Ref 118206 Plat DD Purchase

[wildcat465]

Hello everyone, I've been lurking for a while reading as much as I can so that I can make an informed decision about my next purchase. Within a week or so, I plan to purchase a 110206 and have narrowed my choices to two. The first is a 2000 model. The second is around 2006. Price difference between the two is about $2500.

The only difference that I can see is that the clasps are different. My understanding is that each watch, when worn, has the same feel (i.e., weight) and appearance. Is this correct? Are there other considerations? Thanks!

[returntorolex]

Get the modern clasp. Does the newer one have rehaut?

Just for reference, the newer 118206 models weigh 227 grams. Not sure what the older (18206) ones weigh.

Is there one you like the dial better on?

[tomchicago]

Realize that as far as precious metals go, the only metal worth less than platinum is silver...http://www.kitco.com/market/

Find a plum WG piece. Domed bezel doesn't go with the prezzie bracelet anywho.

[wildcat465]

Originally Posted by returntorolex

Get the modern clasp. Does the newer one have rehaut?

Just for reference, the newer 118206 models weigh 227 grams. Not sure what the older (18206) ones weigh.

Is there one you like the dial better on?

The dials are the same...glacier blue with diamonds.

They're both Ref 118206. The later one has the rehaut engraving...I asked about whether the older one has the newer heavier bracelet and he explained that each has heavier bands and that they weight the same, but that the '06 model has a newer clasp. If the weight is the same, I'm not sure what spending the extra $2500 is going to give me.

[wildcat465]

I had WG...Loved the hint of gold that peeks through the white metal and prefer the domed bezel. I'm less concerned about the metal's value (otherwise I'd buy boxes full of gold bullion). I'm chasing the heft that comes with the platinum DD and that blue dial.

I just want to better understand the relative differences between the two models so that I can make an informed decision.

I'm curious, is the engraved rehaut important?

[mobster600]

definitely get the new bracelet if you can. And if you plan on wearing it daily.

only get the older bracelet if its super minty. and i mean like never worn. The price difference wouldnt sway me unless it was in near brand new condition

[returntorolex]

Originally Posted by wildcat465

I just want to better understand the relative differences between the two models so that I can make an informed decision.

I'm curious, is the engraved rehaut important?

Doesn’t affect performance or weight - the models you are looking at (2000 and 2006) both have the robust 3155 reference movement.

The rehaut is just another security feature and you can now read the serial number of the watch without removing the bracelet. It’s basically the latest/greatest unless you consider a random serial number to be important to you as well.

I spent about a year looking for mine before finding the right DD. I also had a 118239 WG DD that I bought new from an AD.....knew I wasn’t going to stop until I found the pinnacle DD (Pt)

[mobster600]

Originally Posted by returntorolex

Get the modern clasp. Does the newer one have rehaut?

Just for reference, the newer 118206 models weigh 227 grams. Not sure what the older (18206) ones weigh.

Is there one you like the dial better on?

no the OP is referring to the transition of the 118206 from the old tension lock to the new modern spring clasp. The 118206 started what in 2000 maybe? Not the 18206

[returntorolex]

Originally Posted by mobster600

no the OP is referring to the transition of the 118206 from the old tension lock to the new modern spring clasp. The 118206 started what in 2000 maybe? Not the 18206

Correct, the early 118206 (heavier bracelet) had the tension clasp. Around 2001-2002, the fat buckle was used.

Another advantage of the fat buckle is the hinged crown.

[returntorolex]

Wildcat, do you have any pics of the two you’re considering?

[returntorolex]

Originally Posted by tomchicago

Realize that as far as precious metals go, the only metal worth less than platinum is silver...http://www.kitco.com/market/

Find a plum WG piece. Domed bezel doesn't go with the prezzie bracelet anywho.

.........

Right on cue Tom!!

[fskywalker]

Originally Posted by returntorolex

Doesn’t affect performance or weight - the models you are looking at (2000 and 2006) both have the robust 3155 reference movement.



The rehaut is just another security feature and you can now read the serial number of the watch without removing the bracelet. It’s basically the latest/greatest unless you consider a random serial number to be important to you as well.



I spent about a year looking for mine before finding the right DD. I also had a 118239 WG DD that I bought new from an AD.....knew I wasn’t going to stop until I found the pinnacle DD (Pt)

The beast is out! Lovely piece


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[returntorolex]

Originally Posted by fskywalker

The beast is out! Lovely piece


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

TY Francisco!

Hope you are enjoying your DD

[wildcat465]

Here are two photos that include the clasps. What's wrong with the older clasp?

[DocHorton]

For 10% more money I'd get the newer one with engraving and new clasp. It will have better resale as well.

[SamP]

Simple my friend.
If you can afford the newer style clasp, do so.
If you can't afford the newer style clasp, save $2500 & buy the older style clasp.
It's hard to see you not being able to afford the extra $2500!
Unless to adore the old style clasp, GET THE NEW STYLE CLASP!!!
Regards

[returntorolex]

Originally Posted by DocHorton

For 10% more money I'd get the newer one with engraving and new clasp. It will have better resale as well.

Originally Posted by SamP

Simple my friend.
If you can afford the newer style clasp, do so.
If you can't afford the newer style clasp, save $2500 & buy the older style clasp.
It's hard to see you not being able to afford the extra $2500!
Unless to adore the old style clasp, GET THE NEW STYLE CLASP!!!
Regards

The only thing I would add is make certain the dial is a factory dial and not aftermarket - that will definitely affect value and resale if you ever decide to flip.

