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hockeyguy · 13 April 2010, 01:12 PM

I just bought a Deepsea from an Ad, and I wanted to clear up what I think are some major misconceptions people have about the DS. By the way, it is these misconceptions that has prompted me to post my first ever message to this forum! (which I joined recently)

First, you really have to see the DS in person and try it on before passing judgement. The Original Gas Escape Valve and Ring Lock System wording around the inside of the bezel is virtually invisible in real life! It is nowhere near as bold as it looks on pictures/magazines where the dial is blown up 20 times (like the cover of the April 09 Watchtime). In fact, I can't even see the wording when I look at the dial to check time. And there is NO way a person even sitting next to you and looking down at your watch would even see the writing- I have asked people and they have to bend down so that their nose is close to the dial to even make out the fact that there IS wording. And even when you hold the watch right up to your face (which you dont normally do anyway) the writing is subtle and not nearly as bold as even the white Rolex wording at the top of the dial.

Second, the size is nowhere near as "huge" or "monstrous" as people on this forum make it out to be. I wear suits everyday (investment banker) and the Deepsea fits EASILY under my cuffs- I wear standard Boss shirts. For reference, I am about 6ft tall, maybe 195 lbs, relatively slim, and wrist size is maybe 6 3/4". This watch is actually smaller that the ubiquitous Breitling Chronomats, and of course much smaller than the Avenger series as well, and smaller than the Planet Ocean line as well. It wears relatively small. Even the depth does not actually stand out at all when on the wrist, even showing outside the cuff. I also have a Submariner, and this DS compares very favourably in all aspects. It is just as comfortable, but has a much nicer wrist presence without screaming for attention.

The glidelock is amazing- it can let the watch rest snugly against your wrist, where it takes almost all of the weight away, or when your wrist swells slightly, you can keep loosening it in tiny increments until it feels great agan. I honestly cant imaging wearing the Sub again after this experience. I asked a few friends to look at both the DS and Sub on my wrist from a few feet away, and the consensus was that the DS looked much better and seemed to be a better size than the Sub, which looked very small in comparison.

In any event, this is just my view, but the pictures and negative comments on this forum on the DS kept me from buying it for months, but as soon as I tried it on I realized that the reality is far, far different in a positive way

SLS · 13 April 2010, 01:19 PM

Nice post! Glad to hear you are enjoying your Deep Sea!
Scott

htc8p · 13 April 2010, 01:26 PM

is it as thick as a 44mm Pam?

brent d · 13 April 2010, 01:29 PM

I am in accord with you 100%.

steveseiko · 13 April 2010, 01:29 PM

Another Canadian here that loves DSSD.

kizerman · 13 April 2010, 01:39 PM

I'm sorry, I tried it on and it's hideous, IMO. It's not that it's too big, it's just ugly to me....and I don't need "GAS" in bold (yes it's bold) on the bezel of my watch. Just my opinion, don't take it personal.

HDHNTER · 13 April 2010, 01:44 PM

To each his own, glad you like it.

clew84 · 13 April 2010, 02:14 PM

Good review and thanks for posting.

I had one and liked it but it just didn't grab me as much as my regular SD for some reason. I traded it and occasionally when I see great shots of it here on the forum I get a little seller remorse. It does fit better than most think it will, but it is thick (tall). Still, a great piece of watch engineering and one that certainly generates a ton of discussion.

ral · 13 April 2010, 02:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by htc8p

is it as thick as a 44mm Pam?

Depending on the source, the DEEPSEA is 18mm or 19mm thick.

This makes it about as thick as a 44mm Paneria Luminor with a self-winding movement which is also about 18 mm thick (ex. PAM 00312) or a manual winding watch with a complicated movement (ex. PAM 00233). A portion of the PAM 00233 "thickness" is the domed crystal.

The DEEPSEA is thicker than some other 44mm Panerai's like the manual winding PAM 111 which is about 15 mm thick. A portion of the PAM 00111'as "thickness" is the domed crystal.

I love the PAM's just too big for me (5' 11", 180 lbs, 6.75 inch wrists). The DEEPSEA, I think it would have looked much nicer 3mm thinner even if it had a lower water resistance rating... but Subs n general do not appeal to me (heresy).

