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Old 6 March 2009, 12:48 AM   #1
Chrisxx
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Looking for a "keeper" watch

Hello,
I posted the below in the new member section, but it was suggested that it would get more feedback out here!

I am looking to buy a "keeper" watch in the next couple of months so joined these forums to check out all things Rolex.

Already had some great advice and friendly feedback on the discount situation for Rolex in the UK (and a top tip on Ernest Jones).

My intention is to spend £3k (maybe up to £4k) on a watch (ideally, something robust that looks good both on a bracelet or strap), these are my current thoughts:

GMT IIC Perfect watch, love the easylink bracelet, amazed by the price increases, would need to negotiate to get into price range
Submariner Classic, but price is still creeping a little high
Submariner No date Very Bond, but I am unsure of the hollow centre links
PAM111 love it, shame there isn't a bracelet option, having said that I have tried on the new bracelet and to is too big for my wrist
Omega Speedmaster love the history, considering the sapphire sandwich for robustness, find the bracelet with polished spacers a bit fussy though
Breiting Superocean Great bracelet, but find the bezel a little busy...

Any feedback on these watches of any sort would be welcomed!

I have been checking out grey dealers (thebrandedwatchcompany.co.uk and deliciouswatches.co.uk), any advice or experiences would be welcomed.

Also, any tips for good discount in the UK too!
Best regards,
Chris
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Old 6 March 2009, 01:03 AM   #2
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Hi and welcome

Well if it's going to be a keeper, then get into the GMT IIc while it's just about within reach. In some markets at least, I think Rolex are playing the "Daytona" supply/demand game with this watch (imho)

Don't worry about hollow CLs - the Sub Date and Exp II also has them. Part of the original "tool watch" design and has outlived a few owners...

Cheers
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Old 6 March 2009, 01:11 AM   #3
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If I were in your shoes, I'd go with either the GMT IIc or one of the Subs. I love my Submariner, and the hollow links don't bother me, but it does feel a little light compared to my Roadster. That's not necessarily a bad thing, just a little different. Any of those three watches will never go out of style, and will definitely turn into a "keeper".
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Old 6 March 2009, 02:43 AM   #4
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Well, I own three of your keepers!

I'd keep them in the following order.
1. GMT IIc
2. Pam 111
3. Sub Date
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Old 6 March 2009, 05:17 AM   #5
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sub date and/or superocean
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Old 6 March 2009, 07:23 AM   #6
Chrisxx
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Thanks, you comments are gratefully received. This is going to cause me some sleepless nights I can tell... I agree that a Rolex does seem to be the best keeper that will suit every occasion!
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Old 6 March 2009, 07:27 AM   #7
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I like and wear a White Face Explorer II. It's not on your list; but, thought I would mention it for you to consider.
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Old 6 March 2009, 07:45 AM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Rebel View Post
I like and wear a White Face Explorer II. It's not on your list; but, thought I would mention it for you to consider.

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Old 6 March 2009, 08:56 AM   #9
Chrisxx
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Mark, thanks for the recommend, I have checked it out, and its a handsome watch, something that I hadn't really looked at before. It is hard to believe that a watch so similar to the GMT is priced so differently. If they put a new style clasp with easy-link on it, I will be sold!!
Thanks,
Chris
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Old 6 March 2009, 09:03 AM   #10
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1Sub/2GMT
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Old 6 March 2009, 01:57 PM   #11
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one of the rolexes you mention or the speedmaster.
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Old 6 March 2009, 02:14 PM   #12
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You'll only know it's a keeper if you keep it. You can't expect others to tell you how you'll feel. You have done extensive work thus far narrowing the field. Take a final swing thorough the ADs to help you decide.

Good luck to you.

Stop by the for sale section and note that the posters of all those watches are selling what they thought were their "keepers." Just the way it is.
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Old 6 March 2009, 04:58 PM   #13
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SS Sub Date...will never go out of style
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Old 6 March 2009, 08:37 PM   #14
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I was apprehensive about the hollow bracelet on the 16610. I mean, handling it you get the impression that it should be on a cheap $20 piece. Maybe it should. But it sits nicely on your wrist as the head is heavier preventing the bracelet from sliding around like a super jubilee does; which is nice on the sports watch IMO. However, I wish the clasp was that of the GMT-IIc with the thick flip lock. You'll laugh, but I have had a few bad dreams that the flip lock became contorted somehow or another- haha. Bracelet looks nicer then the Omega, and it is functional.

GMT-IIc is snazzy. I just came around to it. I hadn't tired on the TT model until a few days ago; it got me!
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Old 6 March 2009, 09:41 PM   #15
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I have two keepers.... a Rolex white dial EXP II and an Omega Speedmaster. Cheers, Bill P.
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Old 7 March 2009, 01:30 AM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by jtvision View Post
I was apprehensive about the hollow bracelet on the 16610. I mean, handling it you get the impression that it should be on a cheap $20 piece. Maybe it should. But it sits nicely on your wrist as the head is heavier preventing the bracelet from sliding around like a super jubilee does; which is nice on the sports watch IMO. However, I wish the clasp was that of the GMT-IIc with the thick flip lock. You'll laugh, but I have had a few bad dreams that the flip lock became contorted somehow or another- haha. Bracelet looks nicer then the Omega, and it is functional.

GMT-IIc is snazzy. I just came around to it. I hadn't tired on the TT model until a few days ago; it got me!
Sounds like you've now answered your question(s). GMT2C (either SS or TT) is the Rolex for you!
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Old 7 March 2009, 05:17 AM   #17
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The GMT IIc is a lovely looking watch, but imo after owning one it would be a lot better if it had a brush finish to the bracelet.
For me it would have to be the classic S/S sub with date. Although saying that, the one thing that does let it down is the clasp.
Good hunting.
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Old 9 March 2009, 04:57 AM   #18
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classic S/S sub with date
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Old 10 March 2009, 05:45 AM   #19
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Sub or GMTIIC....
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Old 10 March 2009, 06:03 AM   #20
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Sub-Date. If you can't get a BNIB within your budget, then by all means, check the pre-owned market....there are plenty of great buys out there.

If you bump up your budget slightly, you may be able to find a BNIB Sub-Date for $5K, or just shy of that.

Btw, ALL Rolex watches are a "keeper"....IMO.
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Old 10 March 2009, 07:08 AM   #21
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I love the GMT's and Speedmasters, If I could only have one watch it would be very hard to pick between the GMT and the Speedmaster.
Good luck!

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Old 11 March 2009, 07:23 AM   #22
Chrisxx
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Thanks guys, I am still keeping an eye out for deals, a used sub or GMT from a trusted dealer may be the way to go... still love the speedmaster though!
Chris
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Old 11 March 2009, 08:49 AM   #23
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This one planet ocean1.jpg

planet ocean2.jpg

planet ocean4.jpg

planet ocean10.jpg

planet ocean11.jpg
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Old 11 March 2009, 09:52 PM   #24
akhamdani
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Welcome.My vote is SUB-DATE.Classic,all time watch.
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