What is the best Rolex?

[derrondoc]

I was thinking the other day about what I'd consider the perfect Rolex. Does it exist? I know that it is subjective and all of our tastes are different. A common answer to this question is likely: What you like best! What talks to you! or other variations on that theme. But for some of us earlier in our journey it is what we can actually pick up from an AD.

Regardless, we all have our own journey and evolution of sorts of our likes and dislikes as we develop some experience with various watches. I love all of my Rolex and Tudor watches but all of them are a little different. None of them, so far, would I consider to be "perfect". I have a Submariner, GMT II, DJ41, Explorer on the Rolex side and a BB41 monochrome and a BB Chrono representing Tudor.

Personally I have grown to really enjoy the Jubilee bracelet (5 link on Tudor) more than the Oyster. I know that will be a mixed sentiment but that is me. However, the Rolex clasp on the Submariner and the T-fit clasp of Tudor are by far the easiest to live with IMO. I frequently adjust my bracelets and both the Rolex Glidelock and the Tudor T-fit are outstanding. Unfortunately, the Gridlock is not available on any Jubilee bracelet that I'm aware of currently. Clasp adjustment win goes to the Submariner but the bracelet win goes to the Jubilee or 5-link.

From a daily functional standpoint it is hard to beat the rotating bezel of a dive-watch. I find myself constantly using the rotating bezel on my Submariner and
Black Bay. It is just so easy to use and the tactile "fun" of the Submariner is really hard to beat. The BB is nice but is definitely not as refined as the Sub. Bezel action and usefulness goes to the Submariner.

Aesthetically it is hard to beat the visual appeal of any of the GMT II options. Whether it is BLRO, BLNR, GRNR or VTNR - all of them are more visually interesting that the SS Submariner options. There is a place for an all black Submariner for sure and it is an icon. The LV Submariner may be a strong contender for the best Rolex - great clasp, color for interest but I still prefer the Jubilee or 5-link.

Although I really like my Black Bay Chrono, a Daytona it is not. Someday I will hopefully pick one up but on the surface the Daytona suffers the same issues in terms of bracelet - polished center links are not my favorite and no Glidelock clasp. The PM models on OF might be the sweet-spot but there is just something about a 35k watch on a rubber strap without a bracelet option that is a hurdle for me.

My BB Chrono, although thick, wears really well because of the 5-link bracelet and T-fit clasp. My Submariner is so fun to wear - love the bezel action and clasp. My GMT II on jubilee wears so well - it would be perfect with an adjustable clasp and sub style bezel. My BB monochrome is a great watch - love the 5-link bracelet and T-fit clasp but the bezel is not in the same league as the Sub.

In summary, all of my watches I enjoy and are really nice but none of them are quite perfect. Until I have time to try out a Daytona, I'd say my "best" watch would be a mixture of a Submariner Bezel and clasp with a GMT II bracelet on Jubilee. On the Tudor side they are offering a 5-link with T-fit on most new releases. Is it possible Rolex would ever add in a version of the T-fit/Glidelock clasp on the Jubilee bracelets on the sports models?

This is just the overactive mind pondering really important society questions and a distraction from other less meaningful issues we face. Thoughts?

[the dark knight]

Best is obviously subjective, and even then my opinion on this has changed over the years multiple times.

My favorite is prob a steel Sub Date. Over 25 years or so in this hobby, it's the watch that I always end up going back to.

But to me Rolex at its essence is a daily wear, GADA, tool watch. And with that as a baseline, I think the best Rolex is the Explorer I. I think I've owned all the main steel Rolex models except the Milgauss and the Sky Dweller. The only one I had zero qualms about wearing in ANY situation was the Explorer I. No issues with a suit whatsoever. I've only worn a tux maybe 2 times in my life, but would have no issues wearing it if the situation arose again.

It's also one of the few Rolex watches I've felt comfortable wearing to the gym and roughing up.

And of course, everything in between. So yea, I guess Explorer I would be my pick.

[ChronoZach]

Which is best for you, it can be many things in different ways.

Cheers,

[Calatrava r]

As said here many times before, the one on your wrist.

[Tools]

"Best" is subjective. More often than not, best and most-popular, are conflated. Rolex has a variety of designs to meet our aesthetics, but they only have a couple of different movements that power them all.

Best, naturally, is the one I have.

[KatGirl]

Originally Posted by Calatrava r

As said here many times before, the one on your wrist.

Agree with this! Whichever one Is on my wrist. Right now, it is my Explorer.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[fsprow]

A Sub without Glidelock. Ugly.

[subtona]

My 2¢
Either the
14060m
Or the
16750

With lugholes.

