Guys relax it’s not that bad. Sometimes woman just know what’s best. As guys we do stupid shit and without them we’re a lost soul. Plus I’m sure if Charlie wanted to he could buy a Rolex. It’s just going to be WW3 in his house when he does.
The gatekeeper of my watch collection is the Gshock Square. No matter how much i want certain watches, the Gshock always reminds me that it will get the most wristtime anyway, as it suits my lifestyle the best. So its very hard to justify any new (pricy) purchases.
What's odd about all this "Lug bitchin'" is that people don't understand that this is the first generation of 6 digit Ceramics so why is being compared to the last generation of 5 digit Aluminums...in other words, the super-case is just the beginning (rough and tumble), not the end!
@@MrThehardway that’s just pure speculation, that the ‘next generation’ will have thinner lugs. He’s talking about facts and what you can buy today, not speculating about the future.
I've started to like aluminum bezels more than uber shiny ceramic or sapphire. Looks warm and classic, more tool-like, not as fancy to be sure. And I totally agree about those macho lugs. Overkill.
Bought a previous generation used 16610 Stainless Steel Submariner with box & papers in mint condition for $4,000USD around 8 yrs ago & it is now worth $7,000USD.
375 dollars per year. About 9% per year. Sure, for a watch...but it needs to be put inn perspective. If you're not buying for investment, it's a good surprise, better than the other way around for sure. But to speak to those who " invest " on it, check out gold and silver....by far.
Well I’d know I’d feel slow knowing I paid for something people thinks fake when I could of got a high end rep and literally been in the same situation with more money in my pocket lol
@@mrban1419 Then you're clearly missing the point. If it's that important to you what other people think, you're lacking self-esteem. If someone asks if my Rolex is real, I tell them it isn't, because if they need to ask, they don't need to know.
Too many comments saying they wouldn’t get a Rolex because of their wife etc.; fellas if your wife is holding you back from doing what you want, you aren’t in a relationship with someone who will pump you up to go for the things you want in life. The last thing my future wife will ever do is tell me I can’t spend money on a watch, car, guitar, etc. Because they’ll motivate me and push me to become more successful and eventually acquire the things I want. : )
I bought this model in 2013 as a high end piece for myself I still have it and I rotate it for special occasions and still love the look...I understand the reviewers point and Rolex should have kept the old design in at the time but I think this was new territory for them...but regardless of the review I still love mine and I don't regret purchasing it.
I agree! This is one of the few watch channels I still subscribe to. I lost my love of buying, wearing and trading cool brands after being brainwashed by the groupthink of watchsnob channels that make you think you have to own Rolex to enjoy wristwatch collecting. I'm back home again!
I am totally with you on the fat lugs. Any "fat-lug" Sub is not the perfect aesthetic. The thinner ones are. Even if they don't have all of the newest features. The only must-have feature for the previous versions (in my opinion) is a sapphire crystal. I don't own one yet, but if I were buying right now - it would be a 16613. Who knows, maybe they will slim the lugs back down for "retro" look someday.
Don't waste your money!! some 20 to 30 years down the line Rolex won't service it for you. "No spare parts for your vintage watch". Personal experience with them on a 1950s watch in 1980.
Give me an omega any day. I'd only get a Rolex sub if I can find an affordable vintage model. Other than that I'd prefer a Tudor or the milgauss if its got to be a rolex.
@@alexandercrush Owning a multi thousand dollar watch without a house in the hills means you’re a poser? Imagine being someone’s skull being that thick 💀💀 couldn’t be me
@@minigxns5278 Yeah it does. Why would anyone buy a watch that expensive without being able to afford a Mansion. If you can't afford a Mansion you shouldn't be wasting money on overpriced watches that don't mean anything.
I had this all stainless GMT-Master II, absolutely gorgeous. I also met this girl, also a beautiful young lady. I have literally not seen either since. :(
You're right. I really love Rolex, but they are highly skewed against the market. They are tool watches (and damn good ones), but somewhere along the way, people started paying high end horology prices from them. It's basically wrong. And now Rolex are playing artificial scarcity games to further inflate the price bubble. Good that you're seeing through the hype.
Richard Northwood there is no evidence that Rolex is involved in artificial scarcity games. And Rolex pre-owned prices were very good even 3-4 years ago when sports models were relatively plentiful. If it were a price bubble we’d have seen a correction over the years, which hasn’t happened.
Rolexs predicament has been known for many years. Just because a correction hasn't happened, it doesn't mean that people aren't paying excessive amounts for something. There may be evidence in dealers behavior. Why is Tudor being pushed so hard? Is it because they are being given more production scale?
That's right. Price gouging. Just tool watches for tools. No AR coating (barring an ugly cyclops). No display case back. Ugly lugs. Hilariously skinny bracelet. They're a joke, but sheeple will be sheeple.
@@ZCT808 It's widely known that Rolex have been restricting supply of stainless steel sports models for around 17-18 months. The reason is a matter of speculation. However, on my travels I've found a couple of Rolex dealers who have had indications from Rolex that the main reason is to starve the grey market. It's probably the most plausible explanation.
@@sirbuftontufton5846 I think this is a perfect storm - the luxury watch market went through a mini recession after the Chinese anti-corruption push. I think Rolex want to maintain their scarcity and keep value high. I suppose restricting production is less wasteful than Cartier who destroyed £400m worth of watches in May last year. And Burberry who destroyed £28m worth of designer goods.
@No name ok so you are saying the Mr. X investor will not work? Ya, She knows if I even think of buying a new watch. I should belong to "watch anonymous".
I agree with everything in this video. Being in the 99%, I wonder how long it would take for me get over the fact that I spent so much ($10k here in the U.S. on the grey market) on a single watch. True, it is a brilliant watch. I guess I'd be spend many nights wondering about that decision. Even if I made more money, I couldn't justify pulling the trigger on one. And, I can justify a lot of things in my mind.
Listen, everything is relative. If you are someone who would have to lie awake at night pondering the decision, then the answer is that it is not the watch for you. Having spent my career owning businesses, I rode the roller coaster my whole life. During periods when money is rolling in nicely, you don't lose one wink of sleep over the coming or going of 10 or 20 grand. THAT is when you are the target market for Rolex. Conversely, during lean times...you have a lot better uses for 10 or 20 grand and then...you are NOT Rolex' target market. Some people spend their entire lives on one side or the other. I was not one of those people, so I understand both sides. This is why I can report that the old adage is true: "If you have to ask..." That is no insult, as I have had to tell myself "no" during lean times, throughout my career.
I work with someone who owns a Rolex . I seen him wearing it and I complimented him on it. He said, "I was young and stupid. I was in love with Rolex, and I wanted one in the worst way, and that's how I got one. In the worst way.' Someone was selling one. The owner said "I'm letting it go, because it was his father's. It had to many bad feelings with the watch. Sure, It needed a little work, but that wouldn't be hard. So he was going to let it go cheap." So, he buys it, and it stopped working the next day. He took it to a watch maker, and he said, "You were cheated." He got it running, but it lost twenty minutes everyday. After six months, he noticed how bad the watch was. It was constantly in the shop. He went to better watch maker, and he said it's not fixable, well not fixable by him." He put a Seikio movement in it, and it's fine now.
@Steve Clark Glad you got your dream watch. I can't get a Rolex as my wife will have something to say about that.. But I do have an Omega Seamaster that I like very much. Ironically my wife bought it for me years ago. Lol.
I bought and wore a Seamaster for 6 years or so and not 1 person ever seemed to notice. It was comfortable as heck but I sold it and bought a Seiko skx009 Pepsi dial and I love it. Keeps decent time and people compliment me all the time….go figure
Always wanted a Porsche 911 always said I would buy one if I ever had the money. A friend got one out for a weekend thinking of buying it and my dream died that weekend. Just wasn't anything like I imagined didn't push all the buttons I had thought it would, better sometimes to let Dreams be just that.
@Patrick Riarchy if you can impulse buy a 911 then im sure you can afford to flip it and lose a few quid. I don't think I have ever bought more than a bar of chocolate on impulse.
A friend of mine did the same thing in the 90s, he had no idea what he was doing in the car, but I enjoyed every minute of his haphazard "what happens if turn this on" with marginal danger moments. The C4S was a scream and only worsened my hunger for this Le Mans dream since the mid-70s. Correction: the C4S was more like 2003, the first drive in a vintage 911S in the mid 90s was not quite the dream I was hoping for actually, maybe now as I get older and forgetful ;)
ekim andersom the Boxster is a beautifully balanced classic sports motor but I will always be addicted to the 911. The RSR, 930 and 935 racing trim variants of the legend left an indelible impression on me back in the day. It didn’t hurt either when the actor Newman (of Rolex Daytona fame ironically) turned up 2nd with Rolf Stommelen and Dick Barbour in the 79 LM24 hrs in a 935
Sometimes you have to spend a little time with something to click, especially a car. The ones I’ve loved the most seemed to make sense once I’d learnt to drive them
Since I entered the watch world I was so hyped to get a Rolex someday, and finally I can pick up one. But then I thought, for a price of one Rolex I can pick up 6 main prime top quality L lenses for my camera. And that's exactly what I did wearing my Certina titanium diver.
@Per Johansen not anymore. the hype just suddenly went away. I got a neat collection of a few quality watches under 1K, which I can wear daily without any fear. And I got all lenses, which are way more fun)
What did it for me were the lack of QC and F&F in the Submariner and Sea Dweller models. They were rather insignificant issues but something that I find inexcusable on a $8000+ watch.
