2 watch collection: omega to Rolex

[Edgeworth]

I had a two-watch collection for about 5 years (not counting G-shock or Seiko beaters). Both Omega. My daily was a 38mm Aqua Terra on a rubber strap; a unique model with a white lacquer dial not the usual teak deck. I also had a TT Sedna gold Connie that I kind of babied. These were unique watches and not really popular models by any means (like Speedmaster and Diver 300). But I loved them and really bonded with each watch. I got one used and one grey and both were due for a 5-7 year service.

However, I saw a pic of the new 36mm TT explorer and I was like .. that’s my watch. And the advantage of having a preference for unpopular watches is you can get great deals. So I sold my Omegas to used/grey dealers and amazingly got back most of my money after 5-7 years wear. That’s very rare for Omega. Then this summer I bought my TT explorer from WatchBox for well under retail. Full set, near mint, and I love it. IMO a lot of the criticism this watch got - for turning the ultimate tool watch into a dainty gold trinket - was unfair. I mean, nobody says that about the TT subs like 127613 - a watch that was designed for exploring the depths that was turned into a shiny gold spectacle for the resort pool.

Anyway, I baby the TT and I needed a daily to replace the Aqua Terra. Looked at several options and wound up going with white lacquer Roman numeral DJ. Got it used with box and no papers, a 36mm with domed bezel and PCL. Watch was advertised as new, and it is very clean overall. Took it to jeweler I trust. He was like yah it’s new, but maybe a display model at one point. And running beautifully. I absolutely love it. I tend to be kind of OCD about scratches and smudges, but since the watch already had a few little marks I haven’t obsessed about using it as a GADA. And, again, it’s an unpopular watch that I love and I got it for about 12% under retail.

Anyway thanks for anyone who took the time to read this missive. Haha. I have about 8-10 years of career left and hoping these watches get me through it. After that, I have two sons I love dearly, and I will service these watches and hand them down to the next generation. Then I will do the old man thing and buy a proper retired old man watch. Likely some sort of 36mm Day Date.

I would post pics but not really smart enough to do that. Ha.

[Edgeworth]

Pics —

[Calatrava r]

Two very nice watches. Both look great on you.

[subprimero]

Not the usual suspects! Congratulations!

[DAGMoney]

Good stuff, and good story. Well done!

[KatGirl]

First, welcome to the forum! Both very nice choices. Congrats!

Kat


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[amphr1]

Nice! The TT Explorer looks good on your wrist!

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[Benzsiam]

Welcome to TRF!

Enjoy your two great timepieces with a good health.

Both of them look very good on your wrist.

[Gearjockey]

Great looking TT and DJ.

That’s how it’s done.

[JAJ2349]

Damn, both look great.
I’ve never considered the TT Explorer, but it sure is sharp.

[East of Eden]

Originally Posted by Edgeworth

IMO a lot of the criticism this watch got - for turning the ultimate tool watch into a dainty gold trinket - was unfair. I mean, nobody says that about the TT subs like 127613 - a watch that was designed for exploring the depths that was turned into a shiny gold spectacle for the resort pool.

I do.

Glad you like your watch, that's all that counts!

[MichelleP]

Congratulations. 2 great watches

[Tambo19]

They look perfect on you, congrats.

[Edgeworth]

Thanks for the compliments. This has to be the nicest message board on the internet. And not one person asked me why I bought 2 “lady” Rolexes. Ha

I did notice one typo in my little story. The TT sub, blue or black, is 126613.

As you can tell my tastes lean toward the style of my glory days in the 80s. Magnum PI and Sonny Crockett rocking their TT 36mm DJs. Of course they went with the fluted bezel for extra bling. And Harrison Ford wore my white Roman DJ 36 in the 1988 movie Fragile. Again, he had a fluted bezel on his though.

Maybe someday I’ll get with the times and buy a Rolex steel sports watch. But I doubt it. I like what I like.

[jswing]

Nothing wrong with liking what you like, both very nice watches. And I understand the "lady watch" reference - I wear a 36mm Explorer and a 37mm Tudor, and there are folks on other forums that do indeed refer to them as ladies watches.

[TimeAZ]

Welcome! Really great choices you've made, two spectacular watches that are very tasteful and dynamic. Both look perfect on you. Congrats and keep us updated on when #3 comes along (fear not, it will, this is a sickness...)

[rom33]

Hi, you thought it through and executed your plan . Very smart.

[Michael1968]

Great collection
Enjoy it and wear it with health

[Joearch]

Great combo! Nice story and move to Rolex. Welcome to TRF.

[rohada]

I had a collection of 6 Omega watches and moved to Rolex. I have that Explorer and had that DJ (on jubilee). Both are well sorted out watches. I'm a fan of TT due to the contrast. I have two in the rotation. It's a beautiful and eye catching design. Buy what you like is sound advice.

[RolexDave68]

Congrats they look fantastic and cheers to enjoying the journey

[JTL31]

You have great taste; I have owned both of those watches in the past.
Smaller Roman numeral piece though. I often wonder if my end game with Rolex will be to purchase 1 of those models back.

[ol' Rex]

Great collection!

I have never seen an Explorer that I didn't like, and that includes this two-tone model. I think it looks stunning -- and much better than a two-tone Submariner.

[Dave O]

Both look great on your wrist. Just the right size for you. Love the TT Explorer. Enjoy!!!

[Gearjockey]

I enjoy both brands but I admit Rolex has a better catalog. I own a couple of Speedmasters, one of which was my first nice watch and shall remain in my collection. I also own a couple of Seamasters. I don’t foresee completely divesting of my Omega collection ever. In fact, often times when I sense a Rolex may be tempting criminal fate, I throw on a Seamaster while wearing short sleeves and I seem to worry less. They just allow me to live a little more carefree without constantly thinking about my surroundings.

[logo]

Nice choices. Those who criticize the two tone explorer have never taken the time to look at the history of the Rolex Explorer.

Here’s an “Everest” pre-explorer from the early 50s. Two tone, and with g-hook style numbers.

[4 Aussies]

Welcome aboard the Rolex Train, it's a great ride!!

[jimcameron]

Classy. Enjoy

[Gerry62]

Congrats !

Very beautiful . Your collection has evolved for the better. Bravo

[stickbenz]

2 great looking watches! congratulations.