My
First New Rolex
By: John B. Holbrook, II
February 14, 2004
For the past several years, I've been known both online and in print
as a staunch advocate of watches which are the epitome of value. "Bang
for the buck" watches - watches which deliver the highest quality
and best features at the lowest price point. Frequently I have compared
watches which I feel embody these qualities (like various Invicta
and Omega models for example) to Rolex watches, which in many respects
can be considered the antithesis of such pragmatic value considerations.
Of course, I've never stated that I don't like Rolex and their watches.
On the contrary, I hold them in high regard for their history and
legacy. In truth, I've just never felt they were a good "bang
for the buck" as compared to other choices.
This feeling was confirmed during the Fall of 2003 when I decided
my next watch acquisition would be a white dial sport watch. My search
came down to two different watches - the white dial Omega Seamaster
GMT, and the white dial Rolex Explorer II. After much research and
consideration, I decided upon the Seamaster (you can read why I chose
it HERE or read my Seamaster GMT review in the February issue of INTERNATIONAL
WATCH). The only problem was, after I chose the watch, I still found
myself inexplicably attracted to the Explorer II.
I have to confess that my conflicted feelings in this regard caused
a fair amount confusion on my part. I tend to be very "type A"
and practical in my decision making - I review the facts, and make
decision accordingly. But clearly in the months that followed, though
I had concluded that the Seamaster was the better choice between the
two, I still found myself drawn to the Explorer II. How could this
be? Was it possible that the Rolex has some ephemeral, less tangible
quality which transcends the practical considerations which drew me
to the Seamaster? When I began to carefully consider these possibilities,
it was though a veil had been lifted, and I understood. I was able
to reconcile thoughts and feelings which seemed to be so contrary
to my nature. I didn't HAVE to explain in purely rational terms why
I liked the Explorer II. I simply acknowledged that I did like it.
It was this personal revelation which let me to purchase a brand new
Y series Rolex Explorer II, model 16570. The following then is an
attempt to catalog one of the most truly sublime experiences a watch
enthusiast can have - receiving their first new Rolex. I had contemplated
doing a stand alone review, or comparative review of the Explorer
II, but such a cold and analytical approach is lost on a watch of
this sort. Better it is in this case to celebrate the experience,
then to make sense of the facts.
Here's a picture of the box which first arrived to my office from
the authorized dealer from whom I purchased my first Rolex. I have
to confess that I didn't immediately tear into the box as I might
normally have with any other watch purchase. At first, I just sat
at my desk and contemplated the watch, and what it represented. I
wanted to savor this moment- much like sniffing the cork on fine wine
prior to pouring a glass and drinking.
In addition to bringing my camera with me to the office this day,
I've brought along the tools needed to size the bracelet, and after
doing so, I slip it on my wrist for the first time. This once of a
life experience is exquisite, and truly a high point of my watch collecting
life.
In the back of my mind, I feared that buyers remorse might sink in,
and that my practical side might overshadow the part of me which appreciates
this watch for what it is. Thankfully, this hasn't been the case.
The Explorer II isn't the greatest watch in the world, but it has
many wonderfully marvelous qualities - many of which defy language,
or at least my ability to adequately explain. Suffice to say, the
watch brings a smile to my face every time I put it on. That's all
the explanation I need. Here are some "studio" shots of
this watch:
In the end, while the Seamaster GMT represents the practical values
and decision making which are ingrained in my personality, the Rolex
represents the emotional, less rational aspect of my personality which
is undeniably a part of who I am. After all, owning more than one
watch isn't the character of someone who is purely driven by logic
and reason. So if your going to own more than one watch, why not make
one a Rolex?
From: www.rolexreferencepage.com
We buy Rolex Watches
Call
for details and a quote:
319 851 2379
Max
Hagen
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
|
Back
to Westdale Coins & Gold
Hosting
& Design by:
StaFo Web Services
Westale
Coins ©
Copyright 2007 All Rights Reserved
319 851 2379
Fax: 319 396 3565
or write us at:
Westdale Coins
P.O. Box 2022
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Westdale Coins since 1971