36 or 39 OP

[lencap]

Greetings!

I've recently posted several times trying to find a watch to replace my 1981 TT DJ36, part of a matching set that I bought for myself and my wife all those years ago.

To make a long story short, I gave my DJ to my son on his 21st birthday, nearly 25 years ago. That watch was special, not only my first Rolex, but the reason for buying them when I did was it was my wife's 30th birthday. That was nearly 4 decades ago, and she still wears that watch daily and doesn't ever want to replace it.

I miss that watch and in all the years since I gave it to my son I've had many watches, but none of them had the same memories of the DJ. In other posts (feel free to look them up, if you like) I've come to realize that what made that watch special were the circumstances surrounding its purchase, and regardless of what I now buy those memories will never be part of any new watch I may buy.

Last year a bought a Black Bay 58 (another long post) after initially buying the BB 41 and finding it to be too heavy and unbalanced for my 7.25" wrist. The BB58 fits very well, is a Rolex "cousin" and keeps remarkable time. The problems some express about having too much gilt is actually not a problem for me at all - I prefer it, likely based on my "Senior Citizen" status. The 58 also was the most recent watch in a line of Rolex replacements since 1996 when I gave my son my Rolex. Speedmaster Pro, SeaMaster, Grand Seiko, Black Bay 41 and others filled the gaps, but each failed the "one watch collection" criteria. I've come to realize that a one watch collection is a challenge, so I'm willing to extend to two watches.

So, finally the question. I'm celebrating my 70th birthday later this year, and it seems to me if I'm thinking about getting another Rolex as my second watch I shouldn't wait too much longer. (I went recently went to Lowes to buy LED bulbs, and couldn't find the designer type that I wanted. I asked the clerk for help: "Why bother?" was his reply, implying that they'll outlast me).

The new TT DJ41 is priced at a level that I can afford, but find difficult to justify at over $13K. My BB58 was about $4K with tax and both the metal bracelet and the Tudor black/gold strap.

I considered the Sky Dweller (I love everything about it, except the size - especially given my issues with the Black Bay 41). The price is also an issue, but for not much more than a DJ41 it seems like a bargain (yes, it will be a long wait). My AD also suggests that given my issues with the BB41 and the great fit with the BB58 (he went out of his way to get me that watch for me with a very short wait - I'll only buy a Rolex from him for his outstanding service and extra effort), that getting the OP may be a better option to pair with the BB58.

I'd like to get the white dial, and despite my 7.25" wrist I also like the smaller 36mm case instead of the 39. The problem is that the white dial on the 36 has an outer rail showing the minutes in 5 minute increments around the entire dial. The 39mm dial is cleaner - just the stick markers on the hour and a discrete black dot above the marker to show precise location.

So, finally my question. Given that the BB58 fits well, even if it is larger than my prior 36mm Rolex from 1981, and it's basically the same size as today's 39mm OP, do you think that the 39 is the best choice for my needs? That's what I'm leaning toward, especially with the lack of minute marks on the 39 dial. My only hesitation is that there were rumors of Rolex updating the movement in the 39 this year, but with COVID there's no way to know what may happen. It would likely bother me to have a new movement next year, if indeed that is a possibility.

I still love the Sky Dweller, but as a kind poster noted in that thread: "How will you feel having a watch that size when you turn 80, and will you be able to read the all white dial with cataracts?" He has a point!

Thanks in advance for the comments. They are much appreciated.

[Mo_Mo_86]

Have you considered an OP34? Similar dial layout to OP39 and similar in proportion to your old DJ36.

[Yess]

I have the OP 39mm. I think it wears smaller due to how thin it is. It is very elegant.

[DG123]

To the OP, why aren't you considering a new DJ 36?

[lencap]

The DJ36 is indeed a fine watch, but the only white dial they offer uses Roman numerals. The black dial is a simple face, which I prefer, and if they offered a similar face in white that would be fine. I don't like the silver dial as much, and my BB58 has a black dial already, so it's really the lack of a plain white dial that makes me less interested in the 36DJ.

[ffscala]

Funnily enough my 2 daily wear watches are a Black Bay 58 and a 34mm Oyster Perpetual with a white dial - it must be a popular choice! I recommend that you try on the 34mm for size (any dial as it’s just for a sizing). I think you’ll be surprised as it wears very similarly to an older 36mm Rolex model. I’m very pleased with the pairing. Best of luck.

[gnuyork]

I was in the same boat... the 36mm would likely be more ideal, though I haven't tried on the 36mm, but the 39mm I have tried and it worked fine (great actually, surprisingly) though I'd like to try the 36... one thing keeping from the 36 is the dial like you mentioned. I prefer the 34/39 dials, especially the white.

