other thread had a fluted bezel while this one with your local jeweler has a smooth bezel. Which would your DH prefer? The smooth bezel looks sportier to me while the fluted won’t show scratches as easily.

You being detail oriented is so helpful. I hadn’t really noticed and it makes sense about showing scratches. I’m going to encourage him to look at the Chrono24 site so he can consider all of the options. Thanks again for all your help!

 

[LLJsmom]

You being detail oriented is so helpful. I hadn’t really noticed and it makes sense about showing scratches. I’m going to encourage him to look at the Chrono24 site so he can consider all of the options. Thanks again for all your help!

My pleasure. Glad my pain and neuroses results in something helpful to others.

Some other thoughts occurred to me while looking at your DH's collection. It seems your DH is a thoughtful collector, and his collection is wonderful. The VC is a beautiful piece and a nice variation from the black bezels. I brought up the bezel because in the picture, there is not one watch that has a larger metal bezel. The Rolex, Omega and Tudor have those black bezels that hide scratches well. One other thing I noticed is that his Rolex GMT has an oyster bracelet, which has a clean and "masculine" (if I am allowed to say) look. A classic datejust has historically been with a fluted bezel and a jubilee bracelet, and that is what I would suggest, if for no other reason, 1) he does not have a jubilee bracelet yet and 2) jubilee bracelets also hide scratches very well, and 3) it is a slightly dressier look, which matches the fluted bezel.

I picked a couple off Chrono24 that looked pretty good. I chose only ones that were made in 2020-2021, with full box and papers, and the jubilee bracelet. The price differential is obvious between the 36 and 41 sizes. Not sure what your DH prefers. It does seem to be more smooth bezels are produced than fluted bezels. I personally prefer a fluted bezel with a jubilee bracelet for a datejust, if you are going to have just one datejust. And lastly, I am sure you know already but in case you don't, to price out any of the configurations, you can go to the rolex.com website and design exactly what you want and the retail price is listed, so you can calculate the percentage premium you are paying.

Rolex Datejust 36mm Blue Dial Fluted Bezel Jubilee 126234... for $11,865 for sale from a Trusted Seller on Chrono24

Rolex Datejust 36 Listing: $11,865 Rolex Datejust 36mm Blue Dial Fluted Bezel Jubilee 126234..., Reference number 126234; Steel; Automatic; Condition Like new & unworn; Year 2024; Watch with o

www.chrono24.com

Rolex Datejust 41 126300 | Ref. 126300 Watches on Chrono24

Find low prices for 2,423 Rolex ref. 126300 watches on Chrono24. Compare deals and buy a ref. 126300 watch.

www.chrono24.com

Rolex 126234 Datejust 36mm Blue Stick Dial Fluted Bezel... for $11,800 for sale from a Trusted Seller on Chrono24

Rolex Datejust 36 Listing: $11,800 Rolex 126234 Datejust 36mm Blue Stick Dial Fluted Bezel..., Reference number 126234; Steel; Automatic; Condition Like new & unworn; Year 2023; Watch with o

www.chrono24.com

After looking at random websites (like Bob's watches and Tourneau) and seeing the prices of used Rolexes, I ended up deciding to pay a little more $1K-$2K for a very close to new or fully new watch on Chrono24. It bugs me that even used watches 1-6 years old, are going for close to $10K, or more. If it was significantly cheaper, I would consider getting a pre-loved one.

See for example the preloved one from Bob's watches:

Rolex Datejust 116300 Blue Index

Model Name/Number: Datejust II - 116300 Serial/Year: Random - 2011 or newer Gender: Men's Movement: Automatic 3136 Case: Stainless steel (41mm) w/ Smooth bezel, inner reflector ring engraved with serial number and scratch resistant sapphire crystal Dial: Blue w/ Superluminova hands and...

www.bobswatches.com

Oh, lastly, based on Reddit, Rolex forum, it seems a lot of men do go for a 36 datejust because a 41 can face up quite big. Your DH seems to have a lot of black dial diver type watches, and those can look smaller due to the dark dial. The white dial on the VC makes it very present on the wrist I imagine. A fluted bezel can be blingy because it really reflects light, so all things to consider. The reddit forum is a great place to see lots of wrist shots, so I find that place super helpful as I've been shopping for a Rolex for my DH too.

