A few days with the 58

[Lesnerelli23]

Originally Posted by Mendota

It's funny that you mention that. For years and years I have coveted a big crown. I have dozens of bookmarked pages where I have read and studied the history of the early subs and I even have the "Submariner Story" book as a PDF edition.

I knew those original watches were all 38mm but I didn't realize how small it would actually feel on the wrist until this summer when I was able to try on a 6536 over at my AD. Granted, that one is a small crown not a big crown, but the overall case dimensions and bezel/dial/hands are similar enough that it would generally fit the same way minus the bigger crown protruding from the side. My reaction was a muted, "hmmm" and I really tried to like it but I didn't. I also didn't like the function of the bezel. I much preferred the 5513 and 5512 that they had right next to it for literally half the price.

I honestly wonder how different the 6538 or 5510 would feel? As you mentioned, the Black Bay might be a better all around way to quench that thirst since you can actually wear and enjoy these. With the vintage market where it is, I don't think I would ever wear a 6538 or 5510 if I had one now. And then, what's the point of having something that just sits in a display case on your desk to look at, or worse yet, tucked away and out of sight in a watchbox or safe where you can't even see and admire it?

I think a BB58 would be worth trying on. While it is 39mm and may still feel small, the price tag is certainly in the range of “occasional wear”, or much closer than a big crown Sub at least. I rotate mine with a SubC date a few times a week depending on what I’m wearing or where I’m going. It’s nice when (pre COVID) I’d travel into a busy city to have that “almost a Sub” option that garnered no attention. Plus I like the pop of the gilt and the red.

I was always into watchws from the time I can remember. I’m not sure what drew me to them but it’s always been there. When I was a bit older (15ish) I really started appreciating the mechanical aspects of them along with the aesthetics. Like you, I’ve obsessed learning about certain models, etc. The BB58 really cured my vintage Sub itch and like you said, I CAN WEAR IT! Lol. Besides not being comfortable wearing $500k around, the Tudor is still water resistant and easily serviced. Those are 2 huge factors to think about as well.

Go check one out :)