The Three Most Important Words You Should Listen For When Buying a Rolex
The holidays are undoubtedly a romantic time. The Hallmark channel streams a constant bevy of Christmas-themed rom coms. Pairs take carriage rides through parks with holiday lights. Newly-minted couples wait to hear three little words from their beloved: Box. And. Papers. Wait, you thought we meant I Love You? Emotional sentiments are nice, sure, but they pale in comparison to an emerald green box and the words “certified Rolex.” Well, maybe that’s just us. If you’re waiting to hear those words this year, you know exactly why it’s such a coveted phrase. For those not yet in the know, here are three reasons these three little words always make our pulses race and our hearts leap.
A ROLEX BOX AND PAPERS ENSURE AUTHENTICITY
If you’re buying vintage or secondhand, especially online, an original box and papers can help you determine if it’s worth the investment. Box and papers don’t cover all contingencies, but they can still reassure a buyer that the provenance is traceable. This still means you could have a replacement dial, or reapplied lume. It’s definitely not a guarantee that all servicing was done by Rolex or a Rolex-authorized dealer. However, a Rolex with its original papers usually indicates a meticulous, conscientious owner. Although it might come with a slightly higher price tag, it’s definitely a best bet if you’re going to invest. Just remember that the older the Rolex, the less likely it is to have these bona fides.
A ROLEX BOX AND PAPERS INCREASE RESALE VALUE
The flip-side of purchasing a vintage Rolex is being able to resell it if desired. Keep in mind, this doesn’t only apply to vintage models. Brand new watches should always be gifted with the original box and papers. (Although the authenticity “papers” are now a credit-card style guarantee card with a printed serial number connected to an electronic record of sale.) The box and all accoutrements should be stored in a dark, dry area to keep them pristine. Archival storage boxes are a great option for doing just that.
A ROLEX BOX AND PAPERS HAVE A CERTAIN INEFFABLE MAGIC
The best reason to gift a Rolex with the original box and papers is because there’s a certain magic to the experience of having them. There’s a reason unboxing videos of all types are some of the most popular videos on YouTube. Companies like Apple have innovated in the area of package design, but nobody did it better, first, and with more class than Rolex.
First, you encounter a shimmering emerald-green box with an undulating wave design, a subtle wink to the brand’s nautical history. Open it to reveal the box’s cream-colored velvet interior. A fold-out compartment houses the guarantee card, owner’s manual, and warranty. Wax seals designate it as a COSC-certified superlative chronometer. Depending on your AD or the watch you buy, you might also go home with a hardcover book filled with specs and high-res photos of the entire Rolex collection, a gorgeous Crayon d’Ache pen, or other Rolex swag.
Image Source: @rolexdiver
GET A BOX & SWAG OF YOUR OWN
Maybe you can’t recreate that incredible feeling of unboxing a Rolex for the first time, but you can always purchase accessories to display your watch collection and keep it safe. Everest Bands watch rolls, watch portfolios, and cleaning cloths can house your watches and keep them looking their best.
Written by Meghan Clark
Leave a comment