Next Watch - Datejust or JLC Reverso?

[Lord Tomato]

Hi, fellow watch lovers,

It feels like the time has come for my second watch. I currently only have a black date Submariner (116610LN) as my only watch. It's a great all-around watch, although it isn't perfect for some occasions (e.g. paired with a suit), hence I'd like something a bit smaller and dressier. As of right now, it stands between a Datejust 36mm and a JLC Reverso Small Seconds.

JLC Reverso: I love it! I'm a huge Rolex fan, but this is one of the non-Rolex watches that I must own someday. It's dressy, but can also be dressed down with different straps. Also works well when worn with a tuxedo (the Datejust won't). I have pretty small wrists (about 16.5cm/6.5 inches), but they're flat. If I'm going with this option, I'll go with the smaller size (42.9 X 25.5mm). Do you guys think it fits well? Also, the question would be if I should go with the Mono or Duoface. Is the Duoface too thick? Here's a couple of photos. The Reverso with the black strap is the Monoface, the brown strap is the Duoface. I know that they aren't the best pictures, but I hope they suffice. Reverso - Imgur link.


Datejust (36mm): I've wanted a Datejust for a long time now. Thought of buying one since just after I bought my Sub. The config I'm thinking about is the blue sunburst dial, fluted bezel and Oyster bracelet. I know that fluted bezels with Oyster isn't the most usual combination, but I prefer it compared to the looks of the Jubilee. Although, I might be swayed the other way towards the Jubilee. What about the bezel? Is the fluted bezel okay for everyday use? Won’t it get damaged? Heard that replacing it costs a lot, compared to the smooth bezel. Is the blue dial a good option? Don't have any pictures on this one, but you get the idea.

It isn't as dressy as the Reverso. Also, I don't know if I'd be able to put on leather straps for some variation (does this work? Heard that the new cases might damage leather straps)? One of the reasons I'm thinking about prioritizing the Datejust is the whole Rolex craze. I don't know how much they'll cost later on and if they might be impossible to get. I'm hearing that Subs are extremely hard to get at AD's today. I'm scared that if I do get the Reverso today and wait a year for the Datejust, that I won't be able to get one later on. Don't forget the price increase that'll probably come later on.

What do you guys think? Does the Reverso even fit me? Heard that different straps might change its fit. My wrists are small, as mentioned, so I don't want a watch that won't fit well. I think that the Reverso might be more "fun" option and would fit my needs better, but perhaps it's better left for later? I don't know how the Datejust's position in the market will be later on, while the Reverso shouldn't fluctuate too much.

I know, getting both would be the easiest, but that isn't really possible right now. Perhaps I'll be able to grab a Monoface really soon after a Datejust, but not really if I'd like to go with a Duoface (or perhaps if I don’t go with the fluted bezel)...

Thank you in advance! :)

[SaintMickey]

I want a JLC Reverso Medium small seconds...having said that get the DJ.

[Lord Tomato]

Originally Posted by SaintMickey

I want a JLC Reverso Medium small seconds...having said that get the DJ.

Haha, it's so hard to choose...

Another thing I've been thinking about is the increased robbery rates. Perhaps the JLC would be much more under the radar. Although it's pretty ok now during winter (long sleeves plus overcoats and gloves hides a watch pretty well), but I don't know about summer and wearing short sleeves...

[inadeje]

Originally Posted by Lord Tomato

Haha, it's so hard to choose...

Another thing I've been thinking about is the increased robbery rates. Perhaps the JLC would be much more under the radar. Although it's pretty ok now during winter (long sleeves plus overcoats and gloves hides a watch pretty well), but I don't know about summer and wearing short sleeves...

So the increased watch robberies are also occurring in Sweden? Tell us more pls.

[Lord Tomato]

Originally Posted by inadeje

So the increased watch robberies are also occurring in Sweden? Tell us more pls.

Unfortunately, yes. There's been a ton of watch robberies during the last six months, primarily against Rolex wearers. A couple of weeks ago, a bunch of robbers acted as they were delivering flowers. A child opened the door and got a gun pointed towards his head. They didn't get the watch (think it was a DD), as I think the owner previously sold it.

Also, a planned heist was stopped by the police last month. They were planning on kidnapping a wealthy businessman and steal his watches (news stated that they were primarily out after his watches).

