2018 Basel GMTs

[Snow-Dweller]

So, today I went to one of these viewings of the new models at a big Rolex boutique in Lyon (not my usual AD). As expected, I thought the watches were fabulous...

My observations:

It was clear to me that the shape of the lugs has been altered slightly ....they are more curvey. The difference is not enormous, but I was wearing my BLRO and I could see it.

I have read a number of “complaints” about the end-links on the Jubilee bracelet of the SS BLRO. I couldn’t see the problem. I have a DJ41 with Jubilee and the end-link/lug arrangement is similar.

It was confirmed to me that I could have my “old” BLRO dressed with the new blue dial. Interestingly, they pointed out that should I choose to have this done it is permanent....there is no going back to black at a later date. They could not confirm whether this has to be paid for or is free of charge.

[T01]

I'd keep your original BLRO's black dial. It wasn't made very long...

[lord91]

Originally Posted by T01

I'd keep your original BLRO's black dial. It wasn't made very long...

Same thoughts here...

[Soleless Shoes]

I prefer the oyster bracelet and just by viewing the photo you can see the WG is softer (or warmer) tone.

[Duey]

Nice Clive - Now you can choose your drink

The Pepsi & Diet Pepsi & Root beer

Are you going to part with your Pepsi and go for the Diet Pepsi ?

[watchmework]

I wouldn’t change the dial color if I was you, I honestly think your BLRO looks better than the new gmt...between the oyster and WG.

[Wrist Watcher]

I'm liking the looks of the ss Pepsi more and more.

I would also keep your black dial.

[Rolex85]

I agree with others stating to keep your black dial.

[Helmi]

Originally Posted by Rolex85

I agree with others stating to keep your black dial.

+1


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Snow-Dweller]

Originally Posted by T01

I'd keep your original BLRO's black dial. It wasn't made very long...

Originally Posted by Duey

Nice Clive - Now you can choose your drink

The Pepsi & Diet Pepsi & Root beer

Are you going to part with your Pepsi and go for the Diet Pepsi ?

Originally Posted by watchmework

I wouldn’t change the dial color if I was you, I honestly think your BLRO looks better than the new gmt...between the oyster and WG.

Originally Posted by lord91

Same thoughts here...

Originally Posted by ClemsonTC

I'm liking the looks of the ss Pepsi more and more.

I would also keep your black dial.

Originally Posted by Rolex85

I agree with others stating to keep your black dial.

Originally Posted by m j b

I think it's unanimous. :) Keep the black.

I too prefer the Oyster bracelet, not that it matters since I'm not likely getting either one.

Originally Posted by Helmi

+1


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Thank you all for the (unanimous) opinions. I’m not really thinking of changing the dial....at least not for now

Here’s my predicament: I absolutely feel the “need” to have both of these new GMTs (and will be getting them sooner rather than later).

If I’m to keep the CHNR then my old TT Sub will be leaving the stable

Selling the WG BLRO will almost pay for the new ones, and having both WG and SS BLROs seems a little over the top.

I do, however, have a timepiece related iron in the fire that (all being well) will pay for the two new watches...in which case I may well find myself with both BLROs......and then I MIGHT reconsider the dial.

....or I may sell the WG.

What wonderful problems to have. I love this hobby!

[m j b]

I think it's unanimous. :) Keep the black.

I too prefer the Oyster bracelet, not that it matters since I'm not likely getting either one.

[Boaters]

Wow some beauties there.

[mjclark32]

Nice shots, thanks for sharing
The lugs do look better

[ap1]

Awesome - did you try the blue dial model?

[Loevhagen]

Changing the black dial with the blue dial with the "crown" between "Swiss" and "Made"?

Or do they offer an upgrade blue dial?

The reason I ask is simply that it has been stated that the dial also show the new movements...so just replacing the black dial with the new blue dial for this BLRO will be quite misleading, as it doesn't get the new movement in that process...

[Snow-Dweller]

Originally Posted by ap1

Awesome - did you try the blue dial model?

They unfortunately didn’t have the blue dial BLRO there for me to look at.

Originally Posted by Loevhagen

Changing the black dial with the blue dial with the "crown" between "Swiss" and "Made"?

Or do they offer an upgrade blue dial?

