Why customers love Rolex?

The watch I've always dreamed of... A Rolex Daytona Zenith El Primero version 6 reversed on the dial as a bonus... Tritium index that perfectly match the immaculate white dial... Thin, elegant and trendy with good racing vibes! A discreet Rolex all things considered... Many thanks to my buddies from San Mateo cars&coffee for guiding me to this choice.

14 years ago, I bought this Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600, thinking I was making a good choice. And after all these years, I am still convinced that it was. There is something special about this watch, it has also become unique with a leather strap that is the polar opposite of the original strap! But maybe it is simply the bond I have developed with it over time. Robust and discreet, in my eyes at least, I particularly appreciate its 40 mm case, which gives it a perfect balance. But in my opinion, what really sets it apart is the absence of a cyclops on the date. Some would say that it is a drawback, but personally, I find that it reinforces its charm. As for its weight (144 g), slightly higher than that of a Submariner, I feel it as a sign of solidity, but I can understand that others perceive it differently. Performance-wise, it has rarely disappointed me. With its caliber 3035 or 3135 - suddenly I have a doubt - it remains remarkably precise, even after all these years, but maybe I am not picky enough to notice small variations. I have only had one service in 14 years, which seems more than enough, but who knows, maybe I should be more vigilant? What I also like is the natural wear it has developed over time. Its tritium indexes have acquired a subtle patina, and the aluminum bezel shows some signs of use. Does this add to its character or is it simply a sign that it is aging? The Oyster bracelet has undoubtedly had its day, but I continue to maintain the magic of this watch with a top-notch custom-made crocodile leather strap - or alligator perhaps - from ABP Concept in Paris - besides, I should have chosen the hand-sewn one which has more charm. In a “blue-jean” color with white stitching, it transforms my SD by making it unique and more discreet… it gives it an extra soul! I could say that this watch is the best watchmaking decision I have ever made, but maybe that’s just my attachment talking. All I know is that it has followed me for all these years, and that it continues to move me day after day. Is it exceptional, or have I simply learned to love it? In any case, it is unique…

As far back as I can remember, I have always had a weakness for classy watches, with a "diver" style and although I myself am a diver in my spare time, far from me the idea that it replaces a good dive computer but the submariner or derivatives are must-haves from the brand with the crown IMHO. After that I am not a fan of the bubble with the date and for all that I animate the date on a watch. Then my criteria: a taste for old but although a 5513 or a 1680 attract me, the budget of the versions and years that interest me distances me from it and then I had this opportunity not so long ago... a full set SD 16600 from 2004 as we like to specify, with the chance to have a new and perfectly original insert (Olivine could not have said it better 😅) and on the watch another insert also original but having lived and with a patina worthy of a vintage from the 70s-80s!. This one leaves my "wish list" and enters my collection which to the great displeasure of those around me is expanding in a continuous flow!

How can I tell you about my new acquisition without telling you about the story that goes with it. Bought 2 and a half years after my Tudor (review also available), I had in mind to buy a new watch for my 22nd birthday, the cycle of renewal never really ending. After much research, I finally had in mind to take an oyster perpetual 36mm black dial. Having put myself on a wish list in a Parisian boutique, I was called 1 month later. I bought it and, after wearing it for a month, I realized that the size did not suit me. Too small, less homogeneous case, finally I had to change for a larger model. It was by remembering my first contact with the brand with the crown that I thought of the Air King. First Rolex I saw on my friend's wrist in high school (he will recognize himself), which I found too thick at the time but whose dial enchanted me, with its pretty green seconds hand. What a stroke of luck that this model with an atypical dial is being reworked in 2022. Thinner case (exit the Milgauss case), more incisive horns, new 3230 movement and its 70 hours of power reserve, appearance of the crown protector as well as the Oysterlock clasp and the Easylink extension, essential in summer as well as the Chromalight applique on the numbers 3/6/9 for better visibility. The choice was therefore made, and it was on this Air-King 126900 that he had fallen. So I registered on the list in March, and was called in August to come and collect it. I found it really fast, me who expected a minimum delay of one year as announced. Since that day I am very happy with it, it is robust, reliable (hardly drifts) and the completely brushed oyster bracelet looks so good in the sun. A Rolex like no other that will always find its place on any occasion.

My first "nice" watch was the Rolex Explorer 39mm (MK1) in 2010. After several months of internet research and visits to retailers, I completely fell for the Explorer, even though Rolex decided to switch from 36mm to 39mm. I loved this model but thought that the 36mm would have been ideal, thus better respecting its history. A little over a year ago, I made the decision to sell it to get the new 36mm version (reference 124270). Here we are… This watch is simply exceptional, with notable improvements over the previous ones: the 3230 movement offering 72 hours of power reserve, blue luminescence on all the indexes, a very beautiful black lacquered dial and a particularly solid bracelet. What I particularly like is its comfort, much better than the 39 mm and even the new 40 mm. It is a watch that is both sporty and chic, offering a beautiful presence while remaining discreet. With a wrist of more than 17 cm, some may find it a little "small", especially because of the 19/14 bracelet which makes it thinner. But believe me, after a few days, you get used to it, and you quickly realize that it is actually an advantage, because the dial stands out more and the comfort is fabulous. I have a collection of four watches, and this is without a doubt the one I wear the most. So yes, if I had to keep only one, it would be the Explorer 36.

