Why does this forum care so much about what watch other people like??

[Mystro]

It’s one of the most bizarre turns this forum has taken. Shouldn’t YOU know what watch YOU like before spending a considerable sum of money on? This isn’t hard and doesn’t require any knowledge or skill set to know what model watch looks good to you. You like the watch, you buy the watch, you wear the watch. This isn’t complicated stuff here. I would think toilet training might even be more difficult than this.

It went from “what Rolex will increase in value the most?” To now “What model does everyone like the most X or Y?” Is this a odd way of seeking people’s approval or validation of some kind to know what watch to buy???
Why would anyone care what model other people like as their background and taste is meaningless.

[MattyL147]

I think the era of social media has a lot to do with it. Like you said, its an odd way of seeking approval or validation, like getting "likes" on IG. People just want to know they have the "in" thing that is liked by others.

[Token74]

Originally Posted by MattyL147

I think the era of social media has a lot to do with it. Like you said, its an odd way of seeking approval or validation, like getting "likes" on IG. People just want to know they have the "in" thing that is liked by others.

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[Mystro]

Originally Posted by Token74

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i am not following?

[AK797]

Originally Posted by MattyL147

I think the era of social media has a lot to do with it. Like you said, its an odd way of seeking approval or validation, like getting "likes" on IG. People just want to know they have the "in" thing that is liked by others.

I agree SM has taken this to another level, but even before the hype we did often ask each other what we liked, I did a few polls myself in trying to gauge the pulse of the forum, as we are all like-minded people so I wanted to know others, and share my, thoughts, most of us have families who roll there eyes as soon as we talk about watches so this forum is a Godsend.

I remember I did a poll on getting the blue v black YG sub and I liked the black one but the forum really preferred the blue one, but I didn't care and went into the AD for the black, and then straight up bought the blue one as soon as the dial sunburst on me. So the boys here do know a thing or two.

[Laszlo]

Originally Posted by MattyL147

I think the era of social media has a lot to do with it. Like you said, its an odd way of seeking approval or validation, like getting "likes" on IG. People just want to know they have the "in" thing that is liked by others.

Ditto!


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[REFZ]

The problem with today's watch buyers is that it has to look good on pictures which they post on their Instagram account.
It's skin and luxury what sells in today's social media world.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Mystro

It’s one of the most bizarre turns this forum has taken. Shouldn’t YOU know what watch YOU like before spending a considerable sum of money on? This isn’t hard and doesn’t require any knowledge or skill set to know what model watch looks good to you. You like the watch, you buy the watch, you wear the watch. This isn’t complicated stuff here. I would think toilet training might even be more difficult than this.

It went from “what Rolex will increase in value the most?” To now “What model does everyone like the most X or Y?” Is this a odd way of seeking people’s approval or validation of some kind to know what watch to buy???
Why would anyone care what model other people like as their background and taste is meaningless.

Have to agree but afraid today many cannot use there own grey matter the brain,and today many cannot think for themselves.I sometimes wonder how some remember to breath, IMHO the so called social media world of today will be the end of thinking for themselves.

[harvey]

Originally Posted by padi56

Have to agree but afraid today many cannot use there own grey matter the brain,and today many cannot think for themselves,I sometimes wonder how some remember to breath.

Rather disrespectful of members here. Again I should say...as others have recently highlighted.

See my reply above. Make sense?


In over 10 years this is the first time I have registered my disagreement and annoyance at the holier than thou attitude of some here.

[Token74]

Originally Posted by harvey

Rather disrespectful of members here. Again I should say...as others have recently highlighted.

See my reply above. Make sense?


In over 10 years this is the first time I have registered my disagreement and annoyance at the holier than thou attitude of some here.

There is a lot of it going on here at the moment. Opinions are great, but being critical of others who haven’t done anything wrong isn’t.

As for the original question...

Do I care what others think? Of course, that’s why I make more of an effort with my appearance when friends come round, than I do when home alone, don’t most people?

Do I want experienced collectors opinions on watches I’m considering? Of course, why wouldn’t I want to learn? Most of us have bought and subsequently sold watches, and I’ve learned lessons when doing so, why would someone not am want to tap into that experience?

