GS SBGX355 - Magic on the Wrist

[lencap]

Greetings -

I was disappointed after buying my 2024 Rolex DJ 41 non-fluted bezel with Oyster bracelet and the pure white dial. The watch was everything I wanted - exceptional accuracy, easily adjustable bracelet to accommodate summer heat without tool, comfortable and "under the radar". I was delighted to get it from my AD, and still appreciate his efforts to get it to me in a timely manner.

The issue was that after my initial few days of wearing it I became aware that it's a relatively large watch. My Rolex history centers around my 36m 1981 DJ TT that I wore as my only watch for decades before giving it to my son. That watch is noticeably lighter and smaller than the new DJ I bought.

When the BB58 was released I bought one and enjoy it - I like the vibe and the size is a comfortable wear on my 7" wrist. I bought it on the bracelet and added the Tudor fabric band for summer wear. It is a nearly perfect GODA watch, at least for me.

Two weeks ago my local jeweler told me to stop by and look at a watch he thought I'd love. It's a pre-owned GS SBGX355 full set in near mint condition. I've had GS watches in the past, and loved the quality, but found them too unbalanced on my wrist and thicker than I would have preferred. The lack of any adjustment on the bracelet was also a problem.

I didn't expect much, but when I got to the jewelry store the watch amazed me. The size, for me, is ideal - I prefer a smaller case. The titanium construction makes it hardly noticeable on the wrist. The clear clean dial is the iconic snowflake, scaled down to the 37mm case size, and the blue second hand adds just enough pop and interest without going overboard. Removing the Spring Drive reserve indicator makes a BIG difference. The watch is clean and modern with better symmetry, and the date window is subtle and readable. The 20 second a year accuracy and quartz movement make it an even better GODA watch than my BB58. The only potential issue I can see is the lack of any adjustments on the bracelet. If need be I'll have my jeweler size it for warmer weather. The extra half link of titanium shouldn't be much of an issue.

The contrast between the BB58 and SBGA355 fills all of my needs, and I'm a happy camper. One's a diver with a vintage vibe from Rolex's cousin, and the other a modified version of the Classic GS Spring Drive SnowFlake.

If you've not seen this model in person I strongly suggest seeking one out. You might be as surprised as I was.

[1William]

Congratulations.

[MJ EXPLORER]

I had to google this model number as I don't know all of the GS model numbers yet. Exactly as you described. 37 and titanium must be a feather on the wrist. Congrats!

[pandrew6l]

If you like the GS 9F62, look into the late model Citizen Chronomaster, which is also a HAQ (+- 5 seconds a year), titanium, Perpetual calendar, micro bracelet adjustment, at half the price of a GS HAQ in the secondary market.