@@manoelfelipe1807 currently in Estonia)). Tho it's not that bad, but if you get spotted in a bar/club with the Rolex late in the evening, you have a pretty good chance to get mugged)) basic salary is 400-800 eur, so people don't see a reason to have a watch when you have a phone anyways. And I could pull off a Rolex, but I rather spend that money on other more important hobbies like travelling, photography, extreme sports, etc. When I earn my first million I'll probably get myself a SkyDweller as a present)
Michline Al - I hear ya. What’s funny about my wife is provided she doesn’t see it delivered, she’ll never even notice it’s on my wrist. I’m lucky in a way because when we first got married, her parents had sadly passed away, so with her inheritance she wanted our finances to be separate. After about 20yrs of marriage she ‘suggested’ combining them and I politely declined...and told her she can order anything she pleases from amazon or wherever, and I can do the same. That said, she freaks if she knows I blow $$$ on watches or get a new car..go figure!
Stephen S2r Thanks mate. Might be a good year as a target. If you wait for the new generation (even if they slim it down) there will be a 18 year waiting list 🤦🏼♂️
Sadly the current pricing makes the Rolex a questionable value. I think that if I was to buy a divers watch now I would shop around for a much more reasonably priced solar powered one for $500-1000. I have a 1983 Rolex Sea Dweller that was $1100. new. Now 36 years later it has only required servicing twice. Once for $500 and more recently for $1500. Back from that last service, it looks brand new, case polished, new bezel, crystal, crown, tube, stem, etc, guts cleaned and lubed, self winding fixed and reregulated to -1 sec per day. I'm in love again. So not a bad investment over 36 years.
I don't know. Or don't agree with you. There's a lot to be said for Timex-panache----for just wearing an Easy Reader on a nylon strap, devil may care what your fellow board members think of you! And over 36 years, so much more cheaper, and so much more individually one's own.
$1100 in 1983 is approximately $2700 today, according to a random inflation calculator. At around that price, or even at $4k, that would definitely be a very compelling piece now.
My friend let me try on his Rolex Submariner. And as much as I thought it would resonate through my very being... I got nothing. Nothing. Never meet your heroes indeed.
Trust me. It feels different when you actually pay for one and wear your own. Wearing someone else's Rollie is different than actually owning and wearing your own.
I am really into watches but so glad that I have never been impressed with Rolex watches. I know they are great watches, have good resale value, etc. but personally find their new models uninspiring they don’t wow me at all. Plus as mentioned in the video the older models are just as expensive and i am not into vintage watches as it’s tough to know what you are getting or if they have been properly serviced, not for me at all. I was shocked to see how plain the back of the watch was, I would have expected a double dome sapphire display back or at a very minimum some intricately etched Rolex crown and logo but nope. Looking at the plain case back my first impression would be is this even real? Overall IMO the cost is just way too high for such a plain watch. Plus I agree the slab design is not appealing. I have an Orient Ray II automatic diver that looks so much like this watch but IMO actually looks nicer. My Orient has a better looking dark shiny blue face, a nicer looking bracelet, a nicer looking bezel, and the crown is better protected. Plus it has a day/date complication. Sure the movement and materials are not as good as the Rolex but they are still very nice especially considering the Orient Ray II comes in under $200 and I got it right from the Orient website no waiting list. So why would i pay several thousands more for a more boring, no day/date diver watch that i would probably need to insure and pay more to have serviced.
To be fair, Rolex makes the plain back so it can be gift-engraved, but at the price point I really feel they should have a decorative back and include a matching serialized plain back for engraving, probably costs them $5 to make even in 904L. I think you can get aftermarket rear sapphire case backs to show off that 3135, the catch is AD service won't reseal the case with them- shrug.
I felt the same so went with the old version. Not keen on the maxi case newer ones but a sub is a sub and if you like the classic looks then unfortunately nothing will truly scratch that itch. The sub is an icon and will only continue to appreciate. Great video though 👍🏻👍🏻
I have a Submariner 14060M two-liner. I know it's personal preference but I agree with you I like the aesthetics, case shape, smaller indices, and feel of the old vs the new. The lack of Chromalite, glide-lock, and new upgrades don't concern me whatsoever.
Happy with my Citizen Eco Drive Promaster BN0151-09L. 200m dive, orange minute hand, with change left over for a Casio Duro and some NATO straps. Personally if I had the money I’d buy an Omega. I agree 100% the case lugs are unjustifiably broad, makes the case look boxy.
The maxi case with a bracelet that tapers down to 15mm seems an odd pairing to me. Maybe if the bracelet was a consistent 20mm all the way around it wouldn't seem so weird? I dig the Air-King.
Yeah man, the big lugs are heckin lame. I'm sure that in less than 10 years from now, they will re-introduce it, maybe along side the fat lug, but as some 'Heritage Sub' line.
This explains to me why some submariner homages look bigger to me than others when they have same case size. I could never understand why one watch looked bigger than another when they they have the same case diameter.
It’s all part of their evolution. I love it BECAUSE it’s different not because it’s more of the same with improvements. I completely understand the comparison and a fair argument for sure. However, I love EVERY version because they are unique in their own right.
@@doncowie8653 nothing ridiculous about opinions. Just because I don’t like the sub doesn’t mean I like the other larger watches. They are completely different. Just because a lot of other watches are larger doesn’t mean I should like this because it’s smaller
I own several Seikos and bought a Rolex Submariner (because you need one if you're a watch person, right?) a few years back. I gave it back after wearing and worrying about it for a day and have been so happy with my SKX ever since.
"because you need one if you're a watch person, right?" Never think that way. In any respect (quality, history, reputation, horology and most importantly your taste and comfort level) Rolex is not a must if you are a watch person. Just buy a good one you can afford and wear it in good health. I have three amazing watches I love (each around 6-7K) and none of them are Rolexes. Though Rolex is a reputable brand and one of the favorites in watch world, I don't like their design DNA so I went elsewhere and got what I enjoy.
Jody, I finally wanted to address the clasp issue. Professionally I am a machinist and mechanical designer. I also on the side make my own watches. Your bias against the folded stainless steel clasp is somewhat valid yet not full understood, I believe. As a machinist, I appreciate the machining it takes to get that precise and intricate Rolex clasp. The problem is the metal they use. A machined clasp is most likely softer than a folded clasp base on the hardness of sheet. My basis for this is from a former older machinist who was machining a block of stainless, probable 304, plenty of chromium. I asked him why I was always having problems with stainless. He asked me what I was cutting. I replied that it was sheet. His response was that rolled sheet is work hardened in the manufacturing. Once the sheet is formed to shape it is once again work hardened. I know this for a fact as the sheet will test a normal high speed steel bit. I also like the minimalism that a folded clasp gives.
In 1973 my father bought a Rolex Explorer two for $500. I remember the price because my mom complained about how much it cost. The watch now is worth 12k to 15K so that should tell you something about Rolex’s they don’t go down in value. I bought a used Submariner a few years ago and I wear it daily and it’s only gone up in value. Can’t beat a Rolex.
Great review. Finally an objective review on a Rolex rather than the typical UA-cam review that fauns and gushes at anything Rolex. I agree on the case but the band is too thin! It tapers to a women’s size rather than at least just tapering to 18mm. 15 mm is just too small.
I fell victim to Rolex's bullshit when I was young and foolish. Mine's 30 years old and has never let me down, but the service costs are ridiculous, and they don't even do a good job. It's just come back from Rolex UK, who replaced the mainspring because it was gaining six seconds a day. Now it's _losing_ six seconds a day - after a £530 service! You can keep 'em, people. As far as I'm concerned, Rolex are all hype and bugger all else.
I love my 83 Sub No date! Fantastic watch and also the best value for money you can get. I could sell it for 3 or even 4 times the price for what I bought it and looks and works like 35 years ago. Rolex is not fashion, its an investment that you can enjoy every day.
I hear people say they could sell their Rolex for more than what they paid for it but wonder how long that will last? So many people buy subs I wonder if people buying new ones today or in the near future will be able to say that too? 🤔
I have been wearing one ( 1977 5513 5 digits pre Comex pre ceramic ) for 46 years and it still makes me happy when i look at it. Sadly it has gone up so much in value that i start feeling a bit nervous when i am wearing it ( which was never the case in all these years ).
Jody, according to what you describe, you may like the Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight. It has all the vintage design that you prefer, also an in-house movement with a silicon balance spring, full balance bridge, and 70 hours of COSC certified run-time!
JODY YOU ARE 100% CORRECT, NOT ONLY ALL YOUR TRUE STATEMENTS OF THE ROLEX BUT ALSO HOW MANY TIME MINE HAD TO GO IN FOR REPAIRS WAS INSANE. I FINALLY SOLD MY ROLEX WATCHES AND WILL NEVER WASTE MY FUNDS ON THESE "WATCHES" THAT ARE NOT A "TIMEPIECE" FOR THEY DO NOT KEEP TIME WHATSOEVER. NOW I'M A GRAND SEIKO SPRING DRIVE MAN AND WILL NEVER LOOK BACK!
I never bought a Rolex for the sake of owning a Rolex. I find that my Seiko Marine Master 300 gets more wear time than my GMT Master 2. The cost of a Rolex is based more on branding than quality. Plenty of other brands has comparable quality at lower prices. However, I have never lost money on resale of a Rolex steel model.
