First Rolex - OP 36 or Sub?

[Trystero]

I'm finally in a position to purchase my first Rolex and I'm having a hard time picking between the 36 mm Oyster Perpetual and the no-date Sub. I love both for different reasons (the OP's simplicity and the Sub's classic look), but I suppose the choice really comes down to whether the Sub is worth the extra 2K over the OP. If anyone owns either of these watches I'd love to hear your thoughts on using it as a daily timepiece. Thanks!

[Eingram141]

Maybe I am biased because I am itching for a Sub, but in my opinion the Op doesnt look perfect on you. Its NICE but almost a little “forced”. The no date really pops, its understated. Yes, Id honestly say it looks $2000 better.
Just the opinion of a complete stranger.

[motlking]

The sub is 100x more special and better from an investment perspective also

[Trystero]

Originally Posted by Eingram141

Maybe I am biased because I am itching for a Sub, but in my opinion the Op doesnt look perfect on you. Its NICE but almost a little “forced”. The no date really pops, its understated. Yes, Id honestly say it looks $2000 better.
Just the opinion of a complete stranger.

I do like how special the Sub feels, but I'm just worried it looks too large for my wrist. I know the trend now is towards larger watches so I guess that might work in my favor.

[Scapegoat]

Sub.

Because you will get the OP and still keep thinking about the Sub.

[minute_man]

I beg to differ. Truth be told, the SubC does look a little big too big on your wrist while the OP looks like a perfect fit. Have you given an Explorer 214270 a try?

[Trystero]

Originally Posted by minute_man

Truth be told, the SubC does look a little big too big on your wrist while the OP looks like a perfect fit. Have you given an Explorer 214270 a try?

I took a look but I wasn't really a fan of the 3-6-9 on the dial. I'd consider a Milgauss if it wore smaller than the Sub does; I forgot to try one on when I was in store.

[minute_man]

I hear you. There's a chance it might. The boxier new sub/gmt cases oftentimes wear rather big on thinner wrists. I still like the way the OP case sits on yours.

[q8rolex]

sub, definately

[Muzz]

Sub, it isn’t too big as there is no case overhang and it sits as it is suppose to. You can always add an OP down the road.

[Eva123]

Simple answer would be to advice you to choose Submariner, which is one of the most iconic Rolex model. From money perspective it is also a good purchase (you will not loose or loose small amount of money if you want to sell it later). However, it seems you have a small wrist and Submariner is too large for you.

So, might look at other models (maybe Datejust 36, which is another iconic watch). The most important thing how you feel when you put watch on your wrist. For example, I initially wanted to buy Datejust 36 and really knew which dial I am going to choose, however, when I put it on my wrist I felt that this watch is way too small for me (I have 8.1 inch wrist). So, I choose DJII.

I suggest for you to go to AD and try various models and see which fits to you best.

[nursejm]

i vote for sub, think of that additional 2k as payment for that Cerachrom insert which is beautiful, worth it and very useful on daily use.

[rolex75216]

Neither.

Datejust
Oyster Bracelet
Smooth Bezel
904L Stainless Steel

- Launched in 1945 as first watch with an automatic date movement.
- 36mm or 41mm is the perfect size for a man's watch.
- Has a fantastic price point offering huge value for the money.
- Looks very similar to the most expensive and iconic Rolex ever sold in the Day-Date.
- Has a Date with Cyclops.
- Can be worn in all occasions.
- Slim profile is extremely comfortable.
- The 904L Stainless Steel is the strongest and most durable metal choice for a Rolex watch.
- It has one of the most reliable and accurate movements every produced by Rolex.
- The DJ movement is one of the more simple movements to work on and very easy to service.
- Adjustable Oysterclasp bracelet is strong and has an Easylink 5 mm comfort extension.
- Time and Date are easy to read.
- Low key.
- Great luminescence.
- Fantastic customization with many dial choices and colors available.
- Lots of polish on the watch including the band center links which gives it a beautiful shine and appearance.
- Will stand the test of time, last forever, and will always be in style.
- Women love it!
- A Smooth Bezel and Oyster Bracelet configuration make it easy to remove light scratches with a Cap Cod Polishing cloth.
- No other watch in the Rolex lineup offers all of these features at such a good price point.

[Tony64]

36mm is a better size for you, though I'm not loving that particular OP. I would look for an older 36mm Explorer or maybe an AirKing?

[ejvette]

The OP does look more size appropriate on your wrist both are great pieces

[1William]

I would go back to the AD and try everything that interests you on. Remember that the watches have not been sized and you will not get a true feel for wear. If you are a real buyer and the AD is aware of it you may be able to get them to size one or two for you prior to purchase. I do not think that the Submariner is too large on your wrist and I believe it to be an iconic watch which holds it's value better than most in the Rolex line-up. You can save about $1500-1800 on a pre-owned purchase from one of our TS that is complete with box and papers with warranty left. But one step at a time. Go figure out which watch suits you best.

