Honestly brother you are right, the way Rolex have gone I would actually be embarrassed to wear one, im in the process of selling my current ones in collection and replacing with brands like Grand Seiko and IWC is my next. Rolex can shove the snobbery up where the sun dont shine. I'm years waiting for a OP, end of the day Rolex are mass produced, did you know Grand Seiko make 35000 watches a year v rolex 1.2million. There is no experience buying a Rolex anymore, you don't get vip treatment, Rolex 10 years ago was a great buying experience, you felt like you were buying something special v now going in, being treated like crap and told we might consider putting you on a wait list if you pass our interview and have a gross income of 1million a year to buy a OP 41. Bloody joke. When I started getting into watches I thought Rolex were the thing to buy and wear. Now it couldn't be further from the truth. For anyone else don't buy a Rolex and if you have any Dump them terriable watch brand.

I purchased 2 watches from Rolex in the 1980s. Back then I went to my local Rolex AD, picked out what I wanted and purchased them. Today, you go in and they place you on a waiting list and place your order. They have no idea when it will come in, if it will come in, and if you get one it's like winning some sort of lottery. The watches in the store are only for display and cannot be sold. My dealer said they get a box every month and they never know what is in them until they open the box. How does anyone run a business like this?

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

You’re exactly the type of client they should be respecting the most. The loyal buyers before the hype, you deserve a better treatment, that is supposed to be luxury

@Watchgang123

Жыл бұрын

Wrong, you’re exactly the type of client they ignore because you’re not buying multiple pieces regularly like the flippers and grey market dealers are.

@jerseyneil1

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis I vacationed in Hawaii last year. Walked in to Rolex thinking I can get one. They had 3 watches on display, nothing to sell and 5 salesmen standing around. You had tourists from Europe, Asia and the Americas there and no sales. It made no sense.

@DC-si8xw

Жыл бұрын

the list is not real

@pilot777300ER

Жыл бұрын

Hello, Fellow Mallu watch collector :)

It’s simple, Rolex acts this way being the customers allow it. If people simply stopped talking about Rolex or going on waiting list for them or in their boutiques Rolex would change. But Rolex knows no matter what, people will still come regardless of their treatment.

@alfieakaronaldog

Жыл бұрын

Boy do I wish people would stop talking about Rolex 😂

Buying an expensive watch is memorable that's why it's perfect for commemorating life events, nowadays if you buy rolex at an AD you will be reminded of the bootlicking with the salesman buying stuff you don't need to develop a "relationship" with the AD. Or if you buy from flippers you will be reminded how you maintained your dignity and got screwed by flippers 😂

Vote with your wallet… if more people did that the brands would get off their high horse.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Very true, with many pieces now trading below retail they have to be careful not to alienate their core fan base

I think the "VIP area" were mainly for content creators who booked a time in advance.

So sick of the Rolex hype and the games played by the AD, took my 20K I had saved for one and bought a bicycle! So much more enjoyment!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Fair enough! haha

As a Rolex President owner, I was extremely disappointed in the trash from Rolex. Even Timex would have been ashamed of the emoji wheels!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

it’s part of their new junior range for rich dubai kid under 12s😉…that’s why it’s a 36mm

Hmmm I'm not really sure why you thought a grey market dealer would be welcomed with open arms, I'd say most grey market dealers probably aren't met with a positive response. You bought the Tudor and immediately listed it for sale on your website for £879 over list 😂(within your rights to do so of course... but still, it doesnt exactly show you were there for the love of watches does it?) The event was open for the first time for enthusiasts and as you said, press, neither of which you fit into man. These grey market dealers need to decide what they want to be... dealers or youtubers...

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

This is the problem with how dealers are stereotypically perceived. Can a car salesman not be a car enthusiast, a footballer not love football? My journey down this path started with the interest and the passion, started with a collection. If you look back on my channel i explain my journey and how i’m trying to do things differently and change that stereotype it seems you may possess.

@imtomaustin

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis I understand you’re an enthusiast as well Vinny I didnt mean to offend, there was some facetiousness in my comment, thing is though I guess coming back and posting a scathing review about it perhaps isn’t a great way to get their attention in a positive way though… You’re the first person I’ve seen say anything negative about the whole thing tbh - as for Rolex not putting on a huge song and dance, because you’re right, they don’t have to - the watches do the talking

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

We very much enjoyed the event don’t get me wrong is was incredible thanks to the stellar effort of the majority of brands and the watches they exhibited in such a theatrical and immersive way. After taking some time to digest it all, i think the stark contrast between booths was interesting to chat about and mainly the contrasting attitudes towards clients.