Clogger · 13 April 2010, 02:49 PM

Here we go again

Dr. Robert · 13 April 2010, 03:26 PM

I like the Deepsea, I've tried it in on it fits & looks good for a big watch.......the only thing hideous is the amount in my bank account.

Dr. Robert · 13 April 2010, 03:30 PM

What is the case length, lug to lug on the Deepsea?

superb · 13 April 2010, 03:34 PM

I am glad it works out for you. It's always good to check out the watch first before deciding.

gmaines · 13 April 2010, 04:05 PM

Of all of my watches, the DS is my favorite...

Seventh Son · 13 April 2010, 04:12 PM

I love my deep sea too!

Singslinger · 13 April 2010, 06:46 PM

Agree 100% with everything you've said, though I have to add that the watch may not be for everyone. Best to try one on first before passing judgement.

bayerische · 13 April 2010, 06:51 PM

I have the exact same feelings. I too did "bash" the DEEPSEA att some point, saying it's too big. Then I bought it, and I was wrong. It's perfect.

I love it.

bt63 · 13 April 2010, 06:51 PM

it's one of my favorites too!!

Andad · 13 April 2010, 06:54 PM

I tried on an unsized DSSD when they first appeared in Oz an it didn't feel comfortable.
Last month at a GTG I tried one on that was the correct size for me and it felt very comfortable

but is is a thick watch and IMO would take some getting used to.

rolexcd · 13 April 2010, 07:09 PM

Love my DSSD!!!

WatchSmith · 13 April 2010, 07:12 PM

The important thing is that you like it. That's what owning a luxury watch is all about. :)

I think the deep sea looks great from the top on a large wrist. I think it looks absurdly thick from the side and the entire thing looks awkward on a small to medium wrist. The lettering, while you say is difficult to read, is really over the top and I can read it just fine. If Rolex started engraving PARACHROM BLUE HAIRSPRING on the inside of of Submariners and GMT's I think people would be appalled. Again, just my opinion so don't take it personal. I've seen the Deep Sea in the AD's window and its a beauty (minus the GAS VALVE lettering). On wrists it simply looks waaaaay to big to my eye. I do, however, think the glide-lock bracelet is a marvel.

Monster watches are definitely in style and I admit I'm not one to follow fashion trends.

WatchSmith · 13 April 2010, 07:13 PM

duplicate post

Fiery · 13 April 2010, 07:20 PM

I can't agree with you on the size comparison against the Breitling Chronomat and the Omega Planet Ocean. The DeepSea may wear smaller than its size would lead you to believe, but raw numbers reflect the DeepSea is bigger than the other two watches you mentioned (diameter / thickness in mm):

DeepSea = 43 / 17.7
Chronomat Evo = 43.7 / 17.1
Chronomat B01 = 43.5 / 16.1
Planet Ocean = 42 / 14.5

Surely there's a Planet Ocean XL which is 45mm diameter, but IMHO the biggest problem with the DeepSea and Chronomat is not the diameter, but the thickness. A thick watch would never sit on your wrist as a slimmer watch would. Unless you set the bracelet snugly which some of us would find not so comfortable.

Enjoy your DeepSea, it's definitely a fine time piece with a great wrist presence.

tattooedfagin · 13 April 2010, 08:34 PM

after wearing my DSSD it makes my Sub feel weedy in the bracelet / weight department, that aside i love both equally & wouldn't be without either

The GMT Kid · 13 April 2010, 08:42 PM

Congratulations on your purchase.

When I bought my GMTII back at the turn of the century, it took a few days to get used to the weight. The DSSD felt natural after a day.

jmsrolls · 13 April 2010, 08:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fiery

I can't agree with you on the size comparison against the Breitling Chronomat and the Omega Planet Ocean. The DeepSea may wear smaller than its size would lead you to believe, but raw numbers reflect the DeepSea is bigger than the other two watches you mentioned (diameter / thickness in mm):

DeepSea = 43 / 17.7
Chronomat Evo = 43.7 / 17.1
Chronomat B01 = 43.5 / 16.1
Planet Ocean = 42 / 14.5

Surely there's a Planet Ocean XL which is 45mm diameter, but IMHO the biggest problem with the DeepSea and Chronomat is not the diameter, but the thickness. A thick watch would never sit on your wrist as a slimmer watch would. Unless you set the bracelet snugly which some of us would find not so comfortable.

