How to choose the best birth year watch?

[BigBallerBrand]

I’m looking for something made in 1990…would be awesome if the papers matched my birth month too.

But where can I begin to do my research in terms of which models to go after from that specific year? Pepsi would be nice, but are there certain models that were good or not good in specific years back then? Ty

[OrangeSport]

Does it have to be Rolex? If so a GMT would be a great choice, but I don't think there are any "duds" so to speak...

I took a different route. Being born in '69 I got a (new) Speedmaster Moonwatch

[padi56]

Originally Posted by BigBallerBrand

I’m looking for something made in 1990…would be awesome if the papers matched my birth month too.

But where can I begin to do my research in terms of which models to go after from that specific year? Pepsi would be nice, but are there certain models that were good or not good in specific years back then? Ty

When it was sold would be your best bet, as only Rolex knows when it was made, as all internet charts are not 100% accurate only a approx date between X&Y years. With models like the 16710 first introduced in 1988/9 with very little change until it was discontinued. The change from Tritium lume to Luminover around 1998, and from around 2007 movement change from the cal 3185 to 3186 but IMHO I would take a 3185 over the 3186.The 16710 is a very versatile watch get all 3 inserts then 3 different watches for very little money inserts around $70 or less from Rolex.

[brandrea]

Peter has some really good advice above^^^

[GB-man]

You have great options

[1665fan]

16520 for sure!

[Rado63]

In 1990 Tritium was used on the dials and you will find the printing “Swiss – t < 25” to indicate that it contains tritium. " T Swiss T" was also used by Rolex. Some of these dials may have been changed out over the years. Examine the case for correct finish, and correct markings. The bracelet would also have identifier markings for the year produced. Some things to look for.

[Mike I]

Originally Posted by padi56

When it was sold would be your best bet, as only Rolex knows when it was made, as all internet charts are not 100% accurate only a approx date between X&Y years. With models like the 16710 first introduced in 1988/9 with very little change until it was discontinued. The change from Tritium lume to Luminover around 1998, and from around 2007 movement change from the cal 3185 to 3186 but IMHO I would take a 3185 over the 3186.The 16710 is a very versatile watch get all 3 inserts then 3 different watches for very little money inserts around $70 or less from Rolex.

Why do you prefer 3185 over 3186?

[dpt.calvin]

Find a watch you like, then see if it was made in your birth year. Not the other way around.

I bought a birth year 16710 last year. Love it.

[inadeje]

If you want to really celebrate your birth year then there’s absolutely no other variant than the 16520 zenith SS.

[rolexest]

Which ever watch you like the best, get it in your birth year. Lol easy answer.

[GMT Aviator]

Originally Posted by Mike I

Why do you prefer 3185 over 3186?

3185 less prone to failure. My 3185 GMT’s have been faultless throughout their lives, my 3186 has had to have warranty repair for a movement failure. It’s been fine ever since but it seems 3186 movements once had their fair share of problems which have been well documented. Given the choice, I would pick 3185.

[DannyO]

1990, the last year of the 5513.