Thinking of getting first Daytona

[wesleydp]

Hi, i am thinking of buying my 1st Daytona (and 1st 'modern' Rolex). I usually prefer vintage watches (i have a GMT 16750 Pepsi with a Matte dial as my daily beater; 1680 Sub, and am looking at Tudor Snow Flake Sub and Tudor Big Block) but always have loved the chrono models and feel a modern Daytona would be a great addition to my collection. I am confused over the difference between the present and past models. From a price perspective it appears the older "Zenith" movement models basically cost almost the same as a brand new one (my AD today quoted around $12K for the SS model)a although i like the White gold model better. I don't want to pay for a true vintage Paul Newman Daytona (but would LOVE one!) or the white gold models. I am just wanting some advice on whether to get a brand new one or if some models 10-20 years old are considered better or more valuable? The price points and appearance seem to be similar for these? I also have to admit i really like the YM II even though it's very different and feels a bit larger on the wrist. Just trying to add a modern watch to my older vintage collection and am torn on which route to go. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[jbleee]

Personal preference..if you truly want modern and state of the art consider the current SS Daytona 116520. It has the venerable in house Rolex 4130 movement which many consider to be one of the best chromo movements out today. If you want something that has more character and the "Patrizzi" dials which make for some nice patina for more of a vintage look at the Zenith movement SS Daytona 16520. Can't go wrong with both but if it were me I'd pick up a brand new modern day 116520 SS Daytona black dial...just something special about going into the AD picking up a brand new watch and peeling the stickers off over the next week.

[Lgear080]

Take a glance at my zenith in the FS section. There is a pretty significant discount
To a 116520 - however condition is excellent. I think you may prefer the feel of the
Zenith compared to the newer generations based on your personal description. I'm
Partial to them and prefer a less beefy case. The zenith wears effortlessly.

[wesleydp]

Thanks for the advice. So the older models wear a bit lighter on the wrist? I have not had the opportunity to try one on? I actually have a large wrist so that's not really an issue and the newer sport models actually feel better to me on my wrist. I just love the vintage pieces with the patina, and history behind them. I hope to make a decision in the next couple weeks. Our AD surprisingly has several in stock, including the crazy $$ blue/brown titanium model. I do agree with that special feeling of buying a new watch-although i have never had that feeling w/a Rolex-only several other pieces that i have owned. Another watch that i love is the new Tudor Heritage Black Bay w/blue bezel. Great modern piece with a vintage feel-and great price for a new watch. I may have to work out a deal for both since they also carry Tudor.