Monday, July 11, 2016

What make the crown stand out?



When we talk about watches, we always talk about Rolex. When we talk about Rolex, we always talk about…errr… the Submariner? the Daytona? Or… the Day-Date?
 
Have you wondered why Rolex has been so successful all over the world? HK Snob weighs in.
 
 
 
 
 
1.      Price
In Hong Kong, Rolex stainless steel watches are around 30k-90k. It means a stainless steel Rolex is never over 100k HKD (now it may be different with the new Daytona). That has been the case for many years.
 
A Rolex is a symbol of status in Hong Kong and many of us do not mind buying a symbol of status under 100k HKD. It is a mental trick. Rolex understands how big the amount of money we are willing to spend on their watches.
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
2.      Iconic design
Be it a Submariner, a Daytona or a Datejust, we can always recognize a Rolex easily. When worn on the wrist, you are wearing something that you know others will envy. There are so many iconic designs in the Rolex collection. Each of them has its own features and character.
 
This successfully makes people want to buy more and more after they own their first Rolex. Of course, movie stars wearing Rolex watches contribute a lot to its success, too.
 
 
3.      Practicality
Every Rolex is tough. Every Rolex movement is an unbeatable workhorse. Yes. This is the image of Rolex – its being super practical.
 
Although you may not dive with your Submariner or check the other city’s time with your GMT Master, these watches are made with practical function and outstanding durability.
 
You seldom hear that a Rolex is not accurate or it breaks down easily. Each Rolex watch has its own practical function. It has nothing excessive. The image of each Rolex model is so clear that laymen understand easily.
 
HK Snob
 
 
 
 

 
 

Saturday, July 9, 2016

Rolex Day-Date – how to choose the right dial for your age?



We do not see people wearing the Day-Date in Hong Kong very much as most of us seem to prefer sports models of Rolex. However, when the one standing next to you in an MTR compartment is wearing the same 116710 as you do, why not stand out by wearing something different – the most prestigious watch of Rolex- the Day-Date?
 
 
Some of us may feel that the Day-Date belongs not to the young but to the grandpas who are over 60 years old. The impression is formed because of the overall design of the Day-Date which is very elegant and classic. The President bracelet is, together with the Jubilee bracelet, seen as something that the young will not want to wear because the overall style is too formal and mature. Nevertheless, what is notable is that when you look at NBA stars and young musicians in the West, they wear their Day-Dates and they wear them well. That brings out one point: when you are young, it does not make you look old wearing a Day-Date. What is more is of course about the choice of the right size and the right dial.
 
 
The 36mm Day-Date has been around for so many years. It is the more standard size of the Day-Date. However, for younger people, this size is not recommended. If you are under 30, you can go for the Day-Date 40. To stand out, choose dials of darker colors instead of champagne gold or light silver colors. These dials pair with yellow gold or rose gold very well. The 2016 olive dial on the 228235 Day-Date 40 rose gold is a great choice. If you prefer yellow gold, go for the black diagonal motif dial. Surely, you can go for the white gold versions which offer blue and grey stripe motif dials. They look stunning with the President bracelet which reflects light like nothing else.
 
 
 
If you would like to have a more formal style, then go for the lighter dial colors such as the sun dust motif dial of the rose gold version. It is a very special color. The Rolex Day-Date 40 is indeed a better choice than sports models which you can find most people wearing on many occasions. It is a watch that is made only in precious metals. It is a watch which makes you stand out.
 
HK Snob
HK Watch Fever Group
 
 
 
 
 

Zenith El Primero Chronograph on Sale

 


This is the second one I brought for Pinoy who appreciates the good taste in life.

Zenith El Primero 36000 VPH hi beat, this Movement had been installed in Rolex Daytona before 2000.

Rolex loves to use this El Primero movement simply it is proven superb in reliability since 1969 it was introduced.

It is accurate.

it is beautiful too.

