- Rolex Submariner Waitlist
- Rolex GMT-Master II Waitlist
- RolexDatejust Waitlist
- Rolex Explorer Waitlist
- Rolex Day-Date Waitlist
- Rolex Sea-Dweller Waitlist
- Rolex Daytona Waitlist
- Rolex Sky-Dweller Waitlist
- Rolex Oyster Perpetual Waitlist
- Rolex 1908 Waitlist
- Rolex Day-Date 36mm “Puzzle Dial” Waitlist
- Six Ways To Beat The Rolex Waitlist
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
In case you weren’t already aware, walking into an AD or authorised dealer (no matter your relationship with them) and demanding your desired Rolex will not get you very far. Well, as far as the outside of the store.
It may get you a slap on the wrist dare we say for requesting it without prior understanding of what this entails. This is where we come in.
Simply put, the demand for Rolex’s has vastly exceeded the supply. This has reached the point where some of the waitlists have leaked into years!
So, it’s important to identify exactly what the waitlist is so you horophiles know exactly what you are up against. Let’s face it’s almost like hitting a horological brick wall.
The waitlist at a dealer essentially means an order in which potential clients are placed in terms of buying a beloved Rolex.
Don’t be under the impression that every store will tell you outright about the list. In some cases, they may just flatly say they are entirely out of Rolex watches and bid you Adieu.
Even if you have a purchase history, dress up in your smartest brogues and have an awesome relationship, don’t expect to be able to jump the queue at the dealers! Oh no there’s so much more to it than meets the eye dear time peeps.
Rolex produces around 1.2 million pieces per year which is vastly more than Audemars Piguet 50,000, Breitling’s circa 230,000 and Cartier’s approximate 620,000 watches. So, why do they continue to be as unobtainable as a Patek Nautilus Tiffany dial?
FIND OUT MORE: A complete review of the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5990
Again, it all comes under the laws of supply and demand. Rolex are one of the most sought after brands due to their exclusivity, brand reputation and associations with wealth and cultural icons, including celebrities like Jay-Z, Ed Sheeran and Eric Clapton.
We completely understand your frustrations. Who wants to waste time in a waitlist at the dealers for five years to receive the watch of their dreams?
Well, to make things a little easier for you, before you pound the streets, venturing into every jeweller under the sun, we will identify each Rolex waitlist, to show exactly which pieces are in demand, and which ones may be quicker to snatch up. This is the only holy grail of wishlists you will ever need.
LEARN MORE: 9 Grail Watches You Should Start Collecting Today
Like a sleek IWC Big Pilot, it’s time to embark on our horological journey for all the essential Rolex, waitlist time including collections like the Submariner and The GMT-Master.
Rolex Submariner Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
The Rolex Submariner was first released by the brand in 1953 and was showcased to the world at Baselworld in 1954. This started the blueprint for all dive watches that followed.
DISCOVER: 63 Best Dive Watches For Serious Enthusiasts In 2024 - Omega, Rolex, Tudor
Oh and we must give a shout out here to the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms.
124060 - Source - Rolex
As a dedicated line of out and out sports/professional models, they became the first watches to be waterproof to 100 metres and the first Rolex to adopt the now iconic Mercedes hands.
What Can The Buyer Expect?
The buyer can expect:
- Chromalight displays ensure maximum legibility, no matter if you are under the seas or running to work.
- They are Superlative Chronometer Certified, meaning COSC certification guaranteed, and then tested again to ensure the criteria of the models are met, which is an average of around -2/+2 seconds per day.
- They are supported by a Triplock winding crown which offers a triple waterproofness system and a crown guard which screws down into the case.
- The middle case is a solid block of Oyster Steel or gold, and the caseback is hermetically sealed and given an aesthetically nice, fluted finish.
- The crystal is bolstered by a Cyclops lens on the Submariner date which promotes easy readability of the date function.
- These particular watches are fitted onto a three piece Oyster bracelet with a patented Oysterclasp safety clasp that prevents accidental opening. It features a Glidelock which allows for the wearer to produce micro adjustments when diving.
