Royal Oak.
Love these Royal Oaks!

A couple of questions for the initiated
Hey guys, please advise on the following:1) While browsing Paneristi, I noticed they mention that the screws which attach the strap to the watch run inside metal tubes, which in turn are inside the edge of the strap? If this is so, when ordering a custom strap from one of the many makers, is it necessary to purchase a set of these metal tubes to go into the strap?2) Does Panerai keep track of watch production dates using different patterns of serial numbers, like Rolex used to do with the letters, before random serials came along? In other words, if I wanted to make sure that the watch I'm purchasing is of the newest available series, should I look for a specific serial number series?Thanks!

Grey market - how to curtail?
So we all have views on the Grey market. To me it just sells the product at market value and should/will always exist.What bothers me is that Rolex is not doing enough to curtail it.I am aware of how the grey dealers may obtain these watches. I doubt many of their watches come direct from the Ads (buy 5 of my hard to shift models and have a Daytona) - That would be too easy even for Rolex to discover and shut the offending Ads supply down. Many of these watches will come from individuals that have their name down for select models at numerous Ads.So how do you think Rolex should address this issue? A few suggestions:1.Make the warranty non transferrable so it's only valid with the initial purchaser (Rolex would make more money, or could possibly extend the warranty to say 10 years for the initial purchaser)2.A central data base of names on waiting lists at all Ads �C anybody with their name on more than one list for the same watch gets removed from all lists.3.Deposit payable on enter

Bon voyage....outgoing.
We see lots of individual Rolex incoming threads here on TRF, has anyone started a Rolex owners group outgoing thread? Share your thoughts on the watch, why you are saying farewell and generally any insights you might think that could help others in their watch selling or purchasing decisions. All in one ongoing thread for quick simple reference. If not let's start one here.

SD43 (SD50) what if...
I am sure I will get crucified for this but here goes... I keep hearing rumors the Red Sea dweller font is one year only. Now, I am 99.999% sure that is NOT going to happen. BUT, what if? What would the piece be worth in your option if the red font is a one year only run? Asking just for fun, zero interest in selling and again I am sure it won't happen but fun to discuss!Yeti