Do I want to show off what I’ve bought just a little? Of course, so does everyone that posts an ‘incoming’ thread. No harm, no foul, just human nature.

Do people really listen to others when making decisions on such purchases if those opinions are purely personal taste? Probably not. But...sometimes you don’t know what you want, until someone says what you don’t want! My wife asked me last night whether I wanted Chilli or Curry for tea. I said I didn’t mind, which I really didn’t. She said, Chilli it is then. At that moment I realised I was disappointed. We had curry!

Those of us who are on here daily get tired of the same old threads (I.e. investment or what should I buy), and I get that. But that’s generally a sign to me that I need to spend less time in here!!! (Which is normally a good thing, as time on here tends to directly correlate to number of watches purchased)!


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[KBM]

Originally Posted by Token74

There is a lot of it going on here at the moment. Opinions are great, but being critical of others who haven’t done anything wrong isn’t.

As for the original question...

Do I care what others think? Of course, that’s why I make more of an effort with my appearance when friends come round, than I do when home alone, don’t most people?

Do I want experienced collectors opinions on watches I’m considering? Of course, why wouldn’t I want to learn? Most of us have bought and subsequently sold watches, and I’ve learned lessons when doing so, why would someone not am want to tap into that experience?

Do I want to show off what I’ve bought just a little? Of course, so does everyone that posts an ‘incoming’ thread. No harm, no foul, just human nature.

Do people really listen to others when making decisions on such purchases if those opinions are purely personal taste? Probably not. But...sometimes you don’t know what you want, until someone says what you don’t want! My wife asked me last night whether I wanted Chilli or Curry for tea. I said I didn’t mind, which I really didn’t. She said, Chilli it is then. At that moment I realised I was disappointed. We had curry!

Those of us who are on here daily get tired of the same old threads (I.e. investment or what should I buy), and I get that. But that’s generally a sign to me that I need to spend less time in here!!! (Which is normally a good thing, as time on here tends to directly correlate to number of watches purchased)!


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Very well said on all regards, Vince. Cheers.

[Mystro]

Originally Posted by padi56

Have to agree but afraid today many cannot use there own grey matter the brain,and today many cannot think for themselves,I sometimes wonder how some remember to breath.

These same people can figure out how order their $12 cup of coffee? Remember Padi it wasn’t that long ago on the forum when new members at least knew what model they liked the look of. They might not know the movement or tech specs but they at least could tell you what they thought looked beautiful without a popularity poll or future market value spreadsheet.

[Bigblu10]

Originally Posted by Mystro

These same people can figure out how order their $12 cup of coffee? Remember Padi it wasn’t that long ago on the forum when new members at least knew what model they liked the look of. They might not know the movement or tech specs but they at least could tell you what they thought looked beautiful without a popularity poll or future market value spreadsheet.

I have never in 53 years spent $12 on a cup of coffee. Is it that expensive in central Pa?

[Mystro]

Originally Posted by Bigblu10

I have never in 53 years spent $12 on a cup of coffee. Is it that expensive in central Pa?

It’s that expensive at any of these trendy coffee houses or even Starbucks. I love good fresh ground coffee but a super grande mocha cappuccino with a shot of this, that, and cruelty free cinnamon comes at a price the college kids don’t think twice of paying.

[jimcameron]

Originally Posted by Mystro

It’s that expensive at any of these trendy coffee houses or even Starbucks. I love good fresh ground coffee but a super grande mocha cappuccino with a shot of this, that, and cruelty free cinnamon comes at a price the college kids don’t think twice of paying.

I buy my coffee at Sheetz. $.84 if you bring your own mug and a Sheetz card. Better than Starfuks.

[harvey]

I have started threads on which reference to get, this or that.

I do this as it is difficult to get the references for a side by side comparison, so it’s good to get some thoughts and real life experiences from members here.

Of course ultimately it’s my decision but it helps by gleaning aspects or features which I may have missed.

Also with the help of members here I have been able to source the reference I’ve decided on.

[garyk]

Originally Posted by harvey

I have started threads on which reference to get, this or that.

I do this as it is difficult to get the references for a side by side comparison, so it’s good to get some thoughts and real life experiences from members here.

