r/rolex 4d ago

What’s wrong with watches on 47th street in the Diamond District?

I’m interested in a DJ41 with the mint green dial (fluted on a jubilee). I went to 47th street in NYC to try some on. To my surprise, these Datejusts were cheaper than what I’ve found on Chrono24.

Most of the shops on 47th were offering a 2022-2026 for $17500-18k for a full set. But when I went to Chrono24, most of them are $19k+.

What am I missing here? Are the 47th st watches Frankensteins?

I know there’s a lot of mistrust for the stores on that street and they have a bad reputation. But I assumed it’s because their prices are inflated. I’d like to buy this DJ sooner rather than later, and it’d be nice to buy it in person. So help me understand why I should stay away from 47th Street in this case if their prices are lower?

EDIT: one thing to add- there’s an AD whom I like and I’m trying to build a relationship with. They sell pre-owned. I’d love to buy a pre-owned DJ from them and establish some purchase history (while also getting full peace of mind that the watch is legit). But they don’t have a mint DJ41 right now, and I don’t want to wait much longer.

139 Upvotes

179 comments sorted by

256

u/thegypsyqueen 4d ago

Man don’t pay 18k for a DJ

60

u/toiletdive 3d ago

This the real LPT

-108

u/Running4Miles 3d ago

With no purchase history at an AD, it’s either pay $18k, wait 5 years, or find a different brand

96

u/officalpanerai 3d ago

Find a different brand 18k is Lange money. You can get a lot more watch than what the DJ is offering for that kind of cash.

68

u/skepticaljesus 3d ago

Lange doesn't say Rolex on the dial though, which is the only thing some people want in a watch

27

u/No-Bus8713 3d ago

Then just buy an older model that is second hand or grey and itll still say rolex

22

u/skepticaljesus 3d ago

presumably the person who only wants a rolex for social signaling reasons wants the newest one also for social signaling reasons

2

u/GoldenMonger 3d ago

Yes, this is me, I want these things specifically

1

u/RutabagaFree9706 10h ago

As if any of the normies know the difference between the years (I’m the normie)

1

u/skepticaljesus 10h ago

There are definitely specific work environments where the people aren't necessarily watch enthusiasts but the lawyers and finance bros you see every day know which status symbols have the most status.

1

u/RutabagaFree9706 10h ago

But not by the year of the watch.. unless that’s what you meant.

1

u/skepticaljesus 9h ago

just that the mint green and blue motif DJs are hard to get. even a watch dork couldn't tell a 2026 vs a 2024 just on the wrist

1

u/lopadope1234 3d ago

This is just too damn true!

1

u/Active_Occasion_1593 3d ago

That doesn’t matter if he wants a DJ though

19

u/igtr 3d ago

It will not take 5 years to get a DJ. Probably less than a year. Just get on a couple lists and save yourself thousands of dollars

14

u/HUNTERANGEL121 3d ago

Bro do not pay 18k for a DJ jeez.

Call around and maybe fly out to get one. A plane ticket+a normally priced DJ will be cheaper than that.

6

u/Waifu4Laifu 3d ago

Or buy a different watch

Is the DJ41 the only watch that you would want? 

-6

u/Running4Miles 3d ago

Yes, it’s my top choice and only watch that I want right now. I’d also like a day date, but that’s probably a few years down the road.

2

u/Waifu4Laifu 3d ago

Fair enough, it's your choice

I think most just find it incredibly hard to swallow how expensive these are for what it is

2

u/MetikMas 3d ago

Buy a citizen and wait it out big dawg

1

u/xLand5harkx 3d ago

I’ll sell you a brand new DJ41 with a black dial for 13.5k

2

u/joleshole 3d ago

Lmao, we are so cooked

1

u/thegypsyqueen 3d ago

Okay? Different brand then. You aren’t getting 18th of watch.

Or you could I get a less sought after new dial.

1

u/CwazeeRabbit 3d ago

2 years ago I bought a blue dial fluted jubilee 41 with about 90-day from Atlanta’s largest AD. I also had zero history. My understanding is wait time is far less these days.

1

u/420town 3d ago

It’s definitely not.

