Daytona or Royal Oak?

[Chute]

I have a black AP 15400st black dial and the Daytona ceramic 116500 white dial and I was lucky to get both at retail and here are some of of my experiences with both.

The AP finish and dial are way above that of the Daytona. The RO is much more highly finished and is made in much lower numbers. But I’ve had to send mine twice in for service for the movement gaining time and a date change problem. Now, APNA was extremely helpful and fixed it both times under warranty and paid shipping both ways so all I lost was the time with the watch. AP will also sell you numerous straps to change it up. I have a dark gray alligator and black rubber strap. When I first bought it, I needed a 1.5 link for a perfect fit and that was an annoying additional cost of $301.

I wear the APRO carefully, much more so than any watch. If I need to do dishes, laundry, or walk the dogs, I’m wearing a Rolex. But for nights out to dinner (past tense) and wearing dress shirts it’s a great companion. It just shines in so many ways with the dial, bezel, and bracelet like no other.

For the Daytona, it is much more wearable and durable. I’m unafraid to do anything with it on. It’s not quite a beater since I don’t work that hard.
It is a cool looking watch for sure and is at crazy hype levels. Is it worth double retail? I guess you’ll only know when you sell it.

I’ve tried the 15450 and immediately handed it back. My wrist is 7.375 inches and it looked too small and I don’t like the spacing of the plots.
Now, if you try one on, can get it at retail, and like the looks, grab it.
It will always give you a little happy feeling when you look at it.

Now a few suggestions. Consider a 116520 while you can still get for a reasonable price. They are great timeless watches that are both beautiful and durable. I also have a white 116520 and think it looks better than the white 116500. The 116520 appears a little smaller but the are the same size and comfortable. The easy link is the greatest. No 1.5 links needed.

Also look at the 15300 if you can find one. It might fit you better and be the Goldilocks between 15400 and 15450 if you are set on an APRO.

But if this going to be a one and only watch, I’d go with a Daytona.
It’s just more of an go all day anywhere watch.