Of course ultimately it’s my decision but it helps by gleaning aspects or features which I may have missed.

Also with the help of members here I have been able to source the reference I’ve decided on.

I wish I had been smart enough to check here before selling my very early edition Kermit Submariner in order to buy my JC Sea Dweller. Ultimately I absolutely love my Deep Blue but I had no frame of reference regarding the rarity or eventual value of the Kermit. Dang...so Harvey, your appreciation of this forum is dead on!

[dtwer]

Originally Posted by harvey

I have started threads on which reference to get, this or that.

I do this as it is difficult to get the references for a side by side comparison, so it’s good to get some thoughts and real life experiences from members here.

Of course ultimately it’s my decision but it helps by gleaning aspects or features which I may have missed.

Also with the help of members here I have been able to source the reference I’ve decided on.

Good point, Harvey; I think that makes sense.

I don't think seeking validations or affirmations is a bad thing; people do that with others around them all the time. For example I have asked the wife plenty times when I shopped for cars, watches, and even clothes. Do I need her approval to buy? No. But it's added bonus if she says "hey that's very nice."

Also there are times it's just to build comradery with others whom you consider to be friends. When I do car shopping, for example, I actually ask my car enthusiast friends to come. They like the experience of being able to test drive and discuss cars, and I appreciate the feedback and insight they offer.

[ganagati]

Originally Posted by harvey

I have started threads on which reference to get, this or that.

I do this as it is difficult to get the references for a side by side comparison, so it’s good to get some thoughts and real life experiences from members here.

Of course ultimately it’s my decision but it helps by gleaning aspects or features which I may have missed.

Also with the help of members here I have been able to source the reference I’ve decided on.

These are the two reasons that come to mind for me as well. I can stare at photos for weeks, but hearing the perspectives of others can provide different insights.

[locutus49]

Human nature: people want to fit in, for the most part. And people want to be one of the cool kids.

[NoVaSubowner]

Originally Posted by locutus49

Human nature: people want to fit in, for the most part. And people want to be one of the cool kids.

I went totally contrarian a couple of weeks ago and picked up a new model DJ. It’s too small. It’s too plain. Doesn’t dive.... Isn’t commanding a first born son to obtain... who cares???!’ Minimalism rules!!!


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[Chester01]

Originally Posted by Mystro

It’s one of the most bizarre turns this forum has taken. Shouldn’t YOU know what watch YOU like before spending a considerable sum of money on? This isn’t hard and doesn’t require any knowledge or skill set to know what model watch looks good to you. You like the watch, you buy the watch, you wear the watch. This isn’t complicated stuff here. I would think toilet training might even be more difficult than this.

It went from “what Rolex will increase in value the most?” To now “What model does everyone like the most X or Y?” Is this a odd way of seeking people’s approval or validation of some kind to know what watch to buy???
Why would anyone care what model other people like as their background and taste is meaningless.

Actually makes good sense right? See if you blow your money on a car, you do your research. As these watches have gone up in value, it makes sense to get some input from folks that have been at this for a while. Lets face it, we may be struck by things such as the looks of a watch. But many folks don't know for example the 5 digit GMT's can have multiple looks with the bezels and bracelets, but this is not an option with the 6 digit reference and may be good to know before blowing 10 grand. So its not just about the looks.

When I got my sub, I waltzed into the AD, plunked down $3250 and walked out with it. Now, it like 10 grand, so it would make me more cautious too.

[rushca01]

Originally Posted by Mystro

It’s one of the most bizarre turns this forum has taken. Shouldn’t YOU know what watch YOU like before spending a considerable sum of money on? This isn’t hard and doesn’t require any knowledge or skill set to know what model watch looks good to you. You like the watch, you buy the watch, you wear the watch. This isn’t complicated stuff here. I would think toilet training might even be more difficult than this.

It went from “what Rolex will increase in value the most?” To now “What model does everyone like the most X or Y?” Is this a odd way of seeking people’s approval or validation of some kind to know what watch to buy???
Why would anyone care what model other people like as their background and taste is meaningless.

I don’t disagree, it’s just human psyche to want to be liked and accepted.