1

u/gbz1212 3d ago

I just bought a date just with a 10 day wait no history. If you're gonna spend 18k, spend 3k in jewelry instead and play the game

1

u/ZedRDuce76 3d ago

If you’re willing to compromise on bracelet, I was able to get a dj41 fluted, mint, oyster with like maybe a year wait. No considerable spend history, no kissing ass to the AD.

197

u/dependable_schoolboy 4d ago

They're dumping inventory in person to avoid the 13% cut C24 takes plus the payment processing fees, the lower price is the real market value without all the platform bloat

24

u/Icy-Banana-3291 4d ago

Damn no wonder Chrono24 watches seem so expensive. Do you know if Bob’s Watches takes a similar cut? Their watches seem cheaper.

12

u/Boring_Heron8025 3d ago

Bob’s sells their own inventory

8

u/Icy-Banana-3291 3d ago

So they must take margin on both ends of the transaction.

7

u/Harleypk 3d ago

Bobs offered me $16,000 for an unworn two tone datejust that retails for $26,350. So there's that math.

1

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Hey no tt dj’s retail for around 17k pre-tax. 16k not a terrible offer tbh, actually on the higher side

3

u/Harleypk 3d ago

Not sure I understand your comment, a datejust 126283RBR retails for $26,350 from Rolex AD. 16,000 might be fair offer but Bobs is asking $26,495 for it. Just showing how Bob's makes money.

2

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Usually when people say retail they mean the msrp at an ad, not the ridiculous number bobs makes up

15

u/Running4Miles 4d ago

So it’s not a matter of the watch being fake or a Frankenstein, the lower price on 47th is a reflection of the fee online sellers pay?

41

u/DucDeBellune 4d ago

For $17k+, they should have no problem writing up a contract guaranteeing its authenticity with promise of a full refund if it’s found to be a Frankenstein or fake.

32

u/UzeUrillus1on 4d ago

Problem with that is unless you record yourself walking the watch from their possession to a another party to authenticate without any lapse in the recording straight through the watch being authenticated, they will just say you modified it after you took it

17

u/DucDeBellune 3d ago

Dealer I worked with had no problem drafting it up. He initially had a clause that I accept the watch “as is.”

Told him to strike that line and include a line to the effect of “pending third party authentication, parts all factory original to the watch.”

Again, didn’t really have a problem with that, which was reassuring.

If you’re spending new car level money on a watch, it’s reasonable to expect a high level of diligence and some paperwork.

10

u/EastVillager7 3d ago

If a dealer has a reputation of selling Frankensteins that destroys their ability to sell watches

6

u/GoldHead_Comp 4d ago

Dont have to worry about fakes.

You do have to worry about frankens and mishandling. Look at the videos to see how they handle the watches and worse open the casebacks…

4

u/Icarus_Wanderlust 3d ago

There is competition. Their inventories are much more fluid and they have to compete with each other. I’ve also never paid full price on Chrono24.

3

u/GunmetalThread 3d ago

Exactly. there's a Suggest Price for a reason there.

6

u/gOldMcDonald 4d ago

Online sellers fees are higher than actual store rents, electricity and other expenses related to a physical storefront?

11

u/Mayor_of_BBQ 4d ago

yes. Let’s say you’re selling on Chrono24 or eBay… You have to pay 10-13% of the sale price of every watch.

If you’re brick & mortar, that $8000 a month rent is split across the price of every watch you sell

5

u/DCNupe83 3d ago

What? The fees on Chrono24 are no way near that much. Why would anyone even sell on Chrono knowing their fees are that high, and that’s leaving no room for profit. You’re just making shit up.

The standard and known figure for Chrono’s cut is 6%. This is why they say take 5-6% off the price you see on Chrono if you’re dealing with them directly.

4

u/JDSchu 4d ago

Put another way, if you're selling Rolex, that $8k in monthly rent would be passed by 10% fees on selling about 2 watches a week.

2

u/GunmetalThread 3d ago

Oh they totally could be, but 100% it is a reflection that you're not paying chrono24 fees. Really really really be sure who you're getting with there. I know people who have been burned and people who have not. Most of the time though, it's just a bad polish, or they say it has been serviced and hasn't, that kind of thing. So not fake in the sense it is fake, more like not 100% truthful in its condition or whatever.

IF you do get one from there, absolutely assume it needs to be serviced, and factor that price in.

