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29 January 2024, 08:10 PM | #1 |
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Question for all 5-digit submariner owners
Would value the opinions here. Thanks in advance for any help.
I bought the current iteration BLRO in 2018. I wore it quite a lot in 2019 and 2020, but as they say, tastes change. I’ve always found the watch to be big, bulky, and certainly loud. A few years ago I didn’t mind that. But with the popularity of Rolex and all the hype it brings, I’m not sure I can do with the PCLs and ceramic bezels anymore. Just not my speed if that makes sense. I’m considering swapping my BLRO for a NOS 5-digit green bezel submariner. I own a Tudor 79090 and love the way it wears. Compact, not bulky, and not nearly as bright as a BLRO. I was told 5-digit subs wear very close to the same. On paper, it seems like the 5-digit green sub checks all boxes. Better case proportions, not as bright (albeit still green!), maxi plots, plus it was a significant anniversary model which is really cool to me. Would anyone here mind to chime in? I value any and all opinions. Only thing I’m not overly keen on discussing is $$. I buy watches with the intention of holding and enjoying every day. Investments are with Vanguard. Appreciate any perspectives on the matter. |
29 January 2024, 08:25 PM | #2 |
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I had a 16610 LV but didn't bond with it at all, just felt much more modern even than a 16610 90s tritium - I think it was the big plots, non lug holes, solid end links etc etc...If you like the 79090 feel I suspect your smitten with low centre of gravity of a plexi (over say a 79190 sapphire which feel slightly chunkier/different). Similar Rolex that have that low c.o.g. would be 16750, 5513 and 1680.
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29 January 2024, 08:32 PM | #3 | |
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I’ve never heard the Tudor described as have a low CG, but that phrase is perfect for it. I love how flat it sits on the wrist. It really does feel like it’s fixed on my wrist. I felt the same about the prior Explorers, namely 14270 and 11 series. I’ll take a look at the references you suggested. Thanks again. |
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7 May 2024, 01:20 AM | #4 | |
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I also previously owned one , While I think the Kermit is an excellent choice and expect it would wear to your liking. I wound up with a 4 line 14060m. I can’t speak to the annual numbers of production for each but both were produced for nearly the same amount of time. In the end the deciding factor was the no date option.
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29 January 2024, 08:29 PM | #5 |
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That’s such a tough call Mitchell. I can see the appeal of 5 digit references for sure.
Modern 6 digits wear so much different than the 5 digits though, so I’d recommend if you’re anywhere near a store to try on a 5 digit first. |
29 January 2024, 08:36 PM | #6 | |
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6-digit to me feels like a crafted machine, which is great. Amazing to look at. But 5 (and perhaps 4) feels more like art. Imperfect, sorta flimsy, but man I love it. When I’m back in the states soon I’ll drop by a secondary dealer to see a few in person. |
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29 January 2024, 08:43 PM | #7 | |
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I was looking to add a 16710 blro a while back, and had the opportunity to try one on at Bucherer during the holidays. I was wearing my 126710 so I had the two right there, side by side to compare. Your description above is spot on It all comes down to wearer preference |
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29 January 2024, 09:13 PM | #8 |
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I had never thought about the CoG effect, as Paul says. Interesting observation. The high dome/top hats can make the 4-digit Subs seem bulkier than they are, whereas the 5-digit (e.g. 16610) always feels quite sleek to me.
