Need help deciding between a Submariner 114060 and a Black Bay Steel 79730

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Hello All,

I have been doing research in the past couple weeks to decide on my first purchase. Personally, I’m not a big fan of the iconic cyclops and I have got a relatively small wrist. That narrowed my options down to the Rolex Submariner 114060 and Tudor Heritage Black Bay Steel 79730. However, it is a difficult decision to make, and I’m hoping to get some advice/ suggestions from your expertise. I have listed some of the major differences/ concerns between the two to ease the comparison. Any input is very much appreciated!

Design

The Submariner (especially this no date model) is probably one of the most classic, versatile and timeless design on the market, full of history. The laser engraved flange ring also completes the design. It’s a Rolex!! No further explanation is required I guess.

The Black Bay seems to be a more modern/technical design which is worth mentioning, the military style really gives it a robust, aggressive and unique appearance. On a side note, as an “only watch”, the date window is very convenient but the overall casual design is not as versatile as the Sub. I have also heard the minor details are not too perfect/ aligned, but I’m not sure if that’s a frequent issue.

I know this might come down to personal preference, but a second opinion always helps to provide an all-around perspective.

Movement

Submariner: Calibre3130, 48-hour Power Reserve, -2/+2 sec/day
Black Bay: MT5612, 70-hour Power Reserve, -4/+6 sec/day

The Sub seems to have a much more accurate/premium movement but the Black Bay’s Power Reserve is almost 1 day longer. Do you think this difference is significant when it comes to a practical measure? Do you recommend to use a watch winder when it’s unworn?

Bezel

Ceramic vs. Steel. I’m wondering if someone can share their experience about the materials. Although the ceramic bezel is more scratch-resistant, is it more fragile at the same time? Is it going to crack/shatter easily? For the steel bezel, I guess scratches and dings are inevitable? But that doesn’t really concern me as much unless they appear to be super significant.

Bracelet

This is a no-brainer for me, the Glidelock system is definitely one of the x-factors and makes a world of a difference. Having said that, are the 3-hole increments good enough for day-to-day use in your experience?

Price

Submariner: Approx. $7500
Black Bay: Approx: $3500

Even though I’m not planning to flip it at all as this is going to be my first watch, but there is a big difference in the price. Considering the Black Bay costs less than half of the Sub, I’m uncertain if the overall performance differentiates that much. On the other hand, if I do decide to purchase the other one as well later on, the price increase of the Sub will definitely be much more significant than the Black Bay. What do you guys think?


Many Thanks in advance for your kind response, advice and guidance! Please also let me know if there are other important areas should be considered in the decision making process.

Cheers!