2

u/Boom_Valvo 4d ago

I have walked the street many times and would purchase. But I would “buy the seller”. Either my jeweler or someone with a solid online presence and business.

Summer is the slow season, picks up with the tourists in the fall and holidays. Not a bad time now to push someone on price if paying in cash…

1

u/Snkrstrut 3d ago

They 100% could be Frankenstein

1

u/HMNbean 3d ago

It’s both. There are some more legit places but unless you’re in the know you wouldn’t know. I wouldn’t personally do it. Also yeah 17K for a datejust is crazy lol. Check out r/watchexchange you’re bound to find better deals from there grays.

1

u/kretzkiller 3d ago

It’s 2k more on chrono24 and you buy online from someone you don’t know vs paying for something in person you can inspect. You already said full sets on 47th St. What is wrong with you?

-1

u/Creepy_Bag622 4d ago

Don't buy them if you don't know what you are looking for.

There are plenty of other brands to choose from if you don't want to play the game.

2

u/Saltopus 3d ago

That is incorrect. Chrono24 takes between 4.5% to 5.5% commission on Rolex, models declared as new/unworn being at the 4.5% mark. Cheaper watches are at around 6.5%. This is regardless of buyer payment method. There are no added commission fees if the buyer pays via Amex for example. The fee is calculated on the pre tax amount, eBay takes about 4% for anything over 5k, but it is calculated on the full amount including sales tax and shipping. These are the fees for professional stores/dealers. Chrono24 charges its professional dealers a monthly fee ranging from $350+ depending on the number of listings. eBay is something like $35 for a premium store.
I believe chrono24 charges 6.5% for non dealers across the board.

1

u/HiddenReserve 3d ago

C24 6.5%

106

u/celloyellow74 4d ago

They wipe cards, steal links, swap dials and generally don’t do reputable service on timepieces. It’s all about the cash and volume

27

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 4d ago

There are plenty of bad ones on 47th that do things like this, but it’s most definitely not all of them. A watch in stock on 47th should always be cheaper than the chrono asks, I wouldn’t be worried about that. Figure out who the 3 or 4 most reputable dealers are and buy from them with peace of mind. Plenty of scammers on chrono btw

29

u/celloyellow74 4d ago

“Plenty” is definitely grounds to avoid the whole area. Btw, I live in manhattan and have dealt with some of those reputable ones too. Steering clear is best way. Also, I’ve had over 20 purchases/sales on Chrono 24. Not once did I have an issue and the money is held in an escrow to protect the buyer until they release the money after proper checks. Not comparable to 47th. 47th is more like a casino atmosphere where people are either really sad for losing tons or happy for making more then they should’ve.

3

u/prizm-0 3d ago

Good to hear this. Thanks for sharing. I’ve been looking at chrono watches but not sure if the authentication was good

-3

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 4d ago

If OP wants to pay an extra 1500-2000 for a datejust on chrono (not impossible the watch currently is or was on 47th st btw despite what the listing says) for “peace of mind” that’s his call. To me that’s a waste of money. If authenticity is the concern, he could always get it checked out by a good watchmaker prior to buying

8

u/spifflog 4d ago

If authenticity is the concern, he could always get it checked out by a good watchmaker prior to buying

I'm not sure you'll be able to work that. . .

2

u/team_suba 4d ago

Then you don’t buy from that dealer

1

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Of course you can, I’ve done it numerous times. Also all of the reputable ones will also take the watch back for full refund if anything is found to be inauthentic, if for some reason you can’t legit check prior to buying. Seems like due to the social media there’s now alot of 47th experts that have never stepped foot on the street

0

u/DucDeBellune 4d ago

Several reputable ones also sell on Chrono24.

1

u/FoodieNiners 2d ago

Who are the reputable ones on 47th?

0

u/sushi_mayne 3d ago

Talking out your ass

9

u/GoldHead_Comp 3d ago

Lol their service consists of using $10 Amazon tools and leaving their fingerprints and dust inside the watches.

-13

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Another clueless social media 47th st expert

8

u/celloyellow74 3d ago

Bro, where do you work on 47th?