Enjoy the hunt!

[wildcat465]

The newer model has been sold. I'm patient. So, I'll wait for the wait for one with the newer clasp. I'm not married to the diamond dial. It's my preference. Although the glacier blue is mandatory (Yet, I'd consider the meteorite with the two pear-shaped diamonds). This purchase will be for a watch that I plan to keep for the rest of my life.

I appreciate the guidance that each of you has provided.

[Tangier11]

I would vote for the one with the newer clasp as it is a definite improvement. Someone mentioned dials, YES by all means make sure it is factory that is a HUGE difference in every aspect of value on the watch!

[Raypep]

When did they come out with the newer clasp? What serial number or year?

-R

[Flex368]

Originally Posted by returntorolex

I spent about a year looking for mine before finding the right DD. I also had a 118239 WG DD that I bought new from an AD.....knew I wasn’t going to stop until I found the pinnacle DD (Pt)

Amazing watch with an amazing dial.

[fixinbones]

Originally Posted by returntorolex

Doesn’t affect performance or weight - the models you are looking at (2000 and 2006) both have the robust 3155 reference movement.

The rehaut is just another security feature and you can now read the serial number of the watch without removing the bracelet. It’s basically the latest/greatest unless you consider a random serial number to be important to you as well.

I spent about a year looking for mine before finding the right DD. I also had a 118239 WG DD that I bought new from an AD.....knew I wasn’t going to stop until I found the pinnacle DD (Pt)

I have the same watch. The glacier waves dial is awesome and seems to command more money at resale. However, I will never sell this watch.

[mobster600]

Originally Posted by wildcat465

The newer model has been sold. I'm patient. So, I'll wait for the wait for one with the newer clasp. I'm not married to the diamond dial. It's my preference. Although the glacier blue is mandatory (Yet, I'd consider the meteorite with the two pear-shaped diamonds). This purchase will be for a watch that I plan to keep for the rest of my life.

I appreciate the guidance that each of you has provided.

Here are some more plattys. Keeping it forever is probably going to happen reguardless LOL....once you own it, your not going to get rid of it. The feeling of it on is simply amazing.

[wildcat465]

Hello all. I continue my search for the right 118206 and have a identified a potential Z serial dressed in an ice blue dial with Romans. I have a question about the serial number. I understand that it can be located between the lugs and on the rehaut. Are there other locations? Can/should a matching serial number be found on the movement or band?

[tomchicago]

Do it only if you get it for a good price. Platinum is the cheapest of all precious metals now, second only to silver for last place. See here for yourself: http://www.kitco.com/market/.
bids:

GOLD 11/06/2017 13:00 1280.90
RHODIUM 11/06/2017 10:56 1225.00
PALLADIUM11/06/2017 13:00 991.00
PLATINUM 11/06/2017 13:00 931.00
SILVER 11/06/2017 13:00 17.21

[wildcat465]

Originally Posted by tomchicago

Do it only if you get it for a good price. Platinum is the cheapest of all precious metals now, second only to silver for last place. See here for yourself: http://www.kitco.com/market/

Thanks and, yes, it's a good price. You mentioned the link to Platinum's spot price earlier in the thread. Although, I'm less concerned about the Platinum's scrap value and more interested in the blue dial, substantial feel, and information that'll help me make the right decision. I've owned a WG DD, enjoyed it, but my cheating eyes always looked at the Platy.

Might you be able to tell me if there are matching serial numbers beyond those found between the lugs and rehauts on some models?

[JnmEaton]

Originally Posted by wildcat465

Thanks and, yes, it's a good price. You mentioned Platinum's price earlier in the thread. Although, I'm less concerned about the Platinum's scrap value and more interested in the blue dial, substantial feel, and information that'll help me make the right decision. I've owned a WG DD, enjoyed it, but my cheating eyes always looked at the Platy.

Might you be able to tell me if there are matching serial numbers beyond those found between the lugs and rehauts on some models?

its my understanding that until Rolex added it to the rehault it was only on the case when the bracelet is removed. It's not like a car with the VIN on the engine, door jam and dash board.

[wildcat465]

Originally Posted by JnmEaton

its my understanding that until Rolex added it to the rehault it was only on the case when the bracelet is removed. It's not like a car with the VIN on the engine, door jam and dash board.

Thanks JnmEaton. . .My decision could be made as early as today.

Does anybody have any other thoughts on this?

I've been looking at 3155 movement videos to see if there are serial numbers that'd confirm an original movement. The 118206 is my grail and I want to get it exactly right.

[wildcat465]

Originally Posted by returntorolex

Correct, the early 118206 (heavier bracelet) had the tension clasp. Around 2001-2002, the fat buckle was used.

Another advantage of the fat buckle is the hinged crown.

So, how important is this hinged crown on that fat buckle? There's a $3k difference between an early identical (No rehaut) watch and the later watch with the fat hinge.

If I could save that $3k, I'd use it to purchase a Speedmaster to wear on days that I wanted a change. . .but I don't want to sacrifice the 118206. Thoughts?

[Calatrava r]

Originally Posted by tomchicago

Realize that as far as precious metals go, the only metal worth less than platinum is silver...http://www.kitco.com/market/

Find a plum WG piece. Domed bezel doesn't go with the prezzie bracelet anywho.

I agree totally. Forget the Platinum unless you just have to have it and can get a super great deal.