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Old 27 July 2008, 05:20 AM   #1
dukerules
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Help me choose

Brand new member here, though I've been lurking for more than a year. Have wanted a Rolex forever, and finally have the funds to make my first Rolex purchase. I'm trying to decide between the SS Sub date, Sea Dweller, and GMT IIc. I don't dive, and I don't do too much international travel (though I follow European football and having the extra hand to keep me updated on match times would be useful). I like the no cyclops look of the Sea Dweller a lot, though it's a little top heavy (even though I suspect I'd quickly get used to it). I'd like to avoid "bling" as much as possible, which leads me to put the GMT IIc at the bottom of my list. While I don't care too much about the investment potential of this purchase, part of me thinks it would be very cool to have the last of this model of Sea dweller, before the SDDS comes out. Does anyone think the current Sea Dwellers will appreciate any in value after they're no longer made? Any insight or thoughts about deciding between these 3 great watches would be much appreciated.
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Old 27 July 2008, 05:25 AM   #2
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Quote:
Originally Posted by dukerules View Post
Brand new member here, though I've been lurking for more than a year. Have wanted a Rolex forever, and finally have the funds to make my first Rolex purchase. I'm trying to decide between the SS Sub date, Sea Dweller, and GMT IIc. I don't dive, and I don't do too much international travel (though I follow European football and having the extra hand to keep me updated on match times would be useful). I like the no cyclops look of the Sea Dweller a lot, though it's a little top heavy (even though I suspect I'd quickly get used to it). I'd like to avoid "bling" as much as possible, which leads me to put the GMT IIc at the bottom of my list. While I don't care too much about the investment potential of this purchase, part of me thinks it would be very cool to have the last of this model of Sea dweller, before the SDDS comes out. Does anyone think the current Sea Dwellers will appreciate any in value after they're no longer made? Any insight or thoughts about deciding between these 3 great watches would be much appreciated.
Welcome! How about the new COSC non-date Sub? A very balanced and clean watch i.m.o. No cyclops. But the 'old' Sea Dweller is nice too. Not sure about that one appreciating in value, it always has been a watch that lived in the shadow of the Sub. I still have to get very used to the new 'uber Sea Dweller'
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Old 27 July 2008, 05:35 AM   #3
dukerules
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In my line of work I date forms approximately 50-60 times a day, so I need a date function. Other than that I love the look of the no date sub.
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Old 27 July 2008, 05:36 AM   #4
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I bought the GMTIIc (SS) this past week, and I cannot could not have made a better decision. The new features on the watch (i.e. ceramic bezel, new clasp, solid bracelet links, blue spring) will not be available on other SS professional models (except SDDS) for at least a couple of years, maybe more. Who knows how much they will cost by then? That was a major deciding factor for me - plus the GMT just looked and felt right to me.

Go with your gut - all are fine watches. My opinion is merely to say you will not be disappointed with the GMTIIc.

(written from Mt. Airy, NC - saw you are in CH)
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Old 27 July 2008, 05:38 AM   #5
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In my line of work I date forms approximately 50-60 times a day, so I need a date function. Other than that I love the look of the no date sub.
Calendar on the wall?
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Old 27 July 2008, 05:42 AM   #6
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Welcome to the forums!

My vote is for the IIc, which I think combines the best of everything Rolex has to offer. Put the watch on your wrist and have a look in the mirror. You'll know what suits you best.
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Old 27 July 2008, 06:03 AM   #7
nko51
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SS Sub date! Most practical.
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Old 27 July 2008, 06:39 AM   #8
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Welcome.

Which reference is always such a personal decision. Any of the models you mention will give a lifetime of performance and satisfaction.

The Submariner date is perhaps the most iconic and prolific of the ones mentioned. I would guess it's the most popular sport reference and with good reason. The watch has the ability to go anywhere and do anything.

While we're all different I find the slightly thinner case vs. the SD fits me better, but again it's all personal. The cyclops is such a Rolex trademark though I admit there are times when I prefer the clean look of the Sea-Dweller.

The SD was/is an outgrowth of the Sub. and as such is IMHO the most "professional" of the sport offerings in that it was purpose built for the saturation diver. As such I've always felt it presents the most utilitarian, business look. A look I like.

SD fans are extremely loyal to their chosen reference (with good reason) and one has to admit fewer SDs are seen in the wild than Subs. A little heavier, a little taller, with proper sizing it "rides" just fine.

Lets compare,







Of course if you want this the SD is the only choice,



That you don't dive isn't an issue. Most of the people that wear either reference don't either. LOL!