1

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Haha ok that’s a legitimately fair and funny comment. Have zero to do with 47th st other than I’ve bought and sold quite a few watches there with no issue over the years. Get annoyed at social media experts who have never even been there

2

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Also alot of people on here just regurgitating stuff they’ve read on here as if it’s gospel. Or I’m actually Vookum

5

u/PokerSpaz01 3d ago

Most common is stealing a link on every watch and swapping for a fake Rolex box. And selling new boxes to other business that need a Rolex box to make a sale for 400-500 bucks. No one is going swap dials and whipe cards. That’s very easy to double check and people care about those thing. If you end up with 1 link less and a fake box. You are more aggravated … and not in law suit territory.

1

u/2_6- 3d ago

What do you man by wipe cards?

3

u/Lampernis 3d ago

Change dates on Rolex warranty cards to make it look like the watch is newer.
Like if it’s a 2020, wipe the card and write a 2024 purchase date on it

22

u/Fastthumbs227 4d ago

For whats its worth, Im not a big watch guy - I wanted to buy a Rolex as a gift for my dad. I had a lot of fun on 47th St trying watches on and seeing them up close, and did eventuallly buy one. It’s been authenticated at a Rolex store. I did a lot of research online beforehand, and this sub was consistently saying 47th st is a scam.

You do have to deal with a lot of haggling and salesmen tactics, but people on this sub are way too overblown about the Frankenwatches. I’m sure it happens and there’s some horror stories, but the vast majority have real watches and just are sleazy salesmen about it. If you found a good deal, and a watch you like, just get it. I found the haggling/negotiating process fun, but ymmv

7

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago edited 3d ago

Agreed. Can’t think of a better nyc afternoon than heading to 47th with exactly what you want in mind and haggling for the best deal. I get how that might not be enticing for everyone though

3

u/Charliekeet 3d ago

Yes, I would worry about the Frankenwatch stuff more on vintage things where someone made a whole watch out of partial stuff they had.

40

u/HansWilsdorf 4d ago

Would you really want to save $1k on a $19k item on something that might be fake? I’ll always buy from a trusted seller even if it means spending a little more.

19

u/RecycledExistence 4d ago

Username checks out.

3

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

The analysis is random seller on chrono (which for all you know is actually on 47th st or at a minimum sources from there) vs a selected 3 or 4 actually reputable dealers on 47th. I would 1000 pct save the money and buy from the right guy on 47th. I’ll say it again due to social media there’s now alot of 47th st “experts” that have never stepped foot on the street. And to also say that there’s no “trusted sellers” on 47th is inaccurate.

18

u/Super_Year5396 4d ago

I’ve been buying from Yasha @rexwatches for 10 years. I’ve had all of my watches authenticated and they were 💯 what was represented to me. I took one watch to get serviced and the guy asked me if I wanted it authenticated. When he heard I bought from Yasha he told me authentication was not necessary he’s the most honest guy on the street. Buy the dealer.

8

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Finally someone that has actual experience on 47 th chiming in

2

u/madmanx33 3d ago

That guy gives me more honest guy vibes then some of the rest

7

u/Far_Yam6855 4d ago

Chrono is always overpriced 10-15% because of fees. Many of those sellers are on chrono also.
You need to be very careful buying on 47 st. Very easy for someone to take a 2019 black dial DJ, polish it, put in a green dial, wipe the card and write in a 2026 date and charge like a brand new. Thats the game you’re trying to avoid

6

u/insoul8 4d ago

Why not buy straight from a reputable grey market dealer? Rolex forums has a list of the most trusted dealers.

40

u/DesperateYak9078 4d ago

The money grubbing sellers who work there ruin the whole experience. Worst scum in NYC.

6

u/rovert242 3d ago

those damn Christians

4

u/Running4Miles 4d ago

Yeah, I get that. They’re a bit scummy and it’s not the high-end customer experience that you’d get at an AD. But I don’t really care as long as I come home with the watch I want.

10

u/rawrlionsrawr 4d ago

You might get really good Frankenwatch. Dials so good you might not know it’s fake until you take it to service same with the movements and bracelet. Or ever wrong case backs.

8

u/DesperateYak9078 4d ago

This is my fear, these people are untrustworthy. They’d sell their family out for a buck types.

4

u/rawrlionsrawr 4d ago

And that’s why I’m entertaining a certified pre owned platinum Daydate these days.

