suggestions for first Rolex/Tudor

[rusty-schackelford]

Hello I am a first time poster, and am intrested in peoples thoughts on a good first Rolex or Tudor ive been looking at them both and I see pros and cons to them both the Tudors generally seem more reasonably priced but arent COSC certified for example. I am looking to spend between 500-1500 ish and am interested in datejusts or airkings or others that are similar like the oyster perpetual or the oyster date. I am flexable on stainless or gold the only thing i am fairly certain is that i would like it to be automatic and if it has a date i would prefer quick-set. whats everyone think?

[bscepter]

i'd get a datejust. i paid $1,600 for mine from a trusted seller here on the forum.

tudors are nice, but the reason they're non-COSC and less expensive is that they have non-rolex ETA movements inside.

rolex is known for making some of the most reliable and accurate mechanical movements around. if it were me, i'd pay the extra money and get "the real thing."

just my two cents.

/no offense to any tudor lovers. i think they're great looking watches and certainly wouldn't mind owning one. but if i could have only one, it'd be a rolex.

[seabreeze]

I agree with above.

[wantonebad]

I tend to agree with Patrick, myself, I've been on the fence about buying a Pelagos but I can't see spending more than half the cost for a sub and not getting a COSC in hose movement. True COSC isn't necessary but it makes handing over 4K much easier, at least for me. Tudors missed the mark IMHO for what they are they should be a 1/3 the price of their Rolex cousins instead of just about 1/2, and in the case of the Pelagos, more than 1/2. That's the reason I don't own one. For my first go around I would spend more to get a Rolex, you'll be thinking about the Rolex until you buy one, JMHO

[MichaelB_Can]

I think that in your price range an Air King would work or With Tudor you will get more bang for your buck. I mean you arn't too far away from a Tudor Tiger or even a Tudor Sub👍. I would maybe go for a Tudor Sub or keep saving and get a 14060 , your half way there .
- you could also look at vintage , I found this on line for $1000 . It's a little small but it's still a 1950's Rolex Explorer
So I guess I haven't been much help , just gave you more options . Lol
But I'm sure you will be happy any Rolex or Tudor ! Good luck and have fun , the hunt is the best part ! 😜


Mike B , Canada ⌚

[joe100]

What you're after is an AirKing 5500. Can be had in your price range and is one of the most historic models Rolex ever made. It is the longest continually produced model which began in 1945 inching out the DJ by a few months. At 34mm, it's a classic size with an excellent 1520 movement. The AK is allll Rolex

[rusty-schackelford]

I do like the look of the AK 5500, one consideration ive been thinking about when it comes to parts/service which is easier the tudor or the rolex because i plan on having the watch for a long time heck ied like to pass it down to my kids some day.

[36475koz]

Hey Rusty,
Nice to see a neighbor on the board. I'm in Plainfield.

You've gotten some good advice so far. If it were me, I'd look at the high end of your range and get something you'll be happy with over the long run. There are a TON of great sellers on TRF, and you shouldn't have much trouble finding what you're after.

Good luck!