Good luck and let me know how it goes!

 

[kgizo]

My pleasure. Glad my pain and neuroses results in something helpful to others.

Some other thoughts occurred to me while looking at your DH's collection. It seems your DH is a thoughtful collector, and his collection is wonderful. The VC is a beautiful piece and a nice variation from the black bezels. I brought up the bezel because in the picture, there is not one watch that has a larger metal bezel. The Rolex, Omega and Tudor have those black bezels that hide scratches well. One other thing I noticed is that his Rolex GMT has an oyster bracelet, which has a clean and "masculine" (if I am allowed to say) look. A classic datejust has historically been with a fluted bezel and a jubilee bracelet, and that is what I would suggest, if for no other reason, 1) he does not have a jubilee bracelet yet and 2) jubilee bracelets also hide scratches very well, and 3) it is a slightly dressier look, which matches the fluted bezel.

I picked a couple off Chrono24 that looked pretty good. I chose only ones that were made in 2020-2021, with full box and papers, and the jubilee bracelet. The price differential is obvious between the 36 and 41 sizes. Not sure what your DH prefers. It does seem to be more smooth bezels are produced than fluted bezels. I personally prefer a fluted bezel with a jubilee bracelet for a datejust, if you are going to have just one datejust. And lastly, I am sure you know already but in case you don't, to price out any of the configurations, you can go to the rolex.com website and design exactly what you want and the retail price is listed, so you can calculate the percentage premium you are paying.

Rolex Datejust 36mm Blue Dial Fluted Bezel Jubilee 126234... for $11,865 for sale from a Trusted Seller on Chrono24

Rolex Datejust 36 Listing: $11,865 Rolex Datejust 36mm Blue Dial Fluted Bezel Jubilee 126234..., Reference number 126234; Steel; Automatic; Condition Like new & unworn; Year 2024; Watch with o

www.chrono24.com

Rolex Datejust 41 126300 | Ref. 126300 Watches on Chrono24

Find low prices for 2,423 Rolex ref. 126300 watches on Chrono24. Compare deals and buy a ref. 126300 watch.

www.chrono24.com

Rolex 126234 Datejust 36mm Blue Stick Dial Fluted Bezel... for $11,800 for sale from a Trusted Seller on Chrono24

Rolex Datejust 36 Listing: $11,800 Rolex 126234 Datejust 36mm Blue Stick Dial Fluted Bezel..., Reference number 126234; Steel; Automatic; Condition Like new & unworn; Year 2023; Watch with o

www.chrono24.com

After looking at random websites (like Bob's watches and Tourneau) and seeing the prices of used Rolexes, I ended up deciding to pay a little more $1K-$2K for a very close to new or fully new watch on Chrono24. It bugs me that even used watches 1-6 years old, are going for close to $10K, or more. If it was significantly cheaper, I would consider getting a pre-loved one.

See for example the preloved one from Bob's watches:

Rolex Datejust 116300 Blue Index

Model Name/Number: Datejust II - 116300 Serial/Year: Random - 2011 or newer Gender: Men's Movement: Automatic 3136 Case: Stainless steel (41mm) w/ Smooth bezel, inner reflector ring engraved with serial number and scratch resistant sapphire crystal Dial: Blue w/ Superluminova hands and...

www.bobswatches.com

Oh, lastly, based on Reddit, Rolex forum, it seems a lot of men do go for a 36 datejust because a 41 can face up quite big. Your DH seems to have a lot of black dial diver type watches, and those can look smaller due to the dark dial. The white dial on the VC makes it very present on the wrist I imagine. A fluted bezel can be blingy because it really reflects light, so all things to consider. The reddit forum is a great place to see lots of wrist shots, so I find that place super helpful as I've been shopping for a Rolex for my DH too.