The reason I ask is simply that it has been stated that the dial also show the new movements...so just replacing the black dial with the new blue dial for this BLRO will be quite misleading, as it doesn't get the new movement in that process...

I assume that there’s a blue dial without the new crown for exactly such circumstances.

[Duey]

Originally Posted by Loevhagen

Changing the black dial with the blue dial with the "crown" between "Swiss" and "Made"?

Or do they offer an upgrade blue dial?

The reason I ask is simply that it has been stated that the dial also show the new movements...so just replacing the black dial with the new blue dial for this BLRO will be quite misleading, as it doesn't get the new movement in that process...

The Blue dial still has the 3186 movement - So No "Crown" between "Swiss" and "Made" so not misleading at all.

Got to love Rolex - Spend more money and we'll give you the old movement

[Loevhagen]

Originally Posted by Duey

The Blue dial still has the 3186 movement - So No "Crown" between "Swiss" and "Made" so not misleading at all.

Got to love Rolex - Spend more money and we'll give you the old movement

[Cru Jones]

Originally Posted by Duey

The Blue dial still has the 3186 movement - So No "Crown" between "Swiss" and "Made" so not misleading at all.

Got to love Rolex - Spend more money and we'll give you the old movement

Thinking about it some more, it could be on purpose by Rolex.... give one year's transition time to those WG BLRO owners who want to switch to the blue dial to do so if they want. Then, put in the new movement, add the middle crown on the dial, and then no longer allow the switch.

I don't know.... just trying to find some sort of logic.

[gt0279a]

Originally Posted by Snow-Dweller

...My observations:

It was clear to me that the shape of the lugs has been altered slightly ....they are more curvey. The difference is not enormous, but I was wearing my BLRO and I could see it.

Can you elaborate? As in the curve when you view the side of the case?

[Snow-Dweller]

Originally Posted by gt0279a

Can you elaborate? As in the curve when you view the side of the case?

No, not the side of the case. When looking at the dial of the watch, take the older lug and carve a little bit out of it....

Hope that helps!

[droptopman]

Thanks for the photos. Looks like you took your friend with you for the viewing. Beautiful dog!

[Snow-Dweller]

Originally Posted by droptopman

Thanks for the photos. Looks like you took your friend with you for the viewing. Beautiful dog!

Mais bien sûr. She’s a part of any big decision!

[Cru Jones]

Nice photos, thanks!

I can't get over how nice the CHNR looks. :-)

[037]

The CHNR looks like the BLRO's older, wiser brother. It looks more mature but not "old" like some have suggested. I like it.

How's the new Jubilee? Do you prefer your WG or the new SS overall?

[AK797]

Nice pics, and thanks for confirming the original claim that the black dial was swappable, thought this was a good gesture from Rolex for those who wanted more clear distinction from the SS, I would be tempted.

[Snow-Dweller]

Originally Posted by AK797

Nice pics, and thanks for confirming the original claim that the black dial was swappable, thought this was a good gesture from Rolex for those who wanted more clear distinction from the SS, I would be tempted.

If, and that’s a big if, I decide to keep both BLROs then I will seriously consider the blue dial.

[037]

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

Thinking about it some more, it could be on purpose by Rolex.... give one year's transition time to those WG BLRO owners who want to switch to the blue dial to do so if they want. Then, put in the new movement, add the middle crown on the dial, and then no longer allow the switch.

I don't know.... just trying to find some sort of logic.

You might be right. Here's my thought...

Blue dial helps sell the remaining WG GMT cases they have sitting around while making the black dial rare and in demand for those who prefer black. Discontinue the WG BLRO in two years to increase demand for any remaining stock and keep owners happy that they saw short production runs. Sell BLRO bezels on SS models with limited allocation and keep it a "rare" piece overall. Wins all-around.

Obviously I have no idea but it's fun to speculate.

[watchtabs]

I definitively wouldn’t want to have an almost same looking watch as someone who spent 1/4th the msrp.

I vote blue dial. If they discontinue it in 2yrs (as many have said) it will be the new rare. And soon enough the SS Blro will be as common as the Batman is.

I am actually eating my words about the new SS gmt. I like it more and more.




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[Nikrnic]

If I had your BLRO I sure wouldn't want anything else. Although the blue dial would be tempting ld leave it original. I'm thinking down the road that be would be more wise.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk