Advice: Purchasing my first AP

[google]

So I have zero background in APs, as I have always been a Rolex / Panerai owner for a while. I have been looking very closely at a AP Survivor being sold at watchuwant - I just love the aesthetics of the watch in every way. My wife says it looks like a casio g shock and thats what I want, something that can be easily confused for a 99$ watch by some and recognized as a amazing watch by a few.

I realize this is about post is extremely general and I hope you excuse me for my ignorance. I have parsed through several topics but I just wanted the more experienced AP ROO guys and if possible guys that own the Survivor to give me some of their thoughts and opinions relative to comfort as a daily watch, resistance to damage, scratching of the coating, resale, or anything else that would be relevant to understand before I swipe a credit card.

Once again apologies for topic that is as deep as it is wide. I have looked through the stickies and read several posts in TRF about AP and ROOs but not much on the survivor.

Also the watch is G series with all box/papers

[kilyung]

That's a badass model. The CGs make it look much bigger than the advertised 42mm.

[s14roller]

I have recalled some people saying it was not very comfy due to the larger pusher guards. As for your question of resale, while it's a LE, I'd say it's probably one of the more polarizing models. I love APs and have owned more of the brand than any other brand, but have never looked into getting a Survivor.

For something black and under the radar, my pick would probably be the 44mm Ceramic Anthracite ROO. It does everything you are looking for, and being ceramic, will resist scratches and be fine for daily use. Pretty hot model (as are most the 44mm models) so would expect resale to also be fine as long as you buy right.

[google]

Originally Posted by s14roller

I have recalled some people saying it was not very comfy due to the larger pusher guards. As for your question of resale, while it's a LE, I'd say it's probably one of the more polarizing models. I love APs and have owned more of the brand than any other brand, but have never looked into getting a Survivor.

For something black and under the radar, my pick would probably be the 44mm Ceramic Anthracite ROO. It does everything you are looking for, and being ceramic, will resist scratches and be fine for daily use. Pretty hot model (as are most the 44mm models) so would expect resale to also be fine as long as you buy right.

Thank you for the input, I agree with your statement that the watch is polarizing - my wife being the perfect example. I checked out the 44 Anthracite and its also very nice. Almost wish you didn't point it out :)

[curare78]

I am a huge fan of the AP RO/ROO's, if you get one you will not be disappointed. On the other hand I am not a fan of the survivor model.

In my opinion you should try on the watch that you are interested in because many times we WIS get all fired up about a particular piece and suddenly in person it not what we thought it would be.

So take your time and try many different styles on, that's part of the fun. BTW, I promise if you get the new 44mm Anthracite ROO you will not be disappointed because it person it's fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!

[masterserg]

44 forged carbon!! Very under the radar but at the same time it is not. Other than the rose gold 44, my favorite AP (well, maybe the platinum 44).

I don't particularly like the aesthetics of the Survivor but that's personal taste (badass watch as Mike says though). The T3 on the other hand is awesome!

[Marciano490]

Wait a few weeks for your first AP. SIHH is supposed to be great for the brand.

[Abdullasaif]

The survivor is the most bold and out of this world AP it's a super crazy piece but I wouldn't start with it for a first AP my best advice for a offshore if you can pull it off is a 44mm novelty


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[exiger77]

Wear it on the right wrist.

[google]

Gents - thanks you for all the wonderful insights and perspectives. Honestly I am a little torn b/w the carbon and the survivor now.

Curare78 - Masterserg - the anthracite is amazing too but I think I will have to choose down to the carbon and the survivor. I like that the carbon is very classy, can easily be worn with suits or dressed down with jeans in a more casual setting. For some reason the survivor kinda speaks to me, its a little darker more rugged - i have the two watches up side by side and its definitely not making things easier.

http://imgur.com/zeQA1eM

Marciano - when you say wait a few weeks - are you implying they will be releasing some new watches that would be worth my while to wait? Im in no rush at all.

Abdullasaif - I like the look of the novelty, really versatile and all around gorgeous but I really want a primarily black watch. I have some other watches (daytona, panerai, brietling, omega), but I really want to get rid of them all and just keep the silver brietling to wear with suits and a AP for the weekends when I'm dressed down.

Exiger - is this really uncomfortable to wear on the left wrist because of the pusher covers? Im not a big guy - pretty average sized wrists.

[masterserg]

I think forged carbon is the ticket for what you describe.

Ceramic is cool but I prefer the way forged carbon looks, especially in the sunshine. Ceramic is also quite a bit more expensive (you can buy a nice SS Diver with the difference). If I would spend that much, I would have to have precious metal (RG 44).

