Questions on the GMT vs Submariner debate

[Garys]

I'm getting real close to buying another watch but after reading as much as I can in TRF I'm more confused than enlightened.

I've narrowed my search to three watches. I really like the polar Explorer II so I'll probably buy a cheap one for everyday wear, max $3k.

But this brings me to my problem. I really like the GMT(Black) and the Submariner style watch and am seriously considering buying one as well.

So my questions are...

I don't see much difference between the GMT & Sub except cosmetically. What am I missing? Don't the both have the same movement?

Why does the GMT typically sell for more? (I'm assuming similar watches, stainless vs stainless.)

I see references to changing the bezels of the GMT. Is this something that is easy to do or do I need to have a watchmaker do it?

I assume that the GMT will maintain it's value better than the Sub as it seems to be more popular?

My budget for the GMT/Sub purchase is about $5k max but I could spend a few bucks more if I had to but every time I look at eBay I get more and more confused about pricing. What the heck makes one GMT/Sub worth $5k and another $4k? There appear to be a large spread in pricing for what appears to be very similar watches.

Before everyone tells me to buy from a TRF seller I plan on contacting several TRF sellers before looking elsewhere.

Thanks in advance

Gary

[p_mcgee]

As for GMTs, the average ones for sale tend to cost more if they are a newer series, have no lug holes on the case, solid end links, and/or a complete set with box/papers. Sellers typically ask for a high price if the GMT is new in box or is a M/Z series with 3186 movement. Prices vary a great deal.

Sorry I can't comment on sub pricing...don't really follow those.

[Speed]

No difference between the GMT & Sub???

Well, the GMT has the....uh...GMT function.

Some folks change the bezel insert on the GMT themselves...others have their watchmaker do it. I personally would not do it myself, nor would i do it often.

Here's a tip. Stop looking at eBay. Seriously. Have you read all the horror stories that new Rolex buyers have experienced at eBay? Please do a little searching on TRF for some stories. Check the Watch Out section.

Lots of reasons for different prices on one GMT Vs another. Some folks pay more for the 3186 movement...Stick font dial...Vintage etc.

[Tools]

As mentioned, they do not have the same movement.. The GMT even has 4 hands as one keeps 24 hr time, hence, the entirely different bezels.

Also, you have your facts backwards.. The Sub, historically, is a more popular model and sells for more. It also tends to have a higher value over time.. The past few years are an exception since the GMT has had the ceramic bezel and solid bracelet since 2005, and the SS Sub just received that update this year..

But now the planets are back in alignment..........

[sappie66]

1. GMT function (meaning different movements ie 3185/86 vs 3135);
2. Dive bezel vs 24 hours bezel;
3. Water resistance (100m vs 300m).

3 rather big differences off the top of my head.

One is a diver. One is a pilot's watch (time zones).

[Singslinger]

I believe the new GMT IIc (ceramic) is marginally cheaper than the new ceramic Sub. Either that or their list prices are almost identical.

The Sub's case is stronger so as to enable it to descend to a greater depth of 1,000ft versus 300ft for the GMT.

The GMT's bezel is bi-directional and shows 24 hr time while the Sub's bezel is uni-directional and shows elapsed time.

The pre-ceramic GMTs came in 3 bezel choices - all black, red/black ("Coke'') or red/blue ("Pepsi''). You could switch these around provided you had spares. The current ceramic GMT's bezel comes in only one colour - black.



Hope this helps.