Rolex
Rolex is clearly the best known and
most popular fine watch brand in the world. Rolex has long been known as
a maker of superior watches. They pioneered and invented several major
watch concepts, such as the first "certified chronometer," the first effective
"waterproof" and dustproof watch casing, the first wristwatch with an automatic
changing date, and the techniques used in mass-manufacturing of premium
watches.
It was in the 1980's that their reputation
went from stellar to astronomical. In that time, Rolex prices took a stellar
rise to match their popularity despite only nominal changes to the product.
So are Rolex the best? That depends
entirely on your needs, perceptions, and what you want to get out of owning
a fine watch. Rolex are extremely good watches with immense popularity
and recognizability. Some Rolex models are also highly sought after, such
as Rolex Chronograph Daytona Stainless Steel model. But Rolex may not clearly
the best watch, best investment, or the only fine choice you can make when
purchasing an expensive wristwatch.
Why haven't I heard of these other
fine watches?
Popularity is only one indication
of a superior product. In most cases, the general public knows only certain
brands which were well publicized as the 'best of the best' and may be
totally unaware of other equal or superior products that are available.
If you asked the average person-on-the-street about watches, they would
probably tell you the market starts with Timex and Casio, moves up to Seiko,
then TAG, and reaches its epitome with Rolex.
Yet the most popular or well known
choices frequently are not what the true aficionado would select. Most
people would also be unaware of the true collectors' choices of wines,
cigars, audiophile equipment, sports cars, or writing instruments.
Similarly, watch connoisseurs will
likely tell you that true fine watches include great watch brands such
as Audemars Piguet, A. Lange &
Sohne, Blancpain, Franck Muller, IWC, Jaeger-Le
Coultre, Patek Phillipe, and Vacheron Constanstin.
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