Considering a different AP

[wmh2]

I would really appreciate some input from the AP experts on here.

I currently have a steel diver in my collection (picture below), but it has not really been a great piece for me. It's my first and only AP. I don't want to give up on AP, so I am considering a Safari (26470), Ceramic Diver (15707), or Ceramic 44mm (26400).

The challenge is that I have a 6.5" wrist and the diver feels a little top heavy. I have considered moving to the smaller strap size, and may do that with my next piece.

For those that perhaps started with a diver, did any of the above provide you with a better AP experience? I am leaning towards the Safari, and would value any thoughts you may have.

Thank you!

[benlee]

In terms of wearability, Ceramic Diver is an improvement over SS as it's lighter so feels more comfortable. But it's the same size. 44mm is bigger. If weight is a big issue, try out the FC ROOs. They are the lightest.

If size bothers you more, take a look at the Royal Oak range.

[wmh2]

Originally Posted by benlee

In terms of wearability, Ceramic Diver is an improvement over SS as it's lighter so feels more comfortable. But it's the same size. 44mm is bigger. If weight is a big issue, try out the FC ROOs. They are the lightest.

If size bothers you more, take a look at the Royal Oak range.

Thank you. Size hasn't been an issue - really like 44 & 45mm Panerais. Perhaps trying something in ceramic makes the most sense. Appreciate your input.

[PJ S]

It’d be a cheaper exercise to simply opt for the XS strap first, rather than ditching the 703 for the 707, and adding the strap then.
If it doesn’t help, then at least you’ll already have the strap for when the ceramic diver arrives.
I highly doubt the Safari and ROOC, even in ceramic, will suit a 6½” wrist any better than the divers do.

[AMCK87]

The shorter strap will likely help, I added one to my 44RG and it made a world of a difference. Given your wrist size, any of the pieces you mentioned should work. I would look at your lifestyle and what role this AP will fill for you in your collection. Is it going to be just a weekend watch or a daily, etc. Based on that, will be easier for you to decide but all three that you mentioned are great in their own respect.

[Etschell]

Originally Posted by wmh2

Thank you. Size hasn't been an issue - really like 44 & 45mm Panerais. Perhaps trying something in ceramic makes the most sense. Appreciate your input.

it will be much lighter. the only thing is it will be a substantial cost increase over your current watch - if that matters at all. perhaps a XS strap is the better option.

beautiful watch btw.

[AK797]

Not sure the Safari will help as the strap is thinner than the Diver's so it feels even more top heavy. I would also look at a ROC, alot slimmer yet wears like a 43mm.

[texex91]

44mm you pick the flavor.

[masterserg]

Originally Posted by texex91

44mm you pick the flavor.

This. It wears a lot more balanced than the Diver.

PS, Diver looks great in the picture above!

[speedmaster73]

i hate to say it but AP simply does not wear well on smaller wrists...maybe try the smaller royal oak as the offshores are all 42 and 44mm..

the 42mm wears like 44 and the 44 wears like 46

[Dom]

Problem with AP is that they wear large. Seems to me that the 42 ROC wears almost like a 44 Panerai.

[wmh2]

Thanks so much everyone for all the helpful replies!

[beer]

i disagree with those saying 44 is the same fit..if you have small wrists like me the 44mm wears significantly differently to the 42

[wmh2]

Originally Posted by beer

i disagree with those saying 44 is the same fit..if you have small wrists like me the 44mm wears significantly differently to the 42

Quite a bit larger, I am assuming?

[GB-man]

I would shoot for a 15202 or a 15707c if the weight is your only concern.

I loved everything about the diver c comfort wise, but I missed the subtle look of the WG screws against the SS case. The SS screws are much more prominent against the ceramic case in most lighting (real life not the best of TRF shot collection ).

[curare78]

I have the titanium ROO grey themes on a bracelet and I absolutely love it. I love the weight of the watch. I can wear it all day and never get "watch fatigue." Pictures don't do it justice, you should try one on in person if you have the chance I think you will be very pleased..... BTW, I also have 6.5 inch wrist.

[eonflux]

Originally Posted by wmh2

I would really appreciate some input from the AP experts on here.

I currently have a steel diver in my collection (picture below), but it has not really been a great piece for me. It's my first and only AP. I don't want to give up on AP, so I am considering a Safari (26470), Ceramic Diver (15707), or Ceramic 44mm (26400).

The challenge is that I have a 6.5" wrist and the diver feels a little top heavy. I have considered moving to the smaller strap size, and may do that with my next piece.

For those that perhaps started with a diver, did any of the above provide you with a better AP experience? I am leaning towards the Safari, and would value any thoughts you may have.

Thank you!

Originally Posted by wmh2

Thank you. Size hasn't been an issue - really like 44 & 45mm Panerais. Perhaps trying something in ceramic makes the most sense. Appreciate your input.

If size isn't an issue but weight balance is, then a Safari probably won't be different than your Diver. Having the strap tighter will keep the watch from flopping around somewhat, which may keep the weight from bothering you as much. But it'll still be top heavy. With my Blue Deepsea, if the bracelet is a bit loose, the heavy weight will make it flop around easily. Fortunately, the Glidelock makes it easy to fine tune a good fit, but the watch is still top heavy.

I think you're better off with a ceramic to reduce weight, 42 or 44.

I love the look and light weight of AP FC, and originally was going to get a FC Diver. But I happened to try the FC 44 chrono, and it sat better on my wrist (~6.5") than the Diver, not moving around as much. It appears to me that the lugs on the 44's are angled downward (more perpendicular to the plane of the case/dial) more than on the 42's, so seem to hold the watch in a better position on my wrist. You'll have to try one on your wrist to see if that has the same effect on you.