@bigmacdaddy1234

Жыл бұрын

Rolex treated the enthusiasts just as bad. Terrible customer service overall.

@bigmacdaddy1234

Жыл бұрын

@@5amarillo5 Nope, not that easy. Not covering videos about Rolex doesn't fix the problem: they treat their customers terrible.

Thanks for the video, I’m from a similar customer background and had the same experience; one of the staff nearly went apoplectic when I tried to go upstairs.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Oh wow! exactly the same with us, thanks for sharing

This is very revealing of this Event.......Out of all the coverage I've seen, nobody has spoken about this. Thanks for sharing mate.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

You're very welcome, thanks for watching

Thanks to the rolex atitude towards potential customers, i have bought other swiss brands recently.

Isn't the problem going into the matter with unrealistic expectations? Its silly for a Rolex to turn off their consumer base, but they are expecting this to go on forever.

Let me know your experiences with Rolex! have you shopped with them for years and now being disregarded? I will mention the most shocking ones in a new video…

I’ll never own a Rolex again. They have lied about sizing too much to ever trust them again with so much money.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Sizing is an issue with them i relate to that which is exactly why i wanted to try on the new Daytona!

Everybody should know by now that Rolex DOES NOT NEED TO SELL WATCHES. They have the most incredible holdings and portfolios in real estate of any brand around, with skyscrapers in N.Y.C. and elswhere - amongst many more capital holdings. All their cash goes into a foundation set up by Wilsdorf many years ago in Switzerland. No wonder they do not care about clients...

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Very true of course but I couldn’t help but think it was their happy clients who bought their watches in the first instance that made them what they are back in the 70s

The ability to come around to a point a view that you once dismissed is admirable.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, it was very eye-opening

This is exactly what I expect from Rolex. They are very aware of this. They dont want or need to sell shit to anyone. They want you to beg them for a watch, which you wont get. Its all a strategy.

The brands at the top need to be knocked off their snobby high horses. I simply refuse to beg a company like Rolex to take my hard earned money for a watch. That’s not luxury or a dignified experience. I will always spend it elsewhere with brands that actually want to do business and care about me.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Precisely the emotions we were overcome by, a feeling of being irrelevant, like we’re not good enough to be a part of their club despite the fact we’ve spent thousands on their products.

The whole Rolex experience is shocking even from the ADs, supposed to be a luxury product and the service and experience is completely shit

One problem with what you said- demand has created the secondary market. I disagree. The secondary market has created the shortage There are plenty of watches they just all have been moved brand new in box to the secondary market. This created what makes it look like a shortage. There are tons of new Rolex available, they are just all in the gray market. There is no shortage. If someone is willing to they can buy 20 new stainless Submariners today.

Understand your rant based on the treatment you experienced by some brands at W&W23. As you now recognise this is an all too common service experience by many with the brands mentioned, and especially Rolex ADs. Luxury watch brands appear to be going in the same direction of other luxury fashion brands such as LVMH (especially Hermes), Chanel and so on where you need an appointment to get access…..only to find that you still do not have any chance of getting your hands on their in-demand, managed and limited supply of specific products (e.g. Birkin bag, Daytona and so on). These brands increasingly focus on high value items for the rich, the super rich, and top influencers. They no longer care for the average Joe or Mary who has worked their way up to a point where they can afford an aspirational and milestone purchase. These brands want big spenders who have more money than sense. The rest of us will continue to look on in envy until we open our eyes to alternative brands who provide great products and good service. Our self worth cannot and must not be measured by the value of a watch or bag on our wrist. End of my rant 😛

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

excellent point, well said. This really was the emotion i suppose we were overcome by, a realisation of well, if i’m not good enough for them then i’ll take my money to some brand who makes me feel good enough. THAT IS LUXURY. Luxury price tags if you are able to pay them should come with luxury service

@pilot777300ER

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis In Singapore, ROLEX acts exactly the same. Snobbish, nothing to sell. blah blah!! Walked into Cartier beautiful service straight away bought a Santos in half gold. Rolex is trying to act like Patek!!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

@@pilot777300ER Congrats on a superb watch! the first ever wristwatch for gents...And your theory is correct, i'll explain in my next video the transition it seems Rolex are going through and how they are repositioning themselves in the market to try to be in the holy trinity.

