When you want to buy a fine timepiece, there is a substantial investment involved. Naturally, then, when you’re ready to purchase, the chance to negotiate is of interest. If you can reduce the initial investment in your fine Swiss mechanical watch, you get a piece of timekeeping history that’s strikingly beautiful and remarkably functional on your wrist, and you get it for less. So why in the world would anyone want to miss out. Can you do that? Can you negotiate on the price of a Rolex?
The short answer is no. The short answer is also yes.
You knew it wouldn’t be simple, didn’t you?
The reason there are two answers for you is simple. When you buy a Rolex, you will be purchasing from a Rolex Authorized Dealer or you will be purchasing it from someone else. Whether or not you can make headway with negotiation is driven by which you choose.
Can You Negotiate with an Authorized Rolex Dealer?
The answer is no. Negative. Uh uh. Nope. Authorized dealers have very strict rules from Rolex that include making reasonable efforts to ensure they sell only to the ultimate customer (the one who will wear the watch as opposed to reselling it) and adherence to the MSRP (Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price.) They must report sales, including the price, to Rolex. The power of the Rolex brand is that companies line up to become dealers despite strict rules. The only hope for negotiating under these circumstances is if the dealer, usually a jeweler, has something else you might want. If you happen to need an engagement ring or a tennis bracelet, the dealer might make you a package deal but whatever the price, the Rolex will be recorded at the suggested retail price.
Can You Negotiate with a Pre-Owned Rolex Dealer or Private Party?
This is the yes part of the answer. The Rolex secondary market is driven entirely by supply and demand. This doesn’t mean you can necessarily get a remarkable deal but it does mean you have the opportunity to try for a price that makes you more comfortable. Keep in mind private parties are usually selling because they want to get more than a pre-owned Rolex seller might offer them. They will nonetheless often be more flexible with price. Jewelry stores, pawn shops and other dealers are also likely to have some price flexibility. One thing to keep in mind, if you are buying a model currently in production you will very likely have to pay higher than retail price. This is because many new models have a very long waitlist and therefore are bought at retail from an authorized dealer. By the time the watch is offered to you, it may have changed hands two or three times, the price increasing every step of the way.
It’s not surprising that many people want to own a Rolex. If that’s you, and you’d like the chance to negotiate the amount of investment you’re facing, the best bet is to find a reputable Rolex seller in your area or (though you’ll find less flexibility) online. A little effort might get one of these remarkable watches on your wrist for less than you expect.
Comments