mrpibb Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 Fellow members: I'm really thinking of purchasing a two tone datjust genuine Rolex. However. Is it really worth it?? My rep is pretty nice... The funny thing is everytime I wear my rep which to me looks like a genuine. It has a genuine dial and real 14kt gold., bezel, lnks, and crown. I get one of two comments. "Nice Watch" or "Nice Rolex.. Is that a REAL Rolex?" I'm sure people with genuines get asked that question all the time. I think if a make the $$$Big purchase of a real one its would really [censored] me off if people think that it was a fake!!!! -- I know that sounds silly. I can afford a real rollie.. but.. my question is "Are they really worth the price?" A good rep is pretty close to the genuine... for a mere fraction of the cost? I think you would all agree $4 to 7K on a watch is still a bunch of cash. Dazed and confused???? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brian Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 4 to 7K can sure buy one helluva rep collection . . . If yours has a gen dial already, I think for a bit less than even the 4K you can finish modding it out with a gen crown, & bezel in 18k & a gen TT bracelet. I wouldn't think the case would be that far off to be noticeable. I know Ubi's Daytona project is basically a gen watch with a different high quality movement, but I don't see what would be the benefit of him going out and getting a true gen. If you really want a genuine somewatch, I'd keep my eyes out for a rare to fairly rare vintage something in near mint condition. That would give you the best of both worlds . . . a quality genuine watch in great shape, and something you're probably not going to see on somebody else unless you're at a high end vintage watch convention. And you still might have enough left over for a handful of reps that you like too. B Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cwai02 Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 Get one gen and show it off to all your friends. Sell it and start wearing reps. People will assume all your watches are gen. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chris5264 Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 I can afford a real rollie.. but.. my question is "Are they really worth the price?" A good rep is pretty close to the genuine... for a mere fraction of the cost? IMO, getting a gen is worth it only because once you get it, it will take the mystery out of what it means to own a gen. I would buy it used, own it for a while and then ask yourself this very question over again. And then sell it (if you come to the same conclusion I did). If you buy it used it shouldn't cost you too much to explore this issue. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jetsons Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 (edited) It's tempting at times for me as well. However, some of these clones are very, very good and in many repsects are as functional as the far more expensive gens. The modern Rollies IMO, are currently priced significantly beyond the quality they deliver so the temptation has a tendancy to fade away. Unlike the vintages, most modern Rollies seem to loose 20%-30% of their MSRP in the secondary market so buying slightly used makes a lot of sense. If you have a change of heart, it may not cost much to try out the gen. I would also check into the vintage Rollies which have very stable values and many just keep rising. $4-$7K is a darn nice chunk of change to spend on a single watch so take your time and consider your options carefully......you have many. Good hunting. Jet Edited June 24, 2006 by Jetsons Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robertrinaustin Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 I agree with Jet, if you get a genuine, I would look for one that is a bit older and save a chunk of $ you can then spend on reps or another genuine. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Indyclmbr Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 I'm tempted often to go out and pick one up. There are two things that I keep returning to that for me, ultimately determine, it's not worth it. One-the cost of servicing the gen. Two-the quality of my reps. Good luck. Climb on Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sye46 Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 i only buy gens of watches that i like and there are no reps of it out. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tag Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 (edited) I don't think the debate should be "1 gen or a bunch of reps" but "which gen(s)". If you can afford it, buy a gen, in some cases it is worth it ! Of course you can get something very close to the real at 1/10 of the price but you are not going to wear all of them often so... Instead of getting reps that will sit in your drawer get a gen that you'll cherish more than the others, something exclusive with a real history or a lot of creativity in it, something genuine. Buying a gen is worth it, I'm sure you'll cherish your gen more than any of you reps, but choose it carefully. Only some famous watches attract attention from replica makers. Others like JL are not so well replicated (otherwise tell me who's your dealer!!!). On top of it, how do you service your reps? I haven't found in my city a watchmaker that would service mine. So it will last... many 1 year, maybe 10. At this price it doesn't matter. I may prefer other watches in a few years. But a gen could last generations so you should choose it carefully. Instead of buying a Rolex which is, it's true, over-replicated, why not targeting Jaeger-LeCoultre, a classy and exclusive brand that produce 100% of their watches parts (from raw materials)? JL is badly replicated