This very same experience can be had in any Bucherer store in switzerland. Unfortunately this is the real face of Rolex unless you are a top VIP.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

It genuinely is a shame, perhaps they should go to the model of AP with owned boutiques and fewer of them so they can focus on service. My visit to AP in Geneva was excellent, was even offered the new fume dial code 11:59, lovely piece

What a great insight into how some watch companies treat the same people who have made them what they are. Popular. Shameful the way you were treated. Great job!!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

thanks a lot for watching!

I have always dreamed of owning a Rolex one day - it was something I have wanted since I was in my twenties and I'm 48 now. I never ended up getting one because I am a family man and my family comes before vanity purchases like luxury watches. However I can honestly say that even if I had the opportunity now, I would not buy one on principle because I despise the way they treat customers and their repulsive 'marketing' tactics. If and when I purchase a high end luxury watch, it would be an Omega. For now I'll stick with my Seiko's and Citizens.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

lots of great choices with seiko and citizen, love the new citizen with the yellow dial !

The Pop-up Tudor boutique was the best ideas at Watches and Wonders so enthusiasts (and flippers) could buy a watch. 😉😉 Only a mild p*** take mate. No harm meant I know it's your work. The varying welcome given by brands shows many are arrogant. As you say predictable from the crown but Chopard?? I've been reasonably successful at buying Rolex in the past but my particular AD well seems to have run dry. I won't stop trying but there are plenty of other watches to get excited about. Good video, thanks

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Haha sure, well it is my job, we only bought one piece and could’ve bought more. And yes, Chopard was a joke. I very much like the Alpine eagle and thing their micro rotor movements are some of the best looking but seriously they do not have a high horse to ride upon😂

I’m afraid you don’t understand the main purpose of Watches & Wonders. It’s THE trade show for AD’s to order their watches for the next 12 months. And without an appointment it’s nearly impossible to get into the booths. Especially Rolex and some other important brands. Time is the limiting factor here. You’ve got hundreds of appointments to do with your most important AD’s from all over the world. And then you might have time for some of the most influential media representatives. And that’s it. Watches & Wonders isn’t a trade show for the ordinary watch enthusiasts - sorry! 🤷‍♂️

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Then why not come up with intelligent and practical solutions like tudor did with mounting the cases and half of the bracelets on a stand so you could tuck your wrist underneath and try them on quickly, place them outside of a glass box as did many brands such as Hermes and panerai and indeed Tudor. These brands made the effort for the public days, the public whom are of course the ultimate customers.

@goodlifebdg

Жыл бұрын

I understand the rant. It is because you spent money & time, you have high expectations. I would feel the same. However for people who did not go there, i think they too understand why rolex did that. This is basics of economics, supply & demand. If demand is NOT high, then you need to DO MORE, to attract people to buy. If demand is SUPER high, you do NOT NEED to do extra. These companies in different demand tiers / levels , will focus on different things. As customers, of course we want all companies to do what we want. As companies, they cannot please everyone

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

true but they only need to make an effort at one big flagship event once a year, tudor had a lot of crowds too and that was managed well, even patek had areas where you could sit and chat with them

I enjoyed watches and wonders ,didn’t wait in the cue for the Rolex Daytona’s or Lange.thought the czapek watches were amazing.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Great to hear! and yes their integrated bracelet piece is very hot and last time i heard they were heavily waitlisted

Respect for speaking out so clearly what had to be spoken out from long time!!!

25k spent at rolex is literally nothing

Great info mate, sorry that you experienced some form of snobbery from the snobbish brands . I am a Rolex fan boy but hate what they have become . Currently looking at other brands that care other about their customers

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! and we’ll i must say it was very obvious which brands tried hard to impress and be friendly and which others were arrogant. I quite like some of the smaller brands that were there too, check our Ressence who had a small booth but very innovative watches

@iceman5036

Жыл бұрын

Those brands deserves to be snobbed aswell, Id rather get another Grand Seiko

@thegraciefighter102

Жыл бұрын

In seriousness who is that ? Maybe Oris

I inherited a 40 year old President from my father, he hadn’t worn it for several years, so I took it to de AD to be serviced and after a month they told me that a change of policy prevented them from servicing it because it had been opened by a non AD in the past, and that was it, no explanation no nothing. I will never buy a Rolex.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

unbelievable 😂😂, do they really think a 40 year old watch realistically would never be opened by someone else in that time? crazy