Average Waiting Period
The average waiting period for the Rolex Submariner is around 6 to 12 months before buying a model.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
124060 |
Oyster Steel |
41mm |
£7,700 |
£10,500 |
2020 |
126613LB |
Oyster Steel and Yellow Gold |
41mm |
£13,150 |
£14,500 |
2020 |
126610LN |
Oyster Steel |
41mm |
£8,650 |
£12,000 |
2020 |
126618LB |
Yellow Gold |
41mm |
£32,900 |
£33,000 |
2020 |
Rolex GMT-Master II Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
Originally launched in 1955, The GMT-Master is the ultimate piece for the travelling man. In fact, it was released during a spike in travel. The back end of the 20th Century saw Pan American Airways taking off with intercontinental travel where consumers boarded more flights than Michael O’ Leary.
Reference 126713GRNR - Source - Rolex
The Rolex GMT-Master soon became the watch to wear for pilots and in 1959, the partnership between the brand and PAN AM was confirmed after the first ever non-stop flight from New York to Moscow was conducted. And what was the pilot flexing on his wrist? We don’t need to tell you!
In 1982, an extremely significant update was introduced…a movement that allows the hour hands to be set independently to the other hands. And this gentlemen would be the new age of the GMT-Master II.
What Can The Buyer Expect?
- They boast standard functions, and an added arrow tipped hour hand that circles the hand every 24 hours. This works in conjunction with a rotatable bezel and a 24 hour monobloc Cerachrom insert in the iconic two tone ceramic.
- The triangle at the top of the bezel (when it’s set in its neutral position), references the home hours which can be read alongside the bezel graduations.
- The hour hand “jumps” from hour to hour as operated by the crown. This is done without impacting the minute and seconds hand, meaning locations and zones can be changed without impacting the general hours. This allows both the home and away to be read instantaneously.
- The bezel is fitted with a Cerachrom insert that’s 24 hour graduated and two tone. Cerachrom is extremely tough, but they went one step further in 2013 by introducing a single piece of ceramic that is two-tone (blue and black). This has continued into red and blue (nickname Pepsi) black and blue (Batman) not to mention brown and gold (nickname Root beer).
- Fitted into an Oyster case, these watches are waterproof to 100 metres with a solid middle block and a hermetically sealed caseback with fluting.
- They are Superlative Chronometer certified, ensuring maximum precision, under COSC certification with their own checks.
- Fitted onto an Oyster bracelet or a five link Jubilee bracelet depending on the model. Both fitted with safety clasps and Easy Link extensions, comfort as we know is paramount!
Average Waiting Period
The average waitlist for buying a Rolex GMT-Master II is around 12 to 24 months.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
126713GRNR |
Oyster Steel and Yellow Gold |
40mm |
£13,850 |
£17,500 |
2023 |
126718GRNR |
Yellow Gold |
40mm |
£32,700 |
£39,000 |
2023 |
126719BLRO |
White Gold |
40mm |
£34,200 |
£34,000 |
2019 |
126720VTNR |
Oyster Steel |
40mm |
£9,450 |
£17,200 |
2022 |
Rolex Datejust Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
Released in 1945, The Datejust was and swiftly became the first self-winding waterproof chronometer wristwatch to boast the date in a window at 3 o’clock on the dial.
126200 - Source - Rolex
In fact, the model was a total summation of all of their inspirational innovations up to that point. Operating with Chronometric precision, waterproofness and a self-winding movement, the Datejust has retained its iconic aesthetic to this very day.
What Can The Buyer Expect?
- Date aperture and iconic Cyclops eyes within the crystal, allowing for the date to be easily readable.
- The date can be altered with ease, all through just turning the crown in either direction. This innovation was introduced in 1977 and has been cemented as a key part of The Datejust.
- Superlative Chronometer Certified, promoting accuracy and prime longevity in all circumstances.
- Available in either 31, 36 or 41mm versions. Guaranteed to reach at least 100 metres of water resistance, they come in Oyster Steel, yellow, white or Everose Gold.
- Equipped with either an Oyster, Jubilee or President bracelet. They are each individually built in different styles. E.g The Oyster bracelet - three link construction with a secure Oysterclasp, a five link Jubilee bracelet (specifically created for the Datejust in 1945) or a three link President bracelet with crownclasp.