El Primeo Ref. 03-2150.400/69. M2150

HK AD list price HK$59,600 now I can get you one at about HK$42,000

Delivery to Philippines Manila, Makati and or Alabang.

HK Snob





Thursday, July 7, 2016

Rolex Day Date with a Special custom Dial order through Rolex AD,


Day Date in Coral
 
 
Day Date in Rubellite Wood

Day Date with Aventurine

 
Have you ever mesmerized these Rolex Day Dates with exotic dials?
 

You must know that I am the one who is...
 
Now, after talking to Rolex AD, we can order these watches from Rolex SA Switzerland for you.
 
All Brand New Rolex watch made for you Brand New in Box Full Set from Rolex AD.
 
Price estimated HKD$260,000
 
50% deposit to the Rolex AD then wait for 6 weeks or so, then you can get these watches.
 
if you cannot get these watches from Rolex after the period of them you can ask for refund.
 
Well, you don't have to go to the Sham Shui Po, Mong Kok or TST looking for these old watch...
 
New watch has better movement, better waterproof,  better in anything as it is NEW
 
Only HK Watch Fever Group can get this deal for you.
 
Now we have only three types of dial as shown above.
 
Model Ref.118238 in yellow gold.
 
Hope One day we get Submariner with Onyx or Lapis Lazuli Dial!
 
HK Snob
HK Watch Fever

Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Date Just II Ref.116334



Attached is a Date Just II that most of us name it as the most adorable Date Just II.

Date Just II 41mm in grey Dial with Diamond Dial.

Date Just II go with Oyster bracelet only.

Rolex AD HK List price HK$80,800.

Gray Dealer offers more than 20% off the list price.


HK Snob

Sunday, July 3, 2016

The Rolex 116600 Sea-Dweller – the legend continues

 

The Rolex Sea-Dweller (not the Deep Sea) has been one of the best-selling Rolex models. It has a professional image and very proper size and weight. Unlike the Submariner, the Sea-Dweller is preferred by professional divers as it is water-resistant to 1200m. As the latest member of the Sea-Dweller family, the 116600 is a must-have for any Rolex collector.

 




Unlike its predecessor 16600, the 116600 has a ceramic bezel on which markers from 0-60 minutes are engraved, just like the bezel of the Deep Sea. It makes the watch look more professional. The lume on the markers and the hands is now Rolex Chromalight which is blue in color and it is stronger than previous luminous materials. At 40mm, the difference between the 116600 and the Submariner 116610 is now more obvious. Other than the bezel markings, the whole watch weighs more and has thicker case and bezel ring. The helium-escape-valve on the 9 o’ clock position is also another feature that differs it from the Sub.

 
 
 

Unlike the Deep Sea, the 116600 has more proper size and weight. On the wrist, it feels very comfortable and you do not have to have big wrists in order to wear the watch well. The cosmetics upgrades are very well done. The watch looks more like a luxurious dive watch now than ever. The Glidelock clasp is included which gives the 116600 a more professional touch. You can adjust the bracelet whenever you want.
 




 
The 116600 is the ultimate diver of choice. You will understand how well-made the Sea-Dweller is if you compare it with other 1200m divers. The Deep Sea is of course an engineering marvel. However, the size and the weight make it hard to a lot of people to wear. The 3900m water-resistant ability is not really needed to, at least, most of us. On the other hand, the 116600’s 1200m water-resistance is just about right. It is not just an ordinary diver with 300m or 600m water-resistance. It is one solid watch to have and wear every day.
 
HK Snob

Vintage time : Rolex 5513 and why you should buy it over a modern Sub




The Rolex Submariner is perhaps the best-selling and most famous tool watch that has ever been produced. The 5513 is one of the most popular references among the other few. The 5513 was produced between 1962 and 1989. It was one of the best diver in that period as the watch was very simple and easy to maintain. The 5513 is a 200m diver with a lot of dial variations. But, let’s talk about the basics first.
 