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

take it to a quality family run watchmaker or we can help with that too

@Endureromex

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis Thanks, that is what I did (I live in Mexico), my watchmaker did a fantastic job and for a fraction of the AD cost.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

sure, they are very simply built and easy to work on movements so a good watchmaker should have no problem

@ronangsr

Жыл бұрын

Thats bs mate go to a different AD and request its sent back to Rolex main factory for service. You will be looked after,

Always love the vids Vinny and this is a really good reflection on the event that maybe others don’t dare say. 😀

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

thanks a lot for watching! and well i wanted to say it as it is, I love Rolex of course but the gulf in efforts made between brands was so obvious i couldn’t not chat about it. We expected at least some engagement with clients at the event but sadly none, i think we felt quite let down to travel all that way and pay all that money to not get to try on a piece or see them out in the open.

Unfortunately unless you’re an authorised dealer of Rolex , PP , and some other big brands you can not just go up and try their new models at W&W.

Every time I hear a story like this I get to wondering how long it will be before Apple start copying these ridiculous practices. They're another company who, while producing a good quality and historically significant product, have built an illusory reputation on relentlessly pushing perversely anti-market sales tactics. I could well be wrong but just lately it seems I don't hear anything more about people, camping out for days outside their shops ahead of the latest new iPhone release, and the media don't even seem to cover their launches anymore. And Apple have always targeted the illusion of exclusivity. Getting back to Rolex, aren't they a bit common-or-garden in the luxury watch world? They might be well made, but so is any Seiko or Casio. I've never owned one, but aren't Rolex really only the first rung on the status ladder where watches are concerned? The kind of thing that your Jeff Bezoses and Ed Sheerans buy as everyday watches while they cherish their Patek Philippes and A Lange & Sohnes? I bet a lot of lottery winners buy Rolex watches (sorry, lottery winners) while they wouldn't know what a Cartier was. You should do what they deserve: forget Rolex altogether and buy something more exclusive.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

very interesting comparison actually with Apple i think the brands started off with similar reputations, reputations of them being trailblazers in their field for innovation, we will be chatting about innovation next week so please sub!

@jaggi64

Жыл бұрын

Same with Tesla

@IridiumZero

Жыл бұрын

I don't think Apple has that luxury any more, certainly in the phone and laptop sectors.

@cfcblue8

11 ай бұрын

I don't think Apple would go that route. Remember, they are a publicly traded company unlike Rolex, so they have a fiduciary duty to their investors to make as much money as possible, aka selling as much product as possible.

Thanks for the review which has potentially saved me £ 1500 ! I intended to visit this event next year but based on your experience I don't think its something I would appreciate after spending all that money and travelling all that distance to not be able to view and try on my favoured watch brand. Its a real pity that Rolex has lost its way with the customers who helped build the brand and are in fact becoming so elitist and snobby that ordinary folks will lose interest and move away from there watches.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Don’t get me wrong the event was very interesting thanks to the brands that made the effort, but if you’re going just to experience and try on the new Rolex watches, you’ll be disappointed.

Someone else has spotted it! Nice one Vinny. What else should we expect from a company that sits back whilst their clients are being robbed on the streets partly because they keep stolen watch serial numbers a secret. On another note. Chopard 🤣🤣🤣 Looks my decision to go to Newcastle instead on Watches and W**k**s was the right one.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

cheers Paul! really appreciate you watching. I do hope next year Rolex in particular make their booth experience more engaging and inclusive for their fans, Tudor nailed that.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

…agreed, even AP are stepping up to the plate with watch crime now, will be interesting to see how that scheme actually plays out in practice and I really do like the Alpine Eagle and think Chopard make some of the best looking micro-rotor movements but yes bizarre i had to switch my camera off and that just got my back up and i walked out.

@_-MiamiVice-_

Жыл бұрын

Paul you went to Newcastle and visited the shady watchtrader people. Remind us what Hendo was locked up for. The NCA raid and money laundering investigation you all watch people kept quiet about. Credibility of Joe Biden...

I had a Rolex yellow gold submariner on order with Mappin and Webb Chester very recently. They phoned me to let me know they have it in price £32000 which was fine. I pointed out that I have a two-tone blue sub and one of the very last explorer 11 all box and papers that I would like to part ex if possible and that I would bring them in for a valuation. They were not prepared to do that or keep the watch for a week so that I could sell them. Needless to say, I was very disappointed. I then phoned up an independent dealer Jopsons in Carlisle Who had the watch I was after, I told them what I had to part ex. An hour later I had a ball park valuation on my two. I then drove to Carlisle and bought the sub from them. Deal Done. I have bought a sky Dweller, and a 41 Date Just form Mappin and Webb Chester also an oyster perpetual for my daughter previously. Needless to say they have lost a customer, not that that will bother them!!!!!!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

The only way is grey!

