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Old 27 August 2017, 12:42 AM   #1
F308gt4
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Thinking about a BLNR, but...

I've been daily wearing my Sub-c for around 3 years now, and am thinking about getting a BLNR to replace it, as the GMT function could come in handy. I don't really need it, but it's more of a want.

If I were to do it, I'd likely sell the Sub. Theoretically, shouldn't be an issue, except for the following concerns:

1) Daily wear watch, so its got dings, scratches, etc. One ding in particular is pretty noticeable.

2) Sub is no longer original- I replaced the seconds hand with a Rolex Red hand (purchased from a trusted seller on the forums), and the case back with a display back from Custom watch concepts. These were installed by a reputable watchmaker (again, a forum member). I do still have the original parts, as well as receipts, manuals, etc.

3) I'd likely want to keep the band, as I prefer brushed over the PCL of the BLNR, which means I'd only be selling the watch head. I suppose I could get the PCL's brushed, but am thinking that for the long run, it would be nice to have an extra band.

So, with all that, I'm guessing I probably won't get a whole lot on the trade in. I know people like DavidSW, etc will buy used watches, but not sure about used watches with unoriginal parts, and possibly without a band.

I'm afraid that if I list it on the forum, it may take a looong time to sell, as it seems most people here expect a perfect watch and would not be interested in a well worn watch.

I'm wondering if I should really go through the hassle. I'm guessing the Sub will be a difficult sell (or if sold, will not bring in much). The BLNR isn't cheap, and is a want, not a need. It would be nice to offset the cost with the cost of the sub, but it looks like there wont be much of an offset.

What would you guys do if you were me? Other alternatives that I haven't thought about?

Thanks!
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Old 27 August 2017, 12:51 AM   #2
traf
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Keep the sub. Add the BLNR when you can. The loss you’ll take on the sub won’t make it a worthwhile move IMO


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Old 27 August 2017, 12:54 AM   #3
MrInternational
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Keep the sub. Add the BLNR when you can. The loss you’ll take on the sub won’t make it a worthwhile move IMO


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+1 good luck!


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Old 27 August 2017, 12:55 AM   #4
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I would put the Sub back to standard spec and move it on complete. After that you buy the BLNR and brush the PCL's if you wanted later.
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Old 27 August 2017, 12:56 AM   #5
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Keep the sub. Add the BLNR when you can. The loss you’ll take on the sub won’t make it a worthwhile move IMO


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+2.
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Old 27 August 2017, 01:16 AM   #6
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Guess it comes down to the delta between how much it will cost to replace the hands and caseback versus the discount you'll receive for a modded Sub. Agree with others. Get the BLNR and brush out the PCLs. I can't imagine a lot of buyers would be interested in just the head of a current Sub.
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Old 27 August 2017, 01:36 AM   #7
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I would put the Sub back to standard spec and move it on complete. After that you buy the BLNR and brush the PCL's if you wanted later.
My thoughts exactly Sir. The Custom built Sub must be restored back to default settings. After that send the Sub to a Rolex Service Centre for a full authentication process and complete servicing, Sub regulated to COSC standards. All these steps are necessary to avoid legal implications should the buyer file a lawsuit against you
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Old 27 August 2017, 01:45 AM   #8
MCO1
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One of each is in order, they compliment one another and the Sub is made for you which is fine but will be a "dog" on the market.
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Old 27 August 2017, 01:58 AM   #9
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It's definitely buyer beware as you never know what happened to a watch before you received it. I personally would never consider a Sub with the history that you've described. No offense, but it's a Frankenwatch, imho. I'm sure it looks awesome - but would bet that you'd take a huge bath on selling it as is & sans band.
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Old 27 August 2017, 02:17 AM   #10
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I would put the Sub back to standard spec and move it on complete. After that you buy the BLNR and brush the PCL's if you wanted later.
This, or add the BLNR if possible.
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Old 27 August 2017, 02:22 AM   #11
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You've gotten good advice here already. If you're determined to sell that Sub, have the hands and caseback restored to original and send it to Rolex for full service and polish. That will provide the buyer with a new 2 year warranty and the watch will be in as good a shape cosmetically as possible. While some here are dead set against polishing, this is a modern reference and in the real word it's not going to be an issue.

If you want brushed links on your BLNR just get that bracelet brushed. Don't swap. The clasps are different and anyone buying a SubC will expect glidelock.
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Old 27 August 2017, 02:23 AM   #12
rushca01
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Keep the sub as your daily and save for the BLNR.
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Old 27 August 2017, 02:31 AM   #13
Uhtred59
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You have made the sub your own, the cost to return to original might indicate it is best to save for the GMT II
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Old 27 August 2017, 02:42 AM   #14
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As someone that has sold a number of Rolex watches in the past (and regrets selling any of them), I will echo what others have already said. Keep the Sub and save for the GMT.
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Old 27 August 2017, 02:49 AM   #15
watchmework
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Like others have said, given the modifications you've made to the Sub and what it would take to change the parts back you're likely better off holding onto it. Save up for the BLNR and add it to the collection if you really want it.