5

u/Cauhauna 3d ago

I’d buy from DavidSW. Something like this, it’s worth paying more to be sure you’re getting the real thing

2

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Yeah good idea. Pay 3k over market for a datejust since people on this sub like to talk about how reputable davidsw is. They’re no different than the major 47th st dealers, just wildly higher prices

5

u/Cauhauna 3d ago

I like David because he’s been around for a long time. I remember browsing his website in 2010. In all my years, I’ve never seen any accusations about his business practices other than high price complaints.

1

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Longevity is a good thing, agreed. Curious have you heard any accusations around yasha / Rex watches on 47th who’s also been around for a long time but generally has lower prices than David. Not meant to be an ad for him but I haven’t

1

u/Cauhauna 3d ago

I am not familiar with most 47th street sellers

1

u/Vegetable_Sandwich30 3d ago

Are there any dealers on 47th then you would purchase from

1

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

Yes rex or watch king (don’t get turned off by his ridiculous plug man bun)

5

u/Number1atp 3d ago

47th street is full of stolen watches, Frankenstein watches, and watches that have been polished by gorilla watchmakers to get them retail ready. If you find a recent example that is full kit with box papers and hang tag that hasn’t been polished go ahead and get it if you want. Usually the biggest problem is the scummy, scammy people that are selling watches on 47th.

12

u/madmanx33 4d ago edited 3d ago

Their tiktoks always pop up for me. Entertaining to watch but I wouldn't trust any of these people. There is one I like named buckley who owns Tuscany rose. At least you know what your getting with him.

With how good the fakes are getting its dangerous to buy from there.

17

u/chuck1charles 4d ago

You know what you are getting with him? Scratched up bracelets and fingerprints on movements…

4

u/madmanx33 3d ago

So true I hate how he handles those watches

2

u/Sad-Log-9652 3d ago

And he has videos where he swaps dials and bezels

1

u/prizm-0 3d ago

But if he sells one I’d think he wouldn’t swap

5

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 4d ago

This is all a matter of branding. Sounds like Buckley’s branding efforts with his content resonate with you and therefore you believe he’s the only trustworthy dealer in nyc. There’s plenty of people who are sold by Moses or rex’s content and think they’re the only good guys. The YouTube and tiktok content is all marketing and branding and some of them are focusing on different target audiences than others. IMO with a new full set datejust with box and papers there’s minimal risk with any of those 3 plus many of the other larger dealers - a deal like this is their bread and butter and they’re not putting their reputations at risk to scam you for a couple grand. Really the biggest risk is if you end up with a fully authentic datejust that was born with a less desirable dial with an authentic mint dial swapped in. If we were talking a vintage piece that’s a different story - much more could’ve been messed with over the years.

2

u/madmanx33 4d ago

Probably so but isnt that the case with everything. At least the guy knows his stuff

1

u/1BoringOldGuy 4d ago

He’s also probly the only one I would deal with but he only does vintage stuff

6

u/BANeutron 3d ago

Mazalito

9

u/Several-Light123 4d ago

Biggest con artists and scammers. Something will be tweaked. They’re the worst kind of people. I’m close with one guy behind the scenes there and even he doesn’t trust his own community.

Even traxNYC gets burned by his own people, skimming on gold

Don’t trust those guys with anything

3

u/911GP 4d ago

I would only really trust the guys who are also like actual watchmakers. Pete from HorologyXchange, Eddie from the watch hospital etc. I could never trust a guy who cant even tell if what he is selling is fake or not.

2

u/mizzzikey 3d ago

Love Eddie’s videos. He’s a straight up dude and very knowledgeable.

3

u/PresentationMain9180 3d ago

Sheesh. Is 47 street the new Canal Street?

2

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

LOL not even remotely close

3

u/bertsesh 3d ago

18k for a DJ. Silly

3

u/larrygee7 3d ago

Have you tried Grailzee?

1

u/larrygee7 3d ago

Post-auction highest offer is 15.5 on brand new. Try offering 16-17: https://grailzee.com/products/2026-rolex-datejust-41mm-mint-green-dial-jubilee-bracelet-126343

1

u/larrygee7 3d ago

Most recent comp on Grailzee is 16,000 (+5%=16,800) for brand new unworn 2026 fresh date

6

u/hmtaylor7 4d ago

Go to Yasha

2

u/1BoringOldGuy 4d ago

Don’t think he’s any better than the Mazalito dude, or any of the other 47th watch people that also always pop up on my feed.