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29 January 2024, 09:39 PM | #9 | |
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This is a perfect case of money burning a hole in my pocket. I'd rather not sell the BLRO outright, as I'm not in a need for the funds. Would rather move it into something I'll actually enjoy wearing. |
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29 January 2024, 09:42 PM | #10 | |
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I feel like you won’t be able to “unsee” what you’ve landed on with your BLRO, and the 16610LV is a wonderful reference. It will always remain collectible as the anniversary Submariner with Date, and the green aluminum bezel has an incredible look that ceramic can’t match. NOS LV pricing should be comparable to your BLRO (assuming not a “Flat 4”), and you get benefit of know all marks and memories were yours. An easy decision if it were up to me based on context provided. Sounds like you’ve also already made it when you say the LV already “checks all the boxes.” Good luck! |
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29 January 2024, 10:15 PM | #11 | |
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Your comment on the benefit of NOS is exactly why I’m considering it. How cool is it to essentially buy a time capsule? I never had the luxury of buying a brand new 5-digit sub, so this is as close as I’ll get. From the advice of the group, I’m going to try a few different models out and decide. Once my mind is made up, I’ll then look for the absolute best example of that model that I can find. I love how 5-digit can still be seen as a good value compared the current current craze. If anyone has any other models I should check, please let me know! |
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29 January 2024, 10:49 PM | #12 | |
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30 January 2024, 02:30 AM | #13 | |
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Couple more thoughts -- Have you considered swapping out your PCL oyster for the jubilee?? I would be tempted to do this and add a regular sub! If you get the kermit, you could swap out the bezel for a black one and have a maxi dial 16610LN! Happy hunting for whatever you decide! |
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29 January 2024, 11:19 PM | #14 |
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I am a fan of 5-digit models so admittedly biased.
If there is a way to swing a purchase without sacrificing your existing watch, I recommend that. Because it’d be a shame if you didn’t like the NOS LV and then wished you had your current watch back. By doing a “bridging” deal for 90 days you can be certain without jeopardizing your own satisfaction. Just sell off the one you liked less. Or, I predict, both will stay in the stable Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
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29 January 2024, 11:54 PM | #15 | ||
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Personally, cash flow is good, investments are fine. I guess I could go without selling, but I just do not see myself wearing it anymore. This after ~2 years of almost 0 wear. It feels like money burning a hole in my pocket at this point. I'm afraid the only given is that the BLRO is boxed and ready to fly. |
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29 January 2024, 11:35 PM | #16 |
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1990s tritium 5-digits are ok for an occasional rainy day, but I much prefer the true vintage models.
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29 January 2024, 11:59 PM | #17 |
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I have a 79090 and a 16610 and, while they wear the same on the wrist, I prefer to wear the 16610 because of the more scratch resistant sapphire crystal.
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30 January 2024, 01:11 AM | #18 |
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I normally wear and prefer the GMT models, both the vintage 1675/16750 models and the sapphire 16710.
I also have a few vintage Submariners and couple sapphire Submariners to include the 14060, the 16610 and 16610LV. I have been wearing the sapphire Submariners more often recently and the 16610 seems to be getting much more wrist time than the GMTs. The Submariner 16610LV is also a great model and in my opinion, it is probably the best value in the Rolex line from the past 20 years. It has appreciated substantially since its release during late 2003 and I see no reason why it won't continue to do so. If you are looking for the 16610LV, grab yourself a complete set and you won't regret it.
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30 January 2024, 02:57 AM | #19 |
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I tried the 6 digit Subs and SDs (Even though I knew deep down I wouldn't like them )
And in the end sold them all and went back to my 14060m and my 16600... As far as I'm concerned, these are two of the best watches Rolex ever produced. Much subtler then the 6 digit pieces... Time tested workhorse movements... Nicer case design... More comfortable (At least for me)... And prices on these have come down of late...Great time to buy... I simply can't say enough about them... |
30 January 2024, 03:14 AM | #20 | ||||
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Re: the bracelets, I actually have both. I was lucky enough to get a BLRO brand new shortly after Baselworld 2018, and at the time only the jubilee was available. Then when the oyster was announced I called the same dealer and they got me a new one for ~$2k at the time. But honestly I feel like they're both just as noticeable on the wrist. I almost feel like I'm wearing a disco ball on my wrist. Every surface on the BLRO shines. I'd get rid of the full set for the next watch. Quote:
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30 January 2024, 04:37 AM | #21 |
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I have Subs from 4,5, and 6 digit lines: All have their wrist time but:
considering you feel the 6 digit pepsi is bulky and loud: the 16610LV is a great mix of 5 digit more classic less bulky proportions AND a 'Pop' of excitement (maxi markets, green bezel) IF you don't need the 'Pop' : the 16600 is probably the most comfortable and perfect mix of classic meets modern: bit more interesting compared to 16610 (more technical, no bubble, escape valve, engraved back, dweller buckle etc) but still not bulky at all. good luck !
