Perceived Value: Rolex vs. Omega, etc.

[samson66]

I have both and love both. And yes the process of purchasing Omega watches, bracelets and anything else is WORLDS better than the current situation with Rolex. You want a specific Omega watch??? No problem - they either have it in stock or can order it for you within a few days. Need to order a bracelet??? No issue there either, will be in the store within a week or so. Try that with Rolex. This situation with having to almost pass a qualification test to purchase a Rolex watch is a big turnoff and one of the main reasons my past four purchases have been non-Rolex.

You mentioned the issue with the bracelet fit issues on the Moonwatch. That is a well known issue and I'm not sure why they haven't corrected it. I recently purchased a Moonphase Speedmaster and they come with a far superior bracelet. Has two half-links with it AND an adjustable clasp similar to the clasp on Submariners and Sea Dwellers. Allows you to slide one way or the other to adjust the fit. I have no idea why they don't include this on the Moonwatch except that maybe it is one way they get folks to buy the other higher priced Speedmasters. Looks like this:

[samson66]

Originally Posted by SS Oyster

Honestly - lets hear it. Which do you prefer?

While I wish Rolex was more responsive, their clasps cost $125, they were more readily available for purchase and they cost less ..... when it comes time to place it on your wrist, there is only one Rolex.

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I have to tell you there are many days I prefer my Omega. Omega makes some absolutely amazing watches. My SD has spent a lot of time in the safe since I bought this Speedy...

[Arcticsub]

Originally Posted by ijpx

It’s already proven that Rolex has better future financial value, so no need to debate this part for sure.

Future value? As in 1 month? A year? 10 years? How would you know?

Do you remember the Panerai craze at the start of the century? Didn't go well for them.

[meyers]

Originally Posted by eteokles

Agreed - many of his posts were in contention for that title, however, so it wasn't an easy choice.

true true

[Art 1]

Originally Posted by SS Oyster

What does age have to do with this? Not many 21yr olds even know what a Rolex is, let alone know their value. They just look at their smartphones.

Keep wearing your Apple Watch, that you replace every 12 months when a new one comes out, making the old one (if you’re lucky) a 25% trade in on the next gen.

Ever try an Explorer 1016 or a Daytona on OF? Very comfy ... and don’t lose 75% of their value per year.

In a business meeting, not sure anyone is impressed with 75% lost value per year.


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In a business meeting I really don’t care what watch they have on. Just can they get the work done.

[Art 1]

Originally Posted by SS Oyster

Honestly - lets hear it. Which do you prefer?



Or



While I wish Rolex was more responsive, their clasps cost $125, they were more readily available for purchase and they cost less ..... when it comes time to place it on your wrist, there is only one Rolex.

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I much prefer that Omega. I got rid of my BLNR in fact.

[derekhayden]

Originally Posted by huncho

if rolex had steel models readily available no one would want them

Not true at all. This Rolex false exclusivity and limited availability has only been for the past few years. Rolex has been viewed by the masses as the best of the best for many many years before that. Trust me if you could walk into an AD and buy a SS piece it isn't going to deter anyone that was really interested in the brand to begin with.

[huncho]

Originally Posted by derekhayden

Not true at all. This Rolex false exclusivity and limited availability has only been for the past few years. Rolex has been viewed by the masses as the best of the best for many many years before that. Trust me if you could walk into an AD and buy a SS piece it isn't going to deter anyone that was really interested in the brand to begin with.

i should have clarified, by no one i mean the general non wis public. everyone now wants a rolex because they're hard to get and a lot of the models go up in value which makes spending this kind of money easier

[Roli4life]

About 10 years ago I was having my watchmaker (an old German man who has been fixing watches for over 60 years) take a look at one of my GLC watches. We got to talking about movements, and eventually Rolex came up. I asked him what he thought about the brand since at the time I did on a couple. His response what is Stern, and confident. ‘’ Rolex is best watch made...”

This came as a surprise to me knowing he had worked on everything from ETA to PP. I asked him his reasoning, considering the choices of high pedigree brands, and movements. He kind of gave me a look like it would take too much time to explain, but basically he said they are superior due to their durability, and unembellished movments.

Basically Rolex’s strength is in its robust simplicity, instead of finishing, or an over abundance of parts that are not necessary.

[Chewbacca]

Originally Posted by Roli4life

About 10 years ago I was having my watchmaker (an old German man who has been fixing watches for over 60 years) take a look at one of my GLC watches. We got to talking about movements, and eventually Rolex came up. I asked him what he thought about the brand since at the time I did on a couple. His response what is Stern, and confident. ‘’ Rolex is best watch made...”

This came as a surprise to me knowing he had worked on everything from ETA to PP. I asked him his reasoning, considering the choices of high pedigree brands, and movements. He kind of gave me a look like it would take too much time to explain, but basically he said they are superior due to their durability, and unembellished movments.

Basically Rolex’s strength is in its robust simplicity, instead of finishing, or an over abundance of parts that are not necessary.