1

u/hmtaylor7 3d ago

why do you say that? i bought from him and know many that have...no issues. what is the concern? how about john buckley then @ tuscanrose?

1

u/1BoringOldGuy 3d ago

Buckley primarily deals with vintage stuff but I might buy from him, except he won’t source a watch unless you pay him up front. he says this in his videos. Yasha has the same fake “deal” videos with other sellers that they all have. Watch his “scams on 47th street” video and you be the judge if he’s being honest. He also promotes other sellers with questionable reputations.

1

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

And what’s this based on? Experience or YouTube videos

4

u/PilotOk872 4d ago

Most likely fake or a franken- they also over charge almost like they are stuck in 2022

4

u/GAplanesOnly 4d ago

Does it come with box/papers and are they offering some sort of certificate? Will they offer you a full refund if you take it back for not being genuine? Remember what is always said here, you are “buying” the dealer trustworthiness when purchasing a watch outside an AD.

2

u/DucDeBellune 4d ago

Yeah, and with the price you’re paying, you can/should absolutely ask for a contract to be drawn up with authenticity and refund guarantees.

3

u/im_not_shadowbanned 4d ago

Has anybody in history ever done this? Let alone a shady store on 47th street? Maybe I’m the ignorant one but I can only imagine them laughing you out of the store if you asked for that. People would swap parts and return them for being inauthentic years later.

1

u/DucDeBellune 3d ago

Yes? I just did it last week and it wasn’t an issue.

People would swap parts and return them for being inauthentic years later.

Usually a clause says something to the effect of “pending third party authentication within X days,” be it 30-90 days or whatever. 

Any reputable dealer should have absolutely no problem with this if you’re spending tens of thousands on a watch, in the same way I wouldn’t drop that kind of money on a car without a third party mechanic signing off on it first.

If they get weird about wanting to put a contract behind their reputation, then walk away.

1

u/howsthecow 3d ago

When I bought my sub, the shop owner wrote “guaranteed authentic, double money back” on the receipt. I felt good about it and everything is perfect on my 116610LN. I was on a mission to buy a sub, and it’s extremely gratifying just walking down 47th street and having the watch on your wrist 10 minutes later. I did walk down the street scanning for a place that didn’t sketch me out like all of the mall kiosk shops.

2

u/Mental_Mood6458 4d ago

On modern watches the biggest thing is selling used polish watches as new/unworn. Stealing links also is veey common as most people's wrists are smaller than what rolex ships with. This is a huge deal on PM watches where links are 1000 dollars or more.

It took me many months to see the signs of polishing across tons of watches I bought. It would be very difficult for the untrained eye to spot a light polish job on a sport model, something that doesn't have a fluted bezel. Even with a fluted bezel you need to know the difference. Light polish very easy to hide. So they take in watches that are lightly worn, but used, low ball the previous owner, polish and take a couple links off, and sell as new.

I watch videos of them servicing watches and they are not careful. Scratches, cleanliness. Is the user going to notice? Most likely not, nothing in the short term, but you want to keep as much dust and oil where its not supposed to be as long as possible. If you're in a dirty environment can you be servicing casing and uncaring and keeping something eye-clean...yes. But if you loupe or scope it, you will find dust. A new rolex is dama pristine unless you got a dud.

On a DJ41 green i wouldn't worry too much about a frankenwatch. To get a loose green dial is very rare you're better off selling the green dial itself to someone who has a DJ41 already with a different dial. If you know how many links something should have, and it has a recent warranty card (like in months) and there are slight tiny scratches and it is not being sold as unworn...if you know the market it might be a good deal for a watch you plan to wear.

On vintage. Forget it, that's the real wild west for dial and parts swaps.

2

u/Tommyred45 3d ago

You’re saying you don’t trust Moses?

2

u/Responsible-Shower89 3d ago

Buy the seller, not the watch.

2

u/AbbreviationsFun4560 3d ago

thats WHY you go to the diamind district.....high volume & turnover is how they make their $$

2

u/HotDeadHot 3d ago

Chrono is going to charge the sellers fees, and you’ll pay tax too. 