Hello, here is my little Rolex reference 15200 that I bought myself more than 20 years ago. I wanted to buy myself a beautiful watch, sober, reassuring and of quality... Rolex was completely unknown to me like most other watch brands. Until then my only watch was a Poiray "Ma Première" closer to a bracelet than a watch... The idea was to choose a watchmaker's watch and not a fashion accessory. I had it serviced for the first time recently because it was starting to be less precise. I assure you that it did not prevent it from sleeping but once I realized it, I absolutely wanted it to work properly again. A quick visit to a watchmaker recommended by a friend and here it is again all beautiful to accompany me for the next 20 years.

Around 2006, I was asked to consult the brand's catalog to identify a watch style I would like. Not knowing much about the models, materials, or technical specifications, I had a hard time projecting myself and understanding the price. Having been well advised or influenced, I really liked the chronograph style. It was in the same vein as my previous watch. The following year would be my 20th birthday, and a beautiful, timeless gift was taking shape. The notion of investment was also present; my father knew this model already had a history, and everything indicated it would continue to do so. In 2007, the watch arrived. Dazzling in its box, shining on my wrist! I quickly put it back on its stand for fear of damaging it. For the first two or three years, I only used it for safe events: birthday meals, Christmas, and the auto show. Then came two complicated years, where it wasn't practical to have a watch. Around 2011, I started wearing it more regularly during my studies and outside of school. It's beautiful and practical in all circumstances. I noticed that no one noticed it, which suited me perfectly. It truly became my daily wearable when the battery in my previous watch died. An anecdote that really stuck with me, probably around 2015-2016, was during a party with a group of friends. During a conversation between eight people, I noticed that a person (whom I didn't know) kept their eyes fixed on my wrist. I analyzed it for a long time, finally asking him, "Do you know it? Do you want to see it?" Maybe he knew more than I did. He replied with astonished eyes, "A little, it's magnificent!" Go ahead, try it. That day, I saw eyes light up over a watch. It was beautiful. In 2019, I was able to benefit from an upgrade: getting the ceramic bezel. I knew little about this material, but since insiders told me it would be the next revolution, I had to believe them. I put it together and continued my life with it. I felt like I had a different watch, like I could appreciate it again, and differently. It seemed bigger, especially with the same dial color. At that time, I had two watches: this Daytona, used continuously for the seven months in daylight saving time, and a Tudor for the five months in winter time. Simple and effective. That year, I had a visit to the notary for a real estate project. During the final appointment, I noticed the notary holding onto my wrist. Since the documents weren't properly completed, the notary decided to cancel the signing that day and ended up exclaiming something like this at the end: "Although the sales contract isn't finalized, unfortunately, I was able to see a very beautiful watch during this meeting. I don't know how you managed to get this model!" I was surprised (and flattered) that someone could love someone else's watch so much. In 2021, I placed another internal order for the latest model, just to "reserve the space." Later, the time would come to decide whether I would pay for it and keep it. When I received the information that it was available and that I could pick it up from the factory, I remained skeptical about the pointlessness of having two of the same model. In the height of the current speculative bubble, I made the sensible decision and declined the order. It would have been quite easy to resell it for 3x the price, but I preferred to keep the possibility of another purchase with an internal discount to myself. This gave me time to delve into the brand's catalog again and better understand the world of watchmaking to find what would suit me best to truly begin my collection. In short, a watch that has delighted me for the past few years. I recently put my steel bezel back on. We've been seeing too much ceramic on people's wrists for a few years now. I also varied it with a rubber strap for a unique configuration.

The 116710LN is the embodiment of understated elegance. Unlike its two-tone bezel siblings, it stands out with its monobloc black ceramic bezel, a technical and aesthetic feat. This simplicity gives it a rare versatility, capable of adapting to any situation, from the most formal suit to an adventurer's outfit. Beyond its aesthetics, the GMT-Master II is above all a tool. Its GMT function, a true horological complication, allows the time in two time zones to be read simultaneously. It's a nod to the pilots and travelers who made this watch a symbol of exploration and discovery. Wearing a 116710LN is like wearing a piece of history. It's a connection to the legacy of Rolex, a brand that has left its mark on the history of watchmaking. It also affirms one's taste for beautiful things, those that stand the test of time without aging. The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710LN is much more than just a watch. It's a concentration of expertise, history, and emotion. It's a piece to be earned, discovered, and passed down. In my eyes, it's the quintessential travel watch.

