ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX

bem3231 · 17 July 2012, 02:58 PM

Hi everyone!

I have been looking at Rolexes for the past six or eight months (and lurking around here for the past few), as I am getting one as a gift for my 40th birthday this year. I have had a difficult time deciding between the classic 26mm ladies' datejust and the mid-size 31mm ladies' datejust. Also, while at first I thought that I definitely wanted a two-tone ss/yg with jubilee bracelet, I have recently begun to wonder if down the road I would regret not having gotten an all-gold with president bracelet?

So, I have now narrowed it down to four choices (I think), and am looking for some opinions from aficionados. I could really used some feedback and advice!

The four choices are:

1) 26mm steel and yellow gold datejust, jubilee bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers

2) 26mm solid yellow gold datejust, president bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers

3) 31mm steel and yellow gold datejust, jubilee bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers

4) 31mm solid yellow gold datejust, president bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers

I am going to attach photos of each in subsequent posts so that it's easier to tell each one apart. For reference, attached below are a couple of photos for comparison sake.

Note that in the photo of the four watches these are not all exactly as described above, as the 26mm two tone has a diamond bezel (which I don't love) and the 26mm president has a meteorite dial, however for general comparison sake I thought that a side-by-side photo might prove helpful.

Also please note that in the photo of me wearing a 26mm on one wrist and a 31mm on the other the watches featured have a gold rather than white mop dial, however again for comparison sake I thought that it would be helpful to see the exact same watch in both sizes side-by-side.

Some of the questions that are making a decision difficult for me include: Is the 26mm ladies' size too 'dated' in this era of large watches for women? Is the 31mm size too 'trendy'? Will the 26mm size be difficult to read, now and / or in the future as I get older? Is the all-gold with president bracelet too 'flashy'? If I opt for two-tone rather than all-gold, will I regret not having gotten the all-gold down the line (I really love the president bracelet!)?

I have had a friend (who just happens to work for Rolex in Geneva) suggest that I should either go with a 26mm or go up to a 36mm - she said that the 31mm didn't look 'right' on me. However, I tried on a 36mm and it really looked like I was wearing a man's watch. I want something that is classic enough that I can enjoy it for years to come.

For reference sake, I will include a bit of information on my lifestyle... I'm 39 years old (soon to be 40), 5'9", and have a two-year old daughter. I work part-time from home and am completing my PhD, so I don't spend a lot of time in boardrooms anymore, however I am used to wearing a fair bit of bling on a daily basis. I would plan to wear my new Rolex daily, or almost daily.

Thank you everyone for taking the time to read this and to share your opinions - they are valued and much appreciated!

PS - Apologies that some of my photos are sideways - I'm working off of a computer that is not mine and don't feel comfortable monkeying with the photo editor program too much. Also, apologies for the blurry photos - I have had to rely on SA's snapping pics with my phone, or taking awkward one-handed shots - so I haven't been able to be too picky with the photo quality!

sleddog · 17 July 2012, 03:32 PM

A 31mm seems to be more your size judging strictly by the wrist shot above!

What combo in that size is purely a personal choice for you....
MOP dials look great, so either of your two 31mm choices would look fantastic on you!

Best of luck on deciding.

bem3231 · 17 July 2012, 03:35 PM

26mm two-tone, jubilee bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

bem3231 · 17 July 2012, 03:36 PM

26mm all yellow gold, president bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

bem3231 · 17 July 2012, 03:37 PM

31mm two-tone, jubilee bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

bem3231 · 17 July 2012, 03:38 PM

31mm all yellow gold, president bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

gwalker · 17 July 2012, 03:46 PM

My fiance is a practical nurse em and will wear daily. I got her a 26 mm SS/WG with one of the specialty dials. Her gave is the 26 YG pres bracket. Size comparo she is 5'10" tall and 145ish but loves small watches. Just personal choice.