Having been in the "fine watch/jewelry" industry in the 80's and 90's, I have sinfully owned many Rolex including date/non date subs. Hindsight is 20/20 and I could have purchased a small island in the tropics with the money I could have made... I like the Ginault, as well, for the money.
@@ararefind9069 I still have my 1978 Datejust. I did a Vacheron Constantin, Cartier Santos and one of my favourites, a Glycine Airman 22 Base. I have been trying to curb my watch lust so I turned my small mind to handmade acoustic guitars. A distracted driver has ended my guitar trip, so now it is cameras. Life is a journey! I truly wish I had kept my Rolex watches, but hindsight is 20/20...
Well actually I have not considered watches until my boyfriend left me his watch when he passed. So now I realize his love,whatever that big long word is aficionado of watches 😆.. my dad collected cars and now I do to,.... Much harder to find a space for them
I agree... The big blocky Submariner case looks like a stainless brick on your wrist and dwarfs the Oyster bracelet... totally screws up the once elegant lines of Rolex.
The Sub is such an iconic and beautiful watch! However, I’d never get one as well unless it was as an investment. I’m not comfortable wearing it to work or in most social situations just because of the Rolex name. But that’s just my issue I guess...
I showed a photo of the AP to my gf (she's not into watches) and she said "WTF is that?". I agree with her. It might be a mechanical work of art, but esthetically it's a punch in the face.
@Joseph C. No mate. Tom Smith is right. A Rolex is a great watch, but the level of hand craftsmanship on a GS is above anything the Swiss make for less than $10K. The case finishing, the dial, hands, indices etc are as good as a Patek or an ALS. And the Rolex hardly has a well finished movement. I'll give you the Bracelet though, which may be better on the Rolex. That's about it.
Guess I''ll hop in on this too as these just happen to be two of the watches I have hands on experience. I bought a Rolex Hulk Sub because having a green dial was important to me. It was and is my grail watch. I love it though I was recently caught up in the GS hype and in particular the Snowflake. I finally got a chance to try it on and just wasn't impressed with bracelet. Aesthetics were phenomenal and I loved the GS dial and sweeping blue second hand, but the lack of weight, as titanium is, and the clasp just didn't feel secure. I can second the "rattle" feel as well. Though at half the price the GS is still a worthy contender.
Sir Bufton Tufton this perception that Grand Seiko is on the finishing level of Patek and Lange is just plain wrong. But I do agree the grand Seiko does have incredible finishing. What I love about grand Seiko is their dials and the spring drive movement. I got into grand Seiko later on in collecting but am I glad I did there’s a lot of value and with the way Rolex is now with the limited supply people should look to brands like JLC and Grand Seiko since Rolex wants to play games with stock.
@Tom Smith GS in not levels above Rolex, apart form the hand finish, 5 years warranty against 3 or 2. Better promised precision, better clasp, better steel and don't paint everybody with the same brush. Before I bought my Rolex I did research and the only thing it lacks it a time function so in my opinion Rolex all the way. I have nothing against GS but I've seen a few models and they looked very boring and the Seiko lettering looked cheap.
Satoshi - I do. I was draining the coolant from my Jaguar and it gushed, and I mean, gushed!, out the bottom unexpectedly and covered my Subby Hulk Date a couple months ago. No problems. Still runs and still looks great. It's sold as waterproof to 300 m and now I know it is also coolant proof, although I admit I didn't change the coolant at 300m.
Satoshi Nakamoto I just wanted a durable watch to replace my Omega Seamaster that took a very serious hit in 1971. My choice was a 1680 (red letter) that set me back a whopping $136.00. Yes! It’s still original, with box, anchor, sticker, everything it shipped with. Since new it’s endured ALL of my dirt bike AND road racing, 12+ years of jetsking, auto racing, all while I worked 2 separate careers, one involving all aspects of the motorcycle/power products industry followed by 27 years of government service as a stationary engineer. The watch has probably spent more time in both fresh and seawater than 90% of all the subs ever made, not to mention various oils, cleaners and other chemicals that I found myself around or covered with. Yep, I still wear and enjoy it everyday! It’s coming up on its 50th birthday very soon. My dilemma is to whom is it going to next? All I can say, “Satoshi”, is mine has always been a working watch, will continue to be a working watch, it’s just never been anything else. And don’t forget, YMMV!
Cool, I wear my watches and if they get scratched that is the way it goes. Even though I'm somewhat younger I still wear my Sea Dweller doing yard work, working on my cars etc. I still believe in the old school Rolex. But with that said I purchased two brand new 16610 LV 50th anniversary watches in 03 through a friend who worked at an AD I paid under 10K for both now the list price for a new sub is about that. I gave one of the LV's to my father and I have mine in the safe deposit and we both agreed that the all black is way better than the LV. Point is at this rate of price increases a sub will be 20K in 15-20 years and I don't see people paying that kind of money turning a new sub into a beater.
That's because they've become too expensive and like you already know, everyone is now is shit scared to wear them. It has put them in a new bracket. Long gone are the days when the British British military dished these out to the Special Service's and Oil Riggers got their greasy hands on them.
Love my Sub - a 2003 16610. While I understand the case proportions of the newer models aren't everyone's cup of tea, my biggest complaint about them is the dial lettering. The font of the old lettering looks so much better to my mind. The new style - whisper it - looks clunky and unrefined; almost like a fake.
Yup, I did exactly that. I researched carefully, realized how expensive and unavailable the Rolex watches were and the schmoozing required to actually get hold of one and bought an Ocean Rover II. I'll never buy a Rolex of any kind. Does the Rolex even count as competition to the Ginault if you can't buy one?
Couldn’t agree more Jody. A few years back before things went nuts in the market I went into a dealer to buy a 114060 Sub. I walked out with a 14060M instead. The Glidelock is nice buuuut otherwise I find the older Subs much more elegant (even the aluminum bezel, the ceramic bezel is simply too shiny to my eyes-another page Rolex could stand to take out of Omega’s book IMO).
If you like the Explorer or Air King - take a look at the Oyster Perpetual. Especially in the 36mm version it is for me nearly the perfect watch... That said, I couldn’t justify the price upgrade to a Sinn 556 . So I could say I would never buy any Rolex - not why I don’t like them, but because I couldn’t justify the Rolex price tag. Maybe I go some day for a vintage Oyster Precision which is still an underrated model...
I've had a few opportunities to buy a Submariner and every time I've passed and purchased something else , Zenith , GP , Grand Seiko , Omega even a Tag Heuer. There's just something about Rolex that doesn't sit well with me and it's probably because everyone else loves them, I don't want to walk into a room and see three other people wearing the same watch as me.
In any respect (quality, history, reputation, horology and most importantly your taste and comfort level) Rolex is not above any of those brands. Just buy the ones you absolutely enjoy and wear it in good health. I have three amazing watches I love (each around 6-7K) and none of them are Rolexes. Though Rolex is a reputable brand and one of the favorites in watch world, I don't like their design DNA so I went elsewhere and got what I enjoy.
I’ve gone through 6 of them over the years. They are stunning but I can never seem to keep them. I now have the Tudor BB58 Blue. It’s less than half the price and it’s a keeper for me. I don’t want to spend to much on watches now I have the Tudor. It’s the only watch you will ever need.
In 1971 in Geneva, Switzerland my friend bought a new Rolex Submariner for $180. I went cheap with an Omega Seamaster Automatic I still wear today. I paid $63.
Ginault - I read they’re made by the same people who make fake Rolex watches, but without the fake dial. If one was going to try to save money, I'd recommend a Tudor Black Bay diver instead.
Yeah they have been exposed as Rolex counterfeiters who are now trying to use their skills to make a "homage" watch in order to avoid going through all the legal issues.
"Never" is a long time. Rolex may well come out with a model in the future which changes the case more to your tastes and then, well, it may revisit your grail spot. I think the explorer is a nicer looking watch though, understated and so clean.
Firstly, It’s not supposed to be elegant, it’s a sub. Second, I agree, I’m not sure that I’d buy one for myself either. I was looking and unable to find one at an AD, and I refuse to pay over retail on the grey market. I was forced to look elsewhere and have been extremely happy with my Omega.
Its just a stainless steel watch at the end of the day, you can get the same engineering and manufacturing standard for sub 2k watches, and now in 2022 the price is just criminally stupid ala berkin bag territory, so its just a brand now, the price has nothing at all to do with the watch anymore
Jody, you know the great thing about stainless Rolex sport models, is that you can buy a 16610, wear it around if you decide that you don't like, you can sell it for no less than what you paid for it (so long as you didn't pay above market for it and even then, with time, you'll probably be able to sell it for more than what you paid). As another option, you could look for a 116600 (SD4K). granted, it is a little bit thicker (being a Sea-Dweller as opposed to a Submariner) but It has all the newer developments of the 116610 that you like but in a 5-digit style case. I think the 116600 is "THE" transitional model to own as it's the only one that bridges the 5 and 6-digit series.
Doesn't like this Rolex because of its looks? Oh, crikey. My wife gave me a Rolex eight years ago and it sits unhappily in our bank vault. It was gaining a minute a week, about an HOUR A YEAR. Rolex people could not fix it. So now I'm wearing a massive ugly Galaxy Watch 46 mm. It just might be a good weapon of defense. But jokes aside, I love it. I got up from a nap yesterday and walked down the hall. I felt a buzz on my wrist and the watch said cheerily, "good to see you get moving again!" I almost fell down the stairs laughing! And above all if I travel abroad, when I land in the new country my phone will pick up the local time from the cell towers, and change the time on the watch too.
