"Upgrading"

[MilesKita-2023]

Do any members typically upgrade their current reference for a newer version of the same reference? I ask because I sometimes think about going from my 2017 Bluesy to a more current year, but not sure there is enough of a variance between the two. Thoughts? Thanks

[ecmgbob]

I personally like the case dimensions of the 12 series vs the 11 series subs, so that would be an easy decision for me. The white text vs the gold on your iteration took me a while to get used to; but I like it now as well. Go for it is my vote.

[Harry-57]

Both my Sub Dates are 1166 variants. Compared to the 12 series models I much prefer the 11s. To put it into perspective, if I wasn't lucky enough to score my 11s when they were in production I'd be happy with 12s at MSRP or below. No way would I sell my 11s to get 12s. My 126710 BLRO is perfect for my needs wants and taste. Of all my watches it's the one that hits me exactly right. It's like it was made just for me. I wouldn't part with it for anything. If I was desperate for another GMT Master in the future I would add.

[ryanbush]

Depends, I updated my 116 Daytona to a 126, as I felt it wears a lot better. I don't feel any need to update my 40mm sub to a 41mm, but I did add a 41mm in green.

I would feel no need to update from a 116 to 126 GMT, as they are so similar.

[MilesKita-2023]

Originally Posted by ryanbush

Depends, I updated my 116 Daytona to a 126, as I felt it wears a lot better. I don't feel any need to update my 40mm sub to a 41mm, but I did add a 41mm in green.

I would feel no need to update from a 116 to 126 GMT, as they are so similar.

Thanks, ryanbush...is there a material difference (see noticeable) between the 40MM and 41MM?

[Wingman244]

I went from BLNR GMT "Batgirl" to the CHNR 2 tone GMT "Root Beer" - very much worth the upgrade...

[S.Explorer]

Explorer 36 - I went from 114270 to 124270 because:
- lumed 3, 6, 9 hour markers
- used vs. new

The later model does feel more robust, but I didn't actually mind the older watch's bracelet with hollow centre links and stamped clasp. The 48h power reserve was also good enough for me.

I think I am indifferent about the increased bracelet taper and maxi dial of the later model.

[joli160]

No, I prefer the bulkier look of the 11 series and the newer 32 movement on my GMT is nothing but a disaster.

[alex.cicollo]

Adding a 126500 to my 116500…. Both white. Will keep both when 12 arrives.

[Devildog]

Originally Posted by MilesKita-2023

Thanks, ryanbush...is there a material difference (see noticeable) between the 40MM and 41MM?

Slimmer lugs, wider bracelet, better proportions and potentially less reliable movement in the 41 (all IMHO)

[MilesKita-2023]

Originally Posted by Devildog

Slimmer lugs, wider bracelet, better proportions and potentially less reliable movement in the 41 (all IMHO)

Thanks, Devildog
So, not a fan of the newer iteration…
Appreciate it.

[Devildog]

Originally Posted by MilesKita-2023

Thanks, Devildog
So, not a fan of the newer iteration…
Appreciate it.

I'm a fan of the looks generally

However I prefer the gilt text on the 11 series over the white text on the 12

[Jackie Daytona]

I think I’ve done either way. More recently I went the other direction. My 216570 didn’t do it for me unfortunately. I’ve recently added a 16570 instead which is better for me.

For the 6 digit subs in question though. I think I prefer the 11 series actually with the gold text.

[Easy E]

I went the other other way. Sold my 126619 and picked up a 116619 and did the same with the LV sub, 12->11. I had too many verifiable 32 issues.

[GGGMT]

16570 ——> 216570 ——> 226570. Polar. Lime. Movement size.

14270 ——> 214270 m1 ——-> 214270 m2. Size. Lume.

16610LV ——> 216610LV. Because green subs are just so effing sick. Kept both.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Krash]

I’m considering something similar. I might want to upgrade from a 114060 to a 126613LB. I’m not sure it’s the same thing, but I would be going from an older model Sub to a newer model Sub upon doing so.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[travisb]

I wouldn't necessarily call it an upgrade but I have gone from a 11xxxx to a 12xxxx on several of my watches.
Same as when I went from 5 digit to 6 digit.

[PenDelicate]

I sort-of do the opposite.

I explicitly wanted a "First edition" 6-digit Daytona.

The 6-digit Daytona was unveiled in 2000. As you no doubt know, back then (after 1987) Rolex released a new "Serial number" almost every year, where a serial number began with a letter. For example, 1995 the W-serial numbers began; A-serials began in 1999. I think only three times, however, did Rolex release two serial numbers in the same year: 1991, 2000, and 2005.

So those "First edition" 6-digit Daytonas have to have a P or K serial. I bought a P-serial on a leather strap, then upgraded to a bracelet K-serial.

I love later, more modern Daytonas, but I've no interest in replacing my beloved K-serial for one.

[Ravager135]

I have "upgraded" in the past. It depends on a few factors. If the original watch has sentimental value, it will not be upgraded. If the upgraded model as few if any differences I can't see the point. If the watch I currently own is selling for way over what I paid, has little sentimental value, and I can get the newer watch at MSRP I'll do it. I sold a 116610LV and ended up getting a 126710BLRO and 124060 at MSRP. Well worth it.

Conversely I own an Explorer II 216570. It was the first Rolex I bought for myself (my first was a gift). Even if it didn't have sentimental value, I probably couldn't justify the upgrade.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by travisb

I wouldn't necessarily call it an upgrade but I have gone from a 11xxxx to a 12xxxx on several of my watches.
Same as when I went from 5 digit to 6 digit.

Exact same here

[padi56]

Originally Posted by MilesKita-2023

Do any members typically upgrade their current reference for a newer version of the same reference? I ask because I sometimes think about going from my 2017 Bluesy to a more current year, but not sure there is enough of a variance between the two. Thoughts? Thanks

Well in the real world you could count on one hand the real completely new Rolex watches have introduced over the past 50 odd years so not much of a upgrade except the price. Sure most model changes have been purely cosmetic like dial colour, ceramic inserts slight movement mods price increase,and bracelet changes thats about it.

[1William]

It depends on what I like. I like the 11 and the 12 series Submariner and would not swap one for the other. On the other hand I like the DD II in comparison to the DD40 and would go the other way if that was what I wanted.

[watchwatcher]

It's all in the eye of the beholder. I have moved watches for all sorts of reasons, but, looking at the six digit series as a whole- and heck, even four or five digits, I see it more as trying to find the ideal configuration to fit your eye/lifestyle as opposed to an upgrade.

If it's a Rolex, it's going to be a great watch.

[MilesKita-2023]

Thanks all,

So, suffice to say, using a "back of the envelope" tally, it sounds like the overall sentiment is there isn't really a compelling reason to go from a 2017 to 2020+ version of the Bluesy?
Thanks again!

[robertengel]

If thats what you want then thats what you should do.

[Gearjockey]

I’m thinking of “upgrading” to the 32xx Hi-PO movement cause I think I really need a few more hours of reserve.

[samson66]

I "upgraded" my DJII to a DJ41 because I liked the changes they made to the case size and proportions and preferred the jubilee bracelet. Nothing wrong moving from an older model to a newer model of the same watch. Many here have done it.

[Robf52]

Originally Posted by padi56

Well in the real world you could count on one hand the real completely new Rolex watches have introduced over the past 50 odd years so not much of a upgrade except the price. Sure most model changes have been purely cosmetic like dial colour, ceramic inserts slight movement mods price increase, and bracelet changes thats about it.

That's Rolex's proven successful formula. A strategy of continuous improvement and evolution.