anyhow; or Frank Mueller, Omega, Hermès, Louis Vuitton's gorgeous watches? or Corum Bubble Casino + Gerald Genta Fantasy Mickey, very creative & fun watches? To me, Rolex is a bit overrated. But still, will people around you think it is a rep??? Everybody owning a Rolex around me is wearing a real Rolex. When I see one on the street I think "Lucky guy" but not "Rep or gen?". Unless some flaw give you a hint, I'm not course you'll think of reps everytime you see a Rolex. And Rolex is still a great, high quality classic looking watch... but as you said you already have a modded rep of it ! I have a few reps but I'm going to buy a gen PO. Why? 1. Omega has a great image to me and I'd prefer not to buy a rep from them (although I'm tented, seeing the quality of the latest PO!); 2. The co-axial escapement is the major break-through in watchmaking in decades and I would like to have it on my wrist... Edited June 24, 2006 by tag Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Category 5 Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 You should certainly buy a gen. Despite how good the reps have gotten you will feel a certain precision quality that is never there on a rep. Believe me, it is the only way to appreciate that. If you love a watch, and will always love it then it makes sense to get the gen. you will feel a new sort of pride about it. rather than try to hide it from sight at the AD or in the presence of a true enthusisat you will wield it proudly. ...and you will always have it because you will care for it. If you like Rolex, it is a wise idea to get a like new pre-owned Rolex. Let someone else pay the 3-5year depreciation. you will only gain value on such a watch. Rolex are always increasing in value, but it takes 3-5 years (average) for a nw Rolex to be worth it's purchase price on the used market. IMO though, you should get what I and many enthusiasts are getting. An Omega with a co-axial movement. As stated above, it is more than a small breakthrough in mechanical watches. It not only extends periods between service to 10-15 years (!!!!!!!), it is also more accurate than nay traditional escapement by far. My gen has yet to gain a second since I got it last weekend. It is almost like a quartz. Daniel's (inventor of the co-axial escapement) gave an interview in a watch magazine I read recently stating that the co-axial watch on his wrist had gained less than 3 seconds in over a year of daily wearing. That's just insane! No Rolex, Patek, breit, Tag, Vacheron, Breguet or any other brand can say that about an automatic movement. None of them. In short, get a Gen you will ove forever...but don't think reps are a true substitute for gen. they are something different altogether. That said, i still love my PT LV Sub...despite the dial flaws, shallow rehaut, and 15 seconds gained per day...but in the presence of watch enthusisats, I drop my wrist and hope nobody calls me on it! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest TTK Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 (edited) You need to ask yourself why you desire a genuine Rolex.....! 1. Status 2. Functionality 3. Appearance 4. Reliability 5. Status All of the factors that apply to a genuine Rolex are available in a good quality replica.....! You can acquire the same status as if you owned a genuine.....or spend 4k+ and you can be branded as just another wannabe with a fake rep. You can get the same reliability from a good quality replica fitted with a good quality movement.....at a fraction of the servicing costs. The appearance of a genuine two tone Datejust won't be dramatically different from a good quality replica......! There are so many negatives surounding Rolex watches nowadays that I think it makes more sense to take the compliments or brickbats that people will throw at you...with a good quality rep......most people...( 99% ) will not know the difference.......and you will always be faced with the same question..time after time...( whether they vocalise it or not )......."is it real".......that's because 99% of people will assume it's fake.......! Given that you are about to spend 4k +.......the question I would rather hear is...."that's a beautiful watch......what make is it"?......rather than..."is it real"?......the first question will afford you the opportunity to expose someone to a different brand.....equally high quality...if not better...the second question will just [censored] you off.....! Buy a gently used Girard Perregaux...or Audemars Piguet....even a JLC......they are all highly regarded and unquestionably superior to any Datejust......they will also affirm the fact that you are a man of taste.....rather than a lawyer fleecing his clients or a used car salesman.......remember that people with a degree of refinement and taste will recognise your AP or JLC.......for those who don't....their opinions and perceptions don't really matter. Edited June 24, 2006 by TTK Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sub_man Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 (edited) If you can afford it get a gen. I will own a gen black sub some day. You can't replicate the feeling of a gen. I know this because I get the feeling everytime I ride my Harley Davidson. Edited June 24, 2006 by sub_man Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chronus Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 (edited) IMO, getting a gen is worth it only because once you get it, it will take the mystery out of what it means to own a gen. I would buy it used, own it for a while and then ask yourself this very question over again. And then sell it (if you come to the same conclusion I did). If you buy it used it shouldn't cost you too much to explore this issue. And on resale you won't lose as much, if anything. Go to an AD and try on a genuine and see how different it is to your rep, and if you still like it. Find out about servicing costs and how long it takes (believe me they can take months and be expensive!). Read TTK's points as well... they make sense.....! edited: for apostrophe addition. Edited June 24, 2006 by Chronus Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pugwash Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 No Rolex, Patek, breit, Tag, Vacheron, Breguet or any other brand can say that about an automatic movement. None of them. ... apart from Seiko. I'd chime in here and say I agree that the Co-axial Omega is an excellent choice . Wait for the coaxial SMP and jump all over that one, or get a Planet Ocean. If it were me, though, I'd hunt down a gen IWC GST Chrono or a Moon Watch. