Never thought I`d do this, but I tried to buy a new Rolex this week. New watches ain't my thing (usually) but the one I wanted commands strong second-hand prices and is proving hard to find.
Watch in question is the 'humble' 116000 Oyster36 with Explorer-style blue 3-6-9 dial, which retails at £4100. Easy to obtain new from an AD?........NO! Tried two in West Yorkshire and was told they won`t get one in before early 2020, both claimed they'd sold their allocation of this model for 2019 already and 2020 was the earliest they'd get another. Same story from both, so I`m inclined to believe it. Tried a larger AD based in Leeds (Prestons) and was told they may be able to get one prior to New Year, but it was likely to be a few months. I`m now on their 'list'........maybe I should feel honoured?
Seriously, it appears the Rolex shortage has now gone way beyond the steel sports stuff. Strange but true. Being an old cynic I took the 'shortage' stories with a huge pinch of salt, now I`ve had my mind changed.
Iconic currently have a 2018 unworn model for sale at £200 over list, but that's not a game I`ll play.
Guess I`ll be going without for a while longer, over the years I`ve always ended up with the watch I want (second-hand) at a fair price........ eventually.