ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX

Chrisxx · 6 March 2009, 12:48 AM

Hello,
I posted the below in the new member section, but it was suggested that it would get more feedback out here!

I am looking to buy a "keeper" watch in the next couple of months so joined these forums to check out all things Rolex.

Already had some great advice and friendly feedback on the discount situation for Rolex in the UK (and a top tip on Ernest Jones).

My intention is to spend £3k (maybe up to £4k) on a watch (ideally, something robust that looks good both on a bracelet or strap), these are my current thoughts:

GMT IIC Perfect watch, love the easylink bracelet, amazed by the price increases, would need to negotiate to get into price range
Submariner Classic, but price is still creeping a little high
Submariner No date Very Bond, but I am unsure of the hollow centre links
PAM111 love it, shame there isn't a bracelet option, having said that I have tried on the new bracelet and to is too big for my wrist
Omega Speedmaster love the history, considering the sapphire sandwich for robustness, find the bracelet with polished spacers a bit fussy though
Breiting Superocean Great bracelet, but find the bezel a little busy...

Any feedback on these watches of any sort would be welcomed!

I have been checking out grey dealers (thebrandedwatchcompany.co.uk and deliciouswatches.co.uk), any advice or experiences would be welcomed.

Also, any tips for good discount in the UK too!
Best regards,
Chris

Psmith · 6 March 2009, 01:03 AM

Hi and welcome

Well if it's going to be a keeper, then get into the GMT IIc while it's just about within reach. In some markets at least, I think Rolex are playing the "Daytona" supply/demand game with this watch (imho)

Don't worry about hollow CLs - the Sub Date and Exp II also has them. Part of the original "tool watch" design and has outlived a few owners...

Cheers

Kirby · 6 March 2009, 01:11 AM

If I were in your shoes, I'd go with either the GMT IIc or one of the Subs. I love my Submariner, and the hollow links don't bother me, but it does feel a little light compared to my Roadster. That's not necessarily a bad thing, just a little different. Any of those three watches will never go out of style, and will definitely turn into a "keeper".

mfer · 6 March 2009, 02:43 AM

Well, I own three of your keepers!

I'd keep them in the following order.
1. GMT IIc
2. Pam 111
3. Sub Date

champion5 · 6 March 2009, 05:17 AM

sub date and/or superocean

Chrisxx · 6 March 2009, 07:23 AM

Thanks, you comments are gratefully received. This is going to cause me some sleepless nights I can tell... I agree that a Rolex does seem to be the best keeper that will suit every occasion!

Rebel · 6 March 2009, 07:27 AM

I like and wear a White Face Explorer II. It's not on your list; but, thought I would mention it for you to consider.

WatchTimes · 6 March 2009, 07:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rebel

I like and wear a White Face Explorer II. It's not on your list; but, thought I would mention it for you to consider.

X2

Chrisxx · 6 March 2009, 08:56 AM

Mark, thanks for the recommend, I have checked it out, and its a handsome watch, something that I hadn't really looked at before. It is hard to believe that a watch so similar to the GMT is priced so differently. If they put a new style clasp with easy-link on it, I will be sold!!
Thanks,
Chris

chriseskew24 · 6 March 2009, 09:03 AM

1Sub/2GMT

cody p · 6 March 2009, 01:57 PM

one of the rolexes you mention or the speedmaster.

BigHat · 6 March 2009, 02:14 PM

You'll only know it's a keeper if you keep it. You can't expect others to tell you how you'll feel. You have done extensive work thus far narrowing the field. Take a final swing thorough the ADs to help you decide.

Good luck to you.

Stop by the for sale section and note that the posters of all those watches are selling what they thought were their "keepers." Just the way it is.

voltrader66 · 6 March 2009, 04:58 PM

SS Sub Date...will never go out of style

jtvision · 6 March 2009, 08:37 PM

I was apprehensive about the hollow bracelet on the 16610. I mean, handling it you get the impression that it should be on a cheap $20 piece. Maybe it should. But it sits nicely on your wrist as the head is heavier preventing the bracelet from sliding around like a super jubilee does; which is nice on the sports watch IMO. However, I wish the clasp was that of the GMT-IIc with the thick flip lock. You'll laugh, but I have had a few bad dreams that the flip lock became contorted somehow or another- haha. Bracelet looks nicer then the Omega, and it is functional.

GMT-IIc is snazzy. I just came around to it. I hadn't tired on the TT model until a few days ago; it got me!

gaopa · 6 March 2009, 09:41 PM

I have two keepers.... a Rolex white dial EXP II and an Omega Speedmaster. Cheers, Bill P.

DSJ · 7 March 2009, 01:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jtvision

I was apprehensive about the hollow bracelet on the 16610. I mean, handling it you get the impression that it should be on a cheap $20 piece. Maybe it should. But it sits nicely on your wrist as the head is heavier preventing the bracelet from sliding around like a super jubilee does; which is nice on the sports watch IMO. However, I wish the clasp was that of the GMT-IIc with the thick flip lock. You'll laugh, but I have had a few bad dreams that the flip lock became contorted somehow or another- haha. Bracelet looks nicer then the Omega, and it is functional.

