How do you let someone know you like their watch?

[rolex75216]

Is there a proper etiquette that you use? Do you just come out and say, "Hey, I like your watch!"

[Star Ferry]

I would suggest not saying anything. If they’re anything like the typical poster in the TRF Rolex General forum, their response will be some combination of smug, condescending, and dismissive. The average person with a pricey watch is a loser trying to compensate for low self esteem, so 9 times out of 10 you will walk away regretting the interaction.

[donas]

Originally Posted by rolex75216

Is there a proper etiquette that you use? Do you just come out and say, "Hey, I like your watch!"

Personally, I usually refrain. The only time I recall ever saying something to someone in public about their watch was a Panerai Bronzo. Rarely, is someone going to be wearing a watch like that who isn't "into" watches, so I figured a compliment wouldn't be too awkward seeing how I too was wearing a Panerai at the time. That was the one and only time I've seen that watch in the wild.

Originally Posted by Star Ferry

I would suggest not saying anything. If they’re anything like the typical poster in the TRF Rolex General forum, their response will be some combination of smug, condescending, and dismissive. The average person with a pricey watch is a loser trying to compensate for low self esteem, so 9 times out of 10 you will walk away regretting the interaction.

You must be a blast to hang out with! Hopefully, you are just trolling trying to get a rise out of people, otherwise I do feel bad for you if that is your general outlook on people.

[77T]

Originally Posted by Star Ferry

I would suggest not saying anything. If they’re anything like the typical poster in the TRF Rolex General forum, their response will be some combination of smug, condescending, and dismissive. The average person with a pricey watch is a loser trying to compensate for low self esteem, so 9 times out of 10 you will walk away regretting the interaction.

Was that a Freudian Slip?


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[Moondoggy]

Originally Posted by Star Ferry

I would suggest not saying anything. If they’re anything like the typical poster in the TRF Rolex General forum, their response will be some combination of smug, condescending, and dismissive. The average person with a pricey watch is a loser trying to compensate for low self esteem, so 9 times out of 10 you will walk away regretting the interaction.

Meanwhile 4,796 posts on TRF.

[77T]

Originally Posted by rolex75216

Is there a proper etiquette that you use? Do you just come out and say, "Hey, I like your watch!"

The answer is as varied as the number of psyches and temperaments amongst Rolex owners. It’s also contextual.

On the street, a stranger’s comment might feel awkward.

But on a plane in first class, a seatmate’s comment might kindle a warm convo.

The last time someone noticed a watch of mine was at Indy as a team principle was leaving my Stewards room and I waved goodbye - he stopped in his tracks and asked, “Is that a Platona”?

That led to a longer convo that made a new friend. He now has one when we met again at VIR.




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[DocHorton]

Originally Posted by rolex75216

Is there a proper etiquette that you use? Do you just come out and say, "Hey, I like your watch!"

I just say, "Hey man, I like your watch", or "I like that Sub" or something similar. No different than telling someone "Nice shoes" or "Nice car" or anything else. A compliment doesn't have to be complicated.

I've had dozens of folks compliment my car or watch and it's never been weird, but I'm not uptight.

[Star Ferry]

Originally Posted by donas

Personally, I usually refrain. The only time I recall ever saying something to someone in public about their watch was a Panerai Bronzo. Rarely, is someone going to be wearing a watch like that who isn't "into" watches, so I figured a compliment wouldn't be too awkward seeing how I too was wearing a Panerai at the time. That was the one and only time I've seen that watch in the wild.


You must be a blast to hang out with! Hopefully, you are just trolling trying to get a rise out of people, otherwise I do feel bad for you if that is your general outlook on people.

Originally Posted by 77T

Was that a Freudian Slip?

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Originally Posted by Moondoggy

Meanwhile 4,796 posts on TRF.

Thanks for the pile on, boys. Glad you could be relied on for something. But I’ll stand by my viewpoint. Most guys wearing an expensive watch are not watch enthusiasts, and in most cases complimenting their watch will backfire painfully

[Malum]

You steal it .

[DocHorton]

.

[Al1969]

Originally Posted by Star Ferry

Thanks for the pile on, boys. Glad you could be relied on for something. But I’ll stand by my viewpoint. Most guys wearing an expensive watch are not watch enthusiasts, and in most cases complimenting their watch will backfire painfully

Have you been drinking?

[Star Ferry]

Originally Posted by Al1969

Have you been drinking?

Sober as a nun

[AF_Rob]

I gauge the situation, so it depends. I've complemented several times in public with no ill effects from what I recall.

Was sitting on a plane waiting to take off and I noticed this guy's watch (Rolex sports something). He was on his phone, talking business (loud). He gave off this redneck Florida man with money vibe. He would be an example on who I would NOT engage.

[superdog]

I compliment people all the time. On anything. Their name, shoes, briefcase, hat etc.

And of course their watch.

99 out of 100 times it leads to a nice interaction. On a very rare occasion someone might brush me off. In which case, I shrug it off.

Don’t overthink think it. Just say what you think. Everyone likes a compliment. Even if they don’t think they do.

[MrGoat]

Originally Posted by AF_Rob

He gave off this redneck Florida man with money vibe. He would be an example on who I would NOT engage.

Ouch.


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[ExplorerI]

I’m unlikely to comment unless I get to know them a bit or it’s an interesting piece like vintage.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by superdog

I compliment people all the time. On anything. Their name, shoes, briefcase, hat etc.

And of course their watch.