Only backs up what I’ve already experienced, it’s shameful to be treated that way and hence why I’m no longer buying anymore Rolex. I’m sure they’ll be sad to read this

I have a few Rolex from sub to Migauss to blro either bought grey or via friends . I have a local Rolex ad that I don’t even bother going to any longer . Why because they don’t give a hoot about me so fine I moved on . Bought a GS recently and the level of service I received was tremendous

I now believe that it will take Rolex as many true enthusiasts to burn their expensive brand timepieces online one after another in rebel to this shameful policy to come back to terms. I remember the echoes to the viral video of the Russian KZreadr who took revenge from Mercedes for their indecent customer care pertaining his recently acquired car. H simply set it ablaze live. I know you will never enjoy your two Rolexes anymore as they'll keep reminding you how the brand thought too little of you. Shame.

As it’s a trade show, Rolex would only be interested in talking to AD’s from around the world Vinny.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

More a press event to be honest for journalists i gathered, would be interesting if we could perhaps visit on a non public day next year to see if we’re treated any differently, and i think they were. look across youtube and at some of the more established channels and they all got hands-on, this a really gives a false impression of their true colours to ordinary buying public, which is what I experienced

@mell3109

Жыл бұрын

I was hearing that ADs were also denied access so you have to ask what’s the point?

Very interesting to see the way they treat potential customers. 😮

You deserve better. I'm glad you made this video. I hope rolex watches and learn. Shame on you rolex

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

thanks a lot for watching and yes hopefully they improve on the experience next year

Fu... Rolex... Buy quality instead. Plenty 2 choose from

I thought Tudor and Rolex are the same company. You can't trash Rolex and praise Tudor. They're basically saying you're not good enough for Rolex so come over and buy these Tudors.

@Mega-zi7ys

Жыл бұрын

Exactly you either get screwed up front or through the backdoor...bottomline is , it's still a dick😅🎉

I just want to get an explorer to commemorate my first mountain climb.. but having second thoughts now

Shame. Not sure why these brands would deny any free advertising. Really surprised at Lange.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

For sure, i was impressed by the design of Chopard’s booth hence why i wanted to film and yes at Lange you felt like you were being watched and judged

@vinceslapchopper

Жыл бұрын

Lange is a victim of its own success, they seem to have big issues scaling up their production, offerings, servicing. Only one watch release at W&W, really?

There are sooo many other truly interesting and respectable brands, why do people even care about Rolex these days? It's a watch for flippers and celebs. In the end of the day it's just another stainless steel watch. Why not get a Tudor piece - the same thing with another brand name on it. Oh, I forgot, people want to look more respectable because of their wristwatch... But almost nobody actually cares about what you have on your wrist, regular people around you know nothing about watches, lol. Well, maybe, just maybe they have some sort of a smart watch and they've heard something about Casio... and Rolex?.. All I say is people should have more dignity and look at other brands, they will gladly accept your hard earned money. If you're buying for yourself, not to impress anyone, just avoid Rolex and save your nerves.

If you had spent over £200k you might have been considered a VIP.

Sorry background music so loud I can’t hear what you’re saying…

Grey market dealers rely on the average consumer / collector for sales. As those consumers become dissatisfied with the Rolex brand or in store experience, the damage wont just be to Rolex as a company, but also those grey market dealers trying to move inventory...food for thought

I just subscribed to your channel. I loved your honesty, that sort of behaviour is not acceptable. Is it to protect their identity? or is it out right snobbery? I think the latter. I’m assuming some journalists were allowed to film in there? I’m interested in the behind the scenes stuff :)

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

thanks a lot! and yes this is the point, the more established journalists got to try everything on and report on it properly so they come to youtube and report on a different experience because they got the the privilege, however us clients were shunned

@chriszivoder2650

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis yea you did mention that. It still boils my blood that this sort of behaviour still exists.

As a watch collector who has a few decent items from a range of brands (omega, GS and tudor) I am starting to get to the point where I may just not include Rolex out of principle. I could type a number if reasons for this but im a simple man so will just say ;They seem lame, flat and just an uninteresting as a brand right now.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

I hear you, not much innovation really this year again, over a decade since the last big innovation of the sky-dweller

@catfancy1708

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis Im thinking if getting the Oris kermit for fun , what did think of that ? and did you get to speak to them at the event ?