But...I had it my mind I was going to get the white dial 39 OP but this week I have changed my mind and leaning toward the 36DJ (probably black, wish they did the white like the OP) ... what made me change my mind is the lugs on the DJ are slimmer like the 4 and 5 digit references (and I literally just noticed this - game changer). I'm currently searching for the right vintage 4 digit Datejust, but if I can't find the perfect one, then I'll likely go with a new one. I wish the new ones weren't as blingy though, less polished surfaces (why I like the OP) and I do wish that Rolex would bring back the pie pan dial and narrower indices with lume plots instead of lume filled indices.

If only...

[Crazy Lugs]

Great story- thanks for sharing! Please PM me your email and I’ll share some photos comparing the white dial OP39 and black dial 126200 on my 7.25” wrist. It sounds like we are after the same feeling!

Long story short, I strongly believe the white dial 114300 OP39 is your next Rolex.

[DG123]

Originally Posted by lencap

The DJ36 is indeed a fine watch, but the only white dial they offer uses Roman numerals. The black dial is a simple face, which I prefer, and if they offered a similar face in white that would be fine. I don't like the silver dial as much, and my BB58 has a black dial already, so it's really the lack of a plain white dial that makes me less interested in the 36DJ.

On this topic, after reading your posts, I think you will be most pleased with a silver dial DJ 36.

[Yachtbuoy]

The silver dialed DJ36 indeed looks amazing, it was the other serious contender for me

[paul cbc]

The white dialed OP 39 is a stunner.

I think the clean look along with a slightly larger format vs the 36mm case will serve you well in regards to legibility.

Let us know what you decide.

[DG123]

Originally Posted by Yachtbuoy

The silver dialed DJ36 indeed looks amazing, it was the other serious contender for me

I agree, and the range of available DJ 36 silver dial option configurations is great.
Oyster bracelet with smooth bezel.
Oyster bracelet with fluted bezel.
Jubilee bracelet with smooth bezel.
Jubilee bracelet with fluted bezel.

[BillA]

39, if buy a 36 you will feel it is small. Have you heard of shrinkage?
It’s a mental game.

[Calatrava r]

Originally Posted by lencap

The DJ36 is indeed a fine watch, but the only white dial they offer uses Roman numerals. The black dial is a simple face, which I prefer, and if they offered a similar face in white that would be fine. I don't like the silver dial as much, and my BB58 has a black dial already, so it's really the lack of a plain white dial that makes me less interested in the 36DJ.

It is regrettable there are not more dial offerings in the DJ36mm. I love white dials also but few and far between in the 36mm lineup with sticks. The TT (yellow) has a very nice white stick dial you should see in person before you buy anything. Incredible watch.

[lencap]

One of my concerns about the 39 is the maxi case. It seems to wear a lot bigger than the older 36 standard size case. I do agree with “larger is better” for aging eyes. I’ll try to find one to see how it fits.

The silver dial hasn’t been one I’ve seen in person. I’ll take a look to compare, but the white plain marker dial still seems best for my preferences.

I do like the DJ 36, and hadn’t considered the plain bezel option. It may be worth checking that as well. Finally, my AD may be able to find a 1980s DJ with black dial and gold hands like I originally had ( I really liked that look when I saw someone wearing it. My original DJ was champagne dial - I bought the black dial and the AD swapped it for me. Back then you could keep your old dial, and I dud - changing them back and forth from time to time).

I’ve thought about getting a vintage watch, but given the price of older Rolex models and the likely need for a full (and expensive) service, it seems more reasonable to get the newer models. I’m also a “geek” and love the superlative chronometer specs and updated mainspring.

Thanks for all the suggestions. Maybe Rolex will bring back the plain white dial on the DJ 36 and make my decision easy.

[gnuyork]

Originally Posted by DG123

I agree, and the range of available DJ 36 silver dial option configurations is great.
Oyster bracelet with smooth bezel.
Jubilee bracelet with smooth bezel.
Jubilee bracelet with fluted bezel.

you forgot one... Oyster with fluted

[gnuyork]

Originally Posted by lencap

One of my concerns about the 39 is the maxi case. It seems to wear a lot bigger than the older 36 standard size case. I do agree with “larger is better” for aging eyes. I’ll try to find one to see how it fits.

The silver dial hasn’t been one I’ve seen in person. I’ll take a look to compare, but the white plain marker dial still seems best for my preferences.

I do like the DJ 36, and hadn’t considered the plain bezel option. It may be worth checking that as well. Finally, my AD may be able to find a 1980s DJ with black dial and gold hands like I originally had ( I really liked that look when I saw someone wearing it. My original DJ was champagne dial - I bought the black dial and the AD swapped it for me. Back then you could keep your old dial, and I dud - changing them back and forth from time to time).

I’ve thought about getting a vintage watch, but given the price of older Rolex models and the likely need for a full (and expensive) service, it seems more reasonable to get the newer models. I’m also a “geek” and love the superlative chronometer specs and updated mainspring.

Thanks for all the suggestions. Maybe Rolex will bring back the plain white dial on the DJ 36 and make my decision easy.

