Watch recommendation for boyfriend?

[I377611]

Thank you again for everyone feedback! I am very grateful of your suggestions. It seems that Submariner or Explorer is the way to go.

I originally found Bob’s watches by using Google and it was one of the closer locations to me. However, as several users have pointed out, their pricing is a bit more expensive and their recent Yelp reviews haven’t been that great.

On the other hand, many have suggested OC watch guy instead. They’re a bit farther away but I have decided to go there in the next couple weeks.

As a first time Rolex watch buyer, thank you all for your responses, suggestions, and feedback. Im so grateful I stumbled into this community!!

-Viv

Originally Posted by sj24k

So funny.

When I see a post like this from someone who just created an account with a bunch of numbers for a name, I immediately think “nice job by Bob’s to get their name buzzing around on a social platform for some free advertising. This oughtta get ‘em a few clicks.”

Admittedly, I’m more cynical than most. And would love to be wrong. But hey, I’ll keep the thread going and toss Bob a few more eyeballs.

(And the romantic in me will keep my fingers crossed that you find the perfect watch for your man and live happily ever after.)



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[I377611]

Thanks for everyone’s responses and I’m genuinely overwhelmed to receive so much feedback in such a short period of time!

My boyfriend has previously expressed interest in Rolex watches but didn’t exactly mention which model he was particularly fond of. Also, I wanted to surprise him for our 3 year anniversary in 2 months.

The responses I see are primarily for the Submariner and Explorer. As several of you have suggested, I will check out the classified sections to find reputable sellers. Although, I may ask for additional input from each seller.

[jlovda]

Originally Posted by I377611

My boyfriend has previously expressed interest in Rolex watches but didn’t exactly mention which model he was particularly fond of. Also, I wanted to surprise him for our 3 year anniversary in 2 months.

My suggestion....wait and get it for a wedding present. My wife bought a 1675 red/blue GMT as her gift to me in 1976 and I still treasure it.

Also, I cannot live without a date. An Explorer or Oyster Perpetual does not have one. If you think a DateJust is appropriate, get one with a fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet. The quintessential Rolex. It goes down to 300 ft. Don't worry about depth. Why someone thinks you can't play tennis or go diving with one is beyond me.

[Ichiran]

Can't go wrong with a Sub or GMT.

[SpectralDodo49]

Here is ocRolexguy Patrick. I have bought from him. He is trustworthy. And I agree that Sub date is the best option. https://www.ocwatchguy.com

[winst]

Explorer

[FloydRedford]

I’d say Explorer or Sub date; or even a pre owned GMT II (16710) as it has an all brushed bracelet, no shiny links unlike the newer models, which look very dressy, less sporty imho.

[pepemaui]

If he is active and sporty and will wear the watch during activity the sub date.

If he is active and sporty but wants to a watch for after or not active I’d do the datejust 41.

They are different watches and very different looks.

[csaltphoto]

Hard to go wrong with a sub/sub date. A true classic that most guys like. What does Keanu give his key crewmates after a film? Submariners. Given your time frame getting one from an AD seems unlikely. I would contact the dealers suggested in this forum and see how close to new, full package set you can get considering it's a gift.

[alonsowwss]

Sub, explorer or DJ.

Can’t do no wrong there, happy hunting.

[Calatrava r]

Sub Date is always appropriate and a great one only.

[Gab27]

The Submariner is my first and only Rolex and I do not think you can really go wrong.

With respect to Submariner (i.e., without a date function) vs. Submariner Date (i.e., with a date function), it really comes down to personal preference. Mine does not have a date, but if he likes to use a watch to know the date, then obviously the Sub Date is more preferable.

There are trusted sellers on this forum who have stellar reputations, as are companies like DavidSW and HQ Milton (among others). You may get a better deal from the trusted sellers on this forum as most of the larger companies are a bit slower to back off their pricing even as secondary market pricing is decreasing.

[pursang_]

Our opinions are useless. Only he can tell you what he wants.

[Big Tex Rolex]

If I only owned 1 watch, it would be a Rolex Submariner, or Rolex Submariner Date. Versatile enough to wear at almost every occasion, and, a statement watch that you can be proud to own / wear on your wrist.

