Offshore - Diver or Chronograph?

[isgrb]

I know the Offshore is the ‘entry-level’ AP but I’m actually quite fond of them.

That said, I can’t make up my mind between the latest gen diver (15720) or chronograph (26420), this would be my first AP.

Ignoring color-ways and steel vs. TI etc., which model do you prefer and why?

[ikincooper]

I think both options are great and I certainly love my diver.

The above said, using the timing bezel on it is a PITA so if you’re planning to use this function, I’d suggest the chronograph. The other plus for the chronographs are that the vast majority have ceramic bezels which will not show love marks the same as the steel divers.

All threads need photos, so here one to get things going and to help you decide which reference you prefer most.



All the best, Niki


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[Octagon Guy]

Originally Posted by isgrb

I know the Offshore is the ‘entry-level’ AP but I’m actually quite fond of them.

That said, I can’t make up my mind between the latest gen diver (15720) or chronograph (26420), this would be my first AP.

Ignoring color-ways and steel vs. TI etc., which model do you prefer and why?

The real entry level, in terms of watchmaking, are actually the ROs. Back to your question. Most will buy a chronograph as their 1st AP (probably looks better aesthetically) but personal choice is the Diver. It looks sporty but at the same time, easy to read the time like a RO.

[Potawatomi]

I had and sold the diver. I really regret selling that thing.

[ts3]

I'd get a preowned ceramic diver 15707CE and I'll never own a watch with a 4:30 date.

[APhound]

I have both and prefer the 43. Can’t explain it, I just love it.
There’s nothing wrong with the diver.


Maybe consider the 43 without the chrono. I saw one and it’s really sweet. Might be the right compromise if you’re torn.

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[messikens]

Chrono by a mile but potentially biased since I have one.

New 43mm wears like a charm. Chrono function is actually useful (at least more so than a diver).

No awkward dial crown like the diver that sticks out like a sore thumb.

IMO also better / more interesting dial layout and colors (esp the taupe version)

[messikens]

Originally Posted by messikens

Chrono by a mile but potentially biased since I have one.

New 43mm wears like a charm. Chrono function is actually useful (at least more so than a diver).

No awkward dial crown like the diver that sticks out like a sore thumb.

IMO also better / more interesting dial layout and colors (esp the taupe version)

Last comment I'd make in favor of the ROO Chronos : plenty of them either have Ceramic bezels or rubber bezel (for non-chrono) which gives me a bit more piece of mind

[gretch6364]

If buying today...I would also say the 43mm. If AP redesigned the diver...they could have a big hit on their hands. IMHO...they just need to:

1. sink the case back like the 43 and curve the bezel/crystal like the 43
2. shave 2mm of thickness off
3. redesign the hour hand
4. release more with ceramic bezels

[Vince_76]

Originally Posted by gretch6364

If buying today...I would also say the 43mm. If AP redesigned the diver...they could have a big hit on their hands. IMHO...they just need to:

1. sink the case back like the 43 and curve the bezel/crystal like the 43
2. shave 2mm of thickness off
3. redesign the hour hand
4. release more with ceramic bezels

I’d be in for this. Also the 10 o’clock crown bothers me.

@OP - I’d vote for the chrono - a bit more interesting and aesthetically pleasing IMO. But I do quite like the khaki green diver.

[isgrb]

Excellent feedback so far, thanks all.

I must admit the biggest drawback to the diver (in my eyes) is the crown at 10 o’clock. I don’t mind the steel bezel and I like the fact that it’s more robust than the chrono but that is definitely the biggest drawback for me.

The chronograph dial is busier for sure but looks a bit more refined. Of course it’s bigger than the diver too but I’m attracted to the curvature of the crystal and bezel.

[ikincooper]

Just to add, strangely I visually like the 10 o clock crown on the diver as it’s fairly unique. It’s just totally impractical to use when on the wrist! Having a ceramic bezel on the diver would be


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[Vivalas]

Always preferred the chrono’s myself.

[Lkdub24]

Originally Posted by Vivalas

Always preferred the chrono’s myself.

+1 for this ROO

The new offshores with the taper wear nicely even on smaller wrists like mine. The ceramic bezel is another plus.