Other than that, it seems like there's something on the news every week about people being robbed of their Rolex's. It all suddenly started during these latest months... Don't forget that it's more or less always in the more affluent parts of Stockholm (although there have been robberies in other cities too), which are supposed to be "safe". I've never felt unsafe before when wearing my Sub. Worn it daily since I got it several years ago during nights out, summer when wearing sleeveless etc. Not any longer...

I tried to find some news articles to add, but all of them are in Swedish.

[inadeje]

Originally Posted by Lord Tomato

Unfortunately, yes. There's been a ton of watch robberies during the last six months, primarily against Rolex wearers. A couple of weeks ago, a bunch of robbers acted as they were delivering flowers. A child opened the door and got a gun pointed towards his head. They didn't get the watch (think it was a DD), as I think the owner previously sold it.

Also, a planned heist was stopped by the police last month. They were planning on kidnapping a wealthy businessman and steal his watches (news stated that they were primarily out after his watches).

Other than that, it seems like there's something on the news every week about people being robbed of their Rolex's. It all suddenly started during these latest months... Don't forget that it's more or less always in the more affluent parts of Stockholm (although there have been robberies in other cities too), which are supposed to be "safe". I've never felt unsafe before when wearing my Sub. Worn it daily since I got it several years ago during nights out, summer when wearing sleeveless etc. Not any longer...

I tried to find some news articles to add, but all of them are in Swedish.

Sad, very sad. Thanks for providing the info. The US isn’t much better these days, and London, England is also getting serious problems.

[Harry-57]

Originally Posted by Lord Tomato

Other than that, it seems like there's something on the news every week about people being robbed of their Rolex's. It all suddenly started during these latest months... Don't forget that it's more or less always in the more affluent parts of Stockholm (although there have been robberies in other cities too), which are supposed to be "safe". I've never felt unsafe before when wearing my Sub. Worn it daily since I got it several years ago during nights out, summer when wearing sleeveless etc. Not any longer...

This is a shame, but a big part of it is situational awareness. Sounds like you have your antenna properly deployed. Your way forward is clear. Don't buy a Rolex.

[TswaneNguni]

Originally Posted by Lord Tomato

Unfortunately, yes. There's been a ton of watch robberies during the last six months, primarily against Rolex wearers. A couple of weeks ago, a bunch of robbers acted as they were delivering flowers. A child opened the door and got a gun pointed towards his head. They didn't get the watch (think it was a DD), as I think the owner previously sold it.

Also, a planned heist was stopped by the police last month. They were planning on kidnapping a wealthy businessman and steal his watches (news stated that they were primarily out after his watches).

Other than that, it seems like there's something on the news every week about people being robbed of their Rolex's. It all suddenly started during these latest months... Don't forget that it's more or less always in the more affluent parts of Stockholm (although there have been robberies in other cities too), which are supposed to be "safe". I've never felt unsafe before when wearing my Sub. Worn it daily since I got it several years ago during nights out, summer when wearing sleeveless etc. Not any longer...

I tried to find some news articles to add, but all of them are in Swedish.

..and that's in save Sweden !!! Imagine other parts of the world .

My wife and I are rethinking carefully wearing Rolex in certain circumstances .
Here,they will kill you with a smile for a Rolex .

I own JLC/Panerai/IWC too . Looking for my first Cartier ,have so much respect for the brand and its history .LOVE the Santos Skeleton ,but it pretty expensive ...

[HiBoost]

I always thought the duoface was the bigger model, but it looks like the smaller one in your pics? Have you considered a Cartier Tank as well?

You can't go wrong with a classic Datejust, but if you are trying to get maximum variety in a two watch collection then you'll probably want a non-Rolex model.

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[azs.77]

The DJ is a classic. You can’t go wrong with it. And it can be pretty dressy as well. Definitely my recommendation.


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[scarlet knight]

I have both. If you have a Sub, I’d go Reverso next. Try it on first, the different sizes sit differently on your wrist.




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[TswaneNguni]

Originally Posted by scarlet knight

This is the JLC I would go for .

[DLRIDES]

Reverso !

Perfect mate for a Submariner !

[Krash]

If you have a Submariner, then a Reverso Classic mediium small seconds is an ideal companion for it, no doubt.

I actually went into an AD with the intent of buying one. I tried one on, and I was a little disapointed by it. It just felt fragile and flimsy compared to my Submainer and Speedmaster (proabbly because it is). I know it's a classic and I know JLC is a top brand, but the watch just seemed more expensive to me than it should be.