Hell, most people would not pay more than 50, at best 100, personally, I wouldn't, a lot of people who are into this stuff don't understand that for most people who buy a watch, the resale price is irrelevant, they just want a decent watch.
100% agree. Wanted a Sub no date for years. In 2016, I bought a new 114060. After only two months, I flipped it for a mint 14060M COSC. Never had a second of sellers remorse.
Problem is even if I could afford one, I have no desire to wait 2 years plus. Thus I walked across to the Omega boutique and got a diver which has a far superior movement imho.
I agree. The old slim case was much more beautiful. The old one was like an exotic, slim hot beauty queen. The new one is just a fat, sensible wife who cooks good food. Maybe better choice for people who want to forget... PASSION.
I bought my Submariner new in about 1973. I love the simplicity, symmetry. I don't want a date feature. If I can't answer the question "What day is it?", or "What time is it in Denver"? without looking at more hands on my watch ... it's time to give up my licenses. : ) And ditto, I haven't been asked "Is that a Rolex" since 1982.
I think the newest planet ocean bracelet it better than the subs. No need to take the watch off to adjust the bracelet. I just push the button, slide it forward or back then snap it back on. Robust too
Com'on: Easy solution. Just take this new Submariner down to your trusted watch-maker and have them grind the maxi case down to the the older model specs. See how easy that is? LOL, I see your point and it's a good one. Rolex took an elegant case and beefed it up so now it looks anything but elegant. A shame really. Good review and let's hope that the original Submariner case will make a comeback someday.
In my opinion the Submariner has 2 issues. First, like every Rolex these days, it is way overpriced for what it is. Second, it’s way to common, almost no day pass without seeing a Submariner. If you don’t mind those two aspects, it is really a fantastic watch
also, if anybody comments on it it is always the same: is it real? ... it's like having the most perfect boobs and then getting annoyed by stupid questions for the rest of your life
Sorry, but where the hell do you live that a day doesn't go by that you don't see a Sub? Where I live I'd be lucky to go a week just seeing at least one mechanical watch on somebody's wrist in a day.
zzeuss87 Still no. I used to work in corporate law in Sydney. Submariners were nowhere to be seen. A few Speedmasters and one Daytona and everywhere else an Apple watch. People just can't be making blanket statements like this. I cringe when people say "I don't want X mechanical watch because I'd just be one of the herd." REALLY? Simply having a mechanical watch of ANY kind no longer makes you "one of the herd".
Rolex Submariner is my favorite. Sorry 😐 you knocked it off your grail. I was torn between the submariner and the submariner date I chose the former and couldn’t be happier. Love the look. Lume is awesome. I consider myself lucky 🍀 AD sold it to me, not being on wait list.
I’d love to add a Rolex Explorer, Submariner, Omega Railmaster, Breitling Navitimer and Cartier Tank no date to my collection but will enjoy the homages until I can afford them.
I don't like the dots and bars as indices. I don't like the snobbery. I don't like the weird mercedes star in the handset. I don't like the choice of steel (to soft), I don't like the text, the edged chapter ring and I don't like the chunky watch case. Plus it wouldn't fit my skinny wrist.
Absolutely 100% agree. The 16610 is far better than the 116610. It's sad they have gone to the way of the modern chunker than more modest case of the pre-2010 Subs. Great video!
I was in an intense negotiation with my wife, at times borderline riot, to secure a Submariner; however, I was unable to convince her the merrits of me owning one. I reluctantly settled for a Yema Superman diver watch, and my family is again at peace. I enjoy your reviews Sir.
Very correct sir. Omega comes with a superb and absolutely stunning wooden box. I'd go for an Omega over Rolex, Rolex doesn t seem to give a hoot about their customers and in terms of design haven't been very innovative over the years.
My wife said no. Solves that problem.
Charlie Doyle 😂 🤣😂🤣
Guys relax it’s not that bad. Sometimes woman just know what’s best. As guys we do stupid shit and without them we’re a lost soul. Plus I’m sure if Charlie wanted to he could buy a Rolex. It’s just going to be WW3 in his house when he does.
+Charlie Doyle Change wife! My wife actually bought my Submariner for me. Will never let her go. 😎
Dude, I'm crying.
Daniel Curiel
That’s for damn sure!
The thing about being a Rolex owner like myself is no one except for you believes it's a real Rolex.
Sounds about right. Those are the types of Watches where you have to have matching social status for folks to believe you 😂🤦🏿♂️
Another problem is the prevalence of $1500 counterfeits that only an expert in Rolexes can tell are phonies - once they've taken it apart.
Which is useful when walking through any city in Summer....potential muggers assume not worth bothering with a fake Rolex...
that is all that matters unless purchased for the wrong reason.
why a rolex, when a tudor is available, more innovative and the hole roster looks better! 😉
The gatekeeper of my watch collection is the Gshock Square. No matter how much i want certain watches, the Gshock always reminds me that it will get the most wristtime anyway, as it suits my lifestyle the best. So its very hard to justify any new (pricy) purchases.
Short version: he doesn’t like the bigger lugs! 😂
save yourself 10 minutes --- that's it.
Well at least there is a fundamentally solid reason...
What's odd about all this "Lug bitchin'" is that people don't understand that this is the first generation of 6 digit Ceramics so why is being compared to the last generation of 5 digit Aluminums...in other words, the super-case is just the beginning (rough and tumble), not the end!
Thank you. It saves me a lot of time.
@@MrThehardway that’s just pure speculation, that the ‘next generation’ will have thinner lugs. He’s talking about facts and what you can buy today, not speculating about the future.
I've started to like aluminum bezels more than uber shiny ceramic or sapphire. Looks warm and classic, more tool-like, not as fancy to be sure. And I totally agree about those macho lugs. Overkill.
Now that the minimum wage is going up to $15.00 an hour, I just might get me one.
Hahahaha
@Tt Miller You're forgetting cost-of-living raises; I'm sure President-for-Life AOC will think of that.
With the change, obtain a grammar textbook.
Keep dreaming
If minimum wage goes up, so does the price of just about everything.
Bought a previous generation used 16610 Stainless Steel Submariner with box & papers in mint condition for $4,000USD around 8 yrs ago & it is now worth $7,000USD.
375 dollars per year. About 9% per year.
Sure, for a watch...but it needs to be put inn perspective. If you're not buying for investment, it's a good surprise, better than the other way around for sure.
But to speak to those who " invest " on it, check out gold and silver....by far.
now its worth even more :P
As general patton once said : “it’s not important that they know, it’s only important that I know”
Well I’d know I’d feel slow knowing I paid for something people thinks fake when I could of got a high end rep and literally been in the same situation with more money in my pocket lol
@@mrban1419 Then you're clearly missing the point. If it's that important to you what other people think, you're lacking self-esteem. If someone asks if my Rolex is real, I tell them it isn't, because if they need to ask, they don't need to know.
Too many comments saying they wouldn’t get a Rolex because of their wife etc.; fellas if your wife is holding you back from doing what you want, you aren’t in a relationship with someone who will pump you up to go for the things you want in life. The last thing my future wife will ever do is tell me I can’t spend money on a watch, car, guitar, etc. Because they’ll motivate me and push me to become more successful and eventually acquire the things I want. : )
Happy life, happy wife. Not the other way around.
Jason Velasquez , you are properly ‘redpilled’ brother, kuddo’s to you!
@@toatsmagoats72 Don't talk bollox you weak person 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Come back in 10 years and repeat it.
Mike Tran your wife will respect you more for doing what you want at the end of the day. Their immediate disapproval is a test!
I bought this model in 2013 as a high end piece for myself I still have it and I rotate it for special occasions and still love the look...I understand the reviewers point and Rolex should have kept the old design in at the time but I think this was new territory for them...but regardless of the review I still love mine and I don't regret purchasing it.
Jody, you are the working class hero of the watch reviewer world.
agree 👍👍👍
@̊ㄥ ̊ very brave comment hiding behind no name, big boy.
Moron!
the John Lennon of watch reviewers.
I agree! This is one of the few watch channels I still subscribe to. I lost my love of buying, wearing and trading cool brands after being brainwashed by the groupthink of watchsnob channels that make you think you have to own Rolex to enjoy wristwatch collecting. I'm back home again!
I am totally with you on the fat lugs. Any "fat-lug" Sub is not the perfect aesthetic. The thinner ones are. Even if they don't have all of the newest features. The only must-have feature for the previous versions (in my opinion) is a sapphire crystal. I don't own one yet, but if I were buying right now - it would be a 16613. Who knows, maybe they will slim the lugs back down for "retro" look someday.
Don't waste your money!! some 20 to 30 years down the line Rolex won't service it for you. "No spare parts for your vintage watch". Personal experience with them on a 1950s watch in 1980.
That's the most ridiculous thing i've ever heard. If you have a 1950's Rolex, sell it! You'll be able to buy the Tudor brand
You have been dealing with utter dickheads,there's plenty of watch guys who can help you,very poor rationale
Live within your means. That simple. Value is what you perceive it to be.
Well said!
