Pictures versus IRL... think I found 'the one'

[jandr272]

I'm not sure if there are others like me out there, who obsess over these forums, and Rolex's website, and Google images, all in an effort to figure out what to purchase next. I assume there are. I'm still looking for what will be my first Rolex, partly because shopping is half the fun, partly to keep myself motivated towards the end goal of continuing to save a bit here and there for what might be a few years to make the purchase.

I have now visited an AD on three different occasions, and on each occasion I have been suprised at what caught my eye in person versus what I liked best in pictures. Initially I was in love with Air Kings, but on my first visit I found them too small for my liking, at least for my first Rolex, as I think they will have a place in my collection eventually. I gravitated towards the 116710, which surprised me because I didn't really want a black watch. I tried on the 116622 that I found so beautiful in pictures, but it didn't speak to me in person.

The next two visits I tried on a datejust, and again the size wasn't really quite right for what I want right now. I tried on a 114060 and found it seemed a bit clunky due to the case design, which was in line with what I thought in pictures. Just my opinion of course, still a beautiful watch. Again I was drawn to the GMT. In pictures I disliked the PCL, thinking they looked off and too blingy. In person they are perfect, because they tied the watch together for me.

I love the green second hour hand, and I love the green font. The color really pops in person and breaks up the black on black in a great way. The ceramic bezel can't be described or conveyed in pictures, it is so deep and different depending on the lighting. The PCLs really linked the watch between sport and dress, something very important to me because it will be a long time saving, meaning any other luxury watch will take longer still, so I want a watch that can go with jeans and flip flops, or my dress uniform. It doesn't have to be perfect for both occasions, but I don't want it to be out of place either.

I know now, only rom seeing it in person, and feeling it on my wrist, that the 116710 is my goal and will meet my desires for my first Rolex. I wish I had a picture to share, but I was too shy at the dealer to take one. I will say that these watches are too beautiful to really be considered other than in person. A good lesson to have learned for now and later.

[AllFlexZone]

Ttiwwp

[2106]

Good choice but did you also try a blnr? I love the blue black bezel.

[Bangel]

Your methodology cannot be faulted.

Perceptions based on pictures and real life don't always correlate exactly.

It does indeed seem like you've found "the one."

I think the 116710 is one of the most versatile watches out there and the all black version is my favourite too.

Enjoy the chase (as you say, it's half the fun).

Keep saving and it'll be all the more satisfying once it's on your wrist.

[AK797]

Always best to try on before buying, there are watches you thought you wouldn't like but do in the flesh, such as BLRO and blue YM for me, and vice versa.

[Mr DateJust]

You do have to see a watch in person. There are certain watches or dials that photograph really well but in person they don't look as good to me personally and vide versa. I always try to see the watch in person.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by Mr DateJust

You do have to see a watch in person. There are certain watches or dials that photograph really well but in person they don't look as good to me personally and vide versa. I always try to see the watch in person.

Agreed, nothing is more important than trying them on

[kilyung]

A fantastic reference!

[watchwatcher]

100% agree with your post. You just cannot make a decision about a watch from just pictures.

And the 116710 will be an excellent first...huge fan here. Great looks, functionality, and looks good with anything.

[GerardoG]

Sometimes a picture can not reflect or express the true beauty of a timepiece; so AD visits are a must! Enjoy the hunt!!!

[rollee1]

I enjoyed reading your post.
Best of luck in landing your first rollie the 116710.

My first was the 16570, it sang to me loud and clear

[tkerrmd]

Originally Posted by kilyung

A fantastic reference!

agree, was my first ever GMT and you can see on the right what that led too!

[smurfpiss]

Originally Posted by tkerrmd

agree, was my first ever GMT and you can see on the right what that led too!

Wow, lovin' the new Pepsi. Nice collection :)

[tkdgod]

Originally Posted by tkerrmd

agree, was my first ever GMT and you can see on the right what that led too!

If you had to do it now between the black and blue GMT or an all black GMT, what would you choose?

[sco]

Watches look huge in pictures and small in person. The details you see so clearly here on TRF may be barely noticeable when the piece is in your hand. For instance the first time I saw the Platinum Daytona, I thought it looked small. The only thing I had to compare it to was 6 inch shots on TRF! Good Luck

[Highland Ranger]

No question that some pictures just don't do justice.

Perfect example:

[AK797]

Originally Posted by tkdgod

If you had to do it now between the black and blue GMT or an all black GMT, what would you choose?

I imagine Tom likes a wee bit of colour...

[G8RDPM]

I went in to buy a Daytona. Came out with 116710.
I'm still very happy.

I agree with your logic.

[Memcwhirter]

Originally Posted by AK797

Always best to try on before buying, there are watches you thought you wouldn't like but do in the flesh, such as BLRO and blue YM for me, and vice versa.

You have great taste.

[ragingcao]

Good luck w your 1st

[Hairdude1]

The GMT is a fantastic watch! I still miss my 116710