Ironically, I actually ended buying an Omega Seamaster Diver 300m. So I thought I was going to buy a dress watch (just like you apparently want to), but now I have 2 divers plus a Speedmaster, and no real dress watch.

I haven't totally ruled out a Reverso in the future, but now want a Datejust 41. I just think a DJ41 is better for me.

I hear what you're saying about a Reverso being more suited for a Tuxedo than a DJ, but honestly, I just don't wear a Tuxedo enough for that to be a real factor. I'll wear my Submariner or Speedmaster with a Tuxedo if I have to...

[subprimero]

Reverso next then a Datejust. Do not buy the Reverso without trying it on first.

[Billfav]

Originally Posted by subprimero

Reverso next then a Datejust. Do not buy the Reverso without trying it on first.

Very versatile and covers the casual, smart casual, business and formal. But do try one on if you can to ensure the fit. I too have 6.5" wrists but my duo face fits great. I need to find some pictures.

[scarlet knight]

Note to OP: my Reverso Duo is a large. My DJ2 is 41mm. My wrist is 6.5 inches. 16.51 cm.

[RoRoRo]

I bought the Tank Solo XL to wear with my tux on my wedding day, it looked just right! Then a few months later I bought the DJII and now it’s my go to watch for formal occasions.

Don’t get me wrong the Tank is great to wear but sometimes looks too dressy with the black strap and I think you’ll have that same problem with the JLC. I like to match the leathers of my strap, belt and shoes and the DJ makes the wear more universal.

Having said all this when I want to fly slightly under the radar I will wear the Tank.

[TimeAZ]

Go for the DJ, no question.

Just about any configuration will result in a timeless classic. I think if your wrist is 6.5 in you can also look at the DJ41 options. They actually measure 39.5mm and wear reasonably well, esp. on the jubilee bracelet.

[Gab27]

The Sub is great for like 99% of instances. But, like you said, the one situation where you might want something else is for formal wear. I think a Reverso is a great match for this, especially if you see yourself continuing to predominantly wear the Sub, as you'll have something very special for special occasions.

[Binky1]

I had a JLC Grande Date definitely a very pretty and quite unique watch. I traded it towards my DD and do miss it. I loved its 8 day power reserve but…

My one was not particularly accurate and bear in mind servicing costs are quite high. £750 for last service back in 2017 nothing replaced over and above normal service. I seem to remember my Sub was £500 for a service a year later.

[TswaneNguni]

Something timeless to a art deco square design.

JLC and Cartier comes to mind ..

[rkny]

This is like asking a waiter if you should order X or Y.

[Neom]

I think the DJ is more versatile

[2001jesper]

For a second watch, then I would definitely take a Datejust. Think if offers so much more versatility compared to a Reverso.

[Little machines]

The DJ is definitely more versatile .Good luck! The JLC is still a good looking dress watch !

[zapokee]

Depends on your wrist size. Reverso if small, DJ if larger.

[Krash]

Originally Posted by zapokee

Depends on your wrist size. Reverso if small, DJ if larger.

I’m not sure I’d agree with this. I think a DJ41 wears smaller on the wrist than a large Reverso.

The Reverso wears much bigger than the stated dimensions because it’s square.

I’d recommend the medium sized Reverso for anyone with 7.25” wrists or less.

For these types of watches, they look a lot better when they have a smaller foot print on the wrist.


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[GGGMT]

Originally Posted by Krash

I’m not sure I’d agree with this. I think a DJ41 wears smaller on the wrist than a large Reverso.


Tapatalk

I think OP is taking 36mm


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[Krash]

Originally Posted by zapokee

Depends on your wrist size. Reverso if small, DJ if larger.

Originally Posted by Krash

I’m not sure I’d agree with this. I think a DJ41 wears smaller on the wrist than a large Reverso.

The Reverso wears much bigger than the stated dimensions because it’s square.

I’d recommend the medium sized Reverso for anyone with 7.25” wrists or less.

For these types of watches, they look a lot better when they have a smaller foot print on the wrist.


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Originally Posted by GGGMT

I think OP is taking 36mm


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I'm not sure what your point is.

The original post I responded to asserted that the Reverso wears smaller than a datejust. I disagree with that. I responded by saying a DJ41 wears smaller than a large Reverso (which is 100% true by the way). That's great that the OP is getting a 36, but that's not relevant to this specific exchange.