Buy a genuine Rolex Submariner or other Sports Model

Rolex watches are highly sought after, and the right one can represent a great investment, or a treasured posession that will last a lifetime.The Rolex "Sports Model" watches, such as the Submariner, GMT, Explorer and Yacht Master watches can be particularly hard to find in shops. The waiting list for a brand new Submariner from an authorised high-street retailer can be as much as a couple of years. For this reason, eBay represents a great way of gaining access to these rare and much sought after timepieces, but while there are many genuine sellers of genuine Rolex watches on eBay, I have seen a number of cases where people are trying to pass off replica watches as the real deal. And for this reason, you should take extra care. Follow these simple steps and you won't go far wrong.1. The majority of sellers offering genuine Rolex watches are in fact high street shops. Where possible, try and find a seller with a shop near you, then visit and buy the watch in person to be sure of what you are getting for your money. Be prepared to drive pretty far. Afterall, if you're paying 2000 its worth being safe, right? Or if you can't drive to a shop, or the watch you want is in a shop at the other end of the country, use the Yellow Pages or similar to check the shop exists, then buy on eBay and request a proper sales receipt with the watch (which they should supply as a matter of course anyway). Then be prepared to take the watch to a proper high-street authorised Rolex retailer and pay around 20-30 for a valuation if you really want to be sure.2. If you really want to buy from a private seller, don't be sucked in by something that seems too cheap. If it looks too good to be true, the chances are it probably is! Ask the seller for the serial number of the watch (which should be on the paper work) and as much history about the watch as possible (where was it bought etc) then go to a Rolex dealer and ask them to verify this.3. Consider meeting the seller (if location permits) to visit a high-street dealer together to get a valuation done. Come to an agreement with the seller regarding who will pay, although 20 is worth spending for your peace of mind.4. Check that pictures shown in auctions are of the actual watch and accessories. But keep in mind that many replicas are now incredible convincing - particularly when seen on screen. A nice wooden box and a certificate/guarantee do not mean the watch is genuine, and most fakes come with these. Don't be afraid to to ask for evidence of sales receipts with corresponding serial numbers. If a seller really wants to earn himself 2000 he is likely to be very co-operative. If someone seems pretty reluctant to provide details of a watch ask yourself if he has something to hide.5. Don't be put off!! There is no reason to be put-off buying a Rolex watch on eBay. I have done it and still have my Submariner 5 years later - and I am delighted with it. eBay is a fantastic way to get your hands on these rare and timeless watches, and if you follow these steps there is no reason to take any kind of risk. If at all unsure, why not drop me a line - I would be happy to advise you.