Help me choose my next watch

[Crwilsn]

The 4 watch thread really got me thinking, so I am looking at adding another Rolex to my collection and need some advice from the experts.

My current collection is as follows

2002 GMT II 16710
1960 Omega Speedmaster Pro
2000 Omega Seamaster Pro 300m Quartz

While I would not get rid of the SMP 300m as it is my first real watch, I would like to add an Automatic Diver to the stable. I would love to go full vintage but 1, I can't afford the 6538 I would like, and 2, wish to use the watch as it was intended. I have read and participated in threads discussing the merits of swimming in vintage dive watches and, while I still think service and testing is the key, removing the risk by sticking to Sapphire Crystal models is the right decision to make. With that being said, the transitional models seem to be the best option. They maintain the look of the classic tritium maxi dials, while gaining the improved water resistance of the modern cases. That leads me to two watches, the 16660 SeaDweller and the 16800 Submariner.

I actually prefer the SeaDweller but am concerned interest in them has already raised their prices to a premium ($8K+), especially in the matte dial that I prefer, while the matte dial Submariners are still a bit under appreciated and available at a reasonable price (comparable to the later 16610s $5-6K). I know a watch is not an investment but Rolex sport watches are the most investment worthy watches available so I don't want to make a poor choice.

Is it too late for the SeaDweller or is the Sub on the verge of increased interest? What are your opinions?

Thanks in advance for any help.

[thomaspp]

Gmt! But if you really want a diver, get a sub!

[Time Exposure]

All the answers are in your query:
You want to make a wise choice as investment goes? 16660 matte dial.
You want to use as intended? 16800 Sub.
You want investment AND use as intended?
16660 AND 16800.
Sounds like you want to use as intended since you're looking at sapphire crystals, so 16800 it is.
That'll be two cents please...

[superdog]

Originally Posted by Time Exposure

All the answers are in your query:
You want to make a wise choice as investment goes? 16660 matte dial.
You want to use as intended? 16800 Sub.
You want investment AND use as intended?
16660 AND 16800.
Sounds like you want to use as intended since you're looking at sapphire crystals, so 16800 it is.
That'll be two cents please...

Great response. Funny too.

[Evo6]

There is something special about those matte dial 16800s, especially if you can find one with lovely patina and a dark blue bezel. Unfortunately I decided even this was too "vintage" to actually dive with so I'm going with a Pelagos as a real tool/dive watch, it's not precious in any way so I won't think about it when engaging in horologicaly hazardous activities.

[Lgear080]

I think that 16800's represent what little is left for investment value
In late model Rolex sport watches.... Aaaaaand they look awesome.

[Crwilsn]

I found a 16800 for a great price but it's a little too over polished for an investment piece. I also found a 16660 gloss dial with WG surround markers.

I need to keep from getting too impatient and pull the trigger too early on the wrong watch. It's easy to loose sight of the goal. If I miss my opportunity there are always nice clean 16610s, 16660s, and even 14060s available down the road.

[CWIN]

I'd go for the Sub

[CtrlFreq]

Originally Posted by Crwilsn

I actually prefer the SeaDweller but am concerned interest in them has already raised their prices to a premium ($8K+), especially in the matte dial that I prefer, while the matte dial Submariners are still a bit under appreciated and available at a reasonable price (comparable to the later 16610s $5-6K). I know a watch is not an investment but Rolex sport watches are the most investment worthy watches available so I don't want to make a poor choice.

Do not be put off by the price of the SeaDweller... If, deep in your heart, that is the piece you truly want, I say put the money away a bit at a time and get the watch you truly want. SeaDweller is my vote.

[DreambreaX]

Gmt

[DreambreaX]

Stick to Rolexxx

[David cote]

Gmt

[Jeffreyw2014]

GMT all the way.

[www777]

gmt