Good luck and let me know how it goes!

You raise some excellent points. I will try to get him to try on a 36 since non-black and fluted bezel may face up differently. I called the closest Rolex AD and they don’t have any in stock and will let me know when they do.
Not so funny story, we were at Orvis years ago and bought a fun watch for him. Got in the car and he tried it on but the band was too small so 5 min later we are back at the store to return it. Explained to clerk band was too small and he said their watches weren’t intended for people with hands like meat hooks. He actually said “meat hooks”!!!! I was floored. I think this is part of the reason he defaults to thinking he needs the largest size available, even though he is well within the norm.
Switching gears, you mentioned looking at Shinola. If you are able to get to a store check out their purses, too. I have a couple of crossbody ones and am very happy with them.

 

[kgizo]

Hi @LLJsmom, We went to visit the PL watch tonight and DH liked it. It comes with the box, original warranty card and the seller provides a 1 yr warranty. Price is $10,300. Do you have any thoughts on that? Seems less than the ones on Chrono24, but more than a new watch (I just don’t understand Rolex pricing, LOL). DH is going to call another Rolex AD tomorrow to see if they have one in stock. I would think one was available locally the other place I called would’ve pulled it, but that’s just me making assumptions.

 

[kgizo]

And here’s a little eye candy for you

 

[LLJsmom]

Hi @LLJsmom, We went to visit the PL watch tonight and DH liked it. It comes with the box, original warranty card and the seller provides a 1 yr warranty. Price is $10,300. Do you have any thoughts on that? Seems less than the ones on Chrono24, but more than a new watch (I just don’t understand Rolex pricing, LOL). DH is going to call another Rolex AD tomorrow to see if they have one in stock. I would think one was available locally the other place I called would’ve pulled it, but that’s just me making assumptions.

What is the date on the warranty card? What is the size of the watch?

 

[kgizo]

What is the date on the warranty card? What is the size of the watch?

It‘s a 41. He likes the Roman numerals better than the dashes. I didn’t take a pic of the warranty card, the year of mfg is 2014. If it matters I can try to go back and take a pic of the card.

 

[LLJsmom]

Hi @kgizo,

I found these options on Chrono24. These are from professional US sellers.
Tbh, I don't love that price for a watch from 2014. The current retail price is $7650 for an SS, oyster bracelet with smooth bezel. For $1,000 more I can get a much newer watch, basically unworn.

For $11,200, 2020 production. original box, original papers, new

Rolex Datejust 41 126300 | Ref. 126300 Watches on Chrono24

Find low prices for 2,423 Rolex ref. 126300 watches on Chrono24. Compare deals and buy a ref. 126300 watch.

www.chrono24.com

reviews mixed on seller.

I like this seller more.
For $11,350, 2019 production. original box, original papers, new

Rolex Datejust II 41mm Stainless Steel Blue Roman Dial &... for $11,500 for sale from a Trusted Seller on Chrono24

Rolex Datejust 41 Listing: $11,500 Rolex Datejust II 41mm Stainless Steel Blue Roman Dial &..., Reference number 126300-0002; Steel; Automatic; Condition New; Year 2021; Watch with original b

www.chrono24.com

Like this seller too. Jubilee bracelet
For $11,750, 2020 production, original box and papers, new

Rolex Datejust 41 126300 | Ref. 126300 Watches on Chrono24

Find low prices for 2,423 Rolex ref. 126300 watches on Chrono24. Compare deals and buy a ref. 126300 watch.

www.chrono24.com

What do you think? How would he feel about these options?

 

[LLJsmom]

Sorry, I don’t think I was clear. I mean for $1k more than the $10,300 price I could get a much newer watch.

 

[kgizo]

Sorry, I don’t think I was clear. I mean for $1k more than the $10,300 price I could get a much newer watch.

I totally got what you meant and think that approach is best. Thanks so for your research and recommendations. I find the world of Rolex overwhelming and confusing so having it narrowed down helps immensely. He thinks the jubilee is too dressy (work has gone covid casual and will likely stay that way), but is seriously considering the other two and warming to the idea of paying a little more to get something newer. I’ll keep you updated.

