So, I was just browsing around and stumbled upon Bob’s Watches, and they’re throwing around terms like “certified pre-owned” and “save up to 50%.” Sounds good, right? I mean, who doesn’t love a deal? But then you gotta think, what’s the catch? Are we talking watches that’ve been swimming in the Mariana Trench and back? Probably not, but gotta be a bit skeptical, you know?
They’re pushing two models, mainly: the 116610 and the 5512. The 116610 is that classic, modern-ish Sub, the one everyone kinda pictures when you say “Rolex Submariner.” The 5512, though? That’s a different beast. That’s vintage cool, like something James Bond would wear if he wasn’t always getting a new watch from Q branch. Seriously, though, the 5512’s got a real charm to it. Maybe it’s the history, maybe it’s the slightly faded bezel (if you’re lucky enough to find one like that), but it’s definitely got a certain *je ne sais quoi*.
Now, Bob’s Watches gives them these “sku” numbers, like 171420 for the 116610 and 154152 for the 5512. Honestly? Don’t care. Numbers are boring. I care about what’s on my wrist, not some warehouse inventory system. And the fact that both are described as “Black watch” feels, I dunno, a little redundant? It’s a Submariner, it’s black, we get it.
But back to the whole “used” thing. Buying used anything can be a bit of a gamble. You gotta do your research, make sure the seller is reputable (Bob’s Watches seems pretty legit, but still, always double-check!), and, most importantly, make sure the watch hasn’t been Frankensteined together with random parts. That’s a big no-no. You want authenticity, baby!
And yeah, saving 50% sounds amazing, but that also probably means it’s not going to be in pristine, mint condition. Expect some scratches, maybe a little wear and tear. But honestly, that’s part of the charm, right? It tells a story. It’s lived a little. A brand new watch is just…well, brand new. Kinda boring, if you ask me.