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

yeah it’s good fun and i think for the price point it’s not something that has to be taken too seriously anyway, they had a good display and I would say all of the more entry level brands were very accommodating, particularly baume & mercier

Should’ve got the jubilee 41! Enjoy!

The show isn't for enthusiasts. It is for ADs to purchase and to give authorized press something to do. Honestly you should feel grateful they changed things and let you in as you are not an authorized dealer for any of these brands it seems. Even if you tried on the Daytona, it isn't like you would have an option to buy one so an argument about I needed to see the differences in person, frankly doesn't matter other than for your own ego of creating content saying you hand one in your hands. I do appreciate hearing the story of your experience as a grey market dealer.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

no, the show isn’t for enthusiasts, but the two public days, who were they for? if you’re going to have them days make an effort…Tudor did, patek did, and many other brands, is it so much to ask to want to try a piece on? it wasn’t a big deal for other brands who were happy to oblige or offer practical solutions to see the watch on a stand in the open for you to touch and feel. This isn’t rocket science. Rolex couldn’t be bothered and it’s a simple as that

Great video. Had a similar experience here in nyc. Ended up saving my 7k and bought. 200$ explorer homage.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Haha fair enough! Thanks for watching, would love to visit nyc one day🙏

@mikearkous8379

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancisyou should. They’re building a Rolex headquarters which I won’t be allowed to enter 😂

You are very right on all accounts. They will not get customers paying their hard earned cash by being pricks and A Holes. Hahaha.

Agreed with all what you say . Awful experience at ADs too

Rolex aren’t best mates with the grey dealers as you know 👍

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

This experience was universal on the public days with Rolex, not just specific to me and them treating me differently as a secondary market dealer😂

Most of your audience, if not all, agree that Rolex doesn’t care about “ordinary” people, but your audience is made of watch enthusiasts. The typical current Rolex buyer doesn’t understand sh** about watches, their attraction to the brand is based on the status that it represents and they feed the disgusting sales model that Rolex is quite happy perpetuating.

Omega.

Their clients are the authorized dealers, mate, not you directly.

The snobbery of certain brands beggers belief and would certainly put me off ever buying there products again as the saying goes you only get one chance to make a first impression

Thanks Vinny for sharing your experiences at Watches and Wonders. My candid reactions to your video: 1. Kudos to you for sharing your real reaction to each vendor. Too many other channels don't have the guts to be real. 2. Judging by your experience in the Rolex booth, I now understand why the AD's treat customers the same way in their stores. 3. The lack of supply at retail has been exposed by other grey marketers. It has nothing to do with customer supply and demand. The fact is many AD's sell direct to the grey market to maximize their profits. That is why Rolex watches are found in the AD's safe, not the cases to sell to new clients.

@rushwarp9492

Жыл бұрын

This is spot on...At an official Rolex dealer, I tried on a watch that was supoosedly 'not for sale' and ony for looking. OK, got it....When I went back a month later, to take a second look at the same watch, the salesman said it was was sold to a client. WTF? In the end, I have had to buy every single Rolex I own in the gray market or otherwise wait until I have one foot in the grave. F+++ Rolex as far as I am concerned!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

hi danny, yes it was just fascinating to see the brands displaying their true colours so to speak, at an event you would think they would all make the effort and go the extra mile to impress and win people over, this was not the case for Rolex, reflective of real world boutique experiences i guess!

I moved on to Omega and I am very happy :D

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Superb brand on many accounts i agree, i just how they don’t continue to raise their retail prices as they have done much like rolex this last year

Don’t take no 💩 Vinny lad!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Haha took some time to digest the experience and I thought it was very interesting to compare the efforts and attitudes of the brands on display which were polarising and I think do indeed reflect real-world boutique experiences

@GonzoJamie

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis I’ve heard Rolex and Patek were similar experiences. While, over at JLC it was an incredibly welcoming experience.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

@@GonzoJamie Oh JLC we’re superb, very well organised with mini booths within the booth, one with a watchmaker doing his work, one with the leather smiths making the straps, another with the enamelers and engravers, so it was really a celebration of all of the different crafts that come together to make a JLC and that’s what makes enthusiasts fizz i guess. Patek we’re a little better than Rolex in respect to they had many more assistants within their booth, seating areas to chat with them so effort was made by them to engage with clients.

