Rolex

The long game .......

The long game….

I have been collecting for many years now and I have learned to be patient.

My patience has however often cost me a few pieces as I felt they were too expensive or not good enough and another would be found for a better price or in better condition (read- every Paul Newman I have ever been offered and turned down, but that’s another story)

I first learned about this watch about ten years ago when the owner proudly disclosed that he had a pristine Daytona with box and papers in his safe. He was not sure of the reference number but it had a black dial, and TWO bezels. One black acrylic on the watch and the original stainless steel one. My interest was piqued and I enquired further.

Are you interested in selling?
Maybe? Make me an offer?

I hate these conversations…make me an offer is an open invitation on paying premium prices

I did make him and offer – very generous for 10 years ago .

I’ll think about it…
And heard nothing further
Now I am not one to chase pieces so I left it until we caught up a few years later.

How are you >? Are you still thinking of selling?

Yes, sure, make me an offer

So, I did. Obviously a few times more than 5 years previously

He was interested, but he was also thinking of keeping it for one of his sons.

I told him to let me know if he changed his mind

We meet often and the Daytona comes up in conversation but nothing ever comes to fruition.

Then earlier this year – Just before Daytona Ultimatum at Philips!
- He is interested in selling again
- Figures are bandied about but no final decision is made

Eventually a figure is agreed upon but he cannot commit just yet
We are getting close

The 2 weeks ago I get a txt asking for a absolute final number. I txt it back in 2 seconds

Still nothing for 2 days….
Then Yes! The watch is yours

I have to say I am sceptical but slightly excited

You have to understand I have never seen the watch in person but have made numerous offers based on his description. No case number though (this worries me a little)
But I feel that if the case is incorrect I can always retract my offers as it is based on a perfect watch with matching case and dial

I get a pic taken with an iPhone

Looks promising

We meet and he brings the watch

It is a ref 6265 with a Bakelite bezel but he has an original stainless steel bezel. Lovely silver sigma dial as well

I take it into Rolex and ask them to change the bezel.

Sure they say as long as you service it for $1600. I did get the case number though and the dial and case age match perfectly

Thanks but no thanks. I take it to my watch maker who pops off the Bakelite bezel and puts the perfect stainless steel bezel on

The watch is perfect .

And finally here are some pics after 10 years waiting

The watch is mine

And finally on the wrist