I've seen some other older, rarer, gold and bejeweled watches with amazing workmanship that are centuries older on roadshow, that don't have near the value of the 1970s Rolex.

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Originally posted by pbslinger:
I've seen some other older, rarer, gold and bejeweled watches with amazing workmanship that are centuries older on roadshow, that don't have near the value of the 1970s Rolex.

Yeah I guess the initial rarity combined with literally never wearing it (still has the sticker inside the band). It’s most likely the nicest one in existence. Kinda weird though because if you buy it you can never wear it either.

you can wear it just like some folks shoot a rare firearm. it's only money - right?

What is amazing about this story is that his whole intent was to buy a good Rolex for SCUBA diving. He ends up with the worst Rolex for SCUBA diving but ultimately wins due to value. A 1974 Rolex Submariner in "new" condition would be worth today max $50,000. But he ends up with a Daytona and bingo, close to a million!

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Originally posted by bald1:
But what really torques me are all the obviously jealous idiots who are impugning the vet's fainting as staged or otherwise phony with their interweb comments.

I don't think he really fainted, but I think his reaction of being knocked off his feet was genuine. It's a great story. He may faint for real if he sells and sees the capital gains tax he'll owe!

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He may faint for real if he sells and sees the capital gains tax he'll owe!

I believe it's 28% on art and collectibles. His heirs could get a step up in basis if he hangs onto it.

I should have bought a Rolex instead of weed when I was in the service at that time. :-/

I bought a Seiko instead.

Bob