Save me from procrastinion

[mingsta]

Having had a fancy for a SS GMT IIc for some time, I made the fatal mistake of 'checking out some other options' before taking the plunge...needless to say, it only served to muddy what had previously been a pretty straightforward choice!!!

The main culprit has been the the JLC linked to below, I just think that its a beautiful watch:
http://www.minutemachines.com/watche...ressorGeo.html

This is going to be my first and last luxury timepiece (maybe). I do have a Stowa Airman Original on order for a bit of variety, but for my main watch its got to be something that will stand the test of time both physically and aesthetically, as I intend to keep it for a very long time to come.

Would be interested to get a 2nd opinion between the two choices as I've been mulling over this during xmas and am starting to lose my objectivity!!! Here's my take...

The GMT IIc - simple, strong, reliable thats what really attracts me to the Rolex GMT and Submariners. They are classic and quite minimalist when compared to some of the alternatives and for that reason I think I can be confident that I won't tire of the looks a few years down the line. Rolex are very popular and recognised the world over, for that reason, it might not feel as 'special' to own one compared to a more boutique brand. If I went for the GMT IIc, I'd also get a Stowa Airman Original for some variety.

The JLC Master Compressor Geographic - this watch really speaks to me! And I'd have to admit that the GMT IIc looks a little plain next to it. To me, the JLC strikes the perfect balance in terms of being elegant versus sporty and is a watch that you could quite happily wear with t-shirt and jeans or with a suit. My reservations with the JLC are in the long term...there's a lot going on with that dial, while it gives the watch bags of flair, theres also the possibility that one could grow tired of the looks a few years down the line. I also worry that it wouldn't be as suited to the trials of daily wear as the Rolex, but this may be unfounded.

Not that it should matter, but I did a bit of a Diet Coke test with some friends who are not in to watches and while they all appreciated the Rolex, it was the likes of the IWC Portuguese Automatic and the JLC Master Compressor Geographic that really got them coo-ing, they are real crowd pleasers! But while they are indeed tasteful and sophisticated watches, there is something about the enduring nature of the rolex sports watches that keeps calling me back!....Opinions please!!!

[Rockrolex]

The Master Compressor is a great looking watch. I've got the Master Geographic. I will say that the Master Geo is the only one of my watches that stopped working after a few years. $1200 worth of servicing later and it works fine. But none of my Rolexes or Breitling has had that problem and I've had them longer.

I wear my Master Geo as a dress watch (it's in rose gold) so it doesn't get that much wrist time.

But if you like the Master Compressor, go for it.

[BZA]

That JLC is a beauty!

But you can't beat a Rolex for everyday wear. Would that JLC be a little too "delicate"? I don't have one so can't say.

[mfer]

For everyday use, GMT IIc in a heartbeat.

For dressy occasions, more rare use, the JLC as a second watch.

[miked10270]

I like the way you came to a ROLEX Forum for an objective opinion!

But seriously, I think you've answered your own question; Are you looking for a solid working watch, or some "Wrist-Candy"?

What is stunning now, or what'll still be stylish as the decades pass?

I suppose it could be likened to the girl you date, versus the girl you marry?

A wrist watch made by watchmakers? Or a wristwatch made by fashion-designers & jewellers?

Yes, there are a lot of Rolex out there, perhaps because a 20 or 30 year old one is as wearable servicable & fashionable (oh... and recognisable) as a new one, so very few lie in the back of jewellery boxes.

Also, Rolex can appear to be more common due to the consistent styling of them (as well as the fake $hit).

So, are you buying a tool to tell the time, or a fashion accessory? You can be pretty certain that a Rolex will stay on your wrist and only stop some 24-48 hours after the onset of Rigor-Mortis!

Hope this helps.

Regards,

Mike.

[vapalux]

What can I say that hasn't been said

Mike has put in a way that there's not a lot more to say.

Everyday and all day e.g a watch that does it all. Night or day - The rolex

Eye candy - Can really only be used on certain occasions

Hope your problem gets solved whatever you choose

Si

[Jason888]

I think the JLC is a bit too busy apon a closer inspection to the face of the watch. I'll admit is does look quite elegant from looking at it as a whole. I'd pick the GMT IIc, due to the fact I believe it has a longer term lasting appeal looks wise.

[cody p]

if it's to be your first and last luxury watch as you say. then go with the ROLEX. it's the complete package. but reading your post - it sounds like you already know that.

and check out what Jedi/Lee has to say in this thread link: http://www.rolexforums.com/showthrea...t=61647&page=2

[Perdu]

Delay your decision for 6 months and see which you like best then. Don't rush.

[mingsta]

Thanks again for the replies folks. I won't be pulling the trigger until I'm absolutely sure, but as you say, I think I already know the answer...