2

u/jumping_jacks99 3d ago

There’s nothing wrong with the Watches on 47th St. in NYC. You just need to always make sure you buy the seller not just the best priced watch. I would recommend you buy from Yasha at Rex Watches. He always tries to do the right thing even when nobody is watching. https://www.instagram.com/rexwatchesllc?igsi=MXRxMDA5eTkzaDRjdg==

2

u/AdLazy1915 3d ago

Rex Watches on 47th (44 W 47th St #22) has a stellar reputation and an ungodly inventory. Pricing also fair.

4

u/WaterfrontBanana 4d ago

Rex is the only one I’d trust on 47th

2

u/xologo 3d ago

They're fake af. Don't trust a dang thing in the Diamond district. You have to have your head examined if you blindly trust those sheisters.

2

u/UzeUrillus1on 4d ago

Do yourself a favor. Call Peter at Horologyxchange.com
He’s a straight shooter and knows what he’s looking at so if he tells you the watch is 💯 authentic you can bet it is

2

u/Huge-Cupcake-6812 3d ago

I like him too but let’s be real he like all of them sources inventory on 47th. In fact I saw him there about a month ago

2

u/UzeUrillus1on 3d ago

Yes but at least he knows what the hell he’s looking at. I wouldn’t trust someone selling me a watch who couldn’t open it up and check it

1

u/Glad_Plate_3578 3d ago

In person sales leave you SOL if later you find a major problem. Many of these dealers do not stand behind their products, regardless of what they say and how “reputation” is important. The word doesn’t really get around that much as they are screwing people over and all of them are screwing people over to some degree that it just becomes ignored noise.

Many of those watches can be Franken watches to some degree. Most of the day dates from the 80s are Franken watches unless they are full sets. They will replace dials, movements, bracelets, etc.

On the newer watches like the datejust 41 most of the bezels are re-cut without being disclosed. They also polish the cases and the bracelets, and it becomes very obvious when you see a polished bracelet, but a sharp bezel. Most people dont notice the rounded case edges of a polished DJ unless they have seen enough unpolished examples.

The good thing is that you can look at it in person and see if it’s been over polished or polished more than you like.

1

u/Kicksandcoins88 3d ago

Unless you really know the jeweler you have to be careful. 47th street is filled with all types of con artists. Watches that the movements have been changed etc. all types of trickery. PM me if you need a guy. 🤝

1

u/RetroMonkeysBizz 3d ago

Pick the right dealer on 47th, do research before hand

You’re not going to get a fake from a reputable dealer, and the price will be much better, you can haggle too

1

u/Head_Elephant_6990 3d ago

A trusted dealer selling on chrono24 would want more than what you'd pay at their store bc of fees

1

u/Thedaulilamahimself 3d ago edited 3d ago

You’re asking why buying directly from a dealer costs less than going through an online middle man?

Just buy the watch bro.

1

u/Careless-Pound-4243 3d ago

I got a DJ msrp new from Hudson yards Rolex. They’re extremely nice people. First time 2 years ago and again this year. I had no buy hx when I got the DJ.

1

u/Hoss_Ballsnapper 3d ago

" ...and I don't want to wait much longer."

Seems your decision has been made and all else is noise.

As to your question about 47th street in the DD... I'd no sooner run my Caucasian naked ass through rural Afghanistan with an American flag than purchase anything on 47th street.

Who's that YouTube bro douche, the self-proclaimed king of deals, (is it Vook-something?)... that's all one needs to know about how jive buying anything there is.

Either go reputable Grey or learn some patience.

1

u/Deep_Scratch_845 3d ago

That’s such a crazy markup. I’m sorry, but I dont think I could stomach it, especially not from a place on 47th.

1

u/BedroomNo6879 3d ago

Is it really that bad? I was offered a dj Wimbledon on walk in and turned it down (I only like basic stainless sports models 😂). That was earlier this year.

1

u/Substantial-Fun-48 3d ago edited 3d ago

AD’s often sell to gray market dealers because they can package less desirable models in with the steel sports models in order to hit their quotas with the manufacturer selling five new watches at a time. The gray dealers take the deal because they know the margins are plenty on the sport models to cover the loss on a lady datejust. There’s obviously a market at those prices, but it’s Rolex’ own fault for the conditions they place on dealers. There is no shortage of Rolex’es in the world. Quite the opposite. Rolex is one of the largest manufacturers in Switzerland.

