Tough choice between a pre-owned submariner and a new submariner

[Hank6431]

Hi guys,

I want to purchase a rolex submariner, and I never owned a rolex watch before. First, my wrist length is about 6.25 inches. Will the submariner fit my wrist well? I asked several local dealers, and basically have two options now. One is a pre-owned submariner (16610) with F serial. The condition is quite good, and it has complete box and papers. The price is 6000 (US dollars). The second option is to buy a new submariner with date (116610), and the price I can get is around 7700 (US dollars). Can you guys give me some good advice regarding to these two options? Thanks!

[kboy2379]

If it's your first then I would buy new. I'm partial to the SubC date. My daily wear watch.

[GB-man]

Go for the new one. The bracelet, clasp and ceramic are great for daily wear.

[Ec2016]

New

[Hank6431]

Thanks for the advice! The new one definitely has better quality. But I prefer the appearance of 16610 than 116610. I feel the slim case is more attractive. I don't know why rolex uses the new design that makes the appearance more squared shape.

[Ec2016]

Here is something to consider. Service is recommended every 7 to 10 years. Has the preowned watch ever been serviced? That can add close to $1000 to your cost. The new watch will not require service for 7 to 10 years.

Also, the new watch will have a 5 yeat warranty. The preowned will not have any.

If you like the old one, go for it. The price seems a bit high unless it has been full serviced by Rolex not long ago

[AboutTime]

I would choose the new ceramic Sub and yes, the SubC bracelet can be adjusted to fit a 6.25 inch wrist. My wrist is the same size. It's important to adjust the bracelet so that the clasp is centered on the underside of the wrist, especially for a person with small wrists (because the SubC clasp is quite long). The key to proper fitting (on my wrist) was to move the half-link from the 12 o'clock side to the 6 o'clock side of the bracelet. Of course it was also necessary to remove several links. It might take you or your AD several tries to get the bracelet adjusted perfectly. Don't try the job yourself unless you have the proper screwdrivers.

[henrylee]

New

[Hank6431]

Hi Ec2016, the 16610 sub has been serviced by the AD. But I am still not sure if it will cost me too much to service it in the future. And as you said, it only has 15 months warranty from the AD. This is a tough choice for me. I like the outlook of the 16610 model, but I definitely prefer the quality of a new 116610 model and the 5 year warranty it will provide. Tough choice for me.

[Daryl]

new one is better

[dnpina]

Seems you prefer the case and appearance of the 16610. Seems it's less costly option as well.

[Hank6431]

Comparing the movements between 16610 and 116610, are there many big differences? I noticed that they both have 3135 movements. But 116610 uses the Parachrome Bleu hairspring. Does this make a big difference for the movement?

[run23]

If you like the older model better get it without hesitation.

I went through the same process with the no date Sub and in the end, while the newer ceramic was technically a better watch, the pre-ceramic just looked and felt better for me in every way, except for the Glidelock on the ceramic, which is all kinds of awesome.

[Cru Jones]

116610 is the better watch, but if you want the previous generation, go for it.

Personally, if I would want a 5 series sports Rolex, I'd go for a GMT instead of a Sub (and get a new Sub).

[brettpaul]

I'd go new for your first - you'll also get the ceramic bezel and Glidelock clasp which are amazing improvements on the classic model. Congrats! ����

[c41006]

You can't really go wrong...

[Sydny2]

I'd buy new 116610 and you will love the shine of ceramic bezel.

[harshad4005]

New will be my choice.


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[And1dre]

Since it's your first watch I say new. There is no wrong choice though.

[faz]

OP, I own both 5 digit (love the case) and 6 digit, and would definitely recommend the new 6 digit to you as your first / only Rolex. Later you can add a 5 digit as needed.



And this below is why I love this forum and you will too.. such a helpful post and information to be provided on your first visit to this site!

Originally Posted by AboutTime

I would choose the new ceramic Sub and yes, the SubC bracelet can be adjusted to fit a 6.25 inch wrist. My wrist is the same size. It's important to adjust the bracelet so that the clasp is centered on the underside of the wrist, especially for a person with small wrists (because the SubC clasp is quite long). The key to proper fitting (on my wrist) was to move the half-link from the 12 o'clock side to the 6 o'clock side of the bracelet. Of course it was also necessary to remove several links. It might take you or your AD several tries to get the bracelet adjusted perfectly. Don't try the job yourself unless you have the proper screwdrivers.

[versatile1]

Buy the SD4K
Sub ceramic quality with the slimmer look
I'm sure you can get a pre worn one for marginally more then a new Sub or maybe even on par

[Montybaber]

Sounds to me like you want the 5 digit, most have replied with the improvements/benefits of buying the new watch but ultimately you prefer the old case (in fact you were pretty damning of the maxicase)

I cant see what the dillema is, buy the used watch, enjoy it and keep enough £ by to service it when required

[nursejm]

Originally Posted by Hank6431

Comparing the movements between 16610 and 116610, are there many big differences? I noticed that they both have 3135 movements. But 116610 uses the Parachrome Bleu hairspring. Does this make a big difference for the movement?

Parachrome bleu hairspring is 10x more resistance to shock. As we know shock is one enemy of mechanical watch that affects accuracy.


We have the same wrist size, go for the new one

[sonykurniawan]

Get a new one especially if this is your first rolex. 6 digit subs have better bracelet and clasp.

[SeaDweller50]

It is a tough decision, however, if you prefer the look of the 16610 then go for that one. Mind you, the only way to ensure that the watch has indeed been serviced is if it has an official RSC receipt and card.

[henry333]

The older case looks better on smaller wrist . But for the price might as well get new.
You should go try it on and see which sings to you.

[Alex6340]

As many already said I would get the new one because of the much higher finish.

When I bought 116610 I had also the feeling that the case is a bit to fat. But after a few days you get use to it.




Envoyé de mon iPhone en utilisant Tapatalk

[Yvette]

First rolex, I would buy brand new.

[TWCjapan]

New one for the first Rolex :)

[dnill]

The new one, hands down. Yours and only yours from day 1.