 
 



The 5513 is 40mm in diameter and it is a good entry level vintage Rolex. It has a matte dial and no date. It has a domed Plexiglass crystal and tritium markers. Most of the 5513 you can find today have aged markers which are beige in color. A normal 5513 with white dial letters and “feet-first” dial is around 47-50k HKD

 

 



Compared with modern Submariners, the 5513 feels more like a tool watch. It has better curves on the case and there are lug holes. The Maxi dial gives it very good legibility. The fun thing is that you can pair it with different leather straps and watch the watch age. The aluminum bezel insert will fade in color in time to give it a unique look. The dial markers will grow darker in color. It is not cold modern Submariners can compare. You can opt for the gilt dial on which letters on the dial are gold in color if you are willing to pay a premium for the added vintage feeling. The 5513 houses a robust 1530 or 1520 movement which is not COSC certified like that in the 5512. However, as always, Rolex’s workhorses do not fail.

HK Snob

AP watch Owner Wanted, you have got a potential Buyer



Sorry that I lost the original watch owner information for this watch I put ad in March 2016.


Please contact me as there is a Blog read who is interested for your watch.

HK Snob

Saturday, July 2, 2016

The color game of Rolex – tricks or real aesthetics?



Rolex, as we all know, is very good at playing with colors. The 116610lv “Hulk”, the 116710blnr “Batman” and the 116660 Deep Sea D-Blue are among the best-selling Rolex watches with “special” colors.
 



The Deep Sea D-Blue has the most appealing aesthetics as it has a gradient blue-black dial with sharp green “DEEPSEA” letters. At 44mm, it is a way more attractive watch than the Deep Sea black. However, the price of it is also much higher than the Deep Sea black after discounts. You may end up paying 20k more than the Deep Sea black. But, it is always worth it if you want to wear something special.
 

 



In the world of Rolex, colors seem to represent a kind of prestige. For example, the Platona (Platinum Daytona) has ice blue dial while the Yellow gold Submariner has blue dial and bezel.



 
 


Other choices? The Milgauss Z-blue and the Yacht Master blue dial are not bad if you are into the color blue. Colors come with a price in the world of Rolex. Different colors are also a sign of prestige, meaning that you are not the ordinary man with a ordinary watch.

HK Snob

PS
We can supply Ref.116610LV Submariner Hulk at HK$66,500 BNIB
Ref.116660 DeepSea D-blue at HK$92,500 BNIB, Batman GMT Master II HK$65,000
 
 
 



 

HKWF gathering 2 July 2016





 

 
 

Happy Gathering
HK Snob

Thursday, June 30, 2016

Rolex Datejust 36mm and Datejust II 41mm




The Rolex Datejust has always been one of the most iconic watches in the entire Rolex collection. It is a very practical watch. Unlike the Day-date, the Datejust is also available in stainless steel and the prices are way more affordable. The best thing about the Datejust is that it comes with precious metal bezels no matter which material you choose.





The 36mm Datejust has been around for many years. It is a very elegant and discrete watch that shines on any occasion. The fluted bezel is a show stopper while the smooth bezel is more understated. The 116234 offers a wide range of dial options. These options include computer dials, diamond markers, mother of pearl dials and some very well-designed ones such as the tuxedo dials. At 36mm, it is the perfect size for formal attire especially with Jubilee bracelet.
 
 

 
 



The 41mm Datejust II Ref.116334 has received some new members this year with Jubilee bracelet in two tone models. The 41mm Datejust II offers bigger dials and therefore is more eye-catching. The whole watch reflects light sharper than the 36mm version and offers you a good option if you find the Datejust to be too formal. However, the 41mm Datejust II does not offer many dial options. It is a pity as the Datejust II can be more successful with more dial options especially those with diamond markers.






