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Old 9 January 2019, 02:17 AM   #1
Hogtown Fatty
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Thinking of getting a birth year ('89) Rolex- thoughts?

I'm not into vintage watches, but the thought of getting a birth year watch crossed my mind. Did Rolex make anything worth owning that year? Any R-series Daytona would be great, but not looking to throw that kinda' money into a watch just yet- ideally something up to $15/20k. Is it possible to get an R-series for that kinda money anymore or just sweet dreamin'? Maybe a Sub or Coke GMT? Presidential? Or better off just sticking to a new one? What's so great/desirable about the R serials?
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Old 9 January 2019, 02:19 AM   #2
Juhuatai
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R-serial and L-serial explorer's are usually quite nice...
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Old 9 January 2019, 03:21 AM   #3
Sublovin
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Ask yourself why you want a birth year watch. If you aren’t in to older watches, get something new. I think the “birth year” watch thing is forced sentimentality
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Old 9 January 2019, 03:23 AM   #4
herts9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Sublovin View Post
I think the “birth year” watch thing is forced sentimentality
agree. you're better served getting something on your birthday, to celebrate your birthday
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Old 9 January 2019, 03:59 AM   #5
sillo
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If you're into vintage/neo-vintage that time frame has some awesome options. Like others have said though don't force it.
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Old 9 January 2019, 04:50 AM   #6
swish77
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You could get one of the last 5513 Subs. There were made up until 1989, with the L serial, I believe. That's a good "vintage" look with the plexi crystal, even though it had a gloss dial at that point. But there are many other good options for 1989, including 16610, 16600 16700, 16710, even DJs.

However, totally agree with the above about the significance of birth year watches. I'd just track down the best condition Rolex you like from around that time period and not worry about the specific year.

Good luck in the hunt!
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Old 9 January 2019, 06:54 AM   #7
springer
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The GMT II 16710 was available with the R serial number if that is something that interests you. Submariners are also another alternative - both the 5513 and 16610.
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Old 9 January 2019, 08:25 AM   #8
Tom1675
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I don't think 16520 daytonas are much more than your $20k top budget... get what you want and don't look back.
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Old 9 January 2019, 08:43 AM   #9
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Hmm a birth year Ferrari sounds good too ��
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Old 9 January 2019, 09:10 AM   #10
ncheng
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Interesting takes on the birth year watch concept.

OP, if you dont like vintage watches, then the birth year watch is just a novelty and is meaningless. I'd suggest getting a watch, whatever model it may be, regardless of the year

Personally speaking, I prefer vintage watches to modern watches and am on the hunt for a birth year DJ
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Old 10 January 2019, 08:11 AM   #11
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R series 1016’s (last of the matte dials) have been quite hot in the market lately. Up to 20k for a really good one.


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Old 10 January 2019, 08:13 AM   #12
Gecko10
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Lord, I have a corn on my left little toe that is older than you. (Insert simley).
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