Average Waiting Period
You can expect an average waitlist time of around 3 to 6 months before buying a Datejust.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
126200 |
Oyster Steel |
36mm |
£6,450 |
£7,700 |
2019 |
126301 |
Oyster Steel and Everose Gold |
41mm |
£11,800 |
£12,900 |
2016 |
126334 |
Oyster Steel and White Gold |
41mm |
£10,500 |
£12,400 |
2022 |
278288RBR |
Yellow Gold |
31mm |
£37,250 |
£43,000 |
2020 |
Rolex Explorer Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
The Explorer was unveiled in 1953, following one of their greatest achievements. Let us fill you in for a second.
226570 - Source - Rolex
On the 29th of May 1953, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were the first to ascend Mount Everest. Rolex ties into this accomplishment as on their wrist, they wore what was known as the Bubbleback Oyster Perpetual.
As a result, The Explorer was released in 1953, following the ascent of the incredible mountain. Worn by many Royal Family members and clientele including none other than controversial Prince Harry, it has a history as rich as the Windsors.
FIND OUT MORE: Legendary Watches Worn By The British Royal Family
What Can The Buyer Expect?
- Available in 36mm and 40mm case sizes.
- Chromalight displays, enhancing legibility.
- Superlative Chronometer certification.
- Oyster case construction with a water resistance of 100 metres. The back is hermetically sealed and features a twinlock crown.
- Sapphire crystal protection guarantees the legibility and strength of the watches.
- Oyster bracelet that’s fitted with an Easylink extension link, you can open up to 5mm extra to allow more space.
- The Rolex Explorer II features a GMT hand, to allow you to read the AM/PM with first degree ease.
Average Waiting Period
Expect the waitlist to be an average of around 6 to 18 months if you want to consider buying a Rolex Explorer.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (Around Value)(As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
226570 |
Oyster Steel |
42mm |
£8,100 |
£9,800 |
2022 |
124270 |
Oyster Steel |
36mm |
£6,100 |
£7,700 |
2021 |
124273 |
Oyster Steel and Yellow Gold |
36mm |
£9,900 |
£9,500 |
2021 |
224270 |
Oyster Steel |
40mm |
£6,450 |
£8,400 |
2023 |
Rolex Day-Date Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
The Day-Date was originally launched in 1956 and it represented a huge innovation in the horological world.
228236 - Source - Rolex
This represented the first piece that utilised a calendar within the wristwatch that was made up of a date, the day and the week which is spelt out in full in a window within the dial.
If a luxury Rolex is what you are looking for, it only comes in precious metals such as 18K yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold and even platinum.
The Day-Date is known as The Presidents Watch. This is due to them being worn by a vast number of leaders globally such as Ronald Reagan, Nixon and elite celebs like James Gandolfini and John Mayer, and all its links with the legendary President bracelet.
Now an integral part of the horological community. It’s completely deserving of its nickname!
READ MORE: The Craziest And Outlandish Rolex Nicknames Of All Time - Bart Simpson, Smurf, Pussy Galore
What Can The Buyer Expect?
The buyer can expect:
- The day of the week spelt out in full in an arc shaped window at 12 o’clock. This is combined with a separate window at 3 o’clock, both of which change instantaneously. Need to manually alter them? They feature a mechanism that allows for rapid adjustment via the winding crown.
- The models are Superlative Chronometer Certified with a pristine accuracy of around -2/+2 seconds per day.
- They are built into an Oyster case that totals either 36 or 40mm. Guaranteeing a water resistance of 100 metres, all models are made from precious metals only. They still utilise triplock crowns to ensure maximum durability.
- The bezels are either fluted or made up of diamonds.
- The date display is enhanced with a Cyclops eye.
- The watches are fitted onto a President’s bracelet. Unveiled in 1956 specifically for the Day-Date, the bracelet comes in either gold or platinum depending on the model. Fixed with a Crownclasp, they are both functional and elegant for the discerning metropolitan man.
Average Waiting Period
You can expect to be on the waitlist for an average period of around 6 to 36 months.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (Around Value)(As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
228236 |
Platinum |
40mm |
£53,300 |
£72,000 |
2022 |
128235 |
Everose Gold |
36mm |
£40,650 |
£84,000 |
2019 |
128238 |
Yellow Gold |
36mm |
£37,000 |
£60,000 |
2019 |
128396TBR |
White Gold |
36mm |
£84,450 |
£88,000 |
2023 |
Rolex Sea-Dweller Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
The Sea-Dweller is the pinnacle of Rolex’s dive pieces.
