Rolex Models Hard to Get - Rolex Submariner in Steel
Why the steel Submariner is so hard to find at retail, and what that scarcity means if you're buying on the secondary market instead.
2 min read
If you have recently been trying to buy a stainless steel Rolex Submariner, you have very lucky discovered it is nearly impossible to obtain one from an authorized Rolex dealer. Perhaps you’re already on a waitlist, if you’re lucky enough to have a very good relationship with the dealer. If you are on a waitlist, congratulations, although you may not be happy that the wait can last more than two years!
The Rolex Submariner is likely the most popular stainless steel professional “tool” watch Rolex produces. Not only does it have a remarkable history filled with the kind of iconic celebrities, adventures, and historical events, but it is also one of the designs that defines Rolex in the first place. The reality is, when somebody thinks about Rolex, the watch that likely comes to mind is the Submariner. Even if the person doesn’t actually know what the model is called, the Submariner is probably the timepiece they see in their mind.
The design is particularly impressive. It has the qualities of a sport watch, a tool watch designed for specific purposes, but it also fits perfectly well with a three-piece suit. Few watches can slip between casual and formal so effectively. In fact, few items of jewelry, clothing or anything else can do the job the Submariner does in that regard. It’s stylish as well as versatile, and that’s a winning combination.
This Submariner is not only a well-designed and well-manufactured watch but it is also a well-supplied watch compared to other Rolex models. Authorized Rolex dealers often receive more than thirty of these in a year. That’s far more than other hard to purchase timepieces from Rolex. Nonetheless, the stainless steel Rolex is nearly impossible to obtain. That shows how much demand there is for this watch. People want it. Dealers can’t keep up with the demand. People wait.
Many buy new stainless steel Submariners on the secondary market, buying from pre-owned Rolex sellers for premiums well above the retail price. For the average buyer, that’s the only way to get one and certainly the only way to get one without a very long wait. If you decide to go that route, be sure to pick a reputable pre-owned Rolex seller so you know you’ll be protected.