[gretch6364]

I am not sure the dual crown on any of the internal bezel watches are practical to actually use. It is sort of the ROO Diver’s calling card and doubt we will ever see that change. IMHO

[Andy0331]

Originally Posted by isgrb

I know the Offshore is the ‘entry-level’ AP but I’m actually quite fond of them.

As noted in another post; they really aren't, beyond the current level of popularity. Pre-"watch hype" period of 2020, the ROO's were generally in higher demand and the RO's were cheaper in the secondary market.

I'm sure the pendulum will swing back again at some point, in the meantime, buy what feels best to you.

[Gandor]

Everyone's talking about how hard the crown is to operate on the ROO diver, but I really haven't had that issue. The case is thick enough that you can operate the crown while the watch is on the wrist very easily which covers all my above water timing needs. Below water you would set the timer before you go under anyways. If you're doing something that requires multiple adjustments underwater you're going to be wearing a dive computer.

[ikincooper]

Originally Posted by Gandor

Everyone's talking about how hard the crown is to operate on the ROO diver, but I really haven't had that issue. The case is thick enough that you can operate the crown while the watch is on the wrist very easily which covers all my above water timing needs. Below water you would set the timer before you go under anyways. If you're doing something that requires multiple adjustments underwater you're going to be wearing a dive computer.

My comments about the dive crown being hard to operate are in comparison to either a chronograph or a typical manually rotatable dive bezel. Don’t get me wrong, I love me 15720ST (grey, same as yours according to your signature ).

OP, would not be fair to say that you’re leaning towards the chrono now?

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[hussain]

I have both and I can say the 43mm is much nicer and wears better, ceramic bezel is also an advantage.

[isgrb]

Originally Posted by ikincooper

My comments about the dive crown being hard to operate are in comparison to either a chronograph or a typical manually rotatable dive bezel. Don’t get me wrong, I love me 15720ST (grey, same as yours according to your signature ).

OP, would not be fair to say that you’re leaning towards the chrono now?

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That would be fair to say, yes. This discussion has been extremely helpful for sure

[In-N-Out]

Love my Diver! Was my daily for over 1 year even after I got my first RO. Haven’t worn it lately but will soon. Perfect travel watch imo since it doesn’t attract as much attention as a RO. Khaki dial looks better than the green aquanauts imo, but I’m heavily biased.

[GW44]

Originally Posted by Vivalas

Always preferred the chrono’s myself.

No way you took that picture Stephen

Was it your butler from the east wing?

[Uros]

Originally Posted by ts3

I'd get a preowned ceramic diver 15707CE and I'll never own a watch with a 4:30 date.

Have problem with 4::30 date as well:):)


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[Gandalf]

I went through the same decision process earlier this year. I chose the 43mm chrono and couldn't be happier.

[Vivalas]

Originally Posted by GW44

No way you took that picture Stephen

Was it your butler from the east wing?

I can’t recall big G, I remember talking to one of my ‘people’ and telling them to get one of their ‘people’ on it

[subtona]

Prefer The diver over the Chrono, it is a very cool watch.
It has a simple movement vs a stacked movement on the Chrono so it’s a bit thinner.

Having owned the steel diver previously I learned two things,

an AP steel bezel is not for the faint of heart. It will ding and scratch quickly in regular use. You have to be ok with living with it.

Second thing is while the timing ring is superior because it cannot be accidentally altered, it is a pia to set and resulted in infrequent use compared to a typical diving bezel.

[matthew P]

Originally Posted by subtona

Prefer The diver over the Chrono, it is a very cool watch.
It has a simple movement vs a stacked movement on the Chrono so it’s a bit thinner.

Having owned the steel diver previously I learned two things,

an AP steel bezel is not for the faint of heart. It will ding and scratch quickly in regular use. You have to be ok with living with it.

Second thing is while the timing ring is superior because it cannot be accidentally altered, it is a pia to set and resulted in infrequent use compared to a typical diving bezel.

As a fan of the diver I’m happy to read your owner feedback


..Explorer, Spring Diver & APRO..

[Giggsy11]

Prefer the simplistic look of the diver…