126603 - Source - Rolex
Originally launched in 1967, it was released to support the deep-sea diving world. Recently updated in 2017 to celebrate its 50th anniversary, the watches case size increased from 40mm to 43mm and featured a Cyclops eye to highlight the date.
What Can The Buyer Expect?
The buyer can expect:
- A helium escape valve allows excess pressure to escape following a divers decompression phase in a hyperbaric chamber, so as not to impact the waterproofness.
- A unidirectional bezel with a 60 minute, graduated monobloc Cerachrom insert to allow divers to monitor time underneath the waters.
- The bezel features a Cerachrom insert which is highly durable and reliable.
- A Chromalight display on the dial and the bezel’s triangular zero on the bezel is illuminated with an embedded capsule.
- Superlative Chronometer Certified, ensuring the accuracy of the watches.
- Built into a 43mm Oyster case that's capable of reaching 1,220 metres water resistance.
- Fitted with an Oyster bracelet ensuring security. Easylink extension to fit over diving suits.
Average Waiting Period
You can expect to be on the waitlist for around 3 to 18 months before considering buying a Sea-Dweller.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
126603 |
Oyster Steel and Yellow Gold |
43mm |
£15,150 |
£14,900 |
2019 |
126600 |
Oyster Steel |
43mm |
£11,150 |
£12,200 |
2017 |
Rolex Daytona Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
The Rolex Daytona was introduced in 1963. And to this day remains one of the most iconic watches of all time. And we haven’t even mentioned Paul Newman yet. Paul Newman’s ref. 6239 model is so revered due to its exotic dial and low supply due to it being the first ever Daytona reference.
The specific dial configuration and its associations with the great actor means you’ve got more luck winning the lottery!
126529LN - Source - Rolex
Inspired by the famed Daytona track, instantly making them geared towards racing professionals. Generally fitted with a tachymetric scale and a high powered movement, the watches are the number one choice for petrolheads globally.
What Can The Buyer Expect?
The buyer can expect:
- Chronograph functions, allowing intervals of time to be measured. Typically intervals up to 1/8th of a second with the centre chronograph hands and elapsed seconds/minutes with the counters at 3 and 9 o’clock, this is the ultimate counter!
- The bezel features a tachymetric scale which calculates an average speed over a certain distance. It can measure up to 400 units per hour. How’s that for a timekeeping powerhouse!
- Superlative Chronometer certified, guaranteeing excellent performance.
- Composed of an Oyster case measuring 40mm. Capable of 100 metres water resistance, they come in a variety of materials, including Oyster Steel and precious metals like gold and platinum.
- They are secured via an Oyster bracelet or an Oysterflex bracelet which combines the robustness of the Oyster bracelet with the endearing comfort or elastomer.
Average Waiting Period
Rolex Daytona tends to be one of the longest waiting periods, stretching from 12 to 36 months before you are able to start buying the timepiece.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
126529LN (Le Mans Edition) |
White Gold |
40mm |
£43,300 |
£210,000 |
2023 |
126506 |
Platinum |
40mm |
£65,500 |
£124,000 |
2023 |
126508 |
Yellow Gold |
40mm |
£33,000 |
£44,000 |
2023 |
126515LN |
Everose Gold |
40mm |
£27,050 |
£39,000 |
2023 |
Rolex Sky-Dweller Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
Representing one of the more complex Rolex collections, The Sky-Dweller was released in 2012 with a vast range of new patents that added more dimensions to the complexity of these timepieces.
336239 - Source - Rolex
Capable of reading two zones through the off centre disc and the annual calendar named Saros, this piece is the ultimate for the man who wants to be seen everywhere!
What Can The Buyer Expect?
The buyer can expect:
- The ability to read two time zones simultaneously. This is attained through a red triangle that points to the off centre disc. The disc has a 24 hour graduation that allows for day hours and night hours to be quickly deciphered in the “reference time-zone”.
- Local hours are simply read by the conventional hour, minute and seconds function.
- The calendar functionality is nicknamed Saros and has the unique ability to differentiate between 30 and 31 day months. It only requires one change which is on the 29th of February.
- The complexities of the model are navigated through a Ring Command system that interacts with the bezel, winding crown and the movement, allowing for the user to choose the functions individually by one click clockwise or counterclockwise.
