First "proper" watch - AP or Rolex?

[Stig722]

I have been rocking an omega seamster for the last few years and feel it's time to get my first "proper" watch. I'm thinking about three different models that aren't really in the same price range. This upcoming purchase will be my only watch (other than the Omega) for the next few years. These are the watches I'm thinking about.

1. AP Royal Oak Offshore Diver (Black rubber strap, black face and silver body)
Why? Ever since subscribing to MrJWW on YouTube I have been in love with this watch and the AP brand in general.
Pros: AP is a very prestigious brand, love rubber straps on expensive watches, really like the display case on the back, relatively easy to find at AP ADs.
Cons: A bit bulky, a bit flashy, doesn't seem to hold its value all that well.

2. Black Rolex Sub Date
Why? The classic luxury watch that got me into watches.
Pros: Relatively easy to obtain at an AD, goes with everything, classic Rolex model.
Cons: Not all that special, lots of people have them. Probably the worst SS model as for value retention.

3. Rolex Sub - "Hulk"
Why? What's not to like about a green Rolex?
Pros: Very unique model, holds its value incredibly well, stunning dial.
Cons: Color might grow old, hard to get at retail.

Thoughts?

[Boba Fett]

Buy a sub and put it on a rubber strap?

[Brian Page]

Go Rolex first, way more durable and affordable to service. Add later to the collection.

[watchaser]

I would personally go with Rolex if I was in your shoes. Had to recently send on my AP for service and it was instant 1500 not including a polish.

[Jhowton23]

for long term i would say rolex for the reasons stated above....but i also would consider an omega a proper watch so maybe we are from different perspectives

[kunlun]

AP is a big step up over Rolex, horologically. And you love the AP and don't love the Rolex watches, so buy what you love.

[Chester01]

Originally Posted by Stig722

I have been rocking an omega seamster for the last few years and feel it's time to get my first "proper" watch. I'm thinking about three different models that aren't really in the same price range. This upcoming purchase will be my only watch (other than the Omega) for the next few years. These are the watches I'm thinking about.

1. AP Royal Oak Offshore Diver (Black rubber strap, black face and silver body)
Why? Ever since subscribing to MrJWW on YouTube I have been in love with this watch and the AP brand in general.
Pros: AP is a very prestigious brand, love rubber straps on expensive watches, really like the display case on the back, relatively easy to find at AP ADs.
Cons: A bit bulky, a bit flashy, doesn't seem to hold its value all that well.

2. Black Rolex Sub Date
Why? The classic luxury watch that got me into watches.
Pros: Relatively easy to obtain at an AD, goes with everything, classic Rolex model.
Cons: Not all that special, lots of people have them. Probably the worst SS model as for value retention.

3. Rolex Sub - "Hulk"
Why? What's not to like about a green Rolex?
Pros: Very unique model, holds its value incredibly well, stunning dial.
Cons: Color might grow old, hard to get at retail.

Thoughts?

Depends if prestige you are after than AP. If you plan to wear your watch in most circumstances as I do, Rolex will hold up better. I also feel the designs are more classic and timeless. AP is really a dress watch company playing the role of the sport watch. Rolex is the original sport watch...period. The royal oak dials are nice, but I would not say that they are as versatile due more to the case designs.

[Tony8959]

Originally Posted by Stig722

I have been rocking an omega seamster for the last few years and feel it's time to get my first "proper" watch. I'm thinking about three different models that aren't really in the same price range. This upcoming purchase will be my only watch (other than the Omega) for the next few years. These are the watches I'm thinking about.

1. AP Royal Oak Offshore Diver (Black rubber strap, black face and silver body)
Why? Ever since subscribing to MrJWW on YouTube I have been in love with this watch and the AP brand in general.
Pros: AP is a very prestigious brand, love rubber straps on expensive watches, really like the display case on the back, relatively easy to find at AP ADs.
Cons: A bit bulky, a bit flashy, doesn't seem to hold its value all that well.

2. Black Rolex Sub Date
Why? The classic luxury watch that got me into watches.
Pros: Relatively easy to obtain at an AD, goes with everything, classic Rolex model.
Cons: Not all that special, lots of people have them. Probably the worst SS model as for value retention.