These go up in value don’t forget. Own it 10 years you sell it for more. That’s living within your means, plus it’s off the books 📚
Give me an omega any day. I'd only get a Rolex sub if I can find an affordable vintage model. Other than that I'd prefer a Tudor or the milgauss if its got to be a rolex.
You first need to buy a mansion or a penthouse to wear a Rolex though. Or else you just look stupid wearing a Rolex and living in some normal house.
@@alexandercrush So you buy them to please others? Says a lot about you lol
@@minigxns5278 I mean if you like being a poser that's fine I suppose.
@@alexandercrush Owning a multi thousand dollar watch without a house in the hills means you’re a poser? Imagine being someone’s skull being that thick 💀💀 couldn’t be me
@@minigxns5278 Yeah it does. Why would anyone buy a watch that expensive without being able to afford a Mansion. If you can't afford a Mansion you shouldn't be wasting money on overpriced watches that don't mean anything.
I had this all stainless GMT-Master II, absolutely gorgeous. I also met this girl, also a beautiful young lady. I have literally not seen either since. :(
You're right. I really love Rolex, but they are highly skewed against the market. They are tool watches (and damn good ones), but somewhere along the way, people started paying high end horology prices from them. It's basically wrong. And now Rolex are playing artificial scarcity games to further inflate the price bubble.
Good that you're seeing through the hype.
Richard Northwood there is no evidence that Rolex is involved in artificial scarcity games. And Rolex pre-owned prices were very good even 3-4 years ago when sports models were relatively plentiful. If it were a price bubble we’d have seen a correction over the years, which hasn’t happened.
Rolexs predicament has been known for many years. Just because a correction hasn't happened, it doesn't mean that people aren't paying excessive amounts for something. There may be evidence in dealers behavior. Why is Tudor being pushed so hard? Is it because they are being given more production scale?
That's right. Price gouging. Just tool watches for tools. No AR coating (barring an ugly cyclops). No display case back. Ugly lugs. Hilariously skinny bracelet. They're a joke, but sheeple will be sheeple.
@@ZCT808 It's widely known that Rolex have been restricting supply of stainless steel sports models for around 17-18 months. The reason is a matter of speculation. However, on my travels I've found a couple of Rolex dealers who have had indications from Rolex that the main reason is to starve the grey market. It's probably the most plausible explanation.
@@sirbuftontufton5846 I think this is a perfect storm - the luxury watch market went through a mini recession after the Chinese anti-corruption push. I think Rolex want to maintain their scarcity and keep value high. I suppose restricting production is less wasteful than Cartier who destroyed £400m worth of watches in May last year. And Burberry who destroyed £28m worth of designer goods.
You will never buy Rolex Submariner because your alias "Mr X" will buy it to hide the purchase from your wife.
excellent observation. Great idea, tell my wife I am buying watches for an investor!
@No name ok so you are saying the Mr. X investor will not work? Ya, She knows if I even think of buying a new watch. I should belong to "watch anonymous".
Lol
adaptivekalman. Well spotted, my friend.
Mr X gonna give it to yha.
I agree with everything in this video. Being in the 99%, I wonder how long it would take for me get over the fact that I spent so much ($10k here in the U.S. on the grey market) on a single watch. True, it is a brilliant watch. I guess I'd be spend many nights wondering about that decision. Even if I made more money, I couldn't justify pulling the trigger on one. And, I can justify a lot of things in my mind.
Listen, everything is relative. If you are someone who would have to lie awake at night pondering the decision, then the answer is that it is not the watch for you.
Having spent my career owning businesses, I rode the roller coaster my whole life. During periods when money is rolling in nicely, you don't lose one wink of sleep over the coming or going of 10 or 20 grand. THAT is when you are the target market for Rolex. Conversely, during lean times...you have a lot better uses for 10 or 20 grand and then...you are NOT Rolex' target market.
Some people spend their entire lives on one side or the other. I was not one of those people, so I understand both sides. This is why I can report that the old adage is true: "If you have to ask..."
That is no insult, as I have had to tell myself "no" during lean times, throughout my career.
@@kennedymcgovern5413 More money than sense .
I work with someone who owns a Rolex . I seen him wearing it and I complimented him on it. He said, "I was young and stupid. I was in love with Rolex, and I wanted one in the worst way, and that's how I got one. In the worst way.' Someone was selling one. The owner said "I'm letting it go, because it was his father's. It had to many bad feelings with the watch. Sure, It needed a little work, but that wouldn't be hard. So he was going to let it go cheap." So, he buys it, and it stopped working the next day. He took it to a watch maker, and he said, "You were cheated." He got it running, but it lost twenty minutes everyday. After six months, he noticed how bad the watch was. It was constantly in the shop. He went to better watch maker, and he said it's not fixable, well not fixable by him." He put a Seikio movement in it, and it's fine now.
That's a really bad watchmaker. I would not go there again.
Solution: Buy the new Omega Seamaster 300 m diver!
@Steve Clark Value for money it does.
@Steve Clark Well it will probably appreciate over time so you did ok. Omega watches don't appreciate as well as Rolex but great initial value though.
@Steve Clark Glad you got your dream watch. I can't get a Rolex as my wife will have something to say about that.. But I do have an Omega Seamaster that I like very much. Ironically my wife bought it for me years ago. Lol.
Nah, not even close. And that is not even taking into account the thousand special editions and variants
I bought and wore a Seamaster for 6 years or so and not 1 person ever seemed to notice. It was comfortable as heck but I sold it and bought a Seiko skx009 Pepsi dial and I love it. Keeps decent time and people compliment me all the time….go figure
Always wanted a Porsche 911 always said I would buy one if I ever had the money. A friend got one out for a weekend thinking of buying it and my dream died that weekend. Just wasn't anything like I imagined didn't push all the buttons I had thought it would, better sometimes to let Dreams be just that.
@Patrick Riarchy if you can impulse buy a 911 then im sure you can afford to flip it and lose a few quid. I don't think I have ever bought more than a bar of chocolate on impulse.
A friend of mine did the same thing in the 90s, he had no idea what he was doing in the car, but I enjoyed every minute of his haphazard "what happens if turn this on" with marginal danger moments. The C4S was a scream and only worsened my hunger for this Le Mans dream since the mid-70s. Correction: the C4S was more like 2003, the first drive in a vintage 911S in the mid 90s was not quite the dream I was hoping for actually, maybe now as I get older and forgetful ;)
Pulsonar the 996 is still a great car.
ekim andersom the Boxster is a beautifully balanced classic sports motor but I will always be addicted to the 911. The RSR, 930 and 935 racing trim variants of the legend left an indelible impression on me back in the day. It didn’t hurt either when the actor Newman (of Rolex Daytona fame ironically) turned up 2nd with Rolf Stommelen and Dick Barbour in the 79 LM24 hrs in a 935
Sometimes you have to spend a little time with something to click, especially a car. The ones I’ve loved the most seemed to make sense once I’d learnt to drive them
Since I entered the watch world I was so hyped to get a Rolex someday, and finally I can pick up one. But then I thought, for a price of one Rolex I can pick up 6 main prime top quality L lenses for my camera. And that's exactly what I did wearing my Certina titanium diver.
@Per Johansen not anymore. the hype just suddenly went away. I got a neat collection of a few quality watches under 1K, which I can wear daily without any fear. And I got all lenses, which are way more fun)
@Per Johansen 95% of people living in my country can't afford 100 buck watch. so mostly.. losing my hand)
What did it for me were the lack of QC and F&F in the Submariner and Sea Dweller models. They were rather insignificant issues but something that I find inexcusable on a $8000+ watch.
@@LordArioh Where do you live? Here in Brazil it's the same, unfortunately :(
@@manoelfelipe1807 currently in Estonia)). Tho it's not that bad, but if you get spotted in a bar/club with the Rolex late in the evening, you have a pretty good chance to get mugged)) basic salary is 400-800 eur, so people don't see a reason to have a watch when you have a phone anyways. And I could pull off a Rolex, but I rather spend that money on other more important hobbies like travelling, photography, extreme sports, etc. When I earn my first million I'll probably get myself a SkyDweller as a present)
The moment my wife finds out i have rolex is the moment the coffin dance start.
Lmao lol
My solution is buy one for her as well.
Michline Al - yup, whenever I buy a watch I make sure it’s delivered when she’s at work or out. Otherwise she doesn’t even notice what’s on my wrist 😆
Ray Ban I remember my 1st yeezy back in the days, I told her it was a replica. I’m deeply sinned.
Michline Al - I hear ya. What’s funny about my wife is provided she doesn’t see it delivered, she’ll never even notice it’s on my wrist. I’m lucky in a way because when we first got married, her parents had sadly passed away, so with her inheritance she wanted our finances to be separate. After about 20yrs of marriage she ‘suggested’ combining them and I politely declined...and told her she can order anything she pleases from amazon or wherever, and I can do the same. That said, she freaks if she knows I blow $$$ on watches or get a new car..go figure!
You just convinced me. The new lugs are too much. Looks like a square block on the wrist.
Just wait until next year. It will come with updated movement and thinner lugs.
What year was the last version with slim case? 2011?
@@DeeKay1911 maxi case came out in 2008 for the submariner.
Stephen S2r Thanks mate. Might be a good year as a target. If you wait for the new generation (even if they slim it down) there will be a 18 year waiting list 🤦🏼♂️
@@stephens2r338 you sure they'll update it next year?
In a shocking reveal, "Mr. X" is revealed to be none other than Paul Pluta.