Each are supremely capable for their specific function. The lugholes offer limitless strap options.

[2loaded]

The best Rolex is the one on your wrist ! Cheers

[psifox]

The best varies,everyone has their own personal choice as the best but I’d say anyone from the Rolex Sub family.

[John Doyle]

I reading at the end of the title but the best is the one you like most.

[Triggerfish]

My "dream watch" (ROLEX) has changed over the years.. it's what you currently love to see/feel/view on your wrist. As someone that loves mechanical watches, I feel privileged to feel so good about something that many of my friends take for granted. To me, there's nothing like my favorite piece being on my wrist at a special time and/or event, like it is a part of me and along this ride I call "life".

This certainly is a tough question but it looks like you have already thought this one through...

[Matty99365]

40mm Sub ND

[Bazil]

Daytona - any …

[geoach]

the best.......... is a rolex that was handed down generations and wore daily...........I think that's what they are meant to be

[SS Oyster]

The one that "sings to you most" ... those the words of one of our since-passed TRF members from years ago.

[travisb]

There's no wrong answer. It's whatever's best for you.

[zengineer]

Best at what?

Having a favorite is normal. Declaring "best" just seems arrogant.

What do you value most? Versatility?, Bling?, Function/Features?, Ruggedness?, Value (relative to other overpriced trinkets)?

[HL65]

The one you wear the most and get most enjoyment from.

[Daveh3196]

Originally Posted by the dark knight

Best is obviously subjective, and even then my opinion on this has changed over the years multiple times.

My favorite is prob a steel Sub Date. Over 25 years or so in this hobby, it's the watch that I always end up going back to.

But to me Rolex at its essence is a daily wear, GADA, tool watch. And with that as a baseline, I think the best Rolex is the Explorer I. I think I've owned all the main steel Rolex models except the Milgauss and the Sky Dweller. The only one I had zero qualms about wearing in ANY situation was the Explorer I. No issues with a suit whatsoever. I've only worn a tux maybe 2 times in my life, but would have no issues wearing it if the situation arose again.


It's also one of the few Rolex watches I've felt comfortable wearing to the gym and roughing up.

And of course, everything in between. So yea, I guess Explorer I would be my pick.

Agreed. I have a few steel sport models in my collection but the 214270 is the one watch I can grab on my way out the door and know it will go with anything in every situation. Perfection.

[ROLEX MAN]

If only one: DAYTONA

[HogwldFLTR]

Originally Posted by HL65

The one you wear the most and get most enjoyment from.

Amen!

[enjoythemusic]

AI Says:

There isn't a single "best" Rolex timepiece, as it largely depends on personal preferences and needs. However, some of the most iconic and popular Rolex watches include:

Rolex Submariner: Known for its robustness and versatility, the Submariner is a favorite among divers and watch enthusiasts. It's also famous for its appearances in James Bond movies.

Rolex Daytona: This chronograph watch is celebrated for its association with motorsports and has been worn by racing legends like Paul Newman.

Rolex Datejust: A classic and elegant watch, the Datejust is known for its automatic date-changing function and has been worn by notable figures such as Winston Churchill and Michael Jordan.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual: A timeless piece with a simple yet sophisticated design, the Oyster Perpetual is perfect for everyday wear.

Each of these models has its own unique features and history, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Do any of these catch your eye?

[Dan Pierce]

Mine, of course.
dP

[1William]

For me, the Submariner.

[rmlovett1]

If a particular Rolex satisfies you and makes you happy when you wear it….

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by enjoythemusic

AI Says:

There isn't a single "best" Rolex timepiece, as it largely depends on personal preferences and needs. However, some of the most iconic and popular Rolex watches include:

Rolex Submariner: Known for its robustness and versatility, the Submariner is a favorite among divers and watch enthusiasts. It's also famous for its appearances in James Bond movies.

Rolex Daytona: This chronograph watch is celebrated for its association with motorsports and has been worn by racing legends like Paul Newman.

Rolex Datejust: A classic and elegant watch, the Datejust is known for its automatic date-changing function and has been worn by notable figures such as Winston Churchill and Michael Jordan.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual: A timeless piece with a simple yet sophisticated design, the Oyster Perpetual is perfect for everyday wear.

Each of these models has its own unique features and history, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Do any of these catch your eye?

Wow, the GMT doesn’t even get a mention

[lord91]

I doubt the answers in this thread will be anything different than the ones from literally the same thread from 5 days ago

[worldofoyster]

The one on your wrist.

But to answer your specific question, the Sub date gets my vote

[thenewrick]

OP 41 Silver. Cheapest for it's size, most functional, most comfortable, most versatile. Best all arounder.