It was even worse with Omega … I couldn’t even find their stand. Disgraceful- lost me a me a buyer etc

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

haha yes they didn’t even turn up, there is rumours of swatch and Richemont potentially doing their own even next year

Simple. Collect Seikos! 👍

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

love the new GMT’s!

@marcomolini9338

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis Exactly which I bought the orange one. Great watch that you won't have to worry about losing your life over.

I think I was there when they didn't let you into the press event. You got pretty pissed!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Hahaha really should’ve come to say hi!

Rolex is not interested in you, as a flipper.🤷🏻‍♂️

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

I still have both of my Rolex’s bought from the AD believe it or not!

Thank you for your video. I admired Rolex since my young age. I couldn't afford one but wanted to own it one day. That day has come but I refuse to kiss any Rolex AD in order to buy one. Does Rolex care ? Certainly not. Neither do I. Will take my business somewhere else than paying for overrated and overpriced watches.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Well said! thanks for watching

Honestly Tudor is going to take over.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

They nailed it, they recognised they too would get a lot of attention but with pre booked yours of the booth open to all and watches put in the open for fans to touch in sure that went down very well with fans and levelled with their clients rather than towered above them

@lovesautodetail

Жыл бұрын

Makes you stop and think “why am I giving rolex money?”

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Well they’re great watches and i guess if you can get a retail many of them are relatively risk free in terms of investing the money, so there are reasons HOWEVER , if they keep putting prices up at retail and grey market doesn’t follow suit then waitlists will thin out and then the better place to invest will be buying for less at grey.

hey buddy I've bought over 20 Rolex from the same dealer within the past ten year , they don't give a dam can't buy a single watch from them about four years ago won't even take my deposit .I can't understand why they put a booth in the watch show if they are so great, the only thing i can imagine is dealer will sell all the watches to the second hand watch dealer and get back a good return , just a thought 🤔🤔🤔

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

It’s sad that they’re treating old timer customers like yourselves with total disregard, you are the guys that made them who they are ultimately

😂😂😂 Let it all out Vinny

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

feel much better now!😂

Man, you are neither Bucherer, nor Hodinkee. Why would Rolex spend 15 minutes with you ? Or with me, for that matter ?

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

IWC spent 30 mins with me, JLC 15, AP 30 mins in their Geneva boutique, Tudor 15….why should they be different? that’s the point i’m trying to make

@jeanlefranc3817

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis Rolex works hard to be the definition of exclusivity. Them doing so and you moaning about it only strengthens their status.

Could of done with some Watch Eric sunglasses mate, it looked like you got some sore eyes! Hope you well though mate and I think you should of bought the jubilee style bracelet not the oyster 👍🏻

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Hahaha yeah caused by all that looking at the new day date jigsaw monstrousity(through the glass cases) probably!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

And honestly the jubilee style bracelet for me straddles the line of being to much a rolex homage, the three link with faux rivets is Tudor unmistakably

@dmaul5190

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis those faux rivet’s are definitely not for me, I hate them 🤬

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Yes you either love or hate them, it’s a solid bracelet though and the new clasp has easier spring-assisted adjustment than even Rolex’s easylink

@dmaul5190

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis I can’t understand how they have ceramic balls on the clasp and yet Rolex still use steel, it’s a superior product in some aspects

Rolex, timewasters! Already an 8 year wait list for a new GMT two tone! WTF are Rolex doing alienating their customers? I’m done with them and offloading my collection but not to restock any AD to flip under CPO…. 30 year spend history with my AD and all I wanted was a nice GMT to commemorate retirement and I’m added to an 8 year waitlist. AD suggested I leave my place on waitlist in my will!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

shocking really to hear this, amazing how the AD could be so specific so far into the future, 8 years lol, the mode may likely not even be available then!😂

Vinny if you had done hair, makeup and wore a dress and told them you were Dylan Mulvaney they would have let you in the Rolex VIP room.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

hahaha

I say forget them. Simple.

4mins 17secs. The thing is Vinny, you aren’t really a client though, you are a flipper / grey dealer. Your two Rolex purchases from the AD are a distant memory to you now, the profit is in your bank, job done. I’m sorry if that sounds offensive but I can see how Rolex like to operate. 🙏

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

it’s funny but i actually still own both of them haha…why? because the first was a landmark and a dream come true to buy a Rolex from the window i used to stare into as a kid and the second because frankly it was at the time the cheapest it could be bought for versus the grey market, no joke. I have my own collection and you’ll notice in the channel i usually wear the same watches over and over

Ditching rolex? Common, deep down you will want that platinum daytona over any ALS , PP or AP. I am pretty sure if these watches will not be desirable the moment they becomes more available or when other person cannot tell your watch apart from other watches. The reason why the whole "luxury watches" industry have collectors pouring billions of dollars into it, is exactly the vanity of exclusivity. If you think rolex is alone in this ridiculous situation, try AP or PP ADs and see what you think.

