Watch We Bought This Week: A Rolex CPO Datejust from Alexandria
One of the most common questions we hear is what actually happens when someone decides to sell a luxury watch. While every transaction is a little different, the process is always the same. Here’s an example of a watch we purchased recently and how it worked from start to finish.
How the Seller Reached Out
A couple of weeks ago, a customer from Alexandria reached out about selling his Rolex Datejust 116234.
He mentioned something that immediately stood out — the watch had been purchased through the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. That tells you a lot before you ever see the watch. It usually means the owner cared about provenance, condition, and buying the right way.
So before saying anything else, we did our homework.
The Initial Estimate
We reviewed current market activity for the 116234, factored in the CPO background, and called him back with an estimate. Nothing dramatic. Just an honest number and a simple explanation of how we got there.
There was no pressure to sell.
We told him to take his time. Sit with it. Compare options if he wanted. Selling a watch — especially one tied to a specific moment — isn’t something that needs to be rushed.
Inspection and Verification
Two weeks later, he scheduled an appointment.
When he came in, we went through our usual inspection process: case, bracelet, dial, movement, serials — everything you’d expect. The watch checked out exactly as anticipated, which isn’t surprising when a piece has been well cared for.
The Final Offer
In the end, we purchased the watch very close to the estimate we originally gave him, and we submitted payment the same day.
No last-minute changes.
No renegotiation games.
No surprises.
That’s how it should be.
Moments like this are a good reminder that trust isn’t built at the table — it’s built before someone ever walks through the door. When the process is clear from the beginning, the outcome usually takes care of itself.
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