- Built with an Oyster case, they are Superlative Chronometer certified and have 100 metres of water resistance.
- Available with a three link Oyster bracelet, five link Jubilee bracelet and an Oysterflex bracelet.
Average Waiting Period
You can expect to be on the waitlist for around 8 to 24 months before purchasing a Rolex Sky-Dweller.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
336239 |
White Gold |
42mm |
£36,000 |
£38,000 |
2023 |
336934 |
Oyster steel and White Gold |
42mm |
£13,150 |
£25,000 |
2023 |
336934 |
Yellow Gold |
40mm |
£33,000 |
£44,000 |
2023 |
336235 |
Everose Gold |
42mm |
£36,000 |
£37,000 |
2023 |
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
The Oyster Perpetual is the foundation for all Rolex watches.
124300 - Source - Brand’s Site
The Oyster Perpetual follows on from the release of the “Oyster” in 1926. Worn by professional swimmer, Mercedes Gleitze, she wore the watch while swimming across the English Channel in 1927. Suffice to say, the watch's waterproof capability was confirmed!
Waterproof, offering chronometric precision and elegantly understated, the models are kept as minimalist as possible to keep the purity of the collection.
What Can The Buyer Expect?
The buyer can expect:
- Superlative Chronometer certified
- Oyster case comes in a range of sizes at 28mm, 31mm, 34mm, 36mm and 41mm in diameter.
- Oyster bracelet which features a folding Oysterclasp. Complemented with an Easy Link bracelet, the strap can expand by 5mm to reach over diving suits.
Average Waiting Time
As one of the less desired Rolex watches, you can get your hands on an Oyster Perpetual in around 6 to 12 months.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
124300 (Celebration Dial) |
Oyster Steel |
41mm |
£5,400 |
£23,000 |
2020 |
126000 |
Oyster Steel |
36mm |
£5,100 |
£13,000 |
2020 |
124200 |
Oyster Steel |
34mm |
£4,850 |
£6,000 |
2020 |
277200 |
Oyster Steel |
31mm |
£4,750 |
£6,400 |
2020 |
Rolex 1908 Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
Hot off the press alert!
52508 - Source - Rolex
Released during this year's Watches and Wonders, the 1908 collection replaces the Cellini with a fresh styling that’s as classical as Beethoven and is a new direction for Hans Wilsdorf... It features a slight case with a fluted bezel that comes in either yellow or white gold.
What Can The Buyer Expect?
The buyer can expect:
- Exceptionally minimalist design, while opting for an unorthodox baton and Arabic numerals combination on the dial.
- A super dressy 39mm case in either 18K yellow or white gold, they are made up of exceptionally soft curvature with gently tapered lugs.
- Sapphire caseback and a crystal on the front.
- Waterproof to 50 metres.
- Superlative Chronometer certified
- Kitted out with a brown or black alligator leather strap which is tailored for each piece.
Average Waiting Period
Since 1908 is a new collection, it’s difficult to tell the current waiting period at the time of writing. We can expect an entirely new waitlist for this and can only possibly gauge that it will be upwards of 6 months.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Retail Price |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
52508 |
Yellow Gold |
39mm |
£18,500 |
N/A |
2023 |
52509 |
White Gold |
39mm |
£19,600 |
N/A |
2023 |
Rolex Day-Date 36mm “Puzzle Dial” Waitlist
Main Characteristics Of The Collection
The Day-Date was originally launched in 1956, with the heritage stemming from being the first calendar wristwatch to show the date and the day of the week spelt out in full in an arc-shaped window at 12 o’clock.
128235 - Source - Rolex
Now, The Day-Date has recently been revamped with a highly optimistic tinge, named The “Puzzle Dial”. And this of course has gone grail thanks to you guessed it…John Mayer alongside NFL impresario Tom Brady who has a number of timepieces to his name like The IWC Portuguese Tourbillon and his GMT-Master II 126755SARU.
What Can The Buyer Expect?
You can expect:
- The day of the week in 26 languages. However, in this variation, they are replaced by keywords like “Happy”, “Eternity”, “Gratitude” and others.
- The date window located at 3 o’clock features 31 exclusive emojis instead of the date like a small Rolex crown, a magic 8 ball, a panda and even a ladybug!
- The dial is made with champlevé enamelling, offering stunning colours and decoration which is incomparable.