FeelingTheBlues · 17 July 2012, 03:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bem3231

31mm all yellow gold, president bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

I honestly quite like the look of that one! That would definitely be my choice.

Welcome to TRF by the way, what Canadian province are you in?

bem3231 · 17 July 2012, 03:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FeelingTheBlues

I honestly quite like the look of that one! That would definitely be my choice.

Welcome to TRF by the way, what Canadian province are you in?

Thanks for the feedback and the welcome! I spend my time between British Columbia and Alberta.

Hairdude1 · 17 July 2012, 03:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bem3231

31mm all yellow gold, president bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

Looks great... I think you found the one!

bem3231 · 18 July 2012, 01:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gwalker

My fiance is a practical nurse em and will wear daily. I got her a 26 mm SS/WG with one of the specialty dials. Her gave is the 26 YG pres bracket. Size comparo she is 5'10" tall and 145ish but loves small watches. Just personal choice.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hairdude1

Looks great... I think you found the one!

Thanks for your feedback - gwalker you're right of course, it is personal choice - the problem is that there are too many lovely choices!

Hairdude - I, too, am favoring the 31mm yg - thanks for chiming in!

BmwA5H · 18 July 2012, 01:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bem3231

26mm all yellow gold, president bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

Without a doubt this one! I bought a Sub TT and regretted it, recently swapped for a solid gold sub and i haven't regretted it. Go for gold

It looks truly superb in the light. The all gold is most certainly the one I'd go for if i were you.

azguy · 18 July 2012, 01:28 AM

Here's an early congratulations

kcmo · 18 July 2012, 01:35 AM

Firstly, welcome to TRF!

The choices you're considering are all lovely. I'm female and prefer larger pieces, wearing a 36mm and 40mm exclusively.

It all comes down to what feels and looks good to YOU.

I do think it's wise to consider longevity, as you will hopefully enjoy your choice for many years to come. That being said, if it were me, and the 36mm definitely felt too big, I'd go with the next size down, the 31mm. The 26mm is 'dated' to me, and legibility is important. Down the road, I think you may regret not having gone bigger if you go with a 26mm now. I'm not sure what size your wrist is, but the 31mm suits you well!

Now, TT vs. YG....that's a toughie!

The jubilee bracelet is so classic and comfy. I have it on my DJ and adore it. You'll get a LOT of versatility with a TT, being able to mix your other jewelry, regardless of metal. The YG is BOLDER, and more flashy in my opinion....draws more attention, and for me, a bit more limiting in terms of wardrobe. But that's me (I'm more of a SS gal). But, that presidential bracelet is HOT!

Not sure if I'm helping you here...

Go with a 31mm regardless....decide if you'd be 100% comfortable wearing a YG watch as your only watch (not sure if you have other timepieces) and let us know what you decide!

P.S. Gorgeous rings!!!

JustABreathAway · 18 July 2012, 01:57 AM

Welcome to TRF!!

Now, I will readily admit that I am VERY biased, but that 31mm solid gold President is PERFECT for you!!!!

Those final shots you posted up were fantastically delicious!!

GermanyMatt · 18 July 2012, 02:15 AM

I also think the 31mm looks better, and women's watches appear to be getting more chunky like men's watches. The two-tone and all gold both look great; just depends on what you're willing to pay.

A.J.R. · 18 July 2012, 02:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JustABreathAway

but that 31mm solid gold President is PERFECT for you!!!!

I agree with the good Dr.

Z-Sub · 18 July 2012, 02:47 AM

31 mm with MOP diamond dial looks great on you.

Grey.Coupe · 18 July 2012, 03:26 AM

Nope.
Choose one yourself!

BCNJ · 18 July 2012, 03:30 AM

all gold 31mm...go 36mm if you can

Wllnv19 · 18 July 2012, 03:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Z-Sub

31 mm with MOP diamond dial looks great on you.