Enjoy your DeepSea, it's definitely a fine time piece with a great wrist presence.

I agree with your comment about thickness being the key to comfort but even a thick watch can be comfortable. Last fall, I spent considerable time at a local AD comparing the DSSD, the 45.5mm Planet Ocean, and the PloProf.

The PloProf at 48 x 55 x 17.7mm was more comfortable than the other two primarily due to the caseback design and the outstanding mesh bracelet/ratcheting clasp. The vertical ridges of the PloProf held the watch in place whereas the smooth caseback of the DeepSea permitted it to slip from side to side. The mesh also contributed to a snug, yet comfortable, fit.

And surprisingly, the PloProf wears smaller than the other two because of the "hidden" lugs and 9:00 crown.

Fr. John†

CoopJr · 13 April 2010, 10:18 PM

I'm seriously considering it for my next watch. I too didnt give it much thought until I tried it on. Great watch, nice post.

mike · 13 April 2010, 10:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by htc8p

is it as thick as a 44mm Pam?

Not the best, but maybe you can get an idea.

Arrgo · 13 April 2010, 10:32 PM

Huge +1

Quote:

Originally Posted by Triplock

The important thing is that you like it. That's what owning a luxury watch is all about. :)

I think the deep sea looks great from the top on a large wrist. I think it looks absurdly thick from the side and the entire thing looks awkward on a small to medium wrist. The lettering, while you say is difficult to read, is really over the top and I can read it just fine. If Rolex started engraving PARACHROM BLUE HAIRSPRING on the inside of of Submariners and GMT's I think people would be appalled. Again, just my opinion so don't take it personal. I've seen the Deep Sea in the AD's window and its a beauty (minus the GAS VALVE lettering). On wrists it simply looks waaaaay to big to my eye. I do, however, think the glide-lock bracelet is a marvel.

Monster watches are definitely in style and I admit I'm not one to follow fashion trends.

Sgt. Henry · 13 April 2010, 11:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CoopJr

I'm seriously considering it for my next watch. I too didnt give it much thought until I tried it on. Great watch, nice post.

I agree, It just seems that every time I try one on at an AD I don't get the Bracelet adjusted & its hard to tell with your finger stuck in the bracelet to hold it snug. I'm trying So hard to love the DeepSea, Just still on the fence

13 April 2010, 01:12 PM	#1
hockeyguy "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: canada Watch: Daytona white/DSSD Posts: 8	Misconceptions about Deepsea I just bought a Deepsea from an Ad, and I wanted to clear up what I think are some major misconceptions people have about the DS. By the way, it is these misconceptions that has prompted me to post my first ever message to this forum! (which I joined recently) First, you really have to see the DS in person and try it on before passing judgement. The Original Gas Escape Valve and Ring Lock System wording around the inside of the bezel is virtually invisible in real life! It is nowhere near as bold as it looks on pictures/magazines where the dial is blown up 20 times (like the cover of the April 09 Watchtime). In fact, I can't even see the wording when I look at the dial to check time. And there is NO way a person even sitting next to you and looking down at your watch would even see the writing- I have asked people and they have to bend down so that their nose is close to the dial to even make out the fact that there IS wording. And even when you hold the watch right up to your face (which you dont normally do anyway) the writing is subtle and not nearly as bold as even the white Rolex wording at the top of the dial. Second, the size is nowhere near as "huge" or "monstrous" as people on this forum make it out to be. I wear suits everyday (investment banker) and the Deepsea fits EASILY under my cuffs- I wear standard Boss shirts. For reference, I am about 6ft tall, maybe 195 lbs, relatively slim, and wrist size is maybe 6 3/4". This watch is actually smaller that the ubiquitous Breitling Chronomats, and of course much smaller than the Avenger series as well, and smaller than the Planet Ocean line as well. It wears relatively small. Even the depth does not actually stand out at all when on the wrist, even showing outside the cuff. I also have a Submariner, and this DS compares very favourably in all aspects. It is just as comfortable, but has a much nicer wrist presence without screaming for attention. The glidelock is amazing- it can let the watch rest snugly against your wrist, where it takes almost all of the weight away, or when your wrist swells slightly, you can keep loosening it in tiny increments until it feels great agan. I honestly cant imaging wearing the Sub again after this experience. I asked a few friends to look at both the DS and Sub on my wrist from a few feet away, and the consensus was that the DS looked much better and seemed to be a better size than the Sub, which looked very small in comparison. In any event, this is just my view, but the pictures and negative comments on this forum on the DS kept me from buying it for months, but as soon as I tried it on I realized that the reality is far, far different in a positive way