You asked him in 2009 after wrenching 60 years... didn't you.

That was peak Rolex.

We're now 10yrs into the 'right to service era'... And he's one RSC visit from being the new Old Man Yells at Cloud meme.

[Toproll85]

Originally Posted by RCrusoe

Wow, I'm really surprised at all the positive comments. I thought this post would be full of thrashing from the Rolex fanboys club (of which I am, admittedly, a member)

Thank you for your story and sharing your experience about the two worlds.

Like you, I don't only have Rolexes, and in the past I have visited many brands. I understand your attraction to the Speedmaster, I also have one in my collection. It's a nice piece of history, even if marketing has done its job well, it remains iconic, on the wrist pleasant and soberly beautiful. Regarding the bracelet, it has always been the size of my wrist so on this subject I cannot affirm or contradict your words.

I bounce on the difference in quality, I think it's a useless war. Omega are good watches, Rolex too. I still think that in terms of use and mastery of materials Rolex is a bit ahead, and that the Oyster is the best steel bracelet, not found at Omega. That is why, among other things, that it remains my preference although being open.

Much pleasure in this passion that drives us all, see you soon

[Highlatitude]

Originally Posted by huncho

if rolex had steel models readily available no one would want them

Total nonsense. Only those that subscribe to the Instagram hype silliness would be put off. Genuine enthusiasts for watches would be very glad to see a return to the good times when we could buy the models we wanted and enjoy our hobby. And people trying to buy a watch for a present or to mark a special occasion would be able to get what they want when they want.

[frank4242]

Not a fan of Omega
Not a luxury watch anyways

[jaroush]

Other than lacking in house movements, I view Omegas as having superior build quality, equal attractiveness and far superior customer service to Rolex. Rolex just doesn’t give a rip about their customers. It is very obvious and sad.

[s46]

I own several brands and rolex and omega are among them - lot of awesome brands and choices out there - one brand that is blowing my mind with epic pieces and ridiculously undervalued and unerappreciated is JLC

[brandrea]

Both brands are great and there’s room in a collection for both

I’ve always had stellar service from my Rolex AD, eg: they sourced me a half link for my 116660 when it wasn’t an option for that reference.

I’m of the mind that two people can have exactly the opposite experience with the same AD (whether it be Rolex or Omega etc). I’d never bash the brand because of a bad encounter, but maybe that’s just me. (I’m not saying you’re bashing OP ... I tend to digress).

Regardless, I’m happy for you OP, sounds like Omega is floating your boat, and there’s nothing wrong with that

[RCrusoe]

Thanks for all the replies and comments. I thought I may be solo in my new-found feeling. That said, I'm not completely off of the Rolex brand but just much more aware of other brands lately.

To be honest, it almost feels like I'm restarting my watch collecting journey from scratch as, for the longest time, I only considered Rolex. When I first started collecting I couldn't afford a Rolex and, for this reason, looked at and nurtured a passion for other brands.

Time will tell where my collection ends up but, for now, I'll still keep the Rolex'es as they are now discontinued models (GMT's + Daytona) but will definitely start paying more attention to other brands...

[RyanJ]

Originally Posted by derekhayden

Not true at all. This Rolex false exclusivity and limited availability has only been for the past few years. Rolex has been viewed by the masses as the best of the best for many many years before that. Trust me if you could walk into an AD and buy a SS piece it isn't going to deter anyone that was really interested in the brand to begin with.

3 or so years ago, Rolex SS models were overflowing from AD cases. Discounts of 20% were happily given. The Daytona was still a bit hard to get.

Sure, Rolex loyalists were always interested but the mass public wasn't nearly as interested compared to now.

Right now this is about hype. Alot of people are not buying because they want a reliable timepiece. They want to sell to make a profit or buy the watch their favorite rapper, friend, TRF member, nfluencer, etc is wearing.

[Jack Kairos]

I think Omega makes some great watches, but I am just partial to Rolex for the following reasons:
I like the design aesthetic of Rolex.
Thinner cases,
Value retention
Brand prestige
Probably most important, I grew up dreaming of owning a Rolex watch someday.

[AK797]

I've owned quite a few of both and aesthetically I slightly prefer the looks of a Rolex, Rolex has also always had stronger resale so were also a safer buy and gave you future options to flip back when it was a natural part of the WIS discovery process and nothing to do with making money.

[Roli4life]

Originally Posted by RCrusoe

Thanks for all the replies and comments. I thought I may be solo in my new-found feeling. That said, I'm not completely off of the Rolex brand but just much more aware of other brands lately.

To be honest, it almost feels like I'm restarting my watch collecting journey from scratch as, for the longest time, I only considered Rolex. When I first started collecting I couldn't afford a Rolex and, for this reason, looked at and nurtured a passion for other brands.

Time will tell where my collection ends up but, for now, I'll still keep the Rolex'es as they are now discontinued models (GMT's + Daytona) but will definitely start paying more attention to other brands...

