Quote:
Originally Posted by WatchOut4It
I've tried shopping for Rolex in the U.K. and have had some limited luck, but generally find the experience to be incredibly off putting. I am beyond thankful that I can easily shop in the US and, more so, through Trusted Dealers. I actually blame the retailers more than Rolex. Just look at London where all ADs are actually owned by a single head office. Without competition, there's no reason for the market to be any different. They need to open up the UK dealer network a bit so that there's some healthy competition and real fighting for business. Until then, its no wonder you have ridiculous wait times and silly rules (e.g., you can only buy a SS model when you buy a PM timepiece). How did Watches of Switzerland come to own all Rolex affiliates in such a major metropolitan area?!
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It looks like things are going in the opposite direction. Look how many smaller jewellers have lost the Rolex brand over the last five years or so, as they move to a more "boutique-led" model.
More competition and more supply would erode the perceived exclusivity and desirability (and residuals). So I guess it's a catch 22.