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CY0811 Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 The DJ reps are so well done now that I would keep what you have and get something less rep'd. The sad thing is people will ask if the gen DJ is fake as well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DRVJA Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 I had 3 gen rolex, 2 omega, 4 breitling. 2 tags before I purchased my first replica.. Now I have 20 replicias. I LOVED my sub lv so much I brought a genuine It is one of my favorite watches, however I still wear the rep.. Buying the watch was a business decision. I paid list price 4850 usd for the watch, I know I can turn a profit on Ebay or time zone. My reps are very rarely questioned because my friends know I have collected watches for a long time and I am a very prominent doctor in the community, I live in the right neighborhood and drive the right car. Its nice to wear gens but I wear my reps more often Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
2005SUBMARINER Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 the only gen i would buy would be this lil beauti thats if our dealers dont decide to rep this omega .. if our dealers rep this one like they did the smp then i would rather get the rep & with the $$$ left over take my family on a cruise .. but i guess some people like to buy gens for there resale value .. good luck bro Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Watchwatcher Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 if you buy gen, buy it used, better yet go to a govt auction or estate sale. alternatively buy an MBW... you may find that this completely satisfies your craving for a gen, as it looks and feels like a gen. if you buy a gen, you'll be dazzled by it for a couple months, then the excitement will recede and you'll be thinking about the next watch. Or, you'll love it until you have it serviced and get a $500 bill... that is what a full servicing, cleaning, etc. will run at the AD. personally, i'd rather save my money for the next really great rep to come out... there are a few to be had from MBW, WM, the FM Conq, a few others. IT WOULD BE NICE if the rep factories tried to do at least one or two high quality reps per year rather than the steady stream of 'brick on wrist' reps which are way too thick and lack the fit and finish that many of us are looking for. I'd much rather see some decent 99.9%'ers in the $300-500 range, than the slew of $100-200 reps which look good in the pics, but are a failure when you put them on your wrist. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mikellem Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 i only buy gens of watches that i like and there are no reps of it out. I totally agree with sye46. I have owned a gen Datejust 2 tone, gen Yachtmaster, and also the infamous Black Submariner. Since I have played with reps in the past 2 years, I have finally sold off all my Gens and i am very happy with my reps with the proper mods. Just my 2 cts. I would say, I agree with the other members that maybe you should buy a used Gen, just to understand the feeling we all have. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sjedwardz Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 I'm going through the same process myself. Got quite a few good quality reps but would like a real one for me plus something to hand dowm to my son. Definitely not getting a ROlex though as everyone will ask "is it real?" which when it's a rep is a compliment - they are that good, but would [censored] me off no end. Most probably get a vintage Omega Speedmaster Moon watch, they are going for a good price as well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TwoTone Posted June 24, 2006 Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 Well I have only been into the Rep game for a year now, but here's my thoughts... I have 12 watches - 9 Rep's and 3 Gen's... My first Rep was a Mod'd Eddie Lee Sea Dweller - very close to the look and feel of the Gen and it gets a lot of wrist time... However, I simply love my Gen Two Tone Black Sub... I think I will always have a mix of both... But I will never pay retail for the Gen's... justmy2centsforwhatitsworthwhichaintmuch TT Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mrpibb Posted June 24, 2006 Author Report Share Posted June 24, 2006 I'm going through the same process myself. Got quite a few good quality reps but would like a real one for me plus something to hand dowm to my son. Definitely not getting a ROlex though as everyone will ask "is it real?" which when it's a rep is a compliment - they are that good, but would [censored] me off no end. Most probably get a vintage Omega Speedmaster Moon watch, they are going for a good price as well. Thanks for all your feedback. I guess I'm going shopping this weekend. I agree used it the way to go without question. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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