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

I know this thread called for @LLJsmom and I am not her, but have you looked at
European Watch Company? https://www.europeanwatch.com/

Or Tarrytown? https://www.tarrytownjewelers.com/

Datejust 126234 126234 - Tarrytown Jewelers

Datejust 126234 126234

www.tarrytownjewelers.com

While I have not purchased from either of these, when I was scouring online sites for Lange & Sohne Watches for my DH, these are the two I frequented the most. They have a lot of watches. I know is can be overwhelming.

Much success to you.

cheers--Sharon

 

[kgizo]

HI:

I know this thread called for @LLJsmom and I am not her, but have you looked at
European Watch Company? https://www.europeanwatch.com/

Or Tarrytown? https://www.tarrytownjewelers.com/

While I have not purchased from either of these, when I was scouring online sites for Lange & Sohne Watches for my DH, these are the two I frequented the most. They have a lot of watches. I know is can be overwhelming.

Much success to you.

cheers--Sharon

Hi canuk-gal, Thanks for these recommendations and we will definitely check them out. I called out LLJsmom because I saw her stunning Rolex in SMTB, but this thread is open to all

 

[kgizo]

@LLJsmom and @canuk-gal
The Rolex ADs say he can get a 36 right now, and the wait for a 41 is 6mo - 2 yrs.
I noticed that the dealers are listed on Chrono24 site. Do you have any thoughts if it is better to go through Chrono24 or to reach out to the dealer directly? Thanks.

 

[LLJsmom]

So all my initial contact was through chrono24. Since I have never purchased from a dealer unknown to me I felt I needed the protection of Chrono24’s escrow services. I didn’t feel comfortable dealing only directly with the seller outside of chrono24. To be a seller on chrono24 they need to adhere to certain processes with any sale, most importantly that chrono24 does not release the funds until the buyer is satisfied with the piece. Even though chrono24 says it’s 14 days, I called and spoke with a wonderful guy named Chris and explained that I would need more than 14 days to authenticate the Rolex I received. Chris agreed that it was a reasonable request. I was going to pay for the authentication anyway. And I was very lucky that the seller agreed to let me open up the watch to verify it’s authenticity. I’m not sure all sellers would be ok with that. And if they had not agreed to it, I would have just returned the watch. That’s me. And if it took Longer than 14 days and it turned out to be fake, the seller is required by law to refund me. And chrono24 did not want to release the money to the seller until I had it authenticated because they thought it would be a much bigger hassle for them to get the money back after releasing it. So chrono24 takes their role seriously too.

However, if you are comfortable dealing with a seller and aren’t as paranoid as me, then you could go directly to the seller. I don’t think there is anything that stops you from doing that.

So I guess it depends on your level of risk tolerance. I mean if you happen to live near the actual seller, you could check out their pieces on their website and pay them an in-person visit. I would if I could. My seller was in LA and I would have gone to see them.

 

[LilAlex]

but have you looked at
European Watch Company? https://www.europeanwatch.com/

As I'm sure you can tell, they are a vendor and not an online exchange like some of the other names mentioned. They have a B&M store in the Back Bay in Boston -- but only open weekdays (so I am told). Spouse and son got me a nice, utilitarian, mid-range used watch there pre-pandemic and it was a good experience for all. (Well, there was a small issue with the watch and they wanted to have their in-house team fix it, but after having had a bad experience at another vendor, I ultimately self-paid to send it to the manufacturer, in part because I wanted one or two other things done.)

Son pointed me to their current inventory the other day -- entirely to say how insane their stock is now. Not sure what has happened to them or the world, but there are lots of six-figure watches and even a few seven-figure Pateks. Gonna stick to rocks.

 

[LLJsmom]

Sorry should Have finished my story. So Chris helped convey the message to the seller. The seller was also texting me but I moved our correspondence back to the chrono24 platform so chrono24 could see that I had the seller’s consent to open the case and that I could have more than 14 days. And chrono24 could see all of it. And my emails with chrono24 documented that they agreed to hold the escrow open for more than 14 days. I just had to agree to keep the wee as tech if it was authentic. If not, I had to provide documentation, which the local AD was going to provide anyway. The hard part was the wait.

