A recent article in Robb Report chronicled a reporter's challenging attempt to acquire a new replica Rolex Daytona from an authorized dealer (AD) in New York City. Writer Allan Farmelo faced the disappointment of not even being able to join a waiting list for this highly sought-after watch. One dealer informed him that, should he manage to register, the estimated wait time would be a staggering 15 years. This claim seems exaggerated, even by today's market standards. Farmelo visited four authorized Rolex dealers in Manhattan, only to be met with rejection at every turn. "Three of the salespeople made it clear that there was no chance of obtaining a brand new Daytona, while the fourth cited the oddly specific 15-year wait," he recounted. The retail price for the current Rolex 126500 Daytona stands at $15,100, but the pre-owned market sees these watches listed at $30,000 or more, highlighting a significant markup due to their scarcity. Despite the official retail price, these watches are virtually unavailable, prompting many buyers to research the Rolex Daytona 126500's features and value before considering a purchase. Although Farmelo could not join a waiting list, one dealer mentioned she would "register his interest," a vague promise at best. When asked how many people typically register interest in the Daytona, she estimated between 50 and 100 inquiries daily. "Using the mid-range estimate of 75 inquiries per day, that totals approximately 27,375 individuals expressing interest each year at just one dealer from bestreplica." This frustrating search raised the question of whether replica Rolex intentionally limits access to its new models to boost sales of its certified pre-owned offerings, a segment the brand only ventured into in 2022. As vintage watch expert Eric Wind noted, "Ferrari generates more revenue from certified pre-owned sales than from new cars, so perhaps Rolex views this as a lucrative strategy for its retailers." Given the challenges of purchasing a new clone Rolex Daytona, buyers are often encouraged to consider pre-owned options when they find a desirable piece at a reasonable price - provided it comes with a robust authenticity guarantee. For instance, a stunning 2025 Ref. 126500 is currently listed at $28,995 (cash wire price), free from a 15-year wait, and includes a money-back guarantee. With a variety of current and discontinued models available, conducting a thorough review of the Rolex Daytona lineup is essential before making a pre-owned purchase.