Zenith Daytona vs. 1680 Red Sub

[red1108nyc]

Currently, I own a Z serial White dial Daytona, 1.6 mil serial Rolex 5512 with a beautiful greyish turning insert and lastly a 5.3mil serial 1680 that I have put up on sale. Here is the dilemma. I have been looking a nicely aged 70's Red Sub vs. a black dial Zenith Daytona.. both are pretty close in cost and both so nice in their own ways... what would you choose?

I know.. it is afterall, a nice dilemma.. and I thank God everyday!

Happy weekend and watching collecting.

Best,

Fred

[hennabav]

Fred, that's a hard decision and a decision only you can make. Both are beautiful pieces and completely different watches. Which one sings to you most right now?

If you have the means, I definitely suggest getting both. It also all depends on condition.

[KarlFr]

I got both, prefer the Zenith simply because I think it looks better

[red1108nyc]

Originally Posted by KarlFr

I got both, prefer the Zenith simply because I think it looks better

Both are extreme and pretty examples of how they should be.. an even creamy patina on the red 1680 is getting little hard to find and I have always enjoyed the daytona.. you have great taste there my friend. Enjoy them!

Fred

[red1108nyc]

I know and when I read your latest post and your A-serial black dial Zenith Daytona is stunning... what a complete and beautiful specimen!

[hennabav]

Originally Posted by red1108nyc

I know and when I read your latest post and your A-serial black dial Zenith Daytona is stunning... what a complete and beautiful specimen!

Thanks Fred!! The Zenith has always been a beautiful piece and the dial and sub dial color combo just makes the watch jump!! But the 1680 red or white are just as beautiful with its top hat crystal!!

[skyedog]

Originally Posted by hennabav

Fred, that's a hard decision and a decision only you can make. Both are beautiful pieces and completely different watches. Which one sings to you most right now?

If you have the means, I definitely suggest getting both. It also all depends on condition.

+1

[KarlFr]

Thanks Most people would probably go for the red1680 though, just because it has the date display and is more difficult to find in an ok condition. The 1680 is also cheaper to service and a new/NOS bracelet doesn't cost a fortune

[red1108nyc]

or the practial approach is, it depends which model really appears first.. kind of like go with the flow attitude and let karma do its magic! I have never had the red sub on my wrist but the red letter along with the top hat and right patina has strong pull for me. A black dial Zenith on the other hand would simply round out my Daytona collection.

[psv]

I had a A-series black 16520 Daytona briefly. I actually think this watch looks better on photo than in person, I didn't find the dial very legible and easy to read so I much prefer a vintage Sub, with our without date. Also consider a 1665 Sea-Dweller (Great White rather than Red or Double Red)

[red1108nyc]

Originally Posted by psv

I had a A-series black 16520 Daytona briefly. I actually think this watch looks better on photo than in person, I didn't find the dial very legible and easy to read so I much prefer a vintage Sub, with our without date. Also consider a 1665 Sea-Dweller (Great White rather than Red or Double Red)

Good point Patrick. I have never had a black zenith on my wrist before. I need to try out a 1665 as well. the none-cyclop aspect of the 1665 does appeal to me.

Thank you!

[z32turbo]

I would go Red Sub or SD over a Zenith Daytona.

[HL65]

Tough call--again both so different! I would think long and hard on it and get the one that sings to you the most! Can't go wrong with either--I would think the Red Sub though if it were my choice--but it isn't! Happy hunting!

[red1108nyc]

Originally Posted by SteelerFan65

Tough call--again both so different! I would think long and hard on it and get the one that sings to you the most! Can't go wrong with either--I would think the Red Sub though if it were my choice--but it isn't! Happy hunting!

I know Ken and Eric Ku has a very nice specimen for now.. so I am starting to think... haha!!!

Wifey will be like.. didn't you just sell a watch???

Fred

[Michael M.]

Originally Posted by SteelerFan65

Tough call--again both so different! I would think long and hard on it and get the one that sings to you the most! Can't go wrong with either--I would think the Red Sub though if it were my choice--but it isn't! Happy hunting!

I agree , tough call- I would go with the red sub

[Frogman4me]

It would be a red sub for me but both are great watches and your lucky to own either one. Im sure if you get the daytona now the red sub will be down the road or vice versa. Good luck with your decision, its a win win!

[greekbum]

The choice for me is easy....The Red Submariner. I personally never cared for the Daytona.

[dddrees]

I dont have a Zenith, but I already had a SS Daytona before I chose to get my vintage watch. When it came time to chose my first and only vintage it was easy for me. I chose a Red Sub, and I am glad I did. It's the one that I was intrigued with from the beginning. The little bit of Red on the dial, the way the crystal is so diffferent, the lug holes, and finally the fact the watch has been around for as long as it has.

Good luck with your decision, and may you get something that makes you as happy as this one makes me.

[Yazo]

Depends on what sings to you... chronographs or subs?

I went through a similar thing a while back and realized I was a big fan of the Daytona!

Good luck on your quest!

[Paracentesis]

I would (did) go for the Red. But the Zenith is great as well. I think I'm probably not a chronograph person, however, as I can't think of a use for the chrono function - at least not for me.

Here's some gratuitous pron, good hunting:

[red1108nyc]

Originally Posted by Paracentesis

I would (did) go for the Red. But the Zenith is great as well. I think I'm probably not a chronograph person, however, as I can't think of a use for the chrono function - at least not for me.

Here's some gratuitous pron, good hunting:

James,

That is one superb looking specimen... give me that kool aid!!!!

Fred

[sherwin]

when in doubt get both

honestly, id be leaning towards the 1680 red sub.

[cruvon]

I think the zenith Daytonas look real cool too though a bit the old money look but if you want something sporty and popular, go RED:)

[HL65]

I like Zenith Daytona's too- especially with porcelain dials!!

[red1108nyc]

Originally Posted by SteelerFan65

I like Zenith Daytona's too- especially with porcelain dials!!

Ken,

Thats it! I have decided, its the porcelian daytona that I want.. WOW.. I love it!!!!

Fred

[h999r]

Daytona off course ...

[oldbronco]

red sub. just mho.

[Newportkrieger]

Red Sub IMHO

[phelix_da_kat]

Fred, I do envy your dilemma.. ;-)

Currently, I have both a Zenith black face and a Red Sub. Love them both.

It is a harder choice given you already have a Daytona and a 5512.

Which do you currently wear more? ie are you a sub man or a daytona man?
Logic could dictate get another of your "favourite"



PS: just my 2c: I find the Daytona a better daily beater. As the Red Sub is 40years old, I am a lot more carefully with it - pamper it a little too much.
And, I seem to see less hunter/inverted Daytonas around than Red Subs..

[Mistry]

you already have a w daytona so id say the sub! sub can be more versitile by adding different straps- eg natos :)