Last Wednesday I went to the Shanghai Rolex-hosted tennis masters games with my wife (who thought the picture of me “marching” into the Rolex store to pick this up was funny). A few years ago I walked into a Rolex store downtown and was treated pretty rudely (I wasn’t dressed poorly) without any attempt at seeing if I was interested (I was).

This time, there was a Rolex popup within the tournament grounds. I found a bluesy I’ve been thinking about for years, tried it on, and loved it. I was offered a wishlist/waitlist and I said yes, of course. I saw a two tone black submariner but the blue one has always had my eye. I told my wife based on what I’ve seen on this subreddit and the things people say online about some ADs, that it could be months or even a year.

One day later my AD reached out to me to say my timepiece was ready to buy. I had other important engagements on Saturday so I went on Sunday. It was a really great experience: the coffee was superb (two months ago I was sampling coffee in the mountains of Dalat, Vietnam and Rolex’s beans were outstanding here) and the service was excellent. I’ve been wearing it every day and absolutely love it.

My father died two years ago and he had a small Rolex collection which always stuck with me. He was a banking executive and it added to the image I had of him of being a consummate professional. His Rolexes ended up being lost to us, so this is not only a beautiful timepiece but something that reminds me of my father every time I see it.

I didn’t know much about the Rolex purchase process, so I went to my local AD and put down my top three choices and contact info. (Explorer I, Sub-date black, and Batman.)

After reading things on this sub and other online forums, I realized it might be a while. Wanting to scratch the itch, I turned to a trusted grey dealer (My Watch LLC). Given I was able to purchase a watch I plan to wear daily, I will likely be patient for the other three on my AD list.

The purchase was as pleasant as it could be. No complaints and excited to be apart of the club.

In this case, we were presented with a Zenith Daytona that had completely lost its original geometry the satin finishes were incorrect, and the sharp edges had been worn away. However, we view every watch as a challenge; through meticulous precision and the strategic use of a laser, we were able to restore this iconic timepiece to its original geometry.

Just picked up my first sub! 2026.. I love it!

I swear I read recently they were “only” $750.. needless to say was a little surprised when they told me the price. Gotta pay to play 🤷🏻‍♂️

My 126610lv goes anywhere I do!

A Rolex Submariner 16610 from 2001. Bought it as a Birthday gift for my wife. The watch looks absolutly fantastic (like brand new). The watch was full serviced in 2026.

Nothing special. I just wanted to share this beautiful timepiece with you guys.

As the title shows, got the call for a submariner and picking it up today. I really really really want a Rolex pen and I’m definitely going to ask for it. What Rolex branded gifts have you gotten from your AD for buying a watch?

brought this one for a (once in a lifetime) trip to bora bora to celebrate a personal milestone!!

Love the simplicity! Sometimes…. Less is more.

Came by to see my AD and got surprise by this beauty. It's definitely an incredible piece and glad to add it to my collection.

Got my first Rolex used today. GMT Master II Batman

Got a message from my AD saying they have the 100th anniversary Oyster Perpetual 36 available for me. I'd originally registered my interest in the OP 36 in silver.

What's the general opinion on the anniversary edition? Is it worth taking, or should I hold out for the silver dial I actually wanted?

Some things I'm weighing:
1. I love the silver dial, but I don't know how long the wait could be
2. Is the anniversary piece likely to hold its appeal long term, or is it more of a novelty?
3. Does the anniversary edition affect resale or value compared to the standard OP 36?

Would love to hear from anyone who's seen one in person or had to make a similar choice. Thanks!

Back on my favorite island, visited my AD here who I let know I was coming, and had a sub waiting for me. Interesting side note, I have purchased two watches from this AD this year, and one in my wife’s name for her. So now I need to wait for until 2027 before my next allocation due to some issues he could run into with Rolex. He’s been very kind and as I collect I will continue to see what he has in stock. But what’s better than a sub on the beach?

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I'm looking at selling my late father's watch.

It has the original box and everything but I noticed the face was replaced with a Perpetual face. I'm not sure if the internal parts have changed as well?

What is the best course of action?