The GMT in many ways is a much different animal. Of course the functions of the two styles are geared to different avenues, but again IMHO the IIc moves the traditional Rolex sport watch farther into the bling arena. The maxi-dial is fantastic as is the ceramic insert. I LOVE THE WATCH. But, while the bracelet and clasp are considered improvements over the old (I never had a problem with them), the polished centerlinks depart from the traditional "tool watch" look.







With it's flatter caseback the IIc is a very comfortable watch and the solid centerlinks do offset the added weight, but I would put it closer to the SD as opposed to the Sub.



Good luck.
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Old 27 July 2008, 06:52 AM   #9
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Hey man welcome to TRF.

I don't mean to flame here but I don't understand why you'd want a bunch of strangers to choose a Rolex for you.

I'm sorry but if I'm gonna lay down $6000 on a timepiece, I'd want it to be personal and I would want it to be the one my heart desires. Why choose something that makes other's happy.

My advice, try them on and buy the watch that sings to you. You'll know which one you want when it goes on your wrist...if you still want the others, buy em later as many members here obviously do.

Good luck.

J
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Old 27 July 2008, 07:50 AM   #10
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I wanted a chronometer with a date to track two time zones so I went with the EXPII and removed the Cyclops:


Works well for me.

Fr. John+
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Old 27 July 2008, 08:00 AM   #11
Taffi Abernathy
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Originally Posted by Jimbits76 View Post
Hey man welcome to TRF.

I don't mean to flame here but I don't understand why you'd want a bunch of strangers to choose a Rolex for you.

I'm sorry but if I'm gonna lay down $6000 on a timepiece, I'd want it to be personal and I would want it to be the one my heart desires. Why choose something that makes other's happy.

My advice, try them on and buy the watch that sings to you. You'll know which one you want when it goes on your wrist...if you still want the others, buy em later as many members here obviously do.

Good luck.

J
In the world of psychology, it is known that when someone claims to be torn between choices, if that person is truly honest with themselves, then they will admit to being ever so slightly more drawn to one choice over another. I think Jim has given you an excellent piece of advice.
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Old 27 July 2008, 08:27 AM   #12
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This is a decision with no loser........

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Old 27 July 2008, 08:40 AM   #13
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just out of interest guys, what is the deviation of your new GMT2c Atlanta ?
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Old 27 July 2008, 08:45 AM   #14
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Mike brings great information to the table to arm you with knowledge when searching for your timepiece. There are some wonderful Rolex watches out there. I assure you, one will smile back at you and that is the one that will be yours. Enjoy your search and learn all you can. Good luck and keep us posted when you buy.
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Old 27 July 2008, 08:48 AM   #15
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I've had a GMT II, Sub and now a Sea Dweller. I am totally taken by the Dweller and yes, I think it will make an already exclusive watch even more sought after once the current stocks are gone.

Don't worry about the bulk of the Dweller either, you soon get used to it and it's all part of the appeal.

Good luck and don't forget to post pictures of your choice.

Cheers - Simon
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Old 27 July 2008, 10:06 AM   #16
swatty
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Have you tried on all the watches on your list ? If not , do it and your decision will be easy.
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Old 27 July 2008, 11:45 AM   #17
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For me, I almost bought the GMT IIc (ended up with a Milgauss). I love the updated bracelet and polished center links; I was not a fan of the old clasp either. Guess it's the new Rolex look vs. the old Rolex look. And while I don't care for the cyclops...the GMT IIc is one amazing watch.

But you won't be disappointed in whichever watch you choose. You'll be staring at your wrist non-stop for a week (and just slightly less than non-stop after that)!

...let us know what you decide
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Old 27 July 2008, 04:55 PM   #18
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SS Sub is

likely more comfortable than SeaDweller.
SD may appreciate a little after its production run is over but since there are many out there, yours won't appreciate much unless you keep in BNIB then a slightly more appreciation maybe likely.
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Old 27 July 2008, 10:15 PM   #19
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Welcome to TRF! Mike has sure given you all the information you'll need to make your decision. As for me I wear a Sub date most all of the time. I'm not a big SD fan, it's just too big & heavy for me but no matter what any of us say, once you get them all in front of you & try them on, you can see then which one "smiles" back at you. That's the watch that will make you happy no matter what advice you get here. All are good choices. Good Luck!

Duke fan in Chapel Hill!!!!!!! WOW! You are living dangerously ......
Good to see another NC TRF'er on board!
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Old 27 July 2008, 10:24 PM   #20
dukerules
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Yes, I'm surrounded by Tar Heels out here, including my own wife, but Duke does pay the bills...

I'll tell you, I've tried on the Sub Date and SD (not the GMT IIc). The Sub felt more comfortable initially, but again I think I could get used to the size and weight of the SD.

Thanks for all the input here. I'll likely head back to my AD the week after next to try them on, and maybe make a purchase.
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