 

[SparklieBug]

Great comments in this thread, thanks!

 

[LLJsmom]

@kgizo , I also have an update myself. I did a thing. I have been looking for an explorer ii, white face, for my DH, and I ended up getting it, also off chrono24, just now. It just so happened that the seller was a store that I have visited IRL 7 years ago so I know it’s a legit high end place. It is basically new, looks great in the pics. Warranty card dated in 2021. Honestly I would rather get a dated warranty card than a blank one since then I know it was originally purchased from an AD, who are required to date a warranty card when they sell. And the price was super competitive given the year and condition. I do know it’s not the 2021 model. But it was sold in 2021. Anyway, oooops, I did it again….

 

[kgizo]

@kgizo , I also have an update myself. I did a thing. I have been looking for an explorer ii, white face, for my DH, and I ended up getting it, also off chrono24, just now. It just so happened that the seller was a store that I have visited IRL 7 years ago so I know it’s a legit high end place. It is basically new, looks great in the pics. Warranty card dated in 2021. Honestly I would rather get a dated warranty card than a blank one since then I know it was originally purchased from an AD, who are required to date a warranty card when they sell. And the price was super competitive given the year and condition. I do know it’s not the 2021 model. But it was sold in 2021. Anyway, oooops, I did it again….

Woo hoo!! Congrats!! Will it be a surprise for him? Can’t wait to see the pics when you get it. The white face is a fabulous classic and elegant look. Good to know the advantages of a dated v blank warranty card so thanks for sharing that nugget.

My DH has decided not to buy the local watch after all of your helpful advice and education. He has been looking at Bob’s and Chrono24 but isn’t ready to pull the trigger on anything just yet.

 

[LLJsmom]

Woo hoo!! Congrats!! Will it be a surprise for him? Can’t wait to see the pics when you get it. The white face is a fabulous classic and elegant look. Good to know the advantages of a dated v blank warranty card so thanks for sharing that nugget.

My DH has decided not to buy the local watch after all of your helpful advice and education. He has been looking at Bob’s and Chrono24 but isn’t ready to pull the trigger on anything just yet.

It’s good he is taking his time too, to figure out what he really likes. Can’t wait to see.

NP about the warranty card. My warranty card was blank so that made me wary of the seller, that and that he told me his source was in Hong Kong. Asia? Super fake? and so I felt I had to get it authenticated. But it is so funny that I am not worried about this one at all. And yeah. He knows. He’s more traumatized than I am that I spent that much. It wasn’t too crazy. $8550 is the retail. I paid about 40% more. I know it sounds like a lot but I would be willing to pay that much at an AD, if they HAD one. And he will keep forever. So I’m fine with it.

 

[SparklieBug]

He’s more traumatized than I am that I spent that much.

Sounds like my DH. He has steadfastly refused (for years!) to let me buy him a pre-loved Rolex submariner.

Looking forward to seeing photos (hopefully!).

 

[mrs-b]

I Stan this entire thread. PS at its best.

 

[LLJsmom]

Update: so apparently I think I am very good at picking winners because the piece I pushed buy on got sold in store just earlier and the store did not update their chrono24 listing. So no explorer ii for me. I’m disappointed but will keep looking. DH is not in a rush so oh well…. In this case chrono24 is so legit that I missed out.

 

[LLJsmom]

Sounds like my DH. He has steadfastly refused (for years!) to let me buy him a pre-loved Rolex submariner.

Looking forward to seeing photos (hopefully!).

The exhibition pieces at the store finally allowed my DH to try one on. And my Dh too finds the submariner too expensive unless you go quite preloved. I’m also looking for a Batman but not a priority because either now or later it will be priced as it is, basically double the MSRP. And I’m not sure I feel that is “worth” it. At that price I would rather get him a JLC.