GMT-IIc is snazzy. I just came around to it. I hadn't tired on the TT model until a few days ago; it got me!

Sounds like you've now answered your question(s). GMT2C (either SS or TT) is the Rolex for you!

topcat30093 · 7 March 2009, 05:17 AM

The GMT IIc is a lovely looking watch, but imo after owning one it would be a lot better if it had a brush finish to the bracelet.
For me it would have to be the classic S/S sub with date. Although saying that, the one thing that does let it down is the clasp.
Good hunting.

PAMFanatic · 9 March 2009, 04:57 AM

classic S/S sub with date

Joey_V · 10 March 2009, 05:45 AM

Sub or GMTIIC....

BLACK DIAMOND · 10 March 2009, 06:03 AM

Sub-Date. If you can't get a BNIB within your budget, then by all means, check the pre-owned market....there are plenty of great buys out there.

If you bump up your budget slightly, you may be able to find a BNIB Sub-Date for $5K, or just shy of that.

Btw, ALL Rolex watches are a "keeper"....IMO.

landroverking · 10 March 2009, 07:08 AM

I love the GMT's and Speedmasters, If I could only have one watch it would be very hard to pick between the GMT and the Speedmaster.
Good luck!

jay

Chrisxx · 11 March 2009, 07:23 AM

Thanks guys, I am still keeping an eye out for deals, a used sub or GMT from a trusted dealer may be the way to go... still love the speedmaster though!
Chris

Troy · 11 March 2009, 08:49 AM

This one

planet ocean1.jpg

planet ocean2.jpg

planet ocean4.jpg

planet ocean10.jpg

planet ocean11.jpg

akhamdani · 11 March 2009, 09:52 PM

Welcome

.My vote is SUB-DATE.Classic,all time watch

.

6 March 2009, 12:48 AM	#1
Chrisxx Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Plymouth, Uk Posts: 125	Looking for a "keeper" watch Hello, I posted the below in the new member section, but it was suggested that it would get more feedback out here! I am looking to buy a "keeper" watch in the next couple of months so joined these forums to check out all things Rolex. Already had some great advice and friendly feedback on the discount situation for Rolex in the UK (and a top tip on Ernest Jones). My intention is to spend £3k (maybe up to £4k) on a watch (ideally, something robust that looks good both on a bracelet or strap), these are my current thoughts: GMT IIC Perfect watch, love the easylink bracelet, amazed by the price increases, would need to negotiate to get into price range Submariner Classic, but price is still creeping a little high Submariner No date Very Bond, but I am unsure of the hollow centre links PAM111 love it, shame there isn't a bracelet option, having said that I have tried on the new bracelet and to is too big for my wrist Omega Speedmaster love the history, considering the sapphire sandwich for robustness, find the bracelet with polished spacers a bit fussy though Breiting Superocean Great bracelet, but find the bezel a little busy... Any feedback on these watches of any sort would be welcomed! I have been checking out grey dealers (thebrandedwatchcompany.co.uk and deliciouswatches.co.uk), any advice or experiences would be welcomed. Also, any tips for good discount in the UK too! Best regards, Chris

6 March 2009, 01:03 AM	#2
Psmith "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Clive Location: Exoplanet Watch: spring-driven Posts: 38,856	Hi and welcome Well if it's going to be a keeper, then get into the GMT IIc while it's just about within reach. In some markets at least, I think Rolex are playing the "Daytona" supply/demand game with this watch (imho) Don't worry about hollow CLs - the Sub Date and Exp II also has them. Part of the original "tool watch" design and has outlived a few owners... Cheers __________________

6 March 2009, 02:43 AM	#4
mfer "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Real Name: Mik Location: USA Posts: 13,723	Well, I own three of your keepers! I'd keep them in the following order. 1. GMT IIc 2. Pam 111 3. Sub Date __________________ member#3242

6 March 2009, 07:27 AM	#7
Rebel "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: Dr Mark R Nail Location: New Albany Watch: Tudor Sub 75090 Posts: 8,241	I like and wear a White Face Explorer II. It's not on your list; but, thought I would mention it for you to consider. __________________ ------------------------------- Member of the Nylon Nation

7 March 2009, 05:17 AM	#17
topcat30093 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Tony Location: England Posts: 5,449	The GMT IIc is a lovely looking watch, but imo after owning one it would be a lot better if it had a brush finish to the bracelet. For me it would have to be the classic S/S sub with date. Although saying that, the one thing that does let it down is the clasp. Good hunting. __________________

6 March 2009, 01:11 AM	#3
Kirby Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Real Name: Adam Location: Chicago Posts: 104	If I were in your shoes, I'd go with either the GMT IIc or one of the Subs. I love my Submariner, and the hollow links don't bother me, but it does feel a little light compared to my Roadster. That's not necessarily a bad thing, just a little different. Any of those three watches will never go out of style, and will definitely turn into a "keeper".