13 April 2010, 01:19 PM	#2
SLS "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Real Name: Scott Location: GMT -7 Watch: GMT's & Sub's Posts: 10,401	Nice post! Glad to hear you are enjoying your Deep Sea! Scott __________________ "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of lower price is forgotten." -Benjamin Franklin Member No. 922

13 April 2010, 02:14 PM	#8
clew84 "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Real Name: Chris Location: Cincinnati Watch: me soar Posts: 930	Good review and thanks for posting. I had one and liked it but it just didn't grab me as much as my regular SD for some reason. I traded it and occasionally when I see great shots of it here on the forum I get a little seller remorse. It does fit better than most think it will, but it is thick (tall). Still, a great piece of watch engineering and one that certainly generates a ton of discussion. __________________ Rolex Sea Dweller 16600 Omega SMP IWC 3227-01 Autodromo Prototipo

13 April 2010, 04:12 PM	#15
Seventh Son "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Singapore Watch: AP and Rolex Posts: 134	I love my deep sea too! __________________ You cannot defeat an ignorant man in argument

13 April 2010, 06:51 PM	#17
bayerische "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Real Name: Andreas Location: Margaritaville Watch: Smurf Posts: 19,879	I have the exact same feelings. I too did "bash" the DEEPSEA att some point, saying it's too big. Then I bought it, and I was wrong. It's perfect. I love it. __________________ Yeah, well, you know, that's just, like, your opinion, man.

13 April 2010, 01:26 PM	#3
htc8p "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Real Name: Bert Location: philippines Watch: 116710 ln Posts: 3,472	is it as thick as a 44mm Pam?

13 April 2010, 01:29 PM	#4
brent d Member Join Date: May 2009 Location: fl Posts: 24	I am in accord with you 100%.

13 April 2010, 01:29 PM	#5
steveseiko Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Real Name: Steve Location: ON,Canada Watch: DSSD & PO 45.5 Posts: 189	Another Canadian here that loves DSSD.

13 April 2010, 01:39 PM	#6
kizerman Banned Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 577	I'm sorry, I tried it on and it's hideous, IMO. It's not that it's too big, it's just ugly to me....and I don't need "GAS" in bold (yes it's bold) on the bezel of my watch. Just my opinion, don't take it personal.

13 April 2010, 01:44 PM	#7
HDHNTER "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Real Name: Allen Location: SC Posts: 2,766	To each his own, glad you like it.

13 April 2010, 02:49 PM	#10
Clogger Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: SE Asia Watch: SS Sub Date Posts: 431	Here we go again

13 April 2010, 03:26 PM	#11
Dr. Robert 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Bob Location: U.S.A. Watch: 1655 Posts: 64,277	I like the Deepsea, I've tried it in on it fits & looks good for a big watch.......the only thing hideous is the amount in my bank account.

13 April 2010, 03:30 PM	#12
Dr. Robert 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Bob Location: U.S.A. Watch: 1655 Posts: 64,277	What is the case length, lug to lug on the Deepsea?

13 April 2010, 03:34 PM	#13
superb "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: anywhere but here Posts: 690	I am glad it works out for you. It's always good to check out the watch first before deciding.

13 April 2010, 04:05 PM	#14
gmaines Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Riverside, CA Watch: Submariner&SDDS Posts: 306	Of all of my watches, the DS is my favorite...

