Small Crown vs Gilt Sub

[frackas]

I’ve mainly been lurking here, and have learned a tremendous amount from the discussions going on. The archive has been an invaluable resource for looking up specific references, and researching price development. I am not even a year into this, so I’m just starting out:) My first vintage was an “obligatory” nice Red Sub. As my taste matured I fell in love with Explorers and acquired a 6610.

Now I’m eager to take the next step and get more serious. After dabbling with the idea of a 6542 for a little while, I have narrowed my search down to a 6356/1 (preferably red depth) and a gilt mirror dial 5512 with PCG and closed chapter ring.

Here’s my question to you gentlemen;

Given you were spending 25k-45k, which one of these would you go for? Please take into consideration over all attractiveness, desirability, long term investment potential and also liquidity in the market. I should also add that that I intend to wear it regularly.

Your collective advise on this would be much appreciated!

[R.W.T.]

The 5512 is a bit larger of a wear. The 6536-1 is a really nice watch....it's very light and you hardly notice it which is cool. The crown is small and doesn't dig into your arm. Both excellent watches.

I would probably buy the best one of either that I found....I mean...if you find a perfect 5512 first...well. Either way you're not going wrong. Red Depth you are gonna pay...

With the 5512's there is always something wrong...on the dial...some issue...they are never perfect. Watch especially for the "hour hand swirl". Deal breaker for me.

Bezel stuff is better with the 5512. Just a whole lot heftier and easier to maintain piece of gear with the 15xx mvt.

I dunno...I loved my 6536-1 too.

That's clear as mud....

[themaninblack]

A small crown is a "gilt sub". I don't think that there is a right or wrong answer to your question, it probably comes down to finding a good example at the right price for you.

[frackas]

My apologies for not being clear. It was meant to say "5512 Gilt Sub". I'm not necessarily looking for the "right" answer, but would love to hear everyone's subjective opinion:). R.W.T had some interesting thoughts regarding size, and weightiness that I will take into account. I'm already used to this lighter feel from my 6610, so it shouldn't be too much of an issue. In time I might have to get both:)

[frackas]

My apologies for not being clear. I should have said "5512 Gilt Sub" in the header. I'm not necessarily looking for the right answer, but would love to hear everyone's subjective opinions.

Thanks R.W.T for great info, it sounds like you have a lot of love for both:)

Owning a later Sub already, I'm leaning toward a small crown. There's just something really enticing about them, and if I could find a great, honest, red depth with original hands, I would probably go for it.

On the other hand, pristine mirror dial, eagle beak 5512's seem to be a very hot and liquid commodity, if I should ever want to sell it again. And gorgeous of course. Ahh, the agony of choice...:)

[subx]

cannot go wrong with either, 6536 wears small and comfortable, 5512 pcg is hefty ( even more so than a late 60s 5513). both have lots of charm

[frackas]

And sorry for the double post, I was having some issues with the first one..

[roh123]

I´d go for the watch you could get in the absolutely best condition for your budget. I think a minty red depth 6536/1 will cost more than your budget so therefore I would try to fetch an early 5512 with really nice gloss. It´s not easy to find a great example but I think you could be able to get this with a bit of luck.

For me the 5512 is what defined the diver watches of today. A timeless classic! That said I recently sold my gilt 5512 and kept my perfect 5508. Mostly due to the better condition of my 5508. If condition would have been equal I would have picked the 5512 in a heartbeat.

Good luck!

[R.W.T.]

Originally Posted by frackas

My apologies for not being clear. I should have said "5512 Gilt Sub" in the header. I'm not necessarily looking for the right answer, but would love to hear everyone's subjective opinions.

Thanks R.W.T for great info, it sounds like you have a lot of love for both:)

Owning a later Sub already, I'm leaning toward a small crown. There's just something really enticing about them, and if I could find a great, honest, red depth with original hands, I would probably go for it.

On the other hand, pristine mirror dial, eagle beak 5512's seem to be a very hot and liquid commodity, if I should ever want to sell it again. And gorgeous of course. Ahh, the agony of choice...:)

The case on the 6536-1 is really a cool deal..it's SUPER thin...it's a marvel to look at. It is also the same as 5508 really....excepting the 15xx mvt.