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Would you guys rather buy New via gray market or LNIB with AD papers for the same price?

650 views 15 replies 14 participants last post by  harshad4005 
#1 ·
Going through watchrecon for like-new-in-box but used watches and comparing them to new watches from gray market dealers, I find the prices to be very similar.

For instance, would you rather buy a gray market rolex or would you buy a one month (mint condition) old rolex with AD papers for the same price?
 
#6 ·
If you can find an AD in your area then go for it.

Most of watches I've bought were discontinued models so online sellers are the only option.
 
#7 ·
Would you guys rather buy New via gray market or LNIB with AD papers for the ...

AD. Went into mine to look at a blnr. They are offering the 5 yr Rolex warranty, plus an additional 5 yr for a total of 10 yrs.

Plus I need the immediate tangible experience.

Plus I need new.... Unless vintage.

But this is just my watch ocd.
 
#13 ·
LNIB from AD, but the qualifier is if and only if the seller has a rock solid reputation. By buying prowned you take on certain risks as well. These risks could easily outstrip grey market warranty concerns if the seller isn't well known...
 
#14 ·
As said - LNIB. But unless a really new piece, LNIB rarely is. And I usually would expect to pay less than grey-market-new prices for a used one, even if it is from an AD.

Most AD prices I get are within sniffing distance of grey market prices, and often even better.
 
#15 ·
In general, LNIB but in reality it depends on the brand, model, and seller.

Also you have to do your due diligence and check with your local AD. As I said earlier, depending on the brand and model, my local AD can offer comparable prices to new gray market prices.

However, as I've gotten more experience in this hobby, I prefer lightly worn (95% condition) with a 25% (+/- 5%) over gray market pricing (again depending on brand and model) over LNIB or new gray any day.
 
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