Why Buy A Rolex?

I first became aware of the Rolex Professional range some 20 years ago and always said one day I will buy one.
If like me you were brought up to value money then the thought of spending £2,500 on a wristwatch is plain crazy!
HOWEVER there comes a point when after 20 years of hard work you stop and think, WHY NOT.
What I wanted in the watch was something that offered a timeless quality without being "in your face " and be able to put up with everyday life.
So I opted for the Rolex Explorer II with the white face as not only does it look good when I wear it to the office every day but also suits a more casual appearance than say a gold Rolex.
To date after almost a year of ownership the watch gains about 1 second a day, which I find acceptable as this is a mechanical instrument. People forget that these are hand made and I think that this was one of the attractions for buying the piece as it is not mass manufactured.
Made from stainless steel it has picked up a couple of light scratches on the case, which I would expect from any watch worn daily, so not a grumble.
I have used the 24 hour hand when travelling abroad so this feature if you travel regularly is an essential.
Another nice feature is the fact that not everyone recognises this timepiece as a Rolex, so it avoids all the "Oh He Owns A ROLEX " comments. May also stop you getting mugged for your watch. Should be called the Stealth Status Symbol.
Is it an appreciating asset? I don't know as I doubt I would ever sell it, but it is comforting to know that at least over time it will still be worth something, unlike say many expensive "Designer " watches that merely sport the latest name, and you will discard when the battery fails. How many watches are lying at the bottoms of drawers. A sad indication of our throw away society.
It looks as good as the day I purchased it. The actual buying experience was quite fantastic. The certificate and presentation box are a credit to Rolex, the staff in the jewellers were nothing but helpful.
I dislike nothing about the watch and my only regret is I should have bought one sooner.
Frasert