Losing Interest

[dozer327]

I was in the same boat as you in terms of loosing interest at times. But I knew the sub was my dream watch so I just kept being persistent with my local AD’s since it was a 40th birthday present. I was able to get one within 4 months and I’m glad I didn’t go the grey route. Just be patient and it will happen.

[TopDog2315]

Get a 5 digit Submariner 16610.

Cheers


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[B2 Stealth]

The connection between the military and Rolex is fascinating. Don't settle for anything less than a Submariner or SD43. I was a big watch guy but not Rolex fan when I spent 14 months in Afghanistan. I regret when I look down at my Submariner or GMTs they don't have a the memories of my Middle East deployments on them.
Be patient! Six years after purchasing my first Rolex--a Submariner I still love everything about it! A Rolex diver is made for "Team" warriors like you!

[HiBoost]

Originally Posted by huncho

but the 126 is a maxi case as well?

Originally Posted by Frog7151

Learn something new everyday. Thanks you solved all my troubles. No Submariner for me.

OP - just to clarify... the 126610 has a different case and I have not heard anyone refer to it as the maxi or super case. For this new model they slimmed the lugs back down and they made the bracelet wider (21mm vs 20mm). Both steps were towards restoring the classic proportions of the 5 digit sub. For me personally, the 116610 case was a no go, wouldn't buy at any price due to looks (same still applies to current GMT). The 126610 was something I bought immediately. So it is definitely a noticeable difference if you notice such things (oddly, many 116 owners claim they can't tell any difference but most 126 owner seems to think the difference is huge - this leads me to believe some people notice small details, others do not). But there's no denying that the 5 digits still have a smaller, more classic look, so neither is going to be an exact fill-in for that.

[fishingbear]

Sounds like a gentle used 5 digit Submariner 16610 would be perfect for you. Talk with some of the trusted sellers on the forum and they will find you what you seek. Good luck and thank you for your service.

[Roger Lococco]

Originally Posted by Frog7151

Yes. You?

I am not, but I’ve worked with just about every organization while in the military and now in the corporate world.

From reading through the thread, I’d recommend going to the closest Fink’s that has a demo Sub to try on to make sure you like the current version. All of them should have the Sub as a demo. Then you can confirm this is the one you want.

Let them know your genuine interest. This should not be that difficult a watch to get. It may take a few more months though.

If it were me, I would not look for a substitute if the Sub is what you want. I also would only buy from an AD.


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[Chester01]

I can relate. Unfortunately the brand has become the poster child for conspicuous consumption and run away capitalism. That said, your connection to the watch is real and beyond the hype. I would as some mentioned go with a 5 digit reference which was the last of the tool watch era and inline with what they were. That said, seiko has real military heritage and do not have the baggage that Rolex has.

However if it’s just the wait, the wait will be worth it, but make sure the watch is online with what’s in your mind. It took me 14 years to get my Daytona and when it was in my wrist, realized it was the 5 digit I loved but by the time I scored one, was not the same Watch. As a result, I encourage people to close their eyes if they want a sub, gmt, Daytona and get the one that comes to mind, and if that not in the current offering, get the model you have in mind. The model you have in mind is not one you will lose interest in.

[Frog7151]

Originally Posted by HiBoost

OP - just to clarify... the 126610 has a different case and I have not heard anyone refer to it as the maxi or super case. For this new model they slimmed the lugs back down and they made the bracelet wider (21mm vs 20mm). Both steps were towards restoring the classic proportions of the 5 digit sub. For me personally, the 116610 case was a no go, wouldn't buy at any price due to looks (same still applies to current GMT). The 126610 was something I bought immediately. So it is definitely a noticeable difference if you notice such things (oddly, many 116 owners claim they can't tell any difference but most 126 owner seems to think the difference is huge - this leads me to believe some people notice small details, others do not). But there's no denying that the 5 digits still have a smaller, more classic look, so neither is going to be an exact fill-in for that.