You mentioned the GMT function could come in handy but don't really need it. Why do you want the BLNR then? You're already planning on brushing the PCLs, are you really dead set on getting the GMT?
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Old 27 August 2017, 03:47 AM   #16
F308gt4
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Not dead set on a GMT, just think it would come in handy when I travel (maybe 1 trip/month).

The only issue with keeping the sub is that it would just sit in a drawer. I'm mostly a one watch guy, with the exception of a gshock that I use when exercising. I have one other nice watch, an old longines that belonged to my dad, and I rarely ever wear it.

If I replace the Sub with a BLNR, I would wear the BLNR daily, and the sub would just sit in a drawer. Seems like a shame.
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Old 27 August 2017, 04:35 AM   #17
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Old 27 August 2017, 04:53 AM   #18
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Keep the sub as your daily and save for the BLNR.
This
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Old 27 August 2017, 06:27 AM   #19
danbrew
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The BLNR is a nice watch, but it essentially a sub with an extra hand. Imho. I travel a ton and am often in multiple time zones in the same week. Could I just take a moment and figure out what time it is at home? Sure. I set the GMT hand to home and the hour hand to local time. It's helpful, but nothing I couldn't figure out on my own in a second or two. Having said all that, once a month? Yeah, you could figure out the home time pretty easily.

I'll echo what everyone else has said, though. Buy the BLNR and keep the sub. It's nice to have both. ��
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Old 27 August 2017, 06:36 AM   #20
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Some ADs offer 0% financing for a few years. If you really want the BLNR and have a good cash flow and some savings now, you may want to consider the 0% financing option.
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Old 27 August 2017, 06:42 AM   #21
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+1 good luck!


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+2

Also, what vman said about 0% financing


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Old 27 August 2017, 07:26 AM   #22
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Earlier this year, I was seriously considering selling my BLNR in order to buy a Sub. I talked to my wife about what I was thinking and she was surprised that I was even considering it. She knew how much I loved the BLNR and when I thought about what she said, I realized she was right.

Instead of selling my BLNR, I saved and moved some money around so I could purchase the Sub. While the Sub has been my go-to watch lately, I'm so glad I still have the BLNR.

As awesome as the BLNR is, I imagine there will come a time when you will miss your Sub. You say you are a one watch kind of guy, but I think you might enjoy having the old Sub to slip onto your wrist once in a while. Besides, as others have said, you have given the Sub your personalized touch. I'd keep it.

Too many people take the easy road and flip their watches in order to acquire the next one faster. Many have regretted that decision. Be patient and save for the BLNR. If you get the BLNR and a year or two later you never wear the old Sub, then you can consider selling it.
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Old 27 August 2017, 08:25 AM   #23
george023
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I'm in the same boat. I have a Sub and considering the batman. If I do I'll probably put it on a rubber B strap with the blue accent or an Everest strap. This will change it up as a weekend watch and I get the GMT function when I travel.

So in conclusion, save for the batman and keep the Sub.


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Old 27 August 2017, 09:18 AM   #24
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I would put the Sub back to standard spec and move it on complete. After that you buy the BLNR and brush the PCL's if you wanted later.
This.
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Old 27 August 2017, 10:16 AM   #25
kingofthehill
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I would suggest having the submariner fully serviced by RSC, who will replace all of the unoriginal parts, and then selling it whole before purchasing the BLNR and polishing the centre links, if they really bother you, or resisting the urge at least initially whilst you adjust.
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Old 27 August 2017, 01:44 PM   #26
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The BLNR is a nice watch, but it essentially a sub with an extra hand. Imho. I travel a ton and am often in multiple time zones in the same week. Could I just take a moment and figure out what time it is at home? Sure. I set the GMT hand to home and the hour hand to local time. It's helpful, but nothing I couldn't figure out on my own in a second or two. Having said all that, once a month? Yeah, you could figure out the home time pretty easily.

I'll echo what everyone else has said, though. Buy the BLNR and keep the sub. It's nice to have both. ��
I thought the whole idea of a GMT was to avoid having to calculate.
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Old 27 August 2017, 10:21 PM   #27
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Old 27 August 2017, 10:24 PM   #28
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It kinda sounds like the sub is already the right watch for you.

If you really need the GMT function, I'd try to save for the BLNR and add rather than flip. I think you'll miss the Sub.
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Old 27 August 2017, 10:25 PM   #29
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Quote:
Originally Posted by rushca01 View Post
Keep the sub as your daily and save for the BLNR.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Uhtred59 View Post
You have made the sub your own, the cost to return to original might indicate it is best to save for the GMT II
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rhone1 View Post
As someone that has sold a number of Rolex watches in the past (and regrets selling any of them), I will echo what others have already said. Keep the Sub and save for the GMT.
Agree with the above.
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Old 27 August 2017, 10:39 PM   #30
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The best solution is simply adding the BLNR.
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