Best comment ever !!!!!
Hello PPPPHHHHUKKKKAAA
Phist
@@thesaint8400 😂
Rooowleeeeexx phuckers
Sadly the current pricing makes the Rolex a questionable value. I think that if I was to buy a divers watch now I would shop around for a much more reasonably priced solar powered one for $500-1000.
I have a 1983 Rolex Sea Dweller that was $1100. new. Now 36 years later it has only required servicing twice. Once for $500 and more recently for $1500. Back from that last service, it looks brand new, case polished, new bezel, crystal, crown, tube, stem, etc, guts cleaned and lubed, self winding fixed and reregulated to -1 sec per day. I'm in love again.
So not a bad investment over 36 years.
I don't know. Or don't agree with you. There's a lot to be said for Timex-panache----for just wearing an Easy Reader on a nylon strap, devil may care what your fellow board members think of you! And over 36 years, so much more cheaper, and so much more individually one's own.
And of course your 1983 Rolex Sea Dweller is worth more now that what you paid for it so you have that going for you as well...which is nice.
@The Old One It will charge overnight under a lamp or during the day between dives.
@@RondelayAOK My cost was $86. per year and it probably has appreciated. What ever turns your crank.
$1100 in 1983 is approximately $2700 today, according to a random inflation calculator. At around that price, or even at $4k, that would definitely be a very compelling piece now.
My friend let me try on his Rolex Submariner. And as much as I thought it would resonate through my very being... I got nothing. Nothing. Never meet your heroes indeed.
Trust me. It feels different when you actually pay for one and wear your own. Wearing someone else's Rollie is different than actually owning and wearing your own.
@@asanti76 I guess so. I remember when I bought my first classic wooden yacht, a 1910 Herreshoff design. Thunderbolts!
@@asanti76 100%
Of course it feels different when you’re the one who put up the 10k.. perceived value is a very real thing in life.
It’s just a watch both of mine were free and I love them but they feel no different than any other watches in my collection to be honest lol
I am really into watches but so glad that I have never been impressed with Rolex watches. I know they are great watches, have good resale value, etc. but personally find their new models uninspiring they don’t wow me at all. Plus as mentioned in the video the older models are just as expensive and i am not into vintage watches as it’s tough to know what you are getting or if they have been properly serviced, not for me at all. I was shocked to see how plain the back of the watch was, I would have expected a double dome sapphire display back or at a very minimum some intricately etched Rolex crown and logo but nope. Looking at the plain case back my first impression would be is this even real? Overall IMO the cost is just way too high for such a plain watch. Plus I agree the slab design is not appealing. I have an Orient Ray II automatic diver that looks so much like this watch but IMO actually looks nicer. My Orient has a better looking dark shiny blue face, a nicer looking bracelet, a nicer looking bezel, and the crown is better protected. Plus it has a day/date complication. Sure the movement and materials are not as good as the Rolex but they are still very nice especially considering the Orient Ray II comes in under $200 and I got it right from the Orient website no waiting list. So why would i pay several thousands more for a more boring, no day/date diver watch that i would probably need to insure and pay more to have serviced.
BuT tHe hIstOrY!!!
To be fair, Rolex makes the plain back so it can be gift-engraved, but at the price point I really feel they should have a decorative back and include a matching serialized plain back for engraving, probably costs them $5 to make even in 904L.
I think you can get aftermarket rear sapphire case backs to show off that 3135, the catch is AD service won't reseal the case with them- shrug.
Show me a single photo from the last 10 years of 1 north sea oil-man wearing a sub...
I felt the same so went with the old version. Not keen on the maxi case newer ones but a sub is a sub and if you like the classic looks then unfortunately nothing will truly scratch that itch. The sub is an icon and will only continue to appreciate. Great video though 👍🏻👍🏻
Now that you've mentioned those lugs I can't really unsee it. Dammit!
Even the Ginault Ocean-Rover moved uncomfortably when you said "an alternative to the Submariner" at 10:09
Ha! Yes, I noticed that. It was a little embarrassed.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
You made my day 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Well played and well noticed.
😂😂😂
I have a Submariner 14060M two-liner. I know it's personal preference but I agree with you I like the aesthetics, case shape, smaller indices, and feel of the old vs the new. The lack of Chromalite, glide-lock, and new upgrades don't concern me whatsoever.
Happy with my Citizen Eco Drive Promaster BN0151-09L. 200m dive, orange minute hand, with change left over for a Casio Duro and some NATO straps.
Personally if I had the money I’d buy an Omega. I agree 100% the case lugs are unjustifiably broad, makes the case look boxy.
Top man. I love my Citizen Diver and I am lucky (and old) enough to own an Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT which kicks the arse of any Rolex for me.
The maxi case with a bracelet that tapers down to 15mm seems an odd pairing to me. Maybe if the bracelet was a consistent 20mm all the way around it wouldn't seem so weird? I dig the Air-King.
very good point on the design perspective.
Oof I never realized the case shape until you pointed it out. Now I can’t unsee it and hate it
Yeah man, the big lugs are heckin lame. I'm sure that in less than 10 years from now, they will re-introduce it, maybe along side the fat lug, but as some 'Heritage Sub' line.
This explains to me why some submariner homages look bigger to me than others when they have same case size. I could never understand why one watch looked bigger than another when they they have the same case diameter.
It’s all part of their evolution. I love it BECAUSE it’s different not because it’s more of the same with improvements. I completely understand the comparison and a fair argument for sure. However, I love EVERY version because they are unique in their own right.
Ridiculous assertions when we live in an age with 44mm and over designs. It looks and wears superb
@@doncowie8653 nothing ridiculous about opinions. Just because I don’t like the sub doesn’t mean I like the other larger watches. They are completely different. Just because a lot of other watches are larger doesn’t mean I should like this because it’s smaller
I own several Seikos and bought a Rolex Submariner (because you need one if you're a watch person, right?) a few years back. I gave it back after wearing and worrying about it for a day and have been so happy with my SKX ever since.
"because you need one if you're a watch person, right?"
Never think that way. In any respect (quality, history, reputation, horology and most importantly your taste and comfort level) Rolex is not a must if you are a watch person. Just buy a good one you can afford and wear it in good health. I have three amazing watches I love (each around 6-7K) and none of them are Rolexes. Though Rolex is a reputable brand and one of the favorites in watch world, I don't like their design DNA so I went elsewhere and got what I enjoy.
Jody, I finally wanted to address the clasp issue. Professionally I am a machinist and mechanical designer. I also on the side make my own watches. Your bias against the folded stainless steel clasp is somewhat valid yet not full understood, I believe. As a machinist, I appreciate the machining it takes to get that precise and intricate Rolex clasp. The problem is the metal they use. A machined clasp is most likely softer than a folded clasp base on the hardness of sheet. My basis for this is from a former older machinist who was machining a block of stainless, probable 304, plenty of chromium. I asked him why I was always having problems with stainless. He asked me what I was cutting. I replied that it was sheet. His response was that rolled sheet is work hardened in the manufacturing. Once the sheet is formed to shape it is once again work hardened. I know this for a fact as the sheet will test a normal high speed steel bit. I also like the minimalism that a folded clasp gives.
Very interesting. Thanks for sharing that!
In 1973 my father bought a Rolex Explorer two for $500. I remember the price because my mom complained about how much it cost. The watch now is worth 12k to 15K so that should tell you something about Rolex’s they don’t go down in value. I bought a used Submariner a few years ago and I wear it daily and it’s only gone up in value. Can’t beat a Rolex.
@адулт тлерхи plateau *
Great review. Finally an objective review on a Rolex rather than the typical UA-cam review that fauns and gushes at anything Rolex. I agree on the case but the band is too thin! It tapers to a women’s size rather than at least just tapering to 18mm. 15 mm is just too small.
I fell victim to Rolex's bullshit when I was young and foolish. Mine's 30 years old and has never let me down, but the service costs are ridiculous, and they don't even do a good job. It's just come back from Rolex UK, who replaced the mainspring because it was gaining six seconds a day. Now it's _losing_ six seconds a day - after a £530 service! You can keep 'em, people. As far as I'm concerned, Rolex are all hype and bugger all else.
@astro boy Drop in value? Don't be ridiculous.
I love my 83 Sub No date! Fantastic watch and also the best value for money you can get. I could sell it for 3 or even 4 times the price for what I bought it and looks and works like 35 years ago. Rolex is not fashion, its an investment that you can enjoy every day.
I hear people say they could sell their Rolex for more than what they paid for it but wonder how long that will last? So many people buy subs I wonder if people buying new ones today or in the near future will be able to say that too? 🤔
I doubt that todays 40k Rolex will cost 150k in future...
I have been wearing one ( 1977 5513 5 digits pre Comex pre ceramic ) for 46 years and it still makes me happy when i look at it. Sadly it has gone up so much in value that i start feeling a bit nervous when i am wearing it ( which was never the case in all these years ).
man , they should have beefed up the bracelet with the case being wider , i feel like the bracelet is 2mm too skinny for the case now
I don't want it, it's not a "Perlative Chronometer"
Shane Wims You might want it if it was a Ceronometer, though.
You'd better buy a Rolleck's Cosmogroove DayTune Perlative Cerenometer with an All-Starr case.