New to my collection, this Explo is discreet, timeless, technical, and sober at the same time. If I had to compare it to another model in my collection, it would be with the Tudor BB58 navy blue… A watch that goes everywhere that you can wear in any circumstance, the one you choose when you lack inspiration for the day. In short, a must-have, but you already knew that 👌

Ah Rolex, a brand as much maligned as it is adored, but what is certain is that it does not leave one indifferent. It is a brand whose aficionados can take on several faces. First, there are people for whom having a Rolex is an achievement, the sign of professional success linked to the notion of money. Then, there are those who are starting out, who begin to wander in the meanders of watchmaking, and who without realizing it see their subconscious penetrated by Rolex witchcraft. And then there are the enthusiasts, who after long moments of investigation discover in the brand the history of human conquests but also an undeniable accuracy of execution. And finally there are the detractors, those who fight relentlessly against this immeasurable supremacy erected by the wizards of marketing, and who frankly do not understand why such banal watches unleash so much passion. If I am honest, I must admit that at one time or another I had to be a bit of all of these at once, sometimes perhaps at the same time, and there is a chance that this will continue to evolve in the future. In short, let's not philosophize any longer, Dialicious is the platform for real customer reviews so I will give mine on my Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41mm blue sunray dial. Personally, I have always loved the brand and today I am one of those who recognize its timeless models, a source of inspiration, and made with great rigor. Even if in the meantime I have chosen to acquire other models, I knew that one day I would have the brand with the crown in my collection. It is with this state of mind that I set out in search of an Oyster Perpetual blue dial in 41mm. Why an OP? Because it is the essence of Rolex, an extremely simple and effective watch, whose shape and bracelet have inspired hundreds of models and which therefore finds itself drowned in the mass. It could have written anything on the dial: Omega, Seiko, Citizen or even any microbrand. When I brought it home, they told me: "I don't understand how you can spend so much money and be so passionate about such a banal watch." Well, precisely for this reason, because apart from a trained eye, no one will recognize it. Even if I wanted it, I am one of those who refuse to pay more than necessary and I don't buy my watches second-hand. I wanted my OP, but I wasn't ready to buy it 20% more than the retail price. Even if we have to be honest, the inaccessible side reinforces the desire... After having suffered several refusals (more or less polite) at different ADs, a friend accompanied me to see his. He is a good customer with more than ten watches purchased including 4 Rolexes. It was in May 2024, and even if the seller was polite, I did not have too many illusions. I continued to converse with him by checking in regularly. At the beginning of July, he offered me an OP 41 black dial that I refused: "Didn't you understand? I told you a BLUE". No problem! And finally 2 months later it arrived. Exactly! 2 weeks later I celebrated my 10th wedding anniversary and I took the opportunity to have it engraved for the occasion. I tried to glean some information on the conditions of my allocation. It is clear that the fact of being recommended worked in my favor. And apparently, 3 customers would have been served before me. I won't know more about the twists and turns of the waiting lists! Now that I have it, what do I think of it? I'll let you go see my other reviews to evaluate my points of comparison. But what I like in objects beyond the design is the quality of manufacture, the attention to detail. I pay the price but not just for style, I have to perceive all the meticulousness in the design and production. Even if the Rolex codes have been copied and recopied, I find it distinctive, particularly through the shape of the case, the bracelet and the case back. At first glance, you can confuse it, but this is no longer the case when you look at it in detail. Then what I love is its precision of execution. You can see that all the parts have been thought together to form a whole, and with surgical precision. It's a bit like with German cars, not always the most fun but my goodness it's well done! The details that particularly illustrate my feelings: the back and in particular the case/strap junction, the sensation of winding the crown which is both smooth and precise, the buckle clip which closes and the ROLEX letters engraved on the flange perfectly aligned with the railway. Once the crown is screwed in, I'm even lucky enough to have the logo aligned. Frankly, all this is fabulously well done. The only point that I don't like too much (but thinking about it I don't really see any other solution) is the gap between the bezel and the end-link of the bracelet. Ah this bracelet... I'm going to say something banal but seriously, the Oyster is a killer. Just the right width at the lugs and refinement at the buckle, incredible wearing comfort and a softness of the Oystersteel which heats up on contact with the skin. No really, it is incomparable. The sunburst of the dial makes it go from azure blue to dark blue, it is well accompanied by its thick circled indexes and the applied logo. At first I was not particularly a fan of the double batons at 3, 6 and 9 o'clock but in the end they remind you that it is not a Tsuyosa that you have on your wrist (without wanting to offend anyone). The bezel, the edges of the case and the bracelet are polished. I could have done without it on the sides of the case. But it makes a bit of shine that goes well with the indexes. Finally, it is true that the Oystersteel pulls slightly on the titanium and I find its color really cool. I was going to forget 2 points that disappointed me: when I unscrew the crown, I sometimes have to (not all the time) screw it back a quarter turn to release the crown spring. Since it is not permanent, it gives a mixed feeling. The second point is the spring noise of the buckle that I don't find very pleasant. I had it checked by my AD, from his point of view everything is normal. So obviously it's not serious but after what I said about my attachment to the quality of manufacture, it alters my general enthusiasm a little. To conclude, it may still be the novelty effect but I think that my OP will be on the podium of my most worn watches. So there you have it, whatever one thinks of the brand, one must objectively recognize the care taken in the design and production. Nothing has been sacrificed, everything has been thought out. I bought it for its simplicity and its quality of execution and I am not disappointed. If I were on the couch, I would call it "Surgical"!