- The jigsaw puzzle inspired dial, features pieces in blues, reds, yellow and green pieces on a solid colour background.
- The hour markers are made up of 10 baguette-cut sapphires in six different hues.
- Available in precious metals only with an Oyster case and President style bracelet.
- They are Superlative Chronometer certified
- Worn by the likes of LeBron James, Marcus Rashford, Tom Brady and John Mayer.
Average Waiting Period
As this is a variation of the Day-Date collection, expect to wait for this unique piece to be around the 6 to 36 month frame…maybe even longer.
Prices At Retail vs Secondary
Reference |
Material |
Size |
Price Retail |
Price Secondary Market (As of December 2024) |
Release Date |
128239 |
White Gold |
36mm |
N/A |
N/A |
2023 |
128235 |
Rose Gold |
36mm |
N/A |
N/A |
2023 |
128238 |
Yellow Gold |
36mm |
N/A |
N/A |
2023 |
Six Ways To Beat The Rolex Waitlist
There are a number of ways you can attempt to win over the system. We aren't saying James Bond sleaze, but it might just help!
- Always dress smartly when attending authorised dealers. First impressions always count when it comes to building up a relationship!
- Have an active interest in the brand. Showcase a little knowledge to the authorised dealer to show you aren't just a random stranger off the street.
- Have a model in mind and stick with it. Don’t keep changing your mind when at the authorised dealer as it shows you are not definitive and not worth the exclusivity.
- Constantly turn up. Ensure you always show your face at the authorised dealer in order to confirm that you are in it for the long run and build up an established relationship.
- Try to have a purchase history at that authorised dealer in order to clarify you have the means and the relationship to buy their more sought after pieces...should they ever appear. In this way, those who have spent more will more often than not be at the top of the waitlist.
- Always be respectful to the dealer. While we hope you are like this anyway, it’s very important you show respect in order to win a few places up the waitlist as it builds up a relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get On A Waitlist From Rolex?
Yes indeed. You can get on a waitlist if you follow a few key steps.
- Make sure you are positive and respectful.
- Try and build up a little purchase history. This includes buying a few other watches, such as TAG Heuer or Tudor pieces in the said store.
- You must demonstrate how keen you are. This means turning up regularly, expressing your interest in one sole model to show you are consistent, and expressing your own knowledge within the brand. But this is by no means a gimme to bagging that elusive model.
Why Do You Have To Wait So Long For A Rolex?
The reason you sit on a waitlist for so long for a Rolex is because of how in demand the brand is.
Rolex is one of the most desired brands due to its associations with high level celebrities and its Superlative Chronometer certificate, plus its high quality, in-house materials like Rolesor and Everose gold.
Furthermore, it’s become a symbol of wealth, bringing in a vast clientele of cash rich individuals who have already dropped tens of thousands of pounds. Purchase history aside, these are the folks that get to the front of the line!
Even though they produce a whopping 1 million watches per year, they are still inundated with people wanting a model from them, meaning the presence of waitlists is something that may always be there.
There is someone you can see for such a list of eclectic timepieces… Chrono Hunter is the best source for you to find and buy models due to our great networks with the best in the business. Contact us here to see why we are the place to go!
How Do I Skip A Rolex Waiting List?
Sadly, unless you are Drake, Hov or Mark Wahlberg to name a few high rollers, you cannot skip the waitlist at the dealers. Even having a purchase history and a solid relationship is unlikely to let you jump the dealers queue.
However, you could always opt to go to the secondary market for your Rolex edition, skipping the waitlist, but if you are willing to venture into the increasingly popular pre-owned markets, you may find that you are much closer to buying your desired ticker than you originally thought.
Pre-owned watches can supply you with your desired watch straight away. Furthermore, the discontinued models that are no longer available at retail are readily available on pre-owned markets.
While you will be paying a premium as opposed to the retail market, you can land your timepiece straight away, negating the incredibly long wait list and having to stack up a healthy purchase history.
Why Can't You Walk Into Rolex And Buy A Watch?
You cannot walk into a dealership and start to buy a watch because of the level of demand behind the brand. Sorry guys. Not even your purchase history and relationship burgeoning smile will save you!
The chances of an authorised dealer having any Rolexes in stock is slim to let’s say none, meaning you cannot buy one off the shelf like you might be able to with some other less desirable brands like Breitling, Omega or Longines.
