Rolex Submariner No-Date First Impressions

MichaelC · 2019-09-19T12:51:52Z

MichaelC shares his first Rolex Submariner experience, converting a skeptic into an admirer. Discover why this iconic watch impresses even seasoned collectors.

MichaelC's initial encounter with a Rolex Submariner, after years of preferring more discreet brands, sparked a profound appreciation for its quality and design. His post captures the transformative experience of trying on a watch that many collectors eventually come to understand. This discussion explores the allure of the Submariner and the broader collector journey, particularly for those who initially resist mainstream appeal.

Key Points from the Discussion

Many collectors initially seek watches perceived as more 'stealth' or 'different' than Rolex, often valuing visible movements and complications, but eventually come to appreciate Rolex's build quality and precision.
Some collectors, initially resistant to Rolex's ubiquity, found their perception changed instantly upon wearing a Submariner, understanding its widespread appeal due to its field-tested quality and comfort.
The author preferred the no-date Submariner model over the date version, finding it better captured the essence of the brand.
Despite initial preferences for less recognizable brands like Audemars Piguet, the author was genuinely astounded by the quality and perfection of the Rolex Submariner upon close examination.
Rolex tool watches are valued by some collectors for their robustness, making them suitable for demanding environments like construction sites or workshops, while reserving more delicate pieces for other occasions.
The Submariner no-date is seen by some as truly capturing the essence of the Rolex brand, despite the difficulty in acquiring other popular models like the Daytona.

The Discussion

vitalsigns

Sep 19, 2019

To have never tried one on your wrist...you are a rarity! They are great watches, for sure. Too ubiquitous IMO (a testament to their greatness, among other things) and noticeable, but they are for sure nice, well-engineered and well-built. They deserve their solid reputation. Cheers, John

MichaelC

Sep 19, 2019

Maybe that was short sighted. Years ago, a good friend obtained a prominent job and asked me "should I buy a Rolex or a Cartier?" "Neither" was my reply. He wanted one because that is what other people know. I revel in the fact that I can wear an Audemars Piguet about anywhere and most people have no clue what it is. I always knew Rolex was a solid brand. Opening the box earlier and examining this sample, it is perfect. I'm really astounded at the quality. This has all the makings of an essentia

Rapwatch

Sep 19, 2019

the new 'real world' Sub? Try one. Rapwatch

ChristianDK

Sep 19, 2019

except I jumped the train 4 years ago. I now have couple that I thoroughly enjoy. I even sold one of them and then rebought it. I’m not sure it’s something I want to collect. However, those two are keepers to me. Best, my friend. Christian

Clueless_Collector

Sep 19, 2019

mainly because I felt everyone seems to have a Rolex and I wanted to own something more stealth and different but “better” than Rolex. I wanted to be able to see the movements and appreciate the complications so that’s why my only Rolex is the Cellini Prince. Then in 2014, I was able to get the SS black dial 116520 Daytona... Their build, quality and precision is just amazing so the rest is history....now I’m lucky to be able to get these 😊 IMHO, Michael, I think you should own at least one Role

MichaelC

Sep 19, 2019

It does not appeal to my tastes.

Key Points from the Discussion

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