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30 January 2024, 04:57 PM | #22 |
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nice watches and well said
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30 January 2024, 06:19 PM | #23 | ||||||||
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All- I'm sorry I've kept this thread alive likely longer than I should have. But just want to say that I appreciate all comments. Thank you. I'm creating a list of references to look into, and feel much more liberated with my decision. Months ago I wavered back and forth with this, given that the BLRO has my name on the warranty card, I've had it for almost 6 years, supposed to go to the kids eventually, etc. but what's the point of owning a watch that you can't enjoy?
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Perhaps a black bezel would be more appropriate. Thanks for your insights on ownership! Quote:
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I hope you end up getting a BLRO. It's an awesome watch. I'm just at the point where I enjoy looking at it more than I enjoy wearing it. Nonsensical, of course. Quote:
How do you like the 14060m? Seems like a perfect watch, so I'm intrigued. Thanks! |
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30 January 2024, 06:01 AM | #24 |
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It's funny I stumbled on this thread. I recently had a fun exchange with someone at a bar who had a five digit sub, he tried on my six and I tried on his five.
I really fell in love with it. The common belief that Tudor is like a five digit sub is completely off. The aluminum bezel was very well done. I would love to add a five digit myself as a sidekick to the six digit 41 date. |
30 January 2024, 06:31 AM | #25 | |
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30 January 2024, 06:24 AM | #26 |
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For me the 5 digit references are perfect if you can do the trade then why not I say
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30 January 2024, 06:49 AM | #27 |
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The 6 digit pieces do absolutely NOTHING for me. The only modern 6 digit that ever caught my eye was the 116710LN… that piece, while chunky, is a real beaut!
Other than that, I’m strictly a 5 digit collector. I would say go for it! 5 digits >>>>>> 6 digits imo - the absolute pinnacle of Rolex! I would say, owning both a 16610 LN and LV, that the LV isn’t particularly versatile. I wear mine almost exclusively in the summer months etc. If I were you, I would consider picking up an LN insert as well! Many of us back in the day went to our ADs and asked to have our LV inserts swapped out for LNs. That way you get the versatility and classic aesthetic of the submariner, while also being able to swap back to your Kermit whenever you like. It’s essentially like having 2 watches in 1. Plus it’s a cool look and very sharp! Either way, I’m with you. Get rid of the 6 digit Pepsi, especially considering you aren’t enjoying it! Cheers
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30 January 2024, 07:34 AM | #28 |
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I think either way move on the GMT. I thought I wanted an LV until I tried it on. With five digit I prefer the 90s stuff. I would strongly recommend looking at a 16600 like mentioned above. Its a wonderful reference and easy to find in good condition at a fair price.
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30 January 2024, 07:47 AM | #29 | |
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30 January 2024, 08:33 AM | #30 |
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I’m very 5 digit focused, although I have been locked out of the 6 digits as I’m not the ADs preferred type of customer. For balance, I have been waiting for a BLRO since 2019, but that was to balance my 5 figure watches, 16610 from new, 14060M 4 liner, 16570, 14270 Swiss only.
I love the 5 digits, a time when Rolex made tool watches rather than ceramic shiny bling. The bracelets are often criticised, but I have never wanted for more, even with the hollow end linked 14060. Not that I would send you down any kind of rabbit hole, but I love my Tudor 94010 most of all, and am giving some serious thought to a blue 79090 and a matte Maxi 5513. Dave Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk |
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