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Old 2 August 2012, 12:33 PM   #1
N_Architect
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Oyster Perpetual 116000 silver Arab 3-6-9

My fourth Rolex (GMT II Coke, DSSD, 116523 blue Arab), wanted to try the 36mm size on my wrist over a period of time before committing to a President 36mm.

Found this watch BNIB at a pawn shop, exactly one year old w/ box and papers, N series, most stickers still on, for $3,500 I decided to give it a go.

Did a day's or two search in the forum here prior to buying it though, and realized the love (by some) for the Air Kings and OPs, their reliability, simplicity and ability to fly easily under the radar particularly impressed me.

Never been a fan of, by contemporary fashion standards, small size (34, 36mm) watches. However, following discussions with a collector friend I started to become increasingly aware of the fact that historically there was/is a reason for many watches to have a (say) size of 36mm.

I also understand there are people who would pass on the 116000, clearly and without any second thought not being their first choice, opting for a DJ / Explorer I (vintage or the new 39mm one) for a number of reasons.

My take on the pros of the 116000:

- Offers very good value for money, it would not be a watch I would buy brand new (but it is fine as a competitively priced BNIB);

- Ability to fly under the radar, very understated, simple yet elegant;

- Good luminosity (but not as in other Rolex models);

- Good clasp/case finishing;

- Superb dial finishing (silver arab 3-6-9), looks much better from up close;

- Proved and reliable movement;

- Very comfortable to wear, easy to choose for wearing on a wide variety of occasions/atmospheres.

Cons:

- No date function, no other complications;

- Average/normal power reserve;

- Legibility an issue for some (with this particular dial);

- Good clasp but adjustment not as easy as in the new Rolex design (DSSD, Explorer 39mm);

- Bezel not fluted;

- Reliable movement but other models (e.g. new Explorer I) have more developed/improved movements;

- Crown a tad small, but lat us not forget it is a 36mm size watch;

- Price-wise, one may decide to save and get another, slightly more higher-end Rolex model.


I cannot comment on its accuracy as at the time of writing I've had the watch for about 24hrs, but this is a subject that can be taken care of by the local RSC following customary adjustment.

Overall: Recommended.


Photos:















Thanks for reading.
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Last edited by N_Architect; 2 August 2012 at 01:11 PM.. Reason: Modified pros/cons
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Old 8 August 2012, 10:33 PM   #2
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Nice pics and a good review. Thanks for sharing. A simple yet great looking watch that's sure to last a long time.
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Old 9 August 2012, 03:30 AM   #3
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Great review, and greater watch. Wear it in great health
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Old 9 August 2012, 07:12 AM   #4
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Great review, that watch really reminds me of the Air King.
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Old 4 September 2012, 05:30 PM   #5
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Great review!

The OP is a fine piece and should weather well over the years. The readability is an issue I'm sure. My AK is a silver dial and in low light conditions that can be a problem.

Congrats on picking such a great piece. It's nice to see an OP
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Old 4 September 2012, 06:00 PM   #6
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Great review!

BTW.: I had my AD check if the Easylink for the Datejust can be fitted into the clasp of the OP 116000.... turns out it can be done without problems. You only need to have the centre part of the Easylink brushed out.
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Old 7 September 2012, 10:08 AM   #7
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Great review!

Thanks for sharing.
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Old 10 September 2012, 12:56 AM   #8
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Great review - well done!
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Old 30 October 2012, 04:06 PM   #9
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Just got this exact watch! Love it.
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Old 3 November 2012, 01:14 PM   #10
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its elegantly beautiful
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Old 12 November 2012, 06:19 PM   #11
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beautiful watch! i have had my eye on a blue dial oyster perpetual
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Old 12 November 2012, 06:40 PM   #12
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Great review and photos
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Old 12 November 2012, 09:54 PM   #13
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this is a lovely reference. My wife has the 34mm Airking and loves it, for me I've a 36mm DJ in the rotation and honestly it gets a much time as 44mm PAM's and a close 2nd to my EXP42mm.

For me i don't see having a non-fluted bezel as a minor point, I like the reflections from the smooth bezel.
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Old 23 November 2012, 12:44 PM   #14
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116000 is not made for diving, or race car driving, piloting a plane, mountain climbing, or doing scientific research.
The Rolex OP 116000 is a watch designed and made for everyday wear.
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Old 14 January 2013, 07:30 AM   #15
Jack H.
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Beautiful watch! I have on just like it.
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Old 3 February 2013, 12:40 PM   #16
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Simple but excellent daily watch (a Rolex). I hope to run into a deal like that some day. Your photography skill is great too!!!
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Old 5 February 2013, 12:45 PM   #17
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Lovely watch. I'm dying to try this one on in person.
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Old 5 March 2013, 03:53 AM   #18
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I bought the exact same watch to wear as my daily timepiece.

Very low key, understated, demure.

Simply LOVE it!!!

WJG
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Old 7 March 2013, 01:04 PM   #19
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Nice pics. I like it.
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Old 2 May 2013, 11:49 AM   #20
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Icon5 Thinking which to buy OP or DJ

I am considering buying the same OP 116000 silver dial.
Other candidate is Date Just 116200 Rhodium Roman with oyster bracelet. It is very difficult to decide which to buy.

I do not have a watch now because I lost an Omega Seamaster Titan several years ago. I am an office worker in 40s.

I am very happy to hear your good advices.
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Old 3 May 2013, 02:11 AM   #21
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If you don't particularly need or want the date feature, then this is a good reference. The Explorer (214270) without the date is 39mm for a slightly larger reference and different look but still without the date.

I was torn between the 2 when I bought mine, but after seeing them both and trying them on, I went with the 116000 as my "everyday-everywhere" watch.

Let us know what you decide and post photos!!!!!

Winston
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Old 3 May 2013, 01:13 PM   #22
Nekorole
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Dear Winston,
Thank you very much for your thoughtful comment. Explore I is also a nice watch.

I think the design of Date Just is a typical “Rolex-like” design and the Rhodium Roman dial is cool. So I thought to choose the DJ.

I like the clean and beautiful appearance of 116000, probably it is the best “everyday-everywhere" watch as you said. I agree that 116000 is the best first daily watch for me.

Neko
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Old 3 May 2013, 02:11 PM   #23
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I never give it another thought once I put it on in the morning and I totally enjoy it.
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Old 5 May 2013, 01:25 AM   #24
yadamune
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mine is black
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Old 8 June 2013, 09:58 AM   #25
Nekorole
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Oyster in Paris!

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File Type: jpg DSC00500.jpg (60.2 KB, 1552 views)
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Old 8 June 2013, 01:44 PM   #26
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Nekorole View Post
Congrats!!! You made a GREAT choice.
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Old 8 June 2013, 03:01 PM   #27
Nekorole
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Dear Winston,

Thank you very much for your reply.

I have really understood a “GREAT’ choice!!!

Neko
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Old 28 June 2013, 03:27 PM   #28
Lizarbe
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I just recently got one with the blue dial and let me tell you, it hardly leaves my wrist! Great looking watch!
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Old 2 July 2013, 12:57 PM   #29
wjgoretsky
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I just recently got one with the blue dial and let me tell you, it hardly leaves my wrist! Great looking watch!
Congrats!!!

Pictures ... Show us pictures with it on your wrist.
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Old 16 August 2013, 01:14 PM   #30
Lew Archer
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Thanks for the review. Was pondering this same watch and, after your review, bought it tonight...
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