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.
AllRolex San DiegoSan Diego Engagement RingsSan Diego Jewelry BuyerTiffany & Co. TutorialSan Diego Wedding RingsTypes and Brands of Jewelery
San Diego Engagement Rings · 1 min read
Some Thoughts about Carat Weight
Why a diamond just under a carat can look nearly identical to a full carat stone while costing considerably less.
April 2022
San Diego Engagement Rings · 2 min read
What's Important About a Diamond Cut
Why cut matters more than clarity or color, and how it shapes a diamond's brightness, sparkle and fire.
April 2022
San Diego Engagement Rings · 2 min read
Deciding on Your Semi Mount Engagement Ring's Metal
How platinum, yellow gold, white gold and rose gold each change the way your diamond looks — and which pairs best with your stone.
April 2022
San Diego Engagement Rings · 2 min read
How to Choose a Diamond
A friendly walkthrough of shape, quality and budget to help you pick a diamond that fits your ring and your wallet.
April 2022
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Is It Safe to Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Online?
Practical safeguards for vetting sellers, verifying authenticity, and paying securely before buying a pre-owned Rolex online.
April 2022
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Two Rolex Models You Can Wear in Any Situation
Why the GMT-Master II and Submariner earn their reputation as the most versatile Rolex watches for work, weekends and everything formal in between.
April 2022
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
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
Rolex San Diego · 3 min read
What Is a Swiss Only Dial?
Rolex printed SWISS instead of SWISS MADE for barely a year, from 1998 to 1999. Here's what caused it, how to spot one, and whether it's worth paying extra for.
April 2022
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
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
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
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A few good notes a month.
New arrivals in the watch case, buying guides, and the occasional story from the counter. No noise — just things worth knowing.
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