First Rolex: Black Sub-C or Milgauss GV?

[youenjoymyself]

Hi all,

New to this forum and have been doing quite a bit of research here as well as other boards on the topic of watches.

I recently decided to reward myself with a new watch due to a nice bonus I received from work. My current (and first luxury watch) is a Breitling Navitimer Montbrillant 1903 (on bracelet and have several straps). I enjoy the watch and am quite happy with it though am ready make my next acquisition. I was originally hesitant to look at Rolex because I am only 25 and though I work in finance, my co-workers are not very flashy and thus it might impede future raises!

I was originally looking at Panerai Luminors but finally decided I did not want as I feel they are a bit too large for me.

I finally decided to walk into my local Rolex AD and tried on the Milgauss (black face) and the Sub (non ceramic model). I liked both but in a fit of impulse decided to buy the Milgauss (they offered 22% of list on both). On my way to have it fitted and paid for I remembered seeing the Milgauss in a green version and quickly halted the transaction. They told me they can get the GV (although I am not sure if they intend to sell it to me at the discounted price) - they are to check tomorrow.

In any case, since then I have done a great deal more research and am now totally torn between the GV and the Sub-C in black. I love the uniqueness of the GV (and the funky seconds hand) although I am a fan of military style watches and wanted a diving watch (see Luminor above); I also love how the SubC looks on a Nato or brown leather strap.

When discussing my dilemma with my girlfriend's parents (avid watch fans) I learned that they are friends with and good customers of this AD. I am now going in two weeks with my gf's father to purchase a watch which he claims will be at a steeper discount than the 22% I suggested above.

I apologize for the rambling story but I'm pretty excited about the watch (to the point of distraction) and also having difficulty leaning in one direction or the other. Ultimately I need to see both watches on my wrist and determine what discount (if any) can be had for each.

I would very much appreciate anyone's suggestion or opinion. Considering I already own the Navitimer and any of the other facts above, could anyone suggest something?

Also, could I expect to do better than 22% off list on the GV or SubC at an AD?

Many thanks and again I am sorry for the rambling.

[horseco]

22% off is about as good as anyone can get on a SS Rolex, get the GV you will be happy you did...

[RanHong]

Subc definitely more versatile, so it gets my vote

[Medtech]

Sub-C goes with everything!

[wokafu]

SUB C for mullti functions/occasions..

[Roja]

It sounds like you answered your own question in the OP. The GV comes across as an impulse-buy and the Sub C is a researched good-for-everything watch.

If it's my money, I say go with the research, BUT since it's your money, I say go with the impulse-buy!

Either way, what a wonderful problem to have. It's like being forced to choose between two girls (back when I was young enough to have that problem). Cherish the next week.

[Grissom]

Sub-C should be around for a while, I imagine. Not sure how long the GV will be, however. I would go GV first, and pick up the Sub-C later....

Can't go wrong either way, as long as you like both!

Best of luck, and post pics of the one you decide on.

[RollieKid]

GV - something different

[watchf]

How many Rolex do you foresee yourself to be getting in the future? Most say only one but then they go for 2nd and 3rd and 4th and so on after their first

If you can truely say you will be a one Rolex guy then I would go for the sub (only if you like it the best out of the two) as imho it represent Rolex.

[watchf]

Originally Posted by Roja

It's like being forced to choose between two girls (back when I was young enough to have that problem). Cherish the next week.

The one with a mole on the face or the overweight one with thick waist

[le_baroudeur]

Milgauss GV if you plan to buy a sub later... If not, Sub C.

[Asian Sub]

For your first rolex, get a Sub C

[youenjoymyself]

I appreciate all your response. I think I am still in the same predicament (a fairly even split between the GV or SubC crowd it seems).

Ultimately, I hope to go in and be forced to buy one or the other based on availability or level of discount (its so much better when we don't have to make our own decisions). Alternatively, I can hopefully try them on side by side but that might perpetuate my indecisiveness.

Definitely good problems to have! Will certainly post photos when I've made the purchase. I'll also let you know if this 22% discount gets any better.

Out of curiosity, is it possible that the AD marked up the list price in-store and then applies a higher discount after the fact? For reference, they were asking $7,650 for the GV at list (and $7,200 for the black face). I am in Canada, so that is $CDN, although no goods here seem to become cheaper despite our strong dollar.

Cheers

[watchf]

Another way to look at it would be - do you want a Rolex that is easily identified (subc) or a more stealthy one (GV is flashy with green crystal but not as instantly recognisable).

[youenjoymyself]

I want both!

[le_baroudeur]

The major question is... Will you regret soon or later? The sub is so iconic that you might regret sooner if you purchase the milgauss... Not because the milgauss is not a good watch, but because the sub is a good watch... and an icon.

[rolexertion]

Subitty-sub-sub.

[DCgator]

Originally Posted by youenjoymyself

I want both!

Get both! Both are unique in their utility, look, and purpose.

If you can only afford one now get the SubC, then save up for the GV for your next acquisition. Problem solved.

Happy hunting!

[zak98]

sub -c for sure..

[youenjoymyself]

How does the SubC compare to the milgauss for weight and size? I tried on the no-date one (model number starts with 14... can't remember the rest) and while it was okay it was a bit lighter and smaller than I like.

I understand the SubC has the the new supercase and better bracelet. Has that added significantly to the size and weight? As ridiculous as it sounds, I associate a little heft with quality.

I'd love to buy both - I just don't have enough room for two poor fiscal decisions.

Any thoughts on how either would fit in with my already having a Navitimer (based on what occasions and types of clothes I might encounter)?

[Danand]

They will not mark up the msrp's. Royal de Versailles in Toronto this year has been offering 20-22% as a standard. The subc price before discount in Canada is $8410.
Can't go wrong either way IMHO.
Good luck!
( although I stealh is an issue the GV is much less well recognized by non-wis types)

[youenjoymyself]

How do the SubC and Milgauss compare in terms of heft and size? I really liked the weight and size of the Milgauss.

I understand the SubC has an improved bracelet and the new "supercase" - would this make it more on par in terms of size / weight? I for some reason associate quality and durability with that heft.

Also, how easy is it to switch the bracelet/straps (ie: NATO, leather, etc.) on a Sub? Part of the attraction is the versatility with straps (I have 5 for my Navitimer).

I'd love to buy both but I can only afford one poor fiscal decision right now. Maybe in the next few years!

[youenjoymyself]

RDV is where I am purchasing. How is the SubC so expensive at list? I thought I saw elsewhere that the list is around $7200-$7600.

[SkyKing31]

Sub C

[Rollie2011]

Go with the Milgauss.

I find that impulse purchases, always work out well for me.

Go with your gut!

[esm]

Originally Posted by youenjoymyself

I want both!

job done - so what was the problem?

[Dr. Robert]

I vote for the sub.

[SaddleSC]

Definitely Sub C...I have (at one time or another) owned nearly every rolex sport model and the Sub C is just so versatile and comfortable. It is as close to the perfect watch as I think is possible to find.

[bewithabob]

Get the watch that speaks to you. And enjoy!

For what it's worth, I believe the Sub C may be more versatile...for diving or swimming, plus it has a date complication... once you've had a date complication, you may miss it.

As you are used to wearing the Breitling, IMHO, you may find that either of these two Rolex choices ride your wrist much more comfortably and will make you very happy!

[versusone]

Sub-C is more of a classic, timeless look. I was really into the GV Milgauss when I first found out about it but now I'm all about the Sub! Both are great watches and I'm sure they will both make you happy.