Either the 36mm Datejust or the 41mm Datejust II will be a very good choice for you if you are looking for a dress watch with a reasonable price.
 
HKWF can get less 20% off the list price for you with cash deal.
 
Specify your specification and we do get the watch delivered into your home.*
 
 
HK Snob
 
PS * Hong Kong, Manila, Alabang and Makati only.

 

 

HK Snob's Rolexs' Fantasy

BREXIT, Rolex Price Up, recession and what Shall we do else with the depreciating money?

A UK Friend knows this because he has a banking background. So anyone who has the same experience will or can relate. On a few points. I don't have much gold but like to trade watches for gold coins nowadays rather than money (paper), cuts all the rubbish out.

London Rolex Authorized dealers have already increased it prices on Gold watches 5-8% so in theory we have had price increases throughout this year within 6-9 months. Following on, BOE is yet to raise its rates, the IMF will dry up, eventually. Prime Minister has no obligation to Europe accept its cousins (Royal descendants, aristocrats) typically as business men would say after doing you out of a deal! "Its business"

Now David Cameron has jumped ship! Correct Hilary battle axe will be president and its down hill from there onwards, for those who have stored up so much New pieces, good if you have the capital but only time will tell. "The water bed is drying" which is going to force a harsh decline. I'd rather any 60s-80s YG or WG full gold 14k, 18k watch over a steel any day. At least scrap value has some value to it and if you paid $7k and was to scrap as a worst case scenario you'd gain at least 50% against the weight maybe more to what you paid. But try and do this on today with any of the new watches it will be like trying to resale a diamond stone and we all know you always lose 75% of cost unless it’s flawless, same with exceptional time pieces! However for the average or majority who have thought to invest in newer and over produced pieces, many may be upset with my comment view and they are well within their rights to disagree.

Valuable metals is the global currency always has been has never failed, every countries foundation of economics still believes it to be viable.

Gold will soon increase to $2,000 very soon.

A UK Big Rolex Gold Watch Collector, 28 June 2016

Anyone who has gold 22k 1oz coins in exchange for GOLD WATCHES please contact me and l will notify him!

It is a Chaos when the economic is bad, especially the rich does not want people come to take their food on the plate free… Who knows After Britain, then France, Italy, and Sooner the Big brother Germany will declare to leave EU?

Who will be the finial beneficiary!?

US, yes in the role of world Police, Japan? No, They cannot go back to the tie they were in 80s

Russia and China may tie up into a closer relations to declare brotherhood, China may export more Super Rail, factory sets-up support to countries like Philippines, East European, East Africa, Pakistan, South America.

So at that time another generation of Rich Chinese will have extra money to buy toys…

By 2025 China GDP is same as if no close  to USA, become world No.1  economy System,.

How to spend the money for the Middle Class… buying crazy stuff Like Italian Horse and Bull or luxury watches is a MUST!

As Chinese Rich people like to Show-off…  At that time your Submariner 16610LV Flat 4 may be able to reach HK$200,000. The Submariner NOS Ref.116610LV Hulk will be selling at HK$180,000

A Daytona A series Ref.116520LN will be HK$250,000

The Daytona Ceramic Ref.116500LN will be easily HKD$200,000.

The GMT Master Blue Back will be HK$250,000.

Oh the First generation AP Royal Oak A series will be HKD$500,000 (sorry I sold off last year for cash already)

How about Ref.18039, 18038, 1803, 1807… all goes up X4 times as of the value today…

Time will tell….

By the way, by 2025, Norkor has been unified as one Korea, become one family… One Rich Family.

HK Snob
The above article is purely my personal thoughts about what would happen in 10 years.

 

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

UK Collectors' Day Date









 
 
 
Price of a Rolex depends much on the dial especially on Day Date.
 
Onyx is a kind of gem Rolex used to put it as dial on some of the Flag Ship watch in the 80s.
 

Day Date Onyx, Submariner Onyx carries a price 2X to 2.5X 
than an ordinary dial of the same model.
 