What Is The Hardest Rolex To Get?
If we focus on watches still in retail, one of the hardest Rolex novelties to obtain from a dealer is the Rolex Submariner 126610LV.
While the sporty Submariner models by their very name are in extremely high demand, they have become highly requested due to their authentic stainless steel build and strong heritage as the first line to reach 100 metres of water resistance.
The 126610LV goes one step further. With only around 10 to 30 models sent to each authorised dealer, they can yield extensive waitlists and difficulty locating it from any form of retailer.
The 126610LV goes further by utilising an entirely green bezel, linking to the classic Hulk Submariner that was originally discontinued in 2020.
Conclusion
Opting to sit on a waitlist at the dealers and total up your purchase history may seem like a very miserable endeavour. And no, it’s not like waiting at a bus stop for a long time.
They don’t all come at once. After all, who has the patience or the patience to sit for at least 12 months for a model? Never mind having to spend more than you need with a purchase history and continuously be charming to continue a relationship…
With that knowledge, you may decide that the best option for you is to venture towards the pre-owned luxury market for your model. So, why should you opt to go for the pre-owned watch market as opposed to the traditional dealer route?
- You may find a piece that has long since been discontinued. This includes those that are rare, limited edition or vintage watches that have already been and gone on the primary retail market.
- You may find that your piece has had its value dropped in comparison to brand new watches at the dealers.
- The bonus of picking up a discontinued watch is that they have the potential to increase in value due to their age…if bought at the right price and time.
- The secondary market isn’t as scary as you may have anticipated. In fact, gone are the days of dealing with scammers and those who charge you excess for simply conversing with them in the public domain.
- You now have every option of choosing from a series of reliable, distinctive platforms like Chrono Hunter thanks to our array of established luxury retailers, all competing for your business to provide the best prices possible and multiple offers.
It’s easy to see that every item you take a look at, has the potential to depreciate in value at some point. Chances are any item, luxury or not, that you buy has the potential of dropping in value.
It makes sense that people will list items on the watch market for less than what they were originally worth in order to try and get a quick sale. No need to start up a relationship when you can source your pieces online!
However, as you may have already noticed with Rolex watches, the opposite tends to happen! It’s the scarcity of these watches that drives up the price on secondary markets. So you may be quids in.
With this knowledge, there is also the fear of ‘what happens if I want to resell my watch and it drops in value?’ Following the laws of supply and demand, it’s typically found that the older the Rolex watches are, the better the chance the value of the watch will increase.
Besides, everyone loves a solid vintage timepiece! Especially discontinued Rolex watches which have every possibility of increasing in value if you want to buy a Rolex on the secondary market…and subject to availability..
Opting to buy your Rolex watch from the secondary market may seem counterintuitive as you are paying more to get your hands on it. Again, the watches have the potential to keep on increasing in value, as well as you being able to skip the monstrous waitlist period and the endless necessity to keep the relationship!
Do you really have hours to burn on a waitlist for 8-24 months for the watch of your dreams? Didn’t think so. The Rolex Sky-Dweller to the Rolex Daytona are elite timepieces that are subsequently revered amongst the horological community.
But if you don’t have time to wait around for years on a waitlist or forge a relationship with a dealer where you will have to build up a purchase history, we have the solution...
Looking to buy a Rolex at the best possible price? Want to enjoy incredible innovation and Haute Horlogerie? It’s definitely right to contact ChronoHunter here. Benefit from multiple offers from our established selection of luxury watch retailers and accept which one is right for you.
Whether you are searching for that first step on your collection journey or looking to add to an existing one, we can source the timepiece for you at the fairest price in the most secure environment.
Save money the smart way by utilising our dedicated app today or simply entering the details of the watch or watches you want to buy or sell via our online form. With peerless service and brand expertise like no other, we are your go-to site when you buy a watch or sell a watch.
Further Reading:
The Must-Read Rolex Buyer's Guide - Chrono Hunter
Chrono Hunter's Top Rolex Watches For Investment In 2023: The Essential Guide
Buy Or Sell A Luxury Watch The Smart Way With Chrono Hunter
If you are considering your new purchase or perhaps the sale of a beloved timepiece, Chrono Hunter is the smart way to buy or sell a luxury watch.
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