Won’t buy a Rolex when this snobbery nonsense and hunger marketing bollocks are still there.

They aint called Ro-LAX for nothin! Completely resting on their laurels.

you had a shit experience, bad customer service. that's too bad vin. be safe . ~ JDS/CT

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Sure! thanks for watching

great video!...I love Rolex pieces but customer service does not exist. also you're so handsome and hot!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Haha, Thanks a lot, very kind of you! 😁

Ive had three rolex from my AD over the last 18mths…….and to be honest I’m done with all bolx and bullshit from rolex AD's I don’t think I’ll be buying another……plenty of other brands to lust over

Oh behave, give your head a shake. If they let everyone try pieces on, the waitlist to get around the stand would be hours, so you’d moan at that too. It just wouldn’t work would it. So you’re so naffed off, you’ll not be reselling Rolex anymore? No, didn’t think so.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

watch the video the whole way through and you’ll see how other brands managed it much better and how they could take a leaf out of Tudors book with pre-booked tours of the booth and watches out in the open to see properly

Rolex upped production to 1200000 watches pa (vs 1050000), models reduced from 1358 to 1221, Daytonas from 44 to 32 (can count on their web page). Guess what will happened with prices, more models selling below list price as flippers and AD’ selling back door like crazy ……here in Asia it is very bad. Rolex is about to destroy its name, especially AD’s ….it’s bad. Good watches but the art of selling is not … As you experienced yourself in Geneva.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

hi, where do you have this info from?

@christophregli2160

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis hi, watches by SJX - state of the industry - Swiss watch making in 2023 ……good report, google it ….. for years after the watch fair in Switzerland I count all models on the Rolex web site ….then take the production number …..gives you a good idea how many watches per line and model they produce.

@Mega-zi7ys

Жыл бұрын

Shhh Adrian Barker will be mad at you!😅 How dare you say that!😅

Grand Seiko Omega I don't kiss @ss for a watch

Could not agree more.

Shocking

If you take your customers for granted, someone else will take them. Buy an AP.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

AP’s service was amazing

I totally agree with you. I have never liked Rolex (I own a grand Seiko). I find most of the buyers a snotty wanna be lot. In short wankers, many of my Rolex friends are just that. They seem to me types that buy a Porche when you can't go more than 40 kmh in Bangkok traffic. I won't mention french, swiss bad mannered arrogance Frankly you should have expected that kind of behaviour from Rolex.

As far im concerned you could try on watches on wrist as you are a dealer. Not available for public which is understandable. Must be on public day there Vinny🤷‍♂️

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Unfortunately nobody on the public days were allowed to try Rolex on, this is not just what i experienced because i am a dealer

@tompage2438

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis that is exactly what i said. You went on private days. Only ADs can try watches and that is day before public

Rolex is the most famous watch brand for a reason. The simple fact is that for what ever reason, the Rolex customer love being treated like dirt. It's a proven time tested formula and many Rolex Customers will keep licking the boots of Rolex for years to come. The fact is owning a Rolex and wearing a Rolex puts you in "the club". Great video.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Great point!

Just subscribed to your channel! Good day 🙂

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for subbing! take care

Do you still have the two Rolex’s you bought at an AD (to become a customer) or did you sell them at a profit? Rolex do not consider flippers to be customers, so if you flipped them……. VIP 🙅🏻‍♂️ Did you go to W&W to help brands sell watches, or to have fun and promote your channel/business and make money?

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

YUP BOTH, now that surprised you didn’t it…look back on the channel you’ll see i wear the same the pieces over and over, i have my own collection and do not wear inventory

@alfieakaronaldog

Жыл бұрын

@@vinnyfrancis Slightly surprising I guess, but not completely. That’s why I asked it as a question and not an accusation. You did choose not to answer the second question though.

I don't care about Rolex, it's basically like trying to have a coherent conversation with Joe Biden only to be disappointed.

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

Hahaha perhaps we need a more modern and youthful leader 😂

This is a good video!

@vinnyfrancis

Жыл бұрын

thanks for watching !