3. Rolex Sub - "Hulk"
Why? What's not to like about a green Rolex?
Pros: Very unique model, holds its value incredibly well, stunning dial.
Cons: Color might grow old, hard to get at retail.

Thoughts?

I would disagree with saying the sub date doesn’t have good value retention. These watches seem to hold relatively strong value on RPP.

[Dr Watches]

All nice watches. The AP is better finished and their service center in FL (assuming you're in the USA) is pretty good. It's also much larger, more expensive, and in your face.


I'm not sure that the AP Diver will age as well as the Sub from a design standpoint, but get whatever you want.

[Junior_]

Sub. Easier to service, great watch.

I think it does hold value.

But you have to get what calls to you regardless of what any of us think.

[Raku]

Originally Posted by Stig722

I have been rocking an omega seamster for the last few years and feel it's time to get my first "proper" watch. I'm thinking about three different models that aren't really in the same price range. This upcoming purchase will be my only watch (other than the Omega) for the next few years. These are the watches I'm thinking about.

1. AP Royal Oak Offshore Diver (Black rubber strap, black face and silver body)
Why? Ever since subscribing to MrJWW on YouTube I have been in love with this watch and the AP brand in general.
Pros: AP is a very prestigious brand, love rubber straps on expensive watches, really like the display case on the back, relatively easy to find at AP ADs.
Cons: A bit bulky, a bit flashy, doesn't seem to hold its value all that well.

2. Black Rolex Sub Date
Why? The classic luxury watch that got me into watches.
Pros: Relatively easy to obtain at an AD, goes with everything, classic Rolex model.
Cons: Not all that special, lots of people have them. Probably the worst SS model as for value retention.

3. Rolex Sub - "Hulk"
Why? What's not to like about a green Rolex?
Pros: Very unique model, holds its value incredibly well, stunning dial.
Cons: Color might grow old, hard to get at retail.

Thoughts?

Ouch for Omega fans!
1. The AP looks ostentatious to me.
2. The Sub is the most iconic watch design ever produced.
3. The LV is great, the green dial actually changes colour depending of the light, so it will definitely not going to become boring.

[joli160]

Option 2;

Not a fan of any AP, they are stuck in the seventies design wise , I don't like the Nautilus either, definitely in the minority here.

Value retention is a wrong argument to choose a watch imho. Not so long ago the 116610LV was not that loved as it is now and you could get them with a discount. Hypes come and go.

Submariner date, there you have it, instead of looking outdated it's a classic.
Lots of people have them can be argued, I really don't see a lot of Rolex in everyday life.
It will be a faithful companion for life

[dlhussain]

Originally Posted by Stig722

I have been rocking an omega seamster for the last few years and feel it's time to get my first "proper" watch. I'm thinking about three different models that aren't really in the same price range. This upcoming purchase will be my only watch (other than the Omega) for the next few years. These are the watches I'm thinking about.

1. AP Royal Oak Offshore Diver (Black rubber strap, black face and silver body)
Why? Ever since subscribing to MrJWW on YouTube I have been in love with this watch and the AP brand in general.
Pros: AP is a very prestigious brand, love rubber straps on expensive watches, really like the display case on the back, relatively easy to find at AP ADs.
Cons: A bit bulky, a bit flashy, doesn't seem to hold its value all that well.

2. Black Rolex Sub Date
Why? The classic luxury watch that got me into watches.
Pros: Relatively easy to obtain at an AD, goes with everything, classic Rolex model.
Cons: Not all that special, lots of people have them. Probably the worst SS model as for value retention.

3. Rolex Sub - "Hulk"
Why? What's not to like about a green Rolex?
Pros: Very unique model, holds its value incredibly well, stunning dial.
Cons: Color might grow old, hard to get at retail.

Thoughts?

If you can get the Hulk otherwise sub date

[dlhussain]

Originally Posted by kunlun

AP is a big step up over Rolex, horologically. And you love the AP and don't love the Rolex watches, so buy what you love.

I agree, but that's like advising a new driver to buy an Italian exotica instead of a reliable German car.

[PossumDixon]

If you have the scratch, AP. No brainer.

[FloridaRolexGuy23]

In my opinion aps r garbage dump. Rolex all the way.

[t65tampa]

The Rolex will be a safer bet. Add an AP later if you feel "nice watches" might be your thing.

