New or pre-owned Rolex: What’s the smartest investment?

Often seen as the ultimate status symbol to grace our wrists, Rolex has continued to surge in popularity since its introduction in 1905.

But in recent times, its global reputation has exceeded its manufacturing capabilities, meaning you could be waiting in excess of two years before your watch is made.

However, if standing around in queues isn’t your style, you might want to consider buying a pre-owned Rolex.

And here’s why…

Buying a pre-owned Rolex

Value

Just as a new luxury watch will likely rise in value, a pre-owned Rolex is also likely to keep climbing in price.

This is partly due to the global rise in price and demand for Rolex watches. But it’s also much to do with the added value and rarity of models that are no longer in production.

It’s the reason why we continue to see a demand for pre-owned Rolexes in our stores across Sussex. And it’s also the reason why more and more watch investors are opting for the old over the new.

1983 pre-owned Rolex Datejust

Availability

Unlike the immediate availability of a pre-owned Rolex, newer models can take in excess of two years before they arrive at your door.

This is because Rolex has reduced the manufacturing numbers for many of their watches, causing an eye-watering delay in what they refer to as ‘allocation of watches’.

In a statement released late last year, Rolex said:

Our current production cannot meet the existing demands in an exhaustive way, at least not without reducing the quality of our watches – something we refuse to do as the quality of our products must never be compromised”.

Doesn’t sound promising for the new Rolex buyers, does it?

Of course, buying a pre-owned Rolex doesn’t come with these time restrictions. So if you’re someone who wants to own a Rolex sooner rather than later, maybe you should consider an older model.

1979 pre-owned Rolex Day-Date

Style

Not everyone’s tastes are the same. And if you’re buying a new Rolex, you’re limiting your options to what’s in production at the time of purchase.

However, with pre-owned Rolexes, you’ll open the door to a range of timeless pieces that vary in styles, models and prices.

At GA Pawnbrokers, we have a wide selection of verified, fully serviced and competitively priced Rolex watches. If you have a model in mind, get in touch to see if we have stock or, alternatively, browse our online store for our latest additions.

Where to buy a pre-owned Rolex

Rolex watches are the most counterfeited luxury item in the world, and without a trained eye, it’s difficult to distinguish the real from the fake.

For that reason, we always advise to check you’re dealing with a reputable dealer – whether that’s in person on online.

As a starting point, you could check your seller’s customer reviews, visit their website (if they have one) or see them in-store if they’re an independent jeweller.

If you need a second opinion on a Rolex, just let us know.

Can you resell a pre-owned Rolex?

If you’re thinking about selling your pre-owned Rolex, it’s unlikely you’ll be waiting long to find a buyer.

This is due to the delay in manufacturing for new Rolex watches, together with the rising demand for investable vintage and discontinued models.

At GA Pawnbrokers, we can provide a free valuation on your pre-owned Rolex, as well as offer a competitive price, should you wish to sell.

Does a pre-owned Rolex have a guarantee?

If your pre-owned Rolex is within the five-year warranty period from the date it was registered, you will benefit from the remainder of the warranty.

For all other Rolex watches without a manufacturer’s warranty, we offer an 18-month extended warranty period from the date of purchase.

Are you thinking about buying a pre-owned Rolex? Get in touch to enquire about our watches, or find your nearest GA Pawnbrokers using our store locator.