Agreed

slcbbrown · 18 July 2012, 03:49 AM

If you have no money issues, the 26mm in gold is a great choice. I gave my watch a tt, 26mm DJ 25 years ago and my daughter a ss 26mm DJ last December. My little sister and a friend of hers have the 31mm tt YM and tt DJ. They are both big girls and the 31mm certainly fits their wrists, but I think the 26mm in gold is a pretty strong presence and dresses up a lot nicer with other jewelry.

The 26mm looks dressier and the 31mm has a better sporty look.

Feras · 18 July 2012, 04:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FeelingTheBlues

I honestly quite like the look of that one! That would definitely be my choice.

Welcome to TRF by the way, what Canadian province are you in?

I recommend that you get 31mm as my friend Carl suggested, because it should beeasier to read than26mm. The president looks more luxury, but two tone goes for most of your clothes and both jewelries (white and yellow gold).
Welcome to TRF

pietermann · 18 July 2012, 04:04 AM

I would pick option 4:

31mm solid yellow gold datejust, president bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers.

Good luck!

Trouble15 · 18 July 2012, 05:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bem3231

31mm two-tone, jubilee bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

This one gets my vote. That's a beautiful ring you have on.

andyol1966 · 18 July 2012, 06:43 AM

Option 4. That yellow gold datejust looks hot!! Definitely 31 mm, if not the 36 mm. My wife has a 36 mm and loves it. It took her a while to get used to the look of a bigger size watch, but now she would never go back to a smaller size. Take your time and try them on again. My wife went back many times before deciding. Good luck - option 4 is my vote!

edwardk · 18 July 2012, 11:53 AM

The 31mm gold.

kilyung · 18 July 2012, 11:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bem3231

26mm all yellow gold, president bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers...

HOT!!!

MortgageGuy · 18 July 2012, 12:56 PM

What a terrible dilemma to have

All kidding aside I think the 31mm looks best on you. This of course just my preference towards larger watches but in the end they all look great and it is whatever you choose. My wife wears 36mm diamond bezel and my mother 26mm... go figure

Hazelnut · 18 July 2012, 03:08 PM

31mm two tone looks really good with the ring you have on in that photo!

17 July 2012, 02:58 PM	#1
bem3231 Member Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Canada Posts: 21	Please help me choose my first Rolex... Hi everyone! I have been looking at Rolexes for the past six or eight months (and lurking around here for the past few), as I am getting one as a gift for my 40th birthday this year. I have had a difficult time deciding between the classic 26mm ladies' datejust and the mid-size 31mm ladies' datejust. Also, while at first I thought that I definitely wanted a two-tone ss/yg with jubilee bracelet, I have recently begun to wonder if down the road I would regret not having gotten an all-gold with president bracelet? So, I have now narrowed it down to four choices (I think), and am looking for some opinions from aficionados. I could really used some feedback and advice! The four choices are: 1) 26mm steel and yellow gold datejust, jubilee bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers 2) 26mm solid yellow gold datejust, president bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers 3) 31mm steel and yellow gold datejust, jubilee bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers 4) 31mm solid yellow gold datejust, president bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers I am going to attach photos of each in subsequent posts so that it's easier to tell each one apart. For reference, attached below are a couple of photos for comparison sake. Note that in the photo of the four watches these are not all exactly as described above, as the 26mm two tone has a diamond bezel (which I don't love) and the 26mm president has a meteorite dial, however for general comparison sake I thought that a side-by-side photo might prove helpful. Also please note that in the photo of me wearing a 26mm on one wrist and a 31mm on the other the watches featured have a gold rather than white mop dial, however again for comparison sake I thought that it would be helpful to see the exact same watch in both sizes side-by-side. Some of the questions that are making a decision difficult for me include: Is the 26mm ladies' size too 'dated' in this era of large watches for women? Is the 31mm size too 'trendy'? Will the 26mm size be difficult to read, now and / or in the future as I get older? Is the all-gold with president bracelet too 'flashy'? If I opt for two-tone rather than all-gold, will I regret not having gotten the all-gold down the line (I really love the president bracelet!)? I have had a friend (who just happens to work for Rolex in Geneva) suggest that I should either go with a 26mm or go up to a 36mm - she said that the 31mm didn't look 'right' on me. However, I tried on a 36mm and it really looked like I was wearing a man's watch. I want something that is classic enough that I can enjoy it for years to come. For reference sake, I will include a bit of information on my lifestyle... I'm 39 years old (soon to be 40), 5'9", and have a two-year old daughter. I work part-time from home and am completing my PhD, so I don't spend a lot of time in boardrooms anymore, however I am used to wearing a fair bit of bling on a daily basis. I would plan to wear my new Rolex daily, or almost daily. Thank you everyone for taking the time to read this and to share your opinions - they are valued and much appreciated! PS - Apologies that some of my photos are sideways - I'm working off of a computer that is not mine and don't feel comfortable monkeying with the photo editor program too much. Also, apologies for the blurry photos - I have had to rely on SA's snapping pics with my phone, or taking awkward one-handed shots - so I haven't been able to be too picky with the photo quality! Attached Images