Every WIS (myself included) strays from Rolex to fondle other brands at some point, but we almost always come back, feeling like we waisted time, and $. Plenty of unfortunate souls making futile efforts to rekindle old AD relationships just to get a simple SS Sub.

Good luck.

[kachukachu96]

Surprise to know this story
Rolex should learn some I think


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[Pantheon]

Originally Posted by Roli4life

Every WIS (myself included) strays from Rolex to fondle other brands at some point, but we almost always come back, feeling like we waisted time, and $. Plenty of unfortunate souls making futile efforts to rekindle old AD relationships just to get a simple SS Sub.

Good luck.

Rolex was my first luxury watch purchase and had gone one to purchase many Rolex models. However after dabbling in haute horology, I find it hard to go back to Rolex. Still love the brand but definitely no longer near the top of my list. I've always had relationships with ADs that carry many brands so no worries about having to "rekindle" relationships. When it comes to ADs I would say not to put all your eggs in one basket.

[Roli4life]

Originally Posted by Pantheon

Rolex was my first luxury watch purchase and had gone one to purchase many Rolex models. However after dabbling in haute horology, I find it hard to go back to Rolex. Still love the brand but definitely no longer near the top of my list. I've always had relationships with ADs that carry many brands so no worries about having to "rekindle" relationships. When it comes to ADs I would say not to put all your eggs in one basket.

Good to hear. Don’t get me wrong I think there are some great trinity watches we all should experience. I still own a few myself, and there has even been a few times I thought of flipping a Daytona for a ROC. But I just don’t have that confidence in durability when it comes to daily wear that I have w/ my Rolex watches.

For instance, When I compare the movment in my AP ROO to my Daytona, I do not feel like my money was well spent in the ROO. It actually leads me to think the Daytona was a bargain at its price.

Sure the finishing is not as grand, but I have a movement, and case that is rock solid, accurate, and mostly worry free. I will spare you some of my customer experiences w/ some of the trinity brands. I’ll just say they could have been better...

[Pantheon]

Originally Posted by Roli4life

Good to hear. Don’t get me wrong I think there are some great trinity watches we all should experience. I still own a few myself, and there has even been a few times I thought of flipping a Daytona for a ROC. But I just don’t have that confidence in durability when it comes to daily wear that I have w/ my Rolex watches.

For instance, When I compare the movment in my AP ROO to my Daytona, I do not feel like my money was well spent in the ROO. It actually leads me to think the Daytona was a bargain at its price.

Sure the finishing is not as grand, but I have a movement, and case that is rock solid, accurate, and mostly worry free. I will spare you some of my customer experiences w/ some of the trinity brands. I’ll just say they could have been better...

Rolex durability is definitely unquestionable in the watch world. I can also attest to APs being a little bit dainty. Actually I feel like Rolex is slowly creeping into holy trinity customer service territory

[rolex01]

Many people dived into Rolex due to hype whereas People buy Omega due to passion and watch design.

[Roli4life]

Originally Posted by Pantheon

Rolex durability is definitely unquestionable in the watch world. I can also attest to APs being a little bit dainty. Actually I feel like Rolex is slowly creeping into holy trinity customer service territory

Can lie, I’ve heard some unsettling stories as of late. I’m hoping it has more to do with the influx of new customers, or just forum cross talk.
Personally my last experience (non warranty issue) was a good one ,w/ $0 out of pocket. So I’m keeping my fingers crossed if I ever have a real issue. Lucky for most of us that Rolex usually gets it right the first time.

[Galaga167]

I bought my first real watch in 2009. An Omega Planet Ocean 2500. After a week or so the clasp would pop open and was obviously faulty. They replaced it under warranty without hesitation.

About 6 months later the movement stopped. A common problem with the C movement. They replaced the entire movement to a D and because of the hassle they gave me a
Voucher for a free first service.

That service was done in mid 2007. No questions asked. Watch came back immaculate. The watch is basically faultless and consistently gives me accuracy of plus 2 seconds a day.

I have a Rolex GMT Master 2 and a Tudor Black Bay and a bunch of Seikos however my next significant watch purchase will be the Speedmaster but only when the movement is upgraded to the 3861 which will hack and be chronometer certified. The waiting game begins.

Omega is a great brand and quality wise in my experience is probably a hair under Rolex however their customer service destroys the crown.

[Arcticsub]

Originally Posted by Galaga167

I bought my first real watch in 2009. An Omega Planet Ocean 2500. After a week or so the clasp would pop open and was obviously faulty. They replaced it under warranty without hesitation.

About 6 months later the movement stopped. A common problem with the C movement. They replaced the entire movement to a D and because of the hassle they gave me a
Voucher for a free first service.

That service was done in mid 2007. No questions asked. Watch came back immaculate. The watch is basically faultless and consistently gives me accuracy of plus 2 seconds a day.

Looks like they also gave you a time machine next to that voucher.

[Galaga167]

Originally Posted by Arcticsub

Looks like they also gave you a time machine next to that voucher.

Hahah. Service in 2017.