re: Whose got a Rolex?

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1. Would you consider the stainless submariner to be a good choice if I do end up only having one watch (I've read several reviews and it seems the only negative is I wouldn't be the only one in the room with one on) - I have tried one on before it was shipped out of an AD and really liked everything about it

2. Would you suggest I purchase this new from an AD (like Adlers) since I could trust its authenticity and it appears the price is similar to the used market (as best I can tell)

3. Is there any reason why I shouldn't get a new model Submariner as opposed to an older model (in terms of quality, etc; I know the newer oils, as you've mentioned, allow for a 10 yr service interval which seems very appealing. I just didn't know if there's a specific benefit with purchasing a specific older model sub)

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1. The Sub is popular for a reason. Even with watch enthusiasts, it is a watch like the Omega Speedmaster Professional that most will own during their journey if they have the means and willing to spend it. Given your occupation (from the email) like me as an attorney, you will run into colleagues both professionally and socially that are wearing a Sub but I wouldn't let that deter you. You likely drive a car that you see regularly as well. I do have a different solution which I will offer at the end.

2. If an AD (authorized dealer) has a Sub and it isn't spoken for grab it. While a black Sub is not as hard to get as a green one (Hulk) or a GMT or a Daytona it is very rare to walk in and be able to buy one. Normally you have to go on the waitlist to get one. With Rolex shut down I wouldn't be surprised if the wait is over a year now at most ADs. Rolex supply and demand for stainless steel watches is a much-discussed often frustrating part of getting a modern Rolex.

3. Old vs new is mainly a matter of taste. Some people prefer the older 5 and 6 digit Subs. (Over time Rolex has moved from four-digit reference numbers for models to 5 and current Rolexes have 6 digits). The modern subs (6 digit) are built better, particularly the bracelets and are finished better as well. If you like the look and wrist feel of a 6 digit sub there is no reason not to buy one. As mentioned some people like the proportions and makeup of the case and dial better on older Subs. I didn't search but I am sure there are toned of YT videos that show the hands-on differences.

Now here is my slightly different recommendation to consider. If you like the proportions of the modern Sub and have at least an average-sized wrist you might look at a Sea-Dweller instead but not the most current one but the 116600 known as the SD4K. It has the same 40mm size but is a little thicker. The Sea-Dweller is the step up from the Sub in terms of water resistance and when it was first released over 50 years ago it was primarily used by professional divers. The SD4k does not have the date magnifier (cyclops) and it is just different enough to set you apart from all the Sub wearers. I think it is the best version of the Rolex 6 digit divers. While it still costs more used than a new Sub it was made for a short time, in Rolex terms. If I had to bet I would say it will appreciate faster than any of the other 6 digit divers. If you consider that approach an excellent source for them is DavidSW.com he is in Tampa and has been selling Rolex and other watches for years and has a stellar reputation, though he may charge a few bucks more than less established brokers. BTW the 116600 was replaced in 2017 with the 12660 Sea-Dweller for the 50th anniversary of the model line. It is bigger with a 43mm case, has a cyclops (the first for a Sea-Dweller), has a red line of text on the dial (a nod to history) and the newer 3235 movement. None of which make it a more appealing watch to me, well maybe the red line...

There are other divers that have serious history and quality as well if you want to be the only one in the room with a specific watch. I am a huge fan of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms ref 5015. It is a larger watch but has short lugs so it doesn't wear huge at all.

Good luck with your quest.

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I don't understand the appeal of high dollar jewelry watches.

Wearing them to a business meeting with me gives me a bad first impression that I try to get past. Wearers of flashy watches mean "grab your wallet" and "watch out" in business deals with the person wearing one in my old, backwoods mind.

Same for gold chains.

To each his own.

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I certainly understand this opinion and I am sure some or even many people share it. The reality is few people actually notice whats on someones wrist, especially today when fewer people than ever actually wear a watch. Everyone has social markers they associate with different types of people, some good some bad.

Some people wear the watch and some people let the watch wear them.

I flipped my BLNR (bad choice) and BLRO, I dont want to even look at the grey prices now.

I wish the BLRO would get the oyster glide lock, and return to the ADs.

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I wish the BLRO would get the oyster glide lock, and return to the ADs.

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You edited just before I replied, I was going to say go back to or at least be available on an Oyster bracelet. I have a Mark 1 Batman (BLNR) on Oyster and I much prefer it to the Mk2 on the Jubilee despite the new movement. I think they should have put the white gold Pepsi on Jubilee, I think it fits the ethos better.

The jubilee looked amazing under good light or sunshine, but one of the trusted sellers in houston made me an offer I couldnt refuse.

Some time after, I saw a couple stainless diver models at the Panama city airport. Haven't seen a gmt again.

Thank you for your detailed and thoughtful reply.

I am currently on the waiting list at Adlers and Aucoin Hart but it sounds like I’ll have quite a wait.

I appreciate your recommendation of the SD4K. I’ll have to look into that one. I didn’t mean to say I want a watch no one else has, just that the only negative thing anyone seems to say is that it’s so popular. At least I have plenty to research while I wait for the next year.

Thanks again!

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All of those are cool and well-loved watches. Since you are a pilot and like GMT history you should really look into picking up a Glycine Airman, they have a great rich history in GMT area and can be picked up new for less than the price of a Steinhart.

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Great minds thinking alike!! ;-)

Yep. It has the date and mag window.

Ooookkkk

I actually wear my Marathon JSAR auto much more.