17 July 2012, 03:32 PM	#2
sleddog TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: Jul 2007 Real Name: Rob Location: Nearby. Posts: 24,931	A 31mm seems to be more your size judging strictly by the wrist shot above! What combo in that size is purely a personal choice for you.... MOP dials look great, so either of your two 31mm choices would look fantastic on you! Best of luck on deciding. __________________ He who wears a Rolex is always on time, even when late!! TRF's "After Dark" Bar & Nightclub Patron-Founding Member..

17 July 2012, 03:35 PM	#3
bem3231 Member Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Canada Posts: 21	26mm two-tone, jubilee bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers... Attached Images

17 July 2012, 03:36 PM	#4
bem3231 Member Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Canada Posts: 21	26mm all yellow gold, president bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers... Attached Images

17 July 2012, 03:37 PM	#5
bem3231 Member Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Canada Posts: 21	31mm two-tone, jubilee bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers... Attached Images

17 July 2012, 03:38 PM	#6
bem3231 Member Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Canada Posts: 21	31mm all yellow gold, president bracelet, mop dial, diamond markers... Attached Images

17 July 2012, 03:46 PM	#7
gwalker "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Real Name: Gunter Location: AL/NJ Watch: DSSD; 116610LN Posts: 5,509	My fiance is a practical nurse em and will wear daily. I got her a 26 mm SS/WG with one of the specialty dials. Her gave is the 26 YG pres bracket. Size comparo she is 5'10" tall and 145ish but loves small watches. Just personal choice.

18 July 2012, 01:28 AM	#13
azguy Banned Join Date: Sep 2011 Real Name: ------- Location: ------- Watch: --------- Posts: 12,609	Here's an early congratulations

18 July 2012, 01:35 AM	#14
kcmo "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Real Name: Karis Location: USA Posts: 19,377	Firstly, welcome to TRF! The choices you're considering are all lovely. I'm female and prefer larger pieces, wearing a 36mm and 40mm exclusively. It all comes down to what feels and looks good to YOU. I do think it's wise to consider longevity, as you will hopefully enjoy your choice for many years to come. That being said, if it were me, and the 36mm definitely felt too big, I'd go with the next size down, the 31mm. The 26mm is 'dated' to me, and legibility is important. Down the road, I think you may regret not having gone bigger if you go with a 26mm now. I'm not sure what size your wrist is, but the 31mm suits you well! Now, TT vs. YG....that's a toughie! The jubilee bracelet is so classic and comfy. I have it on my DJ and adore it. You'll get a LOT of versatility with a TT, being able to mix your other jewelry, regardless of metal. The YG is BOLDER, and more flashy in my opinion....draws more attention, and for me, a bit more limiting in terms of wardrobe. But that's me (I'm more of a SS gal). But, that presidential bracelet is HOT! Not sure if I'm helping you here... Go with a 31mm regardless....decide if you'd be 100% comfortable wearing a YG watch as your only watch (not sure if you have other timepieces) and let us know what you decide! P.S. Gorgeous rings!!!

