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The passion for fine watchmaking is accompanied by a specific vocabulary, and the term “full set” is one of the most coveted by collectors and lovers of luxury watches. For an iconic brand like Rolex, own a full set indicates that the watch is not only a precise and elegant mechanism, but that it also comes with all its accessories and original documentsThis completeness is a guarantee of its authenticity and its history, crucial elements which can considerably add to the value of the watch. A full set typically contains the original boxTHE authenticity papersTHE instruction manualthere official guaranteeand may even include original accessories such as an additional bracelet or adjustment tools. Each item, from chronometry certificate At serial numberenhances the value of these precious timepieces. In this article, we will explore what exactly it means “full set” for a Rolex watch and the value it adds to your potential purchase.
The concept of “full set”: what elements are included?
The acquisition of a Rolex accompanied by its “full set” is the dream of many precision watchmaking enthusiasts. But what exactly do we mean by full set at Rolex? This is a complete set that certifies that the watch is sold with all of its original equipment and documents. In addition to the watch itself, this accompaniment kit therefore typically includes the box in which it was presented for concession, the over-boxoften made of cardboard, into which the original box can be inserted, the green rolex pouch intended for storing documentation, the authenticity papers proving the origin of the watch, a guarantee Or official chronometer certificateas well as a instructions for use.
This completeness contributes significantly to theincrease in value of the timepiece, both in terms of collection and investment. For the buyer, this guarantees authenticity and preserves the historical character of the watch jewel, while for the seller, it represents an undeniable asset to justify an often higher price.
How does the content of a “full set” vary depending on the year of the watch?
Over time, the contents of a full set Rolex has undergone marked evolutions. Depending on the year of manufacture of the timepiece, collectors can expect to discover different elements. These have evolved according to the production period and the practices of the brand. For example, watches produced after 2006 are often accompanied by a laminated warranty cardtaking the place of the traditional punched warranty sheet. The Z series may include red chronometer tags and small plates with a barcode label.
Now let’s introduce a Overview of the evolution of the Rolex full set through a table reflecting the eras:
| Period | Items included in the “full set” |
|---|---|
| 80 years | Box, Papers, Calendar, Paper warranty card |
| 90s | Box, Papers, Bezel protection, Rolex anchor, Warranty, Instructions |
| 2000s | Box, Papers, Plastic Warranty Card, Stopwatch Tags |
| After 2006 | Box, Laminated warranty, User manual, Warranty card with barcode |
This table illustrates well the importance of a precise knowledge of the periods and the corresponding elements when one is interested in purchasing a Rolex. full set.
Why aren’t all Rolex “full sets” equal?
It is essential to note that all full sets Rolex do not have the same value. This difference can be attributed to several factors, including their completeness and their conservation state. A perfectly preserved full set, with all its components intact and authentic, is much more highly valued than an incomplete or worn set. In addition, some accessories are more important than others. For example, the presence or absence of a official guarantee can significantly influence the resale value of a watch.
How to verify the authenticity of a Rolex “full set”?
Verifying the authenticity of a full set Rolex requires vigilance and knowledge. It is crucial to scrutinize carefully every element of the set, from the quality of the original box to the details of the authenticity papers. Check that the serial numbers Matching the watch and the documentation is an essential first step. Enthusiasts can also search for the specific signs of natural aging on documentation and accessories, which may sometimes betray artificial reproductions.
We must remain alert to the fake “full sets” present on the market. These sets may include non-original elements that convincingly imitate the official components of a Rolex full set. The help of watch experts and the use of services of renowned certifications are therefore strongly recommended to ensure the authenticity of each piece in the set.
Is it essential to get a “full set” when buying a pre-owned Rolex?
Buying a Used Rolex with a complete full set is often preferred by buyers because it meets a desire for complete possession, increases traceability and the value of the part. However, this requirement can also have some disadvantages. On the one hand, insisting on a full set can reduce the number of available options and potentially increase the purchase cost. On the other hand, it must be considered that certain rare or particularly well-preserved examples of a Rolex watch may present a significant intrinsic valueeven without a full set.
Sometimes the watch itself, thanks to its “unpolished” condition, its particular dial or its specific history, surpasses in value all the accessories. Indeed, a rare or coveted model can offer a greater added value than simply possessing its original accessories.
Alternatives to the “full set”: what to do if elements are missing?
When faced with a pre-owned Rolex without a full set, the buyer has several options. First, it is possible topurchase separately Missing items such as the box, papers or accessories. Specialized dealers sometimes offer these original parts. However, care must be taken to ensure that these items are authentic and correspond to the period of the watch.
- Request the expertise of a certified watchmaker to estimate the value of the watch in the absence of the full set.
- Consult the Rolex archives or auction houses to obtain documents that could complete the full set.
- Make sure of theauthenticity of additional parts to avoid negatively affecting the value of the watch.
An informed collector will thus be able to reconstruct a set which, if not originally complete, can nevertheless bring value upon its acquisition.
“Full set” and investment: what is the influence on the second-hand market?
In the world of fine watchmaking, the term “full set” is of particular importance to investors and collectors. Rolex watches, renowned for their excellence and durability, are seeing their market value significantly influenced by the presence of a full set. A complete, authentic, and good condition “full set” can significantly increase the price of a watch on the second-hand market.
The interest in watches with full sets is evident in auctions and private sales, where they sometimes reach sums significantly higher than those of equivalent watches but without full sets. This trend shows that buyers see them as a safer and more profitable potential investmentthus conferring a significant bonus to watches offered with a complete set of accessories and original documents.
The valuation of full sets, however, fluctuates depending on the market trends and some rarity of the models concerned. The originTHE exact model and theyear of production of a Rolex watch are all factors influencing the rating of a full set on the secondary market.
How does the “full set” affect the choice of a vintage Rolex?
When it comes to acquiring a vintage Rolex, the full set can become a deciding factor. Like a work of art, a vintage watch with all its original documents and accessories tells a story, that of its provenance and its journey through time. It is this story that seduces collectors and can give a significant added value to the watch.
- Check the correspondence between the serial number of the watch and the full set documents.
- Check the condition of the elements of the full set, a worn set can reduce the value of the watch.
- Ensure the authenticity of all components, reproductions can alter the value of the watch and its credibility as a collector’s item.
- Please note that vintage watches without a full set can still be a good investment, depending on their condition and rarity.
- Consider the advice of experts and professionals to assess the importance of the full set in relation to the vintage watch you are considering purchasing.
It is essential for the buyer to remember that each watch has its own story, and that a full set, although adding to the value of the item, is only part of the overall equation that defines the charm and interest of a vintage Rolex.