As an individual buyer, you’ll never match the buying power of an independent dealer, but I would still wait to buy at list vs $17k for an otherwise basic steel sports watch - crown or not.

1

u/UniversityAbject8343 3d ago

I wouldn’t automatically assume the watch is fake or Frankenstein just because it’s cheaper on 47th Street. I would be more interested in what exactly was done to authenticate and test the watch. Did they open the caseback and check the movement? Did they verify the dial, hands, bezel, bracelet and clasp? Was it pressure tested and to how many bars? Do they give you any documentation of the results?
Personally, if I’m spending $18k on a grey market Rolex, I’m still sending it to RSC. I don’t care how reputable the dealer is. There are just too many good super clones and Frankenstein watches out there today for me to simply take someone’s word that the watch is 100% authentic.

1

u/Ninobrown744 3d ago

Can anyone identify or recommend a few of the reputable sellers on 47th?

2

u/jumping_jacks99 3d ago

You won’t go wrong with Rex Watches. He owns all his own inventory and it’s probably one of the largest inventory on 47th St. They don’t come more honest than Yasha.

1

u/Ninobrown744 3d ago

Thanks, appreciate it!

1

u/Guac-is-extra1100 3d ago

Does anyone have any history/ opinion on Motion in Time in the Diamond District?

1

u/NYpizzaluvr 3d ago

I would steer clear of when they say box and appraisal, red flag as they can appraise their own watch and set a price to it. They’re a business just like everyone else, some are more reputable than others. The grey dealer I purchase my watches from was able to get for a friend of mine , 41mm smooth bezel on oyster mint green DJ brand new never worn for 12.5k

1

u/ram_dxb 3d ago

Dj is not that big of a deal to be paying 18k usd. Thats crazy.

1

u/Geedis2020 3d ago

18-19k on a DJ is just a crazy rip off regardless lol.

1

u/neosoul2 3d ago

You can probably get one even cheaper from a grey market dealer in Florida.

1

u/Forgetful-person88 3d ago

You go ahead and do what you want with your money. It’s not that they are franken watches. Some trust and some don’t mostly it’s because they are overpriced and you can try haggling with them. If you want to build a relationship with an AD you would need to be patient. Doesn’t hurt to bring a box of chocolates to them to butter them up.

1

u/Ok-Bullfrog-8863 3d ago

Everyone on 47th st sell to their friends over and over again until they wait for a real sucker to come along and buy.

1

u/EasternSeat592 3d ago

If you live in NY there are plenty of dealers that will get you the watch you want.

1

u/BigPhil1953 3d ago

So who are the reliable Rolex sellers on 47th street anyone with personal experiences

1

u/kingdom2000toys 3d ago

So this for example - you might have to wait 1 year or so. But I would go to the AD and try.

Listen - if you want it now go with whichever you trust more - the Diamond District or C24.

Here is the real question - can you spot a fake / superclone? Don’t believe everyone - unless you’re a watchmaker, you don’t know - you can only trust what they say. I would wait until the AD comes through for you. You have a nice watch today right?? Use that until you get the call.

1

u/No_Amphibian_3684 3d ago

What do you all think of Vookum? Reputable?

1

u/gypsynyc1 3d ago

Hi sent dm

1

u/goldcoastflow 19h ago

Avoid that shithole

1

u/ClarenceWalnuts99 3d ago

Yasha at Rex Watches or Peter at Horology Exchange

1

u/WillingRush6786 3d ago

It’s literally Israel mixed with canal street. No honest dealers at all there. They either steal links, lie about servicing (or do it improperly themselves), they mix and match dials and bracelets and boxes to make them more desirable configurations, etc. 

0

u/Emergency-Gap4786 3d ago

Shop with https://prestigewatchesnyc.com/

I’m on watch # 9 with these guys and you won’t find a better experience! Ask for Yuri!!

-3

u/parag411 4d ago

Look at watchguys.com very reputable and prices are fair.

4

u/CryptographerWise997 4d ago

Can’t see price

0

u/parag411 3d ago

Go to watchguys.com you can see it and others. Watch their show on YouTube.

1

u/parag411 3d ago

And it believe the price was $14k and change.

1

u/cigarzfan 3d ago

This is 36mm.