Trust me. It's good. :D
@@ХристоМартунковграфЛозенски sounds legit
Maybe a Pejorative Chronometer then? (LOL) :-)
Jody, according to what you describe, you may like the Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight. It has all the vintage design that you prefer, also an in-house movement with a silicon balance spring, full balance bridge, and 70 hours of COSC certified run-time!
JODY YOU ARE 100% CORRECT, NOT ONLY ALL YOUR TRUE STATEMENTS OF THE ROLEX BUT ALSO HOW MANY TIME MINE HAD TO GO IN FOR REPAIRS WAS INSANE. I FINALLY SOLD MY ROLEX WATCHES AND WILL NEVER WASTE MY FUNDS ON THESE "WATCHES" THAT ARE NOT A "TIMEPIECE" FOR THEY DO NOT KEEP TIME WHATSOEVER. NOW I'M A GRAND SEIKO SPRING DRIVE MAN AND WILL NEVER LOOK BACK!
I never bought a Rolex for the sake of owning a Rolex. I find that my Seiko Marine Master 300 gets more wear time than my GMT Master 2. The cost of a Rolex is based more on branding than quality. Plenty of other brands has comparable quality at lower prices. However, I have never lost money on resale of a Rolex steel model.
Exactly.
If you worry about the price you shouldn’t be thinking of buying one.
I had the same model and sold it because the maxi case looked clumsy on my wrist. I now own an explorer 1 39mm
Having been in the "fine watch/jewelry" industry in the 80's and 90's, I have sinfully owned many Rolex including date/non date subs. Hindsight is 20/20 and I could have purchased a small island in the tropics with the money I could have made... I like the Ginault, as well, for the money.
So, what new sins... have replace the rolexes with.,.......?
@@ararefind9069 I still have my 1978 Datejust. I did a Vacheron Constantin, Cartier Santos and one of my favourites, a Glycine Airman 22 Base. I have been trying to curb my watch lust so I turned my small mind to handmade acoustic guitars. A distracted driver has ended my guitar trip, so now it is cameras. Life is a journey! I truly wish I had kept my Rolex watches, but hindsight is 20/20...
Well actually I have not considered watches until my boyfriend left me his watch when he passed. So now I realize his love,whatever that big long word is aficionado of watches 😆.. my dad collected cars and now I do to,.... Much harder to find a space for them
I'll never buy a Rolex, heres why: I will never be able to afford it
Same here haha stuck with a seiko 5 not that I'm complaining love it.
Yip skx0009j for me but a rolex batman soon ,Hope fully
Wait for those tax returns to come in homie
dude it's not expensive. if you want an example of expensive, look at richard milles that cose 100k-200k+....
James Washington bro that’s like saying “oh this jaguar isn’t expensive because Mclarens cost 1 million dollars”
I agree... The big blocky Submariner case looks like a stainless brick on your wrist and dwarfs the Oyster bracelet... totally screws up the once elegant lines of Rolex.
The Sub is such an iconic and beautiful watch! However, I’d never get one as well unless it was as an investment. I’m not comfortable wearing it to work or in most social situations just because of the Rolex name. But that’s just my issue I guess...
yes its hard to wear it in public people def notice it I always hide it under my sleeve lol
@@mikeab2871 I wear both of mine all the time and nobody ever asked about either once or cared.....
I don’t think anybody cares dude I own two and one is flashy and still nobody asked or cared
@@mrban1419 depends where you live bud.
@@mikeab2871 New York State it’s kinda rude to be in people’s business here asking about someone’s watch could be seen as a threat I guess maybe why
I completely agree with him about the design of the lugs.
That was my dream grail watch, then I found the GS snowflake, that to me is my top lust after timepiece. Or the none achievable AP royal oak
I showed a photo of the AP to my gf (she's not into watches) and she said "WTF is that?". I agree with her. It might be a mechanical work of art, but esthetically it's a punch in the face.
@Joseph C. No mate. Tom Smith is right. A Rolex is a great watch, but the level of hand craftsmanship on a GS is above anything the Swiss make for less than $10K. The case finishing, the dial, hands, indices etc are as good as a Patek or an ALS. And the Rolex hardly has a well finished movement. I'll give you the Bracelet though, which may be better on the Rolex. That's about it.
Guess I''ll hop in on this too as these just happen to be two of the watches I have hands on experience. I bought a Rolex Hulk Sub because having a green dial was important to me. It was and is my grail watch. I love it though I was recently caught up in the GS hype and in particular the Snowflake. I finally got a chance to try it on and just wasn't impressed with bracelet. Aesthetics were phenomenal and I loved the GS dial and sweeping blue second hand, but the lack of weight, as titanium is, and the clasp just didn't feel secure. I can second the "rattle" feel as well. Though at half the price the GS is still a worthy contender.
Sir Bufton Tufton this perception that Grand Seiko is on the finishing level of Patek and Lange is just plain wrong. But I do agree the grand Seiko does have incredible finishing. What I love about grand Seiko is their dials and the spring drive movement. I got into grand Seiko later on in collecting but am I glad I did there’s a lot of value and with the way Rolex is now with the limited supply people should look to brands like JLC and Grand Seiko since Rolex wants to play games with stock.
@Tom Smith GS in not levels above Rolex, apart form the hand finish, 5 years warranty against 3 or 2.
Better promised precision, better clasp, better steel and don't paint everybody with the same brush.
Before I bought my Rolex I did research and the only thing it lacks it a time function so in my opinion
Rolex all the way. I have nothing against GS but I've seen a few models and they looked very boring and the Seiko lettering looked cheap.
The hilarious thing is Rolex's reputation was built on its durability, yet now no one dares to even wear a Rolex in any form of harsh environment.
Satoshi - I do. I was draining the coolant from my Jaguar and it gushed, and I mean, gushed!, out the bottom unexpectedly and covered my Subby Hulk Date a couple months ago. No problems. Still runs and still looks great. It's sold as waterproof to 300 m and now I know it is also coolant proof, although I admit I didn't change the coolant at 300m.
Satoshi Nakamoto
I just wanted a durable watch to replace my Omega Seamaster that took a very serious hit in 1971.
My choice was a 1680 (red letter) that set me back a whopping $136.00.
Yes! It’s still original, with box, anchor, sticker, everything it shipped with. Since new it’s endured ALL of my dirt bike AND road racing, 12+ years of jetsking, auto racing, all while I worked 2 separate careers, one involving all aspects of the motorcycle/power products industry followed by 27 years of government service as a stationary engineer. The watch has probably spent more time in both fresh and seawater than 90% of all the subs ever made, not to mention various oils, cleaners and other chemicals that I found myself around or covered with.
Yep, I still wear and enjoy it everyday!
It’s coming up on its 50th birthday very soon. My dilemma is to whom is it going to next?
All I can say, “Satoshi”, is mine has always been a working watch, will continue to be a working watch, it’s just never been anything else.
And don’t forget, YMMV!
Cool, I wear my watches and if they get scratched that is the way it goes. Even though I'm somewhat younger I still wear my Sea Dweller doing yard work, working on my cars etc. I still believe in the old school Rolex. But with that said I purchased two brand new 16610 LV 50th anniversary watches in 03 through a friend who worked at an AD I paid under 10K for both now the list price for a new sub is about that. I gave one of the LV's to my father and I have mine in the safe deposit and we both agreed that the all black is way better than the LV. Point is at this rate of price increases a sub will be 20K in 15-20 years and I don't see people paying that kind of money turning a new sub into a beater.
@Jorn Navarre 904 is stronger than 316. They changed to 904 years ago.
That's because they've become too expensive and like you already know, everyone is now is shit scared to wear them. It has put them in a new bracket. Long gone are the days when the British British military dished these out to the Special Service's and Oil Riggers got their greasy hands on them.
Love my Sub - a 2003 16610. While I understand the case proportions of the newer models aren't everyone's cup of tea, my biggest complaint about them is the dial lettering. The font of the old lettering looks so much better to my mind. The new style - whisper it - looks clunky and unrefined; almost like a fake.
Yup, I did exactly that. I researched carefully, realized how expensive and unavailable the Rolex watches were and the schmoozing required to actually get hold of one and bought an Ocean Rover II. I'll never buy a Rolex of any kind. Does the Rolex even count as competition to the Ginault if you can't buy one?
Couldn’t agree more Jody. A few years back before things went nuts in the market I went into a dealer to buy a 114060 Sub. I walked out with a 14060M instead. The Glidelock is nice buuuut otherwise I find the older Subs much more elegant (even the aluminum bezel, the ceramic bezel is simply too shiny to my eyes-another page Rolex could stand to take out of Omega’s book IMO).
Great choice. I much prefer the 14060M.
Get the Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight!
If you like the Explorer or Air King - take a look at the Oyster Perpetual. Especially in the 36mm version it is for me nearly the perfect watch...
That said, I couldn’t justify the price upgrade to a Sinn 556 .
So I could say I would never buy any Rolex - not why I don’t like them, but because I couldn’t justify the Rolex price tag.
Maybe I go some day for a vintage Oyster Precision which is still an underrated model...
I've had a few opportunities to buy a Submariner and every time I've passed and purchased something else , Zenith , GP , Grand Seiko , Omega even a Tag Heuer. There's just something about Rolex that doesn't sit well with me and it's probably because everyone else loves them, I don't want to walk into a room and see three other people wearing the same watch as me.
@Jorn Navarre Haha, I went in with my eyes wide open, mines a Doublematic as well for added pain!