If only we could know what they were going to release this year...

Anf yes, that's my dilemma with a vintage DJ... If it's even possib'e for me to find the right one... it seems the ones cloer to my ideal are touching $5K (and who knows thew service history) and for a bit more I could have the OP or even a little more the 36mm DJ with a smooth bezel... brand new with no issues ready for my own stories with it... that pie pan dial on a vintage though...keeps me searching.

[DG123]

Originally Posted by gnuyork

you forgot one... Oyster with fluted

I stand corrected and have made an edit to my previous post, thank you.
I like all four of the current DJ 36 silver dial options but my favorite is the Jubilee bracelet with smooth bezel

[Plant]

Why not get a white datejust 116200? It looks amazing and should be around your desired 5k price

[Dr. Robert]

I own the 39mm white dial op..... I would have bought the 36mm version if it didn’t have the double markers on 3, 6, 9 & the marked track.....too busy for my eyes.
Tried on the 34mm version....too small, even for my smallish wrist.
The 39mm op works for me!

[lencap]

I don't believe the 116200 is being offered currently. And having a silver dial with silver hands doesn't have enough contrast for aging eyes to seek quickly.

[DantonIzzo]

36 all day!

[Xenon]

Originally Posted by DG123

On this topic, after reading your posts, I think you will be most pleased with a silver dial DJ 36.

I agree...

[Ny325]

OP, I have both, 36mm white dial DateJust smooth bezel, Oyster, with roman numerals, and a 39mm white dial OP. The 39mm wears a little smaller, I think because it’s much slimmer than the DJ. The DJ to me is a classic with Roman numerals, or stick. It’s all a matter of preference I guess. Actually, my DJ gets more wrist time, on my 7 1/2 wrist, than my OP, and my SS Sub/date.

[Crazy Lugs]

Originally Posted by Ny325

OP, I have both, 36mm white dial DateJust smooth bezel, Oyster, with roman numerals, and a 39mm white dial OP. The 39mm wears a little smaller, I think because it’s much slimmer than the DJ. The DJ to me is a classic with Roman numerals, or stick. It’s all a matter of preference I guess. Actually, my DJ gets more wrist time, on my 7 1/2 wrist, than my OP, and my SS Sub/date.

What reference is your DJ36?

[Plant]

Originally Posted by lencap

I don't believe the 116200 is being offered currently. And having a silver dial with silver hands doesn't have enough contrast for aging eyes to seek quickly.

Yes, the 116200 is discontinued but recent enough that you can still find them new / unworn if you dont like used. If you dont mind used there are a ton of them. The 116200 is superlative chronometer certified but has a lower power reserve so that could be a deal breaker

I was in a very similar situation: hoping for a new white dial DJ this year and not liking the silver as an alternative. I went with a black dial 126200 but the white dial 116200 was a very close second.

[DG123]

Originally Posted by lencap

I don't believe the 116200 is being offered currently. And having a silver dial with silver hands doesn't have enough contrast for aging eyes to seek quickly.

My suggestion is for 126200. 36MM DJ.

[campfire]

Another vote for the DJ36 silver.

Either way, thanks for sharing this nice story.

All the best.

[campfire]

Originally Posted by Xenon

I agree...

Nice pic.

[lencap]

Thanks again to everyone - very good suggestions and a lot for me to consider. Part of the issue is the sparse supply at ADs make it hard to compare various model combinations. Your comments and photos help a lot.

I've had second thoughts about the BB58, feeling like some others that it's not quite a Rolex. In the many posts I've recently made (again, feel free to read through them, but bring a "refreshment" to help pass the time) I've come to realize that marketing creates an image that often needs to be challenged. After all the BB58 has amazing specs, an in house movement, feels fine on my wrist, and will easily outlive me. What's not to like?

And that's part of the decision process. The newer longer lived power reserves are actually useful for me, especially if I do move to a two watch "collection". I'd likely never have to manually reset the watches with 70 hour reserves. Having the newest technology, at least for me, is useful and mentally satisfying.

Try as I might to love the Roman white numerals I can't quite get there. Reminds me of the Wimbledon dial - you either like it or you don't. The silver dial just looks a bit washed out - I'm looking with eyes that are about to enter their eighth decade of vision and have entered early cataract Stage 3, with an impact on my current ability to see fully. My wife had a bad result with her cataract surgery and I'm hoping to avoid it for as long as I can.

If they made the 36DJ with the plain white dial of the 39OP all would be well. My only decision then would be Oyster or Jubilee, and whether or not to add the bezel. The ideal combo might be white plain dial, Jubilee, bezel. That would give me a white do anything dial watch with a date and a bit of flash, and complement the BB58 with the black dial and more casual diver look. Since that's not an option right now, I'm in no rush to scratch this itch. It will be the last watch, so I'm willing to wait and see what Rolex may offer in an updated catalog. Maybe the 39OP dial will be an option.