13 April 2010, 06:46 PM	#16
Singslinger "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: singapore Posts: 6,424	Agree 100% with everything you've said, though I have to add that the watch may not be for everyone. Best to try one on first before passing judgement.

13 April 2010, 06:51 PM	#18
bt63 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Real Name: Theo Location: K.L, MAL. Watch: all my Rolexes... Posts: 65	it's one of my favorites too!! __________________ 16710pepsi, 16710coke, GMT2C, SDDS, SD, 16610 V, 16610 M, 16610LV, Explorer,PAM000,PAM 380 ,Tissot SeaTouch,Tag Heuer Aquaracer, Mares Nemo Excel.

13 April 2010, 06:54 PM	#19
Andad 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Real Name: Eddie Location: Australia Watch: A few. Posts: 37,533	I tried on an unsized DSSD when they first appeared in Oz an it didn't feel comfortable. Last month at a GTG I tried one on that was the correct size for me and it felt very comfortable but is is a thick watch and IMO would take some getting used to. Attached Images __________________ E

13 April 2010, 07:09 PM	#20
rolexcd Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Real Name: Anthony Location: China / Australia Watch: Daytona SS Black D Posts: 318	Love my DSSD!!!

13 April 2010, 07:12 PM	#21
WatchSmith 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: USA Posts: 702	The important thing is that you like it. That's what owning a luxury watch is all about. :) I think the deep sea looks great from the top on a large wrist. I think it looks absurdly thick from the side and the entire thing looks awkward on a small to medium wrist. The lettering, while you say is difficult to read, is really over the top and I can read it just fine. If Rolex started engraving PARACHROM BLUE HAIRSPRING on the inside of of Submariners and GMT's I think people would be appalled. Again, just my opinion so don't take it personal. I've seen the Deep Sea in the AD's window and its a beauty (minus the GAS VALVE lettering). On wrists it simply looks waaaaay to big to my eye. I do, however, think the glide-lock bracelet is a marvel. Monster watches are definitely in style and I admit I'm not one to follow fashion trends.

13 April 2010, 07:13 PM	#22
WatchSmith 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: USA Posts: 702	duplicate post Last edited by Triplock; 13 April 2010 at 07:14 PM.. Reason: duplicate post

13 April 2010, 07:20 PM	#23
Fiery "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Europe Watch: Sub-C 116610LN Posts: 2,649	I can't agree with you on the size comparison against the Breitling Chronomat and the Omega Planet Ocean. The DeepSea may wear smaller than its size would lead you to believe, but raw numbers reflect the DeepSea is bigger than the other two watches you mentioned (diameter / thickness in mm): DeepSea = 43 / 17.7 Chronomat Evo = 43.7 / 17.1 Chronomat B01 = 43.5 / 16.1 Planet Ocean = 42 / 14.5 Surely there's a Planet Ocean XL which is 45mm diameter, but IMHO the biggest problem with the DeepSea and Chronomat is not the diameter, but the thickness. A thick watch would never sit on your wrist as a slimmer watch would. Unless you set the bracelet snugly which some of us would find not so comfortable. Enjoy your DeepSea, it's definitely a fine time piece with a great wrist presence.

13 April 2010, 08:34 PM	#24
tattooedfagin "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Real Name: Chad Location: the neighbourhood Watch: 1680 Red Posts: 2,262	after wearing my DSSD it makes my Sub feel weedy in the bracelet / weight department, that aside i love both equally & wouldn't be without either __________________ SS Sub Date (F) DSSD (V) Red Sub (Mk4) TRF Hall of Fame

13 April 2010, 08:42 PM	#25
The GMT Kid Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: S.F. Peninsula Watch: what you say! Posts: 815	Congratulations on your purchase. When I bought my GMTII back at the turn of the century, it took a few days to get used to the weight. The DSSD felt natural after a day.

13 April 2010, 10:18 PM	#27
CoopJr "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Coop Location: U.S.A. Watch: Subs Posts: 6,455	I'm seriously considering it for my next watch. I too didnt give it much thought until I tried it on. Great watch, nice post.

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