Thanks. I was being sarcastic with the poster because I have never heard anyone besides him call the 126610 a maxi case either.

I definitely like the 5 digit, but they are so darn expensive.

[Frog7151]

Originally Posted by fishingbear

Sounds like a gentle used 5 digit Submariner 16610 would be perfect for you. Talk with some of the trusted sellers on the forum and they will find you what you seek. Good luck and thank you for your service.

The 5 digit does have a more tool watch look that I prefer, but they are really expensive. Haven’t seen many quality 5 digits below 8k. Thanks

[Frog7151]

Originally Posted by Roger Lococco

I am not, but I’ve worked with just about every organization while in the military and now in the corporate world.

From reading through the thread, I’d recommend going to the closest Fink’s that has a demo Sub to try on to make sure you like the current version. All of them should have the Sub as a demo. Then you can confirm this is the one you want.

Let them know your genuine interest. This should not be that difficult a watch to get. It may take a few more months though.

If it were me, I would not look for a substitute if the Sub is what you want. I also would only buy from an AD.


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I have tried the new Sub on several times and it feels great on the wrist. I have purchased several pieces of jewelry for my wife and daughter from Fink’s, nothing huge maybe $5k total. So I do have some what of a relationship with them.
Given the history of Rolex and my unit it is a little upsetting not being able to get a watch in a reasonable amount of time, but oh well at the end of the day it is just a watch.
Thanks

[klenboy]

What may happen is when you are able to obtain a "suitable" alternative you will still want the Submariner. Your connection is towards the Submariner and not any other watch. Your patience towards obtaining this will be well rewarded when you finally get it. Hang in there, you're not alone.

[scarlet knight]

Originally Posted by MILGAUSS88

Seiko / Grand Seiko have a lot of choices, and in all different price ranges.
If any watch is a true tool watch, I would say it is the Tuna.

For two digits less.

[mobster600]

I have to disagree with people saying buy grey. The OP wants to buy from his local AD. Not everyone is comfortable buying grey. They want the physical brick and mortar purchase.

I would search for more AD's. Travel to as many as you can. Keep in touch with them. Your going to need to put in those hours/emails/phone calls to make it happen. Don't get swayed to buy another brand or another model. Buy what YOU want. It will be worth the hustle to finally get that call for YOUR watch. Best of luck!

[fskywalker]

Originally Posted by mobster600

I have to disagree with people saying buy grey.

+1


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[Roger Lococco]

Originally Posted by Frog7151

I have tried the new Sub on several times and it feels great on the wrist. I have purchased several pieces of jewelry for my wife and daughter from Fink’s, nothing huge maybe $5k total. So I do have some what of a relationship with them.
Given the history of Rolex and my unit it is a little upsetting not being able to get a watch in a reasonable amount of time, but oh well at the end of the day it is just a watch.
Thanks

All good. They should get you your Sub. If you haven’t already, I would explain to them what you’ve outlined here wrt the reasons for your interest and ask them for a realistic timeframe. Apologies if you have done that and noted it already up thread.

I also think that some Fink’s stores are different than others. Without getting into specifics, I would think that Raleigh or Roanoke would be better than Durham … as an example.


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[Nova1]

Completely agree with you man. I’m on the wait list for a day date I don’t even want anymore. I was so turned off by the AD experience I bought private, I even went as far as to buy sight unseen.

Months later, I’m not even sure I like Rolex anymore. There are people here that buy watches they don’t even want just because they got an opportunity to buy a Rolex. Insane.

Blancpain fifty fathoms in my opinion is the diver to have. Better history, better movement, better variety, sword hands.

[atxzizou]

I will echo what many have said and be patient. Your military connection to the watch means that no substitute will do.
But if you’re open to other brands, I’d consider the Breitling SuperOcean II. It’s reliable, chronometer certified, 500m WR, has a date, very rugged, under the radar, and can be had at a discount from an AD or on the pre-owned market.