Just look at forum members responses when someone posts a watch with a different strap on it....the range from cool to absolutely hideous. Just like people want others to accept the strap of choice they want them to accept their taste in watch choice as well. Just human nature I suppose.

[JParm]

I don't see anything wrong with getting people's opinions on watches and things, in general. For example, I was really debating between the chocolate and olive DD40's, and wanted to canvas other people's thoughts. In the end, I chose what I (capital I) wanted, not because of what people were saying, but because it just sang more to me. It was still nice to see what other people thought, though.

It's the same thing as posting a pic of your watch here...who cares, right??

This is a watch forum - what else are we supposed to talk about?

[JParm]

Originally Posted by [email protected]

I don't see anything wrong with getting people's opinions on watches and things, in general. For example, I was really debating between the chocolate and olive DD40's, and wanted to canvas other people's thoughts. In the end, I chose what I (capital I) wanted, not because of what people were saying, but because it just sang more to me. It was still nice to see what other people thought, though.

It's the same thing as posting a pic of your watch here...who cares, right??

This is a watch forum - what else are we supposed to talk about?

Never replied to my own thread before, but wanted to expand - I feel like a lot of times the forum makes general statements or feel a certain way about certain topics because we've been around the block. I think we have to understand that there are newcomers everyday to the brand and the forum, so they're going to have some questions about Rolex and the different models.

Just my two cents.

[J to the Z]

In a way, asking what model everyone likes the most seems like a derivative of asking what model will increase in value the most. If a particular model is super popular then it’s probably also valuable.


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[kpinthebay]

Here's my take. I think most people that ask the question is asking to ellicit conversation. Stir up some brainstorming...

If I were to start a post and ask..."What do you like better, the 5 digit or 6 digit Subs?"

If someone were to reply with just "5 digit" i would be underwhelmed. And of course I could care less. What I would be looking for are the reasons behind it. Some of which I may not have considered. Like an "aha moment." And especially in this era of buy before you try because Rolex wants to play hard to get.

That's why I really hate replies like "get what you want". It's like oh wait, why didn't I think of that!



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[kieselguhr]

Because it’s easier for people to be told what to do rather than conducting self research to determine what they actually want. Indecisiveness is also a common trait these days.

There are so many videos on YouTube that tell you everything you need to know about a watch. Especially something as common as a Rolex.

[Mystro]

Originally Posted by kieselguhr

Because it’s easier for people to be told what to do rather than conducting self research to determine what they actually want. Indecisiveness is also a common trait these days.

There are so many videos on YouTube that tell you everything you need to know about a watch. Especially something as common as a Rolex.

I think this is it. I am not that old to remember buying a Rolex pre internet was it’s own journey and required that initial research work. You put in the time over all the catalogs and with only yourself and your wallet as your research partner. It required more legwork and time but ultimately was more rewarding in the end.
It was my watch and I was damn proud of it without a thought or care what anyone else thought.

I’m from the polite generation and you understand your taste are your own. Who am I to say the watch they love isn’t as cool or important than another??? This is what changed on this forum the last few years as it’s all too easy to anonymously trash or talk down a particular watch model without any regard that this particular model could be this guys grail watch. This is a fundamental reason a new member might be intimidated as hell to say he likes a particular model that might not be on the “hot list”. Social media has made being gauche acceptable when hiding behind a keyboard.

Like what you like and be damn proud about your own personal style and taste. Forget everyone else’s opinion.

[10klakes]

Originally Posted by kieselguhr

Because it’s easier for people to be told what to do rather than conducting self research to determine what they actually want. Indecisiveness is also a common trait these days.

There are so many videos on YouTube that tell you everything you need to know about a watch. Especially something as common as a Rolex.

I feel some of the members on TRF have more experience and knowledge on watches than most YouTube personalities.

I understand why one might come to TRF and ask for some first hand perspectives on a reference, provided, they are not chastised or shamed for doing so. Lol

I fee fortunate to have people in real life (not internet land) that I talk to and see in person, to talk watches and share opinions. It’s what people like to do that are enthusiastic about this hobby. If others don’t have close friends like this, I see why they turn to the forum.