[dlhussain]

Originally Posted by FloridaRolexGuy23

In my opinion aps r garbage dump. Rolex all the way.

With that comment you have lost all credibility

[garbanzo]

Have to say that I disagree strongly about the Sub’s value retention issue - in my opinion, it is one of the better watches in that respect.

[Aplover5]

I’ve owned both (still own the sub) and find the AP diver isn’t as comfortable on my 7.75” wrist. Rolex with ceramic bezel is more durable. Just my humble opinion.

[dlhussain]

Originally Posted by garbanzo

Have to say that I disagree strongly about the Sub’s value retention issue - in my opinion, it is one of the better watches in that respect.

Sub holds value very well, in terms of desirability its like this White Daytona > Black Daytona > Pepsi > Hulk > Batman > Sub Date > Black GMT > Sub ND (Ive ignored the skydweller on purpose)

[envuks]

I would recommend either of the submariners. If you want something less flashy and more subtle go with the black sub, if you want something a bit more flashy and fun go with the LV.

If it were me and I were buying my “one watch” I’d bet the black sub. The LV seems better fitted in a rotation of multiple watches.

At the end of the day, but what you like best. Listen to your gut on what you’re drawn to.


I think the AP is large and despite being nice, doesn’t work in many settings as a “one watch.”

Good luck and enjoy the buying process!

[79280_116520]

When in doubt, hold off until you "personally" do some more due diligence.

It's natural for Omega upgrade to Rolex and Rolex owners move on to supposed "greener" pastures. The sub is a conservative choice and if you decide it's not for you, you can easily sell it and get an AP if your hear desires.

[BMWatch]

Rolex
Rolex
Rolex

[FrontHeadlock]

imo you need to have the right style to wear the AP ROO. you'll know if you do.

if not, go sub. black or hulk, whichever you like more

[singe89]

Buy what sings to you the most.

I love my Rolex divers but also love my APs. I've had the SS diver and the FC diver has been a daily beater for around 6 years and held up even better than the old DSSD I wore before that.

Service is easy through APSC clearwater and will cost $950 and take around a month. Not cheap but really not that bad either for a HH brand.

The AP can grab attention because of the finishing but rarely does anyone know what it is. Depending on where you live you probably wont see another one in the wild. Its a very durable watch that can stand up to daily beater activity without issues but the SS bezel and case will scratch and it will be more noticeable to you. Other's wont notice from a distance. value retention will depend on what you pay. DSW has a used one for around $14k.

The sub is an all time classic and the hulk is a nice change up that is somewhat unique and also grab more attention. Rolex and Subs can be soooo common depending on where you live.

[tyler1980]

of those 3 AP diver. It's awesome.

I like the Rolex choices too, but to be honest so many divers look like rolex divers. The AP is a statement piece

[Zuger]

SubC Date since you plan to wear this watch as a daily for the next few years. It’s suitable 99% of the time.

[Quailhunter]

I recommend looking into the cost and frequency of servicing the AP. You might be surprised how expensive AP and Patek watches can be over time. I’m down to two Pateks. They average about $1500 to $2000 per service with about 2-4 year intervals. Most of these trips back home have been around 9 months each. My experiences may not be typical.

I have 5 Rolex watches and the typical Rolex Service Center is around $500 and usually 7 to 8 year intervals. I usually get the watch back in a month. Again, my experiences may not be typical.

[tyler1980]

Originally Posted by Quailhunter

I recommend looking into the cost and frequency of servicing the AP. You might be surprised how expensive AP and Patek watches can be over time. I’m down to two Pateks. They average about $1500 to $2000 per service with about 2-4 year intervals. Most of these trips back home have been around 9 months each. My experiences may not be typical.

I have 5 Rolex watches and the typical Rolex Service Center is around $500 and usually 7 to 8 year intervals. I usually get the watch back in a month. Again, my experiences may not be typical.

its more than $500 the last time i had my Rolex done ($600 for the service and $250 for parts), but in any case $500 for a 9k watch vs $900 for a $20k watch. the AP is a better deal vs the cost of the watch. A 5 year interval on AP is fine. Especially one without complications and the warranty is 5 years, so you are not paying for a service before that.

Rolex is overpriced as far as service goes IMO, AP is just about right. Plus AP is HH so the finishing etc costs more to do so its more justifiable.