Pricing and negotiation is a common topic in Rolex forums, with many wondering if they can find their favorite Rolex model for cheaper than the going rate. While there are exceptions to every rule, the general rule is that Rolex discourages any discounts given to customers at their Authorized Dealers. When it comes to their popular stainless steel professional models, it is highly unlikely that you will pay anything below the retail price. For some, like the new ceramic Daytona (Reference #116500LN), you may even have to pay a premium above the going rate due to the demand and long waiting list for it.
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| Rolex Chêne-Bourg Site (photo: Rolex/Jean-Daniel Meyer) |
However, when it comes to precious metal configurations with higher price tags, there may be room to negotiate. Every individual has a different experience with different dealers around the world and it ultimately comes down to your relationship with them. If you have bought several luxury timepieces from a dealer in the past and have maintained a rapport with the owner or salesperson, you may have more leverage than someone walking in off the street. For those looking for discounts on their first luxury timepiece, I would recommend looking for preowned or vintage models. There are forums and websites, like watchrecon.com, that list trusted dealers and prices for you to comparison shop before making your purchase.
It is a slippery slope when looking for luxury watches on the cheap. I have encountered many stories from even the most experienced Rolex watch owners about getting ripped off by shady sellers on Craigslist. As they say, if the price is too good to be true, it probably is. In the Classifieds section of The Rolex Forum, they have a list of trusted dealers that are recommended by members. This would be a safe way to shop for a discounted preowned Rolex online. However, chances are you will not be able to try on the watch before purchasing, which is a problem for many (myself included). I would also advise caution when buy from sellers on e-Bay, as some have ordered a watch based on a model number and photo they saw on the site only to be shipped a slightly different model.
There will always be those who claim to have received deep discounts for new luxury timepieces, but if their claims are true (I would ask to see the receipts) they represent a very small percentage of Rolex owners. The majority of people pay full price for most new models or spend time doing research and comparison shopping for preowned or vintage models online. To find a Rolex Authorized Dealer in your area to begin your search, visit rolex.com.
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