[Podmornica]

Originally Posted by Nova1

Completely agree with you man. I’m on the wait list for a day date I don’t even want anymore. I was so turned off by the AD experience I bought private, I even went as far as to buy sight unseen.

Months later, I’m not even sure I like Rolex anymore. There are people here that buy watches they don’t even want just because they got an opportunity to buy a Rolex. Insane.

Same here!

[Bizcut1]

11610LN at very attractive prices right now...15 - 20% over retail. Usually no tax.

[Agamemnon]

If you are looking for an instrument watch, try looking between the Sinns or the Fortis.

[MrMercedes]

Wait for your Sub and don´t buy any other watches...you need your grailwatch and you´ll get it one day!

[vipereaper30]

I'm starting to feel this way across the board. Time to get into cars I guess.

[Frog7151]

Originally Posted by vipereaper30

I'm starting to feel this way across the board. Time to get into cars I guess.

I do enjoy my 1969 Camaro…

[MJ EXPLORER]

I grabbed a new old stock Omega Planet Ocean and prefer it over the Sub. I find the current 39.5 too small and the 43.5 too large. This one is 41.6 and I can’t get enough of it.


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[effovex]

OP, nothing will scratch the itch of a Sub. Chiming in on what others have said: wait it out and try to visit other ADs while traveling, vacation etc. You never know, you may get lucky catching one.

I would also support going the 5 digit route too (14060/m and 16600). As folks have said, prices on older subs always go up over time. Even if you pick up a 5 digit now and then get the call for the new sub, you can probably sell the 5 digit for more or less than what you paid for it. Prices/availability on all Rolex now are quite volatile; waiting it out for the next few months is not a bad idea either.

[Lobster]

Hang in there...It's worth the wait. I went through the same. Should I wait...go grey...spend extra $...etc. I just landed one after 14 months and no spend history. I'm in a very high demand area though. Register at all of the locations possible, check in every month or so, and stop by if you're close. Find someone that you can click with. If "corporate decides" - make sure that they have all of the information needed from you. Also agree - stop at other AD's while traveling and you might get lucky - they will offer you pieces. Hope this helps...

[Quin]

Go grey

[Robf52]

Originally Posted by Doood

SD43 if you have the wrist for it. Should be easier to get. Matte dial is a little more interesting to look at.

Agree.

[fmc000]

Originally Posted by Frog7151

Been on the waiting list for a Sub Date for over 7months now and with each passing week I find myself losing interest in the Submariner. With the Submariner’s connection to my military unit it has always been my grail watch. However some of that luster is wearing off. I think the waiting list, AD games, price, “is it safe to wear” questions, and the status symbol the watch has become has made me realize the current Submariner is miles away from the tool watch I was first attracted to.

If I could only find an alternative that I really liked. Not really into straight up homages. I have tried the Pelagos and I liked everything about it except for the thickness. The new 39mm Pelagos would probably fit the bill except it does not have a date. Same for the BB58. The escape valve on the Omega Seamaster kills it for me.

Any other suggestions for a great tool watch.

https://eu.doxawatches.com//collecti...my-wos-edition

[Gebbeth]

Originally Posted by Frog7151

Been on the waiting list for a Sub Date for over 7months now and with each passing week I find myself losing interest in the Submariner. With the Submariner’s connection to my military unit it has always been my grail watch. However some of that luster is wearing off. I think the waiting list, AD games, price, “is it safe to wear” questions, and the status symbol the watch has become has made me realize the current Submariner is miles away from the tool watch I was first attracted to.

If I could only find an alternative that I really liked. Not really into straight up homages. I have tried the Pelagos and I liked everything about it except for the thickness. The new 39mm Pelagos would probably fit the bill except it does not have a date. Same for the BB58. The escape valve on the Omega Seamaster kills it for me.

Any other suggestions for a great tool watch.

GO SeaQ? Blancpain Fifty Fathoms?