So, now very pleased to be able to answer my own question.
Three different experiences:
Tried my local independent AD - very nice, very knowledgeable, very expensive rent I’m sure. Unfortunately didn’t have the watch I was after, and could only offer me a 5% discount on a Speedy Pro that I tried on. Came out with both Rolex and Tudor catalogues in a nice bag with a gold ribbon (obviously the sprinkles are reserved for paying customers...) Would definitely go back, certainly if I were ever to try to join a list for RRP purchase.
Second up, major high street AD close to work. Still very pleasant but not nearly as knowledgeable - felt more like I was in a mobile phone shop than a jeweller. A discount was mentioned but they wouldn’t talk numbers until I was ready to buy which is fair enough. That wasn’t the shop for me on that day.
Third, another (different) high street AD in the same area as the last one, a few days later and in my lunch break. Totally different experience, met with their Omega specialist who talked me through the history of the company and gave me a bit of sales patter.
I couldn’t see the watch I was interested in behind the counter so I asked if they had one in stock ... “you mean this one?” she said, leading me to the middle of the shop where there was a large pedestal with a glass display cabinet on top and MY WATCH inside, sitting in its box beckoning me. It just felt special.
A bit of trying on and more spiel (sales rep went a bit astray here talking about co-axial movements and automatics...good information, wrong watch), tried on a seamaster 300 just to make sure I was making the right decision, then the money talk.
I said I was ready to buy but was looking for a discount and that I could get 20% off online. To my surprise she immediately said she would match that, although they wouldn’t normally price match an online offering (damn, too easy - should have asked for more!!)
So, long story short, I had a very pleasant experience at an AD, bought a watch at a price that I’m happy with and they made a sale that they are happy with. Everyone wins (and 3 weeks before Christmas - wouldn’t normally expect that to be a good time for a discount).
First....wha? ;-)
This...