Discover Rolex at Prestons Guildford with Sales Consultant James Edwards-Longhurst

Tell Us About Your Relocated Showroom In Guildford?

The team and I have recently relocated to a new showroom, which remains on Guildford High Street but is only a mere stone’s throw from our previous store. The showroom features an extended space dedicated to Rolex allowing each client to explore the comprehensive selection of timepieces in a space that truly reflects the brand. The centrepiece of the store continues to be its unique spiral staircase. The spiral features an American walnut trunk supporting individually etched green glass leaves which act as stair treads. As you approach the first floor, dedicated to Rolex, the staircase is surrounded by a glass canopy decorated with iridescent insects which reflect and sparkle in sunlight and have been mirrored throughout the Edwardian styling of the new environment.

How long have you worked at Prestons?

I feel incredibly lucky to have worked with Rolex at Prestons for just over six years at our showroom in Guildford. I thoroughly enjoy my role at Prestons as no two days are the same, being a Rolex Official Retailer is exciting, and it makes a great work environment. I am delighted that my career has taken this path as I have always had a passion for luxury timepieces and Rolex is the ultimate watch in my opinion. One of the most enjoyable elements of my role is presenting a watch to a client. A Rolex watch is often used to commemorate a special occasion, perhaps a birthday or an anniversary, it is wonderful to help create these memories and be a part of such a special event.

What Advice Would You Give To A Client Starting Their Journey with Rolex?

The first thing I would advise is to visit us at the showroom. The best way to truly appreciate a Rolex watch is to visit an Official Rolex Retailer, such as ourselves. Each member of our team has undergone extensive training in-house and with Rolex, to allow us to pass our expertise and knowledge on to our clients. In my opinion, there is no better way to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the brand than within a showroom, it is such an experience.

In Your Opinion, Which Rolex Watch Is Most Interesting? 

The Rolex Air-King is probably the most interesting watch within the Rolex collection for me. The history of the watch, dating back to the 1950s, and its evolution over the years fascinates me. The Air-King is just one example of the brand’s privileged ties with the world of aviation. I love the sleek case design, which was redesigned to a 40mm case this year, accompanied by the classic Oyster bracelet and the distinctive black dial with the large 3, 6 and 9 numerals marking the hours. In my opinion it is an iconic watch, classic and above all, timeless.

If You Wish To Buy A Rolex As A Gift, What Advice Would You Give?

This would all depend on the individual you are buying for, a parent, sibling or a significant other will all have different requirements. It is important to consider if there is a material that they prefer or a bracelet and dial combination that they will love. I always suggest considering if there is a particular function of a watch that they require, such as the date, or perhaps even the day as well. Each of these elements will help us to select the perfect watch for a loved one. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to guide our clients and friends with this process. Our new showroom allows us the space to create surprises and celebrate occasions that reflect how special the moment and their chosen watch is.