[Malak]

OP

-classical
-more history

[adg31]

Sorry, I just can't get past the maxi-lugs of the new Submariners making the bracelet look puny.
I know it's a great watch, great dial, great bracelet with the Glidelock clasp etc - but still a no from me.
In contrast the OP just hits a sweet spot for me with the blue 369 dial and all brushed case and bracelet.



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[ajas]

Originally Posted by rolex75216

Neither.

Datejust
Oyster Bracelet
Smooth Bezel
904L Stainless Steel

- Launched in 1945 as first watch with an automatic date movement.
- 36mm or 41mm is the perfect size for a man's watch.
- Has a fantastic price point offering huge value for the money.
- Looks very similar to the most expensive and iconic Rolex ever sold in the Day-Date.
- Has a Date with Cyclops.
- Can be worn in all occasions.
- Slim profile is extremely comfortable.
- The 904L Stainless Steel is the strongest and most durable metal choice for a Rolex watch.
- It has one of the most reliable and accurate movements every produced by Rolex.
- The DJ movement is one of the more simple movements to work on and very easy to service.
- Adjustable Oysterclasp bracelet is strong and has an Easylink 5 mm comfort extension.
- Time and Date are easy to read.
- Low key.
- Great luminescence.
- Fantastic customization with many dial choices and colors available.
- Lots of polish on the watch including the band center links which gives it a beautiful shine and appearance.
- Will stand the test of time, last forever, and will always be in style.
- Women love it!
- A Smooth Bezel and Oyster Bracelet configuration make it easy to remove light scratches with a Cap Cod Polishing cloth.
- No other watch in the Rolex lineup offers all of these features at such a good price point.

Excellent write up. Thank you very much.
I may consider DJ for myself.

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[brandrea]

Welcome to TRF

You can never go too far wrong starting off with a Sub

[Cloitus]

I would go Submariner. It's so classy and the only watch you will ever need. You can always add an OP down the track.

How big is your wrist by the way?

[Foxglove]

Sub.

easy choice.

[slide13]

Love both watches, though not that dial color on the OP. With your wrist size the OP does look like a better fit and in the steel dial color would look awesome and very clean and classic like the Sub.

My wrist is large, 7.75” or so and the OP won’t even fit me without an extra link. So I’ve gone with the Sub myself and love it. Classic watch and you can never go wrong with a Sub. But if my wrist were smaller, OP would have had a good chance of being on my wrist instead.

[tommy91]

Sub

[MrInternational]

Originally Posted by rolex75216

Neither.

Datejust
Oyster Bracelet
Smooth Bezel
904L Stainless Steel

- Launched in 1945 as first watch with an automatic date movement.
- 36mm or 41mm is the perfect size for a man's watch.
- Has a fantastic price point offering huge value for the money.
- Looks very similar to the most expensive and iconic Rolex ever sold in the Day-Date.
- Has a Date with Cyclops.
- Can be worn in all occasions.
- Slim profile is extremely comfortable.
- The 904L Stainless Steel is the strongest and most durable metal choice for a Rolex watch.
- It has one of the most reliable and accurate movements every produced by Rolex.
- The DJ movement is one of the more simple movements to work on and very easy to service.
- Adjustable Oysterclasp bracelet is strong and has an Easylink 5 mm comfort extension.
- Time and Date are easy to read.
- Low key.
- Great luminescence.
- Fantastic customization with many dial choices and colors available.
- Lots of polish on the watch including the band center links which gives it a beautiful shine and appearance.
- Will stand the test of time, last forever, and will always be in style.
- Women love it!
- A Smooth Bezel and Oyster Bracelet configuration make it easy to remove light scratches with a Cap Cod Polishing cloth.
- No other watch in the Rolex lineup offers all of these features at such a good price point.

+1 on this!

The Sub does look pretty big on your wrist. The OP looks great. I’d recommend looking at the Datejust for all the reasons above! Good luck!


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[JR16]

+2 on considering DJ41 w smooth bezel and oyster. Would also try the OP39 to see which suits your wrist size better. If you are concerned about the sub being too big on your wrist, it’s a thought that will probably linger (as an owner, speaking from experience). As an alternative, if you really wanted a sub but want one that wears smaller consider a pre owned 14060M, which is within your budget


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[MrInternational]

Originally Posted by JR16

+2 on considering DJ41 w smooth bezel and oyster. Would also try the OP39 to see which suits your wrist size better. If you are concerned about the sub being too big on your wrist, it’s a thought that will probably linger (as an owner, speaking from experience). As an alternative, if you really wanted a sub but want one that wears smaller consider a pre owned 14060M, which is within your budget


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+1 good call on the 14060!


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[dave023]

Sub as a first, and maybe last...

[VicLeChic]

Sub, not a fan of the fat lugs but still, Sub.

[Watchgeek5000]

Why not consider the OP 39mm? Seems to be the sweet spot between the two your comparing. Also, depending on how you buy it if you decide you made the wrong choice with the sub you'll recoup most of your money, if you decide on the OP 36 and regret it you'll take a HUGE hit when selling.