99 out of 100 times it leads to a nice interaction. On a very rare occasion someone might brush me off. In which case, I shrug it off.

Don’t overthink think it. Just say what you think. Everyone likes a compliment. Even if they don’t think they do.

Thanks for the positive comment Seth.

I agree, who doesn’t feel a bit better after giving and receiving a nice compliment?

[MrGoat]

Originally Posted by superdog

I compliment people all the time. On anything. Their name, shoes, briefcase, hat etc.

And of course their watch.

99 out of 100 times it leads to a nice interaction. On a very rare occasion someone might brush me off. In which case, I shrug it off.

Don’t overthink think it. Just say what you think. Everyone likes a compliment. Even if they don’t think they do.

My man, I’m the same way!!

I will not try to engage in conversation if they’re on the phone or look to be in a rush though.


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[MrGoat]

Originally Posted by rolex75216

Is there a proper etiquette that you use? Do you just come out and say, "Hey, I like your watch!"

I usually say something along the lines of “That’s a great watch!!”


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[brandrea]

Originally Posted by MrGoat

I usually say something along the lines of “That’s a great watch!!”


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Yes, it’s sort of situational isn’t it.

I’m usually a fairly good judge of character. It’s pretty easy to spot someone who is open to a conversation or a compliment IMHO.

Given the right circumstance I might say something along the lines of “I hope you don’t mind me saying, but that’s a nice looking watch”.

I’d also be cognizant of the surroundings so as not to make a big deal of it

[HHIslander]

Smile, nod at wrist, say “nice watch” and move on.

[Kinnakeet]

Just 2 weekends ago a gentleman complimented my explorer 2 while at the mall. Some small talk about watches resulted in him buying the watch off me right on the spot. He wired the money right there.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by Kinnakeet

Just 2 weekends ago a gentleman complimented my explorer 2 while at the mall. Some small talk about watches resulted in him buying the watch off me right on the spot. He wired the money right there.

Now that’s the definition of an impulse buy Michelle

[cartesian Product]

Originally Posted by Kinnakeet

Just 2 weekends ago a gentleman complimented my explorer 2 while at the mall. Some small talk about watches resulted in him buying the watch off me right on the spot. He wired the money right there.

I have to ask…did the conversation start off with you saying, “Psssstttt….” then pulling up your raincoat sleeve? 🤔

[mjm700]

Thread reminds me of being approached by a man while shopping with my wife a few years ago. I honestly can't recall what watch I was wearing but he offered a nice complement that lead to him showing me his SD octopus di stato (or whatever those are called). I had never seen one and it was great to hear his journey to locate one. Glad he offered the complement. I would probably offer more complements but I really don't look - guess I'm too self absorbed! :)

[Chiboy]

Originally Posted by Kinnakeet

Just 2 weekends ago a gentleman complimented my explorer 2 while at the mall. Some small talk about watches resulted in him buying the watch off me right on the spot. He wired the money right there.

Seriously? Wow! Maybe there is no potential scam, but I'd be really leery of that. Glad it worked out.

I don't really compliment watch wearers unless I know them somewhat. I could see on a plane it might be different.

[Maleg]

Originally Posted by brandrea

Yes, it’s sort of situational isn’t it.

I’m usually a fairly good judge of character. It’s pretty easy to spot someone who is open to a conversation or a compliment IMHO.

Given the right circumstance I might say something along the lines of “I hope you don’t mind me saying, but that’s a nice looking watch”.

I’d also be cognizant of the surroundings so as not to make a big deal of it

Excellent post. I agree completely.

It’s usually easy to see when someone may not be receptive to an interaction with a stranger. Otherwise, there’s no harm in a compliment.

I compliment people on their exceptional cars, suits, dress shoes, and watches. Often a pleasant conversation arises.

[enjoythemusic]

i simply say, "Am an admirer of fine timepieces, love what you're wearing" while also showing them my wrist so they know am a big fan too. Have met and struck up quite a few conversations over the decades.

What does surprise me a bit, is i'd say about 70% of Rolex / PP wearers get a timepiece because it's a Rolex / PP. When i run into those wearing Breguet, Omega, Bvlgari, etc, they seem to be more 'personally involved' as to why / what timepiece they chose to wear. jmho

[Easy E]

I usually try to get a read on the person, also depends on time and place. I will try to offer a simply compliment if/when I feel it’s appropriate. That has lead to some nice conversations and I have been utter dismissed as well. I will not let the latter from ruining it for future attempts.

[cartesian Product]

Originally Posted by Star Ferry

I would suggest not saying anything. If they’re anything like the typical poster in the TRF Rolex General forum, their response will be some combination of smug, condescending, and dismissive. The average person with a pricey watch is a loser trying to compensate for low self esteem, so 9 times out of 10 you will walk away regretting the interaction.

Originally Posted by Star Ferry

Thanks for the pile on, boys. Glad you could be relied on for something. But I’ll stand by my viewpoint. Most guys wearing an expensive watch are not watch enthusiasts, and in most cases complimenting their watch will backfire painfully

I disagree. A person, who is average, who buys a Rolex often believes they have joined a club. They are thrilled whenever anyone notices and will talk endlessly about it. They also work their watch into a topic about wine, cigars, and spirits.

A person who buys a Rolex not thinking they are joining a club will just stay ‘thank you’.

Originally Posted by rolex75216

Is there a proper etiquette that you use?

When appropriate, why not just compliment? You will receive a polite thank you, and it may start a conversation.