
(Paperback)
Reader Rating:
See Detailed Ratings
April 12, 2003: The book is a beautiful paperback with 288 glossy pages, and hundreds of high resolution images. I own a small jewelry store, where I have been buying and selling pre-owned Rolex watches for over 20 years. During this time, I have acquired dozens of Rolex books (many of which were priced upwards of $100-$200), and I considered myself to be fairly educated on Rolex, both the company and their watches. However, after reading this book, I realized that I was but an amateur compared to Mr. Brozek. His passion for Rolex is very evident when reading this book, and the amount of research involved in this publication is staggering. In this book, Mr. Brozek gives a detailed history of the Rolex company from its inception (nearly 100 years ago), and following it to its current position as one of the most successful privately owned companies in the world today. He also gives a profile of each Rolex model with variations by the year they were introduced, and following their evolution over the years. The book includes a detailed resource for identifying Rolex parts, including bracelets, movements, dials, etc..., as well as Serial Numbers, and Case Reference Numbers. Also included is a very helpful section describing the 'basic operation' of various functions like the Daytona, GMT, and Submariner, as well as a recent Wholesale/Retail Price List, a Glossary of Terminology, and an Index. But, probably the most impressive aspect of this book is the section on counterfeit Rolex watches, with side-by-side macro photos for identifying the most minute of details in these watches. Again, I have been dealing in Rolex watches for quite some time, during which I have identified numerous counterfeit Rolex watches and parts myself, but after reading this book I had to take another look at my inventory, as well as my own personal collection, just to make sure that I didn't miss something. Since first buying this book, I have recommended it to all of my customers, and I have even purchased numerous copies to be given as gifts for all of my employees, and friends. I just can't say enough about this book... whether you're a serious collector, or just considering buying a Rolex in the future, you would be a FOOL for not buying this book.