I have a lot of watches, but this is the one I wear most …




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[Big Tex Rolex]

PS … Try all the ADs in your area. Tell them your story. They are going to love you, as they will see your boyfriend as a reciprocating buyer for you !!!

[Bizcut1]

Agreed. Sub C. Make sure you post pictures of the unboxing...

Oh - and welcome to the Forum.

[CanadaDan]

Pick him up an Oyster Perpetual, just a nice simple watch. He will be thrilled.

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[fskywalker]

Another vote for a Sub Date


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[walkman2727]

I go to south coast all the time, their inventory is like nothing available at all...
if I were you, I would leave my contact to a SA and let them know "whichever ss model", you have to be very lucky to be able to buy a ss model at AD by MSRP.

[Bluside]

My vote would be a Submariner also.

[Mis3]

Originally Posted by walkman2727

I go to south coast all the time, their inventory is like nothing available at all...
if I were you, I would leave my contact to a SA and let them know "whichever ss model", you have to be very lucky to be able to buy a ss model at AD by MSRP.

Agreed.
But if there are choices, I would go for a SubC.

[CarlOver]

Recommendation to OP is to call store manager. Explain birthday for boyfriend and ask for a referral sales person in the Rolex department. Make appt with that SA when it’s quiet and explain your deal. This is likely your best chance to get a watch in a timely fashion. Then again maybe just rolling in and laying it all out works out.

[Wcdhtwn]

Sub is a good choice. Look at the white dial Explorer II also. If he’s a diver he may want the Sub. But the Explorer II still has 100m of water resistance, is super tough, and less commonly seen than the Sub. Probably easier to get from an AD than the Sub. But if you’re going to Bob’s availability shouldn’t be a factor.

[askdanny]

Originally Posted by I377611

I am in Orange County, CA and looking to purchase a Rolex watch for my boyfriend. I went to the Rolex store in the South Coast mall but there wasn’t much available. As a result, I’ve been on these forums to get a better understanding of what Rolex watch I should buy and not get scammed in the process.

My boyfriend is 5ft 10in and weighs approximately 170lbs. He has an average wrist size and is very active. I was wondering if I should get him a Datejust, Explorer, or Submariner? Please let me know what you guys think.

Also, where can I get a Rolex watch at a good price but safe? There is Bob’s Watches in Newport beach which is relatively close to me. Does anyone have experiences with them?

Bob's Watches is overpriced. OCWatchguy (ocwatchguy.com) in Huntington Beach is A+. Have done multiple deals with him (Patrick) and you can do a face-to-face. Buy your boyfriend something you'd like to see him wear. Ask Patrick for recommendations. He'll take care of you. Tell him I sent you (Danny).

[vesnyder]

There are two that I would recommend; the Submariner that others have suggested and there is a Datejust. Many options depending on his taste. I purchased a Datejust as a gift for my daughter from Bob's and they are highly recommended. We had to return it (it was not het style!) and had no issues.

[AF_Rob]

Welcome to the forum!

I’d consider his day job too. If he is in the office, a DJ may be a good option too. It can hold up to an active lifestyle just fine as an Explorer.

As others have said, a Sub is a great choice.

Availability is a concern, I wish you luck. That being a factor, have you considered Omega or Tudor?

Both are great brands. Available today (mostly) and dollar for dollar, great pieces.

Tudor: Heritage design elements and wearability similar to Rolex. Omega: great materials and features for an active lifestyle.


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[BillA]

OP
I don’t know what your financial situation is, but if you buy from one of the resellers, you should expect to pay 2-3x msrp. If you have no problem with that, then OK, it is your money to spend. Reaching out to multiple AD’s and explaining it is for a special occasion might help. Good luck.

[jb335]

Originally Posted by BillA

OP
I don’t know what your financial situation is, but if you buy from one of the resellers, you should expect to pay 2-3x msrp. If you have no problem with that, then OK, it is your money to spend. Reaching out to multiple AD’s and explaining it is for a special occasion might help. Good luck.

She will not pay anywhere near 2x Msrp on a Sub or DJ


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[Reddington]

I also say go with the iconic Sub Date.

[dannyp]

I like Explorer more than Sub personally. But I like smaller watches. If he’s good with that, it’ll likely be easier to get from AD. Also consider OP36 in black. Probably the easiest color to get in that model and somewhere between Explorer and DJ in terms of sportiness.