In any respect (quality, history, reputation, horology and most importantly your taste and comfort level) Rolex is not above any of those brands. Just buy the ones you absolutely enjoy and wear it in good health. I have three amazing watches I love (each around 6-7K) and none of them are Rolexes. Though Rolex is a reputable brand and one of the favorites in watch world, I don't like their design DNA so I went elsewhere and got what I enjoy.
The new 41 mm Sub with slimmer lugs, makes the previous discontinued 40mm Sub with the maxicase, a lot more appealing and valuable.
yes i like the 40mm better
I’ve thought exactly the same. I own an older sub and it looks much nicer than the new ones
Worn 16610 sub for 30 years, I agree
As far as the text goes I just think "Officially Certified" is silly. I mean, yeah, that's what Superlative Chronometer means.
. I agree wholeheartedly. It just looks too "square" with these lugs.
I’ve gone through 6 of them over the years. They are stunning but I can never seem to keep them. I now have the Tudor BB58 Blue. It’s less than half the price and it’s a keeper for me.
I don’t want to spend to much on watches now I have the Tudor. It’s the only watch you will ever need.
I’m on the waitlist for the black BB58 and can’t wait for it. Surprised there’s still a list, though.
In 1971 in Geneva, Switzerland my friend bought a new Rolex Submariner for $180. I went cheap with an Omega Seamaster Automatic I still wear today. I paid $63.
Try a Sea Dweller! The SD4k and SD43 has modern elements without the hideous lugs.
Ginault - I read they’re made by the same people who make fake Rolex watches, but without the fake dial. If one was going to try to save money, I'd recommend a Tudor Black Bay diver instead.
Yeah they have been exposed as Rolex counterfeiters who are now trying to use their skills to make a "homage" watch in order to avoid going through all the legal issues.
"Never" is a long time. Rolex may well come out with a model in the future which changes the case more to your tastes and then, well, it may revisit your grail spot. I think the explorer is a nicer looking watch though, understated and so clean.
Firstly, It’s not supposed to be elegant, it’s a sub. Second, I agree, I’m not sure that I’d buy one for myself either. I was looking and unable to find one at an AD, and I refuse to pay over retail on the grey market. I was forced to look elsewhere and have been extremely happy with my Omega.
I ordered a Ginault. Curious to find out the quality of the watch. It looks stunning and is a great interpretation of the ideal submariner
Its just a stainless steel watch at the end of the day, you can get the same engineering and manufacturing standard for sub 2k watches, and now in 2022 the price is just criminally stupid ala berkin bag territory, so its just a brand now, the price has nothing at all to do with the watch anymore
you ruined it for me. aghhh I loved it and now that I've noticed what you said it lost all it's charm to me. :,( great vid though!
Yep, as soon as I saw what he meant it became a fatty submariner to me. Legend ruined.
Bought a submariner no date in june 1968, $225 + $9 tax, serviced once, wear every day..51 years, perfect time.
Not to mention that your 5513 (I'm guessing that's what you bought) is now worth north of $12K.
Jody, you know the great thing about stainless Rolex sport models, is that you can buy a 16610, wear it around if you decide that you don't like, you can sell it for no less than what you paid for it (so long as you didn't pay above market for it and even then, with time, you'll probably be able to sell it for more than what you paid). As another option, you could look for a 116600 (SD4K). granted, it is a little bit thicker (being a Sea-Dweller as opposed to a Submariner) but It has all the newer developments of the 116610 that you like but in a 5-digit style case. I think the 116600 is "THE" transitional model to own as it's the only one that bridges the 5 and 6-digit series.
Doesn't like this Rolex because of its looks? Oh, crikey. My wife gave me a Rolex eight years ago and it sits unhappily in our bank vault. It was gaining a minute a week, about an HOUR A YEAR. Rolex people could not fix it. So now I'm wearing a massive ugly Galaxy Watch 46 mm. It just might be a good weapon of defense. But jokes aside, I love it. I got up from a nap yesterday and walked down the hall. I felt a buzz on my wrist and the watch said cheerily, "good to see you get moving again!" I almost fell down the stairs laughing! And above all if I travel abroad, when I land in the new country my phone will pick up the local time from the cell towers, and change the time on the watch too.
Raja Bhat thanks for sharing the funny anecdote 😂👍🏻 On a serious note though, Rolex doesn’t replace/repair the movement?
@@liquidtunes I went to the dealer who sent it out but they could not fix it....
Great review as per usual. I’m completely with you about the large lugs - just not for me.
That’s why you buy a Seamaster instead!
Great video as always!!
The cost is what will kill me at night. Cant imagine spending more than 3k for a watch.
I wouldn’t spend more than a grand. At the end of the day I’m in it to wear it and enjoy it. Not show it off or sell it for profit one day.
I got my Rolex in Joburg in 74 and I paid less than $500 for it.Had it valued in Vegas and just about fell over at how it had increased.
Forget 3k i can't imagine spending more than 300 dollars
Hell, most people would not pay more than 50, at best 100, personally, I wouldn't, a lot of people who are into this stuff don't understand that for most people who buy a watch, the resale price is irrelevant, they just want a decent watch.
I used a little Makita grinder to make the lugs on mine look more streamlined. Looks a bit rough but not too bad.
100% agree. Wanted a Sub no date for years. In 2016, I bought a new 114060. After only two months, I flipped it for a mint 14060M COSC. Never had a second of sellers remorse.
Problem is even if I could afford one, I have no desire to wait 2 years plus. Thus I walked across to the Omega boutique and got a diver which has a far superior movement imho.
I purchased a Citizen Promaster Eco Drive BN0190-07E to go diving with. Not the same price but I did not wont my credit card to leave home.
I agree. The old slim case was much more beautiful. The old one was like an exotic, slim hot beauty queen. The new one is just a fat, sensible wife who cooks good food. Maybe better choice for people who want to forget... PASSION.
you ARE the fat sensible wife in the relationship....
I bought my Submariner new in about 1973. I love the simplicity, symmetry. I don't want a date feature. If I can't answer the question "What day is it?", or "What time is it in Denver"? without looking at more hands on my watch ... it's time to give up my licenses. : ) And ditto, I haven't been asked "Is that a Rolex" since 1982.
I think the newest planet ocean bracelet it better than the subs. No need to take the watch off to adjust the bracelet. I just push the button, slide it forward or back then snap it back on. Robust too
Com'on: Easy solution. Just take this new Submariner down to your trusted watch-maker and have them grind the maxi case down to the the older model specs. See how easy that is? LOL, I see your point and it's a good one. Rolex took an elegant case and beefed it up so now it looks anything but elegant. A shame really. Good review and let's hope that the original Submariner case will make a comeback someday.
In my opinion the Submariner has 2 issues. First, like every Rolex these days, it is way overpriced for what it is. Second, it’s way to common, almost no day pass without seeing a Submariner. If you don’t mind those two aspects, it is really a fantastic watch
Not to mention the countless Homages and fakes.
also, if anybody comments on it it is always the same: is it real? ... it's like having the most perfect boobs and then getting annoyed by stupid questions for the rest of your life
Sorry, but where the hell do you live that a day doesn't go by that you don't see a Sub? Where I live I'd be lucky to go a week just seeing at least one mechanical watch on somebody's wrist in a day.
@@earthenjadis8199 I'm going to say that in any big city office environment, you will see these regularly.
zzeuss87 Still no. I used to work in corporate law in Sydney. Submariners were nowhere to be seen. A few Speedmasters and one Daytona and everywhere else an Apple watch. People just can't be making blanket statements like this. I cringe when people say "I don't want X mechanical watch because I'd just be one of the herd." REALLY? Simply having a mechanical watch of ANY kind no longer makes you "one of the herd".
Rolex Submariner is my favorite. Sorry 😐 you knocked it off your grail. I was torn between the submariner and the submariner date I chose the former and couldn’t be happier. Love the look. Lume is awesome. I consider myself lucky 🍀 AD sold it to me, not being on wait list.
💯
Same.
I’d love to add a Rolex Explorer, Submariner, Omega Railmaster, Breitling Navitimer and Cartier Tank no date to my collection but will enjoy the homages until I can afford them.
I don't like the dots and bars as indices. I don't like the snobbery. I don't like the weird mercedes star in the handset. I don't like the choice of steel (to soft), I don't like the text, the edged chapter ring and I don't like the chunky watch case. Plus it wouldn't fit my skinny wrist.
BLUF: the case is a little too big in his opinion.
Look at a Sea Dweller 116600! 40mm in the old case with all the updated refinements. ;)
Absolutely 100% agree. The 16610 is far better than the 116610. It's sad they have gone to the way of the modern chunker than more modest case of the pre-2010 Subs. Great video!
Why would you spend $9000 on a watch when you can get within 70% of the build quality for $300?
I was in an intense negotiation with my wife, at times borderline riot, to secure a Submariner; however, I was unable to convince her the merrits of me owning one. I reluctantly settled for a Yema Superman diver watch, and my family is again at peace. I enjoy your reviews Sir.
Is it just me or is the Rolex Green Plastic box one of the worst ever.
yeah probably you and a few more.
It is very disappointing compared to my red leather and wood Omega ones...
It's made of wood, not plastic!
Very correct sir. Omega comes with a superb and absolutely stunning wooden box. I'd go for an Omega over Rolex, Rolex doesn t seem to give a hoot about their customers and in terms of design haven't been very innovative over the years.
@@deanhuman89 That's one way to show your ignorance...