The Journal

Notes from the bench.

Stories on diamonds and design, buying guides for pre-owned Rolex, and the small lessons that come from three generations behind the same counter.

Do You Have to Buy a Rolex from an Authorized Rolex Dealer?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Do You Have to Buy a Rolex from an Authorized Rolex Dealer?
Why waitlists have made the secondary market a smart, safe option for buying the Rolex you actually want, right now.
April 2022
What Is the Rolex Oyster Bracelet?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
What Is the Rolex Oyster Bracelet?
A close look at Rolex's signature Oyster Bracelet — its design, its jeweled variations, and why it remains the brand's most recognizable band.
April 2022
What Is a Swiss Only Dial?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
What Is a Swiss Only Dial?
The story behind the rare one-year Rolex dial marking, why collectors debate its value, and what to know before buying one pre-owned.
April 2022
What Is the Difference Between a Rolex Submariner and a Rolex Sea Dweller?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
What Is the Difference Between a Rolex Submariner and a Rolex Sea Dweller?
Depth ratings, design details, and wait times compared, so you can decide which iconic Rolex diver actually fits your wrist and lifestyle.
April 2022
What Is the Difference Between a Rolex Datejust and a Rolex Day Date?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
What Is the Difference Between a Rolex Datejust and a Rolex Day Date?
A side-by-side look at Rolex's two iconic dress watches, covering materials, history, and why one earned the nickname "President."
April 2022
What Are Some Advantages of Buying a Rolex on the Grey Market?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
What Are Some Advantages of Buying a Rolex on the Grey Market?
Why skipping the years-long waitlist and shopping the secondary market might get you the exact Rolex you want, often for less.
April 2022
Two Reasons to Buy on the Rolex Grey Market
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Two Reasons to Buy on the Rolex Grey Market
Why skipping the waitlist and shopping the pre-owned market might be the smartest way to finally get the Rolex you actually want.
April 2022
Are Grey Market Dealers Causing the Rolex Shortage?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Are Grey Market Dealers Causing the Rolex Shortage?
Why the real Rolex shortage comes down to simple supply and demand, not grey market sellers driving up prices.
April 2022
What Is the Rolex Grey Market?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
What Is the Rolex Grey Market?
A clear-eyed look at what the Rolex grey market actually is, why it exists, and how to buy from it safely and confidently.
April 2022
Should I Buy a Rolex Milgauss?
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Should I Buy a Rolex Milgauss?
A look at the Milgauss's magnetic-resistant origins, its scarcity today, and what to know before chasing one on the secondary market.
April 2022
Two Reasons to Buy Rolex GMT Master
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Two Reasons to Buy Rolex GMT Master
The story behind the GMT Master's aviation roots and the two-tone bezel design that still makes it one of Rolex's most iconic watches.
April 2022
Two Great Reasons to Buy a Rolex Explorer II
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Two Great Reasons to Buy a Rolex Explorer II
Why the Explorer II earns its place among serious tool watches, from crown-guard durability to its quietly commanding good looks.
April 2022
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