6 March 2009, 05:17 AM	#5
champion5 Member Join Date: May 2008 Real Name: adam Location: erie, pa Watch: ss sub Posts: 187	sub date and/or superocean

6 March 2009, 07:23 AM	#6
Chrisxx Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Plymouth, Uk Posts: 125	Thanks, you comments are gratefully received. This is going to cause me some sleepless nights I can tell... I agree that a Rolex does seem to be the best keeper that will suit every occasion!

6 March 2009, 08:56 AM	#9
Chrisxx Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Plymouth, Uk Posts: 125	Mark, thanks for the recommend, I have checked it out, and its a handsome watch, something that I hadn't really looked at before. It is hard to believe that a watch so similar to the GMT is priced so differently. If they put a new style clasp with easy-link on it, I will be sold!! Thanks, Chris

6 March 2009, 09:03 AM	#10
chriseskew24 "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Christopher Location: fort lauderdale Watch: Bunches Posts: 1,860	1Sub/2GMT

6 March 2009, 01:57 PM	#11
cody p "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Canada Watch: Air-King 114200 Posts: 2,878	one of the rolexes you mention or the speedmaster.

6 March 2009, 02:14 PM	#12
BigHat Banned Join Date: Sep 2007 Real Name: Matt Location: Arlington, VA Watch: Lange One MP Posts: 4,043	You'll only know it's a keeper if you keep it. You can't expect others to tell you how you'll feel. You have done extensive work thus far narrowing the field. Take a final swing thorough the ADs to help you decide. Good luck to you. Stop by the for sale section and note that the posters of all those watches are selling what they thought were their "keepers." Just the way it is.

6 March 2009, 04:58 PM	#13
voltrader66 "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Darien Posts: 2	SS Sub Date...will never go out of style

6 March 2009, 08:37 PM	#14
jtvision Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Vancouver Watch: Seiko to Rolex Posts: 225	I was apprehensive about the hollow bracelet on the 16610. I mean, handling it you get the impression that it should be on a cheap $20 piece. Maybe it should. But it sits nicely on your wrist as the head is heavier preventing the bracelet from sliding around like a super jubilee does; which is nice on the sports watch IMO. However, I wish the clasp was that of the GMT-IIc with the thick flip lock. You'll laugh, but I have had a few bad dreams that the flip lock became contorted somehow or another- haha. Bracelet looks nicer then the Omega, and it is functional. GMT-IIc is snazzy. I just came around to it. I hadn't tired on the TT model until a few days ago; it got me!

6 March 2009, 09:41 PM	#15
gaopa "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: .. Watch: Rolex Explorer II Posts: 1,820	I have two keepers.... a Rolex white dial EXP II and an Omega Speedmaster. Cheers, Bill P.

9 March 2009, 04:57 AM	#18
PAMFanatic "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Singapore Posts: 12	classic S/S sub with date

10 March 2009, 05:45 AM	#19
Joey_V "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Joey Location: Dallas, TX Watch: SS Sub 16610 M Posts: 3,824	Sub or GMTIIC.... __________________ Current Rotation: Rolex Submariner Date (M) - 1/08, Rolex Milgauss GV (V) - 2/10, Rolex SS Black Daytona (V) - 6/10, Rolex GMTIIC (G) - 5/11, TAG Heuer Silverstone (286/1860) - 1/2015 Former-watches: Omega PO/2535.80/2254, TAG Carrera/F1x2/Monaco, Panerai 312K/292L Wish List: Panerai 270/505, Rolex SMURF, Rolex RG Daytona, Rolex DSSD

10 March 2009, 06:03 AM	#20
BLACK DIAMOND Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Real Name: Jeff Location: Los Angeles Watch: Black Diamond DD Posts: 285	Sub-Date. If you can't get a BNIB within your budget, then by all means, check the pre-owned market....there are plenty of great buys out there. If you bump up your budget slightly, you may be able to find a BNIB Sub-Date for $5K, or just shy of that. Btw, ALL Rolex watches are a "keeper"....IMO.

10 March 2009, 07:08 AM	#21
landroverking "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Real Name: Jay Location: TEXAS Watch: Daytona Posts: 7,648	I love the GMT's and Speedmasters, If I could only have one watch it would be very hard to pick between the GMT and the Speedmaster. Good luck! jay

11 March 2009, 07:23 AM	#22
Chrisxx Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Plymouth, Uk Posts: 125	Thanks guys, I am still keeping an eye out for deals, a used sub or GMT from a trusted dealer may be the way to go... still love the speedmaster though! Chris

11 March 2009, 08:49 AM	#23
Troy Banned Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Troy Location: Calgary, Alberta Watch: Tudor Sub. 7928 Posts: 1,275	This one planet ocean1.jpg planet ocean2.jpg planet ocean4.jpg planet ocean10.jpg planet ocean11.jpg

11 March 2009, 09:52 PM	#24
akhamdani Banned Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Home! Posts: 500	Welcome.My vote is SUB-DATE.Classic,all time watch.

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)