18 July 2012, 01:57 AM	#15
JustABreathAway Banned Join Date: Sep 2011 Location: United States Watch: The Reference Posts: 1,743	Welcome to TRF!! Now, I will readily admit that I am VERY biased, but that 31mm solid gold President is PERFECT for you!!!! Those final shots you posted up were fantastically delicious!!

18 July 2012, 02:15 AM	#16
GermanyMatt "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2012 Real Name: Matt Location: Northern VA Watch: 126711, 126610 Posts: 1,803	I also think the 31mm looks better, and women's watches appear to be getting more chunky like men's watches. The two-tone and all gold both look great; just depends on what you're willing to pay.

18 July 2012, 02:47 AM	#18
Z-Sub 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: So Cal, USA Watch: Not a ONEWatch Man Posts: 7,383	31 mm with MOP diamond dial looks great on you. __________________ SS Submariner Date "Z" SS SeaDweller "D" SS Submariner "Random" TT Blue Submariner "P" SS GMT-Master ll "M", Pepsi Pam 311, 524, 297

18 July 2012, 03:26 AM	#19
Grey.Coupe "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: NC, USA Posts: 555	Nope. Choose one yourself!

18 July 2012, 03:30 AM	#20
BCNJ "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2011 Real Name: Brendan Location: NJ Watch: Pepsi/LVC/DJII Posts: 446	all gold 31mm...go 36mm if you can

18 July 2012, 03:49 AM	#22
slcbbrown "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2009 Real Name: steve Location: dallas area Watch: 50's TT t-bird Posts: 3,689	If you have no money issues, the 26mm in gold is a great choice. I gave my watch a tt, 26mm DJ 25 years ago and my daughter a ss 26mm DJ last December. My little sister and a friend of hers have the 31mm tt YM and tt DJ. They are both big girls and the 31mm certainly fits their wrists, but I think the 26mm in gold is a pretty strong presence and dresses up a lot nicer with other jewelry. The 26mm looks dressier and the 31mm has a better sporty look.

18 July 2012, 04:04 AM	#24
pietermann Member Join Date: Feb 2012 Real Name: Pieterjan Location: Belgium Posts: 193	I would pick option 4: 31mm solid yellow gold datejust, president bracelet, fluted bezel, white mother-of-pearl dial, diamond markers. Good luck!

18 July 2012, 06:43 AM	#26
andyol1966 "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2011 Real Name: Andy Location: East Midlands, UK Watch: Patek and Rolex Posts: 1,074	Option 4. That yellow gold datejust looks hot!! Definitely 31 mm, if not the 36 mm. My wife has a 36 mm and loves it. It took her a while to get used to the look of a bigger size watch, but now she would never go back to a smaller size. Take your time and try them on again. My wife went back many times before deciding. Good luck - option 4 is my vote!

18 July 2012, 11:53 AM	#27
edwardk Member Join Date: Feb 2012 Real Name: Edward Location: Sherwood, AR Watch: TT Sub Slate Serti Posts: 144	The 31mm gold.

18 July 2012, 12:56 PM	#29
MortgageGuy "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Real Name: Adam Location: Orlando, Florida Watch: Me Posts: 9,935	What a terrible dilemma to have All kidding aside I think the 31mm looks best on you. This of course just my preference towards larger watches but in the end they all look great and it is whatever you choose. My wife wears 36mm diamond bezel and my mother 26mm... go figure __________________ The richest people in the world look for and build NETWORKS, Everyone else looks for work... Robert Kiyosaki

18 July 2012, 03:08 PM	#30
Hazelnut "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2012 Real Name: David Location: Los Angeles Watch: SubC Date Posts: 242	31mm two tone looks really good with the ring you have on in that photo!

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)