New Pledge Intro + Seeking Wisdom

[munrokicker]

Hello All,

Wanted to introduce myself: I've been lurking on this site for a long time while patiently learning and saving for my grail: an SS Daytona. This will be a big (BIG) purchase for me and while I could almost recite every previous discussion on this form that pertains to my decision, any extra wisdom from you guys would be greatly appreciated.

The decision is between these two. Both are around 11K:
1999 16520 "A" Black Dial 95%, full set.
2012 116520 "G" White Dial, Practically new, full set.

I. Can't. Decide.

I won't recite the pros/cons and the long-term value as it's a recurring topic here. The G is simply gorgeous and it sounds like the movement may be better. The bracelet is fantastic. The A is more my style with its understated look and I'll appreciate the fact that there won't be as many copies floating around.

Pretty easy to establish pricing for the G but I'm having loads of trouble with the A. The typical sources show a range of 9.3K (no paps) to 19K (time capsule), which make me think this is a good deal. Definitely NOT looking for an appraisal but want to make sure I have the whole picture.

Which would you choose?

Thanks,
Graham

[beshannon]

I would buy the newer watch

[StuartM1970]

Unhelpfully, I would buy the older one.

[mjclark32]

I'd go with the newer white dial

[CoachRolexRyan]

Wow. Tough choice. It's a lot to spend either way for a watch, so you have to be head over heals for it. I feel if you got the white dial you would always have regrets. Good luck!

[Rolexitis]

White congrats on the big day!

[horseco]

Unless you are a vintage enthusiast, I would get the newer watch. The bracelet, clasp, case, movement, ect, are much hardier for daily wear... IMO

[kilyung]

Personally I'd get the newest one I could afford.

[landroverking]

Well I'm a Zenith fan. Not much help I know.

[mws222]

I'd go for the newer one.

[superdog]

At this point:

Save the extra thousand and get a brand new one.

This is a no brainer. It will also give you time to decide the dial color.

But for that little of a difference, it should not even be a choice.

Around 11 used or around 12, brandy new. Easy.

[mruhland31]

I love hearing stories like yours. This IS a big deal and I can feel your excitement. I personally like both of those models. I would probably end up with the white face but it's close. Here's all I can really add to this...no matter what you do it will be the right decision. Just don't look back as they are both beautiful watches. I can't wait to see pictures!!!!

[watchwatcher]

Go for the newer piece. Unless you're all into vintage. I'm no expert on debating movements, but the newer bracelet with easy link alone would swing it foe me.

Plus, I like the white dial better.

[akira23]

First off, Welcome! Secondly if your into vintage then get the A (Black dial), but for me I would lean towards the new B (White Dial)...purchase what calls to you!

[Billywiz]

I THINK THE PRICE TOU ARE CONSIDERING IS TOO CLOSE TO A NEW ONE...WAIT AND BUY NEW?

Alternatively neg hard on the Black face. White faces here in US are very popular in the rest of the world the black face is considerably more desirable. Personally I like the black its more sporty. Good luck.

[Time Exposure]

I'd def. get the 4130 because I feel it's a more advanced movement design. Zenith is great, but that design is 34 yrs old. Vertical clutch/ease of service due to simpler and sturdier design...points me to the newer one.

[tinger]

U'll probably need to factor in a service cost ~ $1000ish(?) for the older one

[munrokicker]

Thanks for all the comments guys. Makes me fell better that it's close to 50/50 here as well. It's pretty much the same as "do you want a rare(r) vintage Porsche that will be more unique and continue to appreciate? Or do you want a brand new techno-marvel 911!"

When I told my local go-to vintage dealer I was ready for a Daytona he got pretty excited (he eat, sleeps, and breathes Daytona). He called all his collector friends/clients and a week later gave me the name/number of an individual who he thought had the best option for me based on my budget. He thinks the Zeniths are still undervalued and that I would later regret not going that route. The watch went to RSC late 2012 so that variable is OK.

I don't want to be disrespectful and point out the specific 12' but its "as new" and I would save enough over NIB for it to make sense in my eyes. The seller even told me to buy what will make me happy. Truly speaks to the high-caliber people on this forum.

Now all I have to do is finish this forum book.. "My Grail: THE 16520 no, THE 116520 wait, THE 1.....16520 (insert four-letter word here).

I'll post pictures when I figure out what the heck I want!