Look at these watches, are they rare?
 
Yes they are, The creamy Explorer II is also adorable,
 
For more information, you can Whatsapp me.
 
HK Snob
 
 

A thin white gold, Patek Phillipe like Ferdinand Marcos'





 

The same watch of Patek Philippe Ref.3528/3 white gold watch that Ferdinand Marcos worn on his 58th Birthday.

This belongs to a collector from Miami, Florida.

Does it look great still after 40 years?  It would be perfect if there is no oxidation stains on the dial.

Refer to my prior post on the real Ferdinand Marcos watch kept by a Collector.

http://watch-fever.blogspot.hk/2013/05/president-marcos-58th-birthday-watch.html

HK Snob

Where to Repair my Watches


 
 

I had my first car 1990 BMW 318iSA, I had encountered a couple of incidents, while  it was running on highway it stopped everything, no engine, no brake, no power steering… it shocked me!

I went to BMW repair they told me, Oh it is the Computer problem, changed it as a whole new module with HKD$30,000 will do… Man, in 1996 HK$30,000 can buy a Daytona Watch!  Finally I went to a garage shop friend told me to… the chap told me…” buy me a coffee and give me two minutes!”… he took out a hand held tool with BMW logo on it and pushed into somewhere on the microprocessor “reset” he told me… DONE!

That problem happened no more that Crazy problem before the car was stolen at Wilson Car park….!

Have you ever been sending watches for servicing in Hong Kong?

These are some of the episode about watch repair in HK:-

Long queue on the line at the Service Centre of XXX, no one comes to talk to you, just wait for your turn… and they close early.

Battery Changes of a XXX Watch HK$850. 
(I changed it myself HK$20)

Inspection of a XXX Watch HK$1,000,  movement Cleaning $8,000  for 3-4 months. If Complicated watch must be done in Switzerland!

XXX Manual Wind Watch overall HK$8,000, take 2 months.

XXX Perpetual Watch Overall HK$40,000, 5 months in Switzerland as they are having Summer holidays.

XXX perpetual Calendar Watch repair HK$50,000  and it takes more than 1 year. The Chinese Customer went into the shop and yelled!  You know the Richer customer is usually the more aggressive one!

Quartz Battery Change, supposed to be Free but they will ask you for changing the O-ring, or the crown as it seems there is water resistance issues, and end up you have to pay HK$4,000 and three weeks.

A Friend of mine send his Quartz yellow gold to service centre for Inspection, check, and part replacement and requesting to add two more links as his wrist is large, Quotation came out asking changes on the Crystal, Crown, Overhaul, and two sections of the bracelet, total Charges is HK$55,000… Amazingly!

I just sent a 1970’s first generation yellow gold watch to XXX Boutique for a cleaning of the movement as it is not running smoothly after 6 years…last week.

They told me that is a watch over 25 years, has to be shipped to Switzerland for the repair and cleaning, basic cleaning cost is HK$8,000 …Oh, since I am the good friend of the shop manager I got less 20% discount! Good Mercy.
Excluding parts, they would like to say the final price could be something that would make me stretch my tongue long to touch my nose!

This is just a few examples of Watch repair experience over the past 5 years!l

For most of the Cases I will send to some HK renowned repair Centres, expert …. As I know them Well, I understand where they are from, and they have the part, patience and Skill. and Most of all, I get my Watch Return with Satisfaction.

The story is totally different…

For Rolex Oyster Quartz Battery Changes, God… HKD$20, workmanship Free!

For the Perpetual Calendar Cleaning HK$7,000 may be in two weeks only.

For the 1970 watch cleaning … man…. HK$2,400 only.

Of course if you had money and patience to wait for 6 to 14 months for waiting your watch repaired… please do so sending to the original factory…

HK Snob
PS
XXX stands for DIFFERENT HI End Watch Brands in HK.