I would advise you to look at the carbon in real life though, ideally the one you would be buying and without plastics. There is a lot of variation and the material is not for everybody. The one trade-off is that you kind of lose the case's razor sharp edges that you get with ceramic, steel or gold.

Incredible watch. There is nothing like it out there.

[lapince]

Originally Posted by s14roller

I have recalled some people saying it was not very comfy due to the larger pusher guards. As for your question of resale, while it's a LE, I'd say it's probably one of the more polarizing models. I love APs and have owned more of the brand than any other brand, but have never looked into getting a Survivor.

For something black and under the radar, my pick would probably be the 44mm Ceramic Anthracite ROO. It does everything you are looking for, and being ceramic, will resist scratches and be fine for daily use. Pretty hot model (as are most the 44mm models) so would expect resale to also be fine as long as you buy right.

Well the ceramic diver also fits the description you just gave, not only 44's out there guys

[lapince]

Originally Posted by google

Marciano - when you say wait a few weeks - are you implying they will be releasing some new watches that would be worth my while to wait? Im in no rush at all.

Well the 2 ceramic and the carbon diver are discontinued, so sure we should see some exciting new models on the market very soon

[Jfbhd4]

Originally Posted by masterserg

I think forged carbon is the ticket for what you describe.

Ceramic is cool but I prefer the way forged carbon looks, especially in the sunshine. Ceramic is also quite a bit more expensive (you can buy a nice SS Diver with the difference). If I would spend that much, I would have to have precious metal (RG 44).

I would advise you to look at the carbon in real life though, ideally the one you would be buying and without plastics. There is a lot of variation and the material is not for everybody. The one trade-off is that you kind of lose the case's razor sharp edges that you get with ceramic, steel or gold.

Incredible watch though. There is nothing like it out there.

This is the watch you want. Same look as the survivor without the ugly side thingies.




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[Peterandwatches]

Watchuwant has great YouTube videos. If by some chance you haven't seen it yet, check it out.

The Survivor is a crazy extreme piece that is really well named. Reminds me of Aliens or some action flick. The hands are futuristic, and the striped bezel is out of this world. Subjectively, it's not a piece I'd wear as my tastes lean more conservative, but bad ass is the perfect way to describe it.

I don't know if it's technically under the radar. It doesn't look like a cheap Casio, and it's striking enough that I think it will catch attention. Nobody really knows about watches though, so it's unlikely it will be recognized as an AP. Good luck!

[s14roller]

Originally Posted by lapince

Well the ceramic diver also fits the description you just gave, not only 44's out there guys

I thought of that...but orange pops and no chrono...was thinking of something that would come close to what he has an eye on...

Divers are also nice though, agreed.

[AK797]

Go for the 44mm, not many owners of the beetle/grenade here for a reason.

[Marciano490]

Originally Posted by google

Gents - thanks you for all the wonderful insights and perspectives. Honestly I am a little torn b/w the carbon and the survivor now.

Curare78 - Masterserg - the anthracite is amazing too but I think I will have to choose down to the carbon and the survivor. I like that the carbon is very classy, can easily be worn with suits or dressed down with jeans in a more casual setting. For some reason the survivor kinda speaks to me, its a little darker more rugged - i have the two watches up side by side and its definitely not making things easier.

http://imgur.com/zeQA1eM

Marciano - when you say wait a few weeks - are you implying they will be releasing some new watches that would be worth my while to wait? Im in no rush at all.

Abdullasaif - I like the look of the novelty, really versatile and all around gorgeous but I really want a primarily black watch. I have some other watches (daytona, panerai, brietling, omega), but I really want to get rid of them all and just keep the silver brietling to wear with suits and a AP for the weekends when I'm dressed down.

Exiger - is this really uncomfortable to wear on the left wrist because of the pusher covers? Im not a big guy - pretty average sized wrists.

Not sure the turn around time from announcement to availability, but SIHH is mid January and Ive heard there'll be some great new pieces, so if you can hold off it may be worth your while.

Also consider that the release of new pieces may soften the market for the older models, so your patience might earn you a discount.

[s14roller]

Keep in mind new models won't arrive for sale until roughly next Fall...and when they do come, discounts will be slim in the beginning.

I'd get what you want now, and figure it out a year from now.

[lapince]

Originally Posted by masterserg

The one trade-off is that you kind of lose the case's razor sharp edges that you get with ceramic, steel or gold.

Well for me one of the major turn ons with these watches is the razor sharp edges so couldn't imagine getting one where the edges would soften after some time ceramic won't budge except if you brake it...

Originally Posted by s14roller

I thought of that...but orange pops and no chrono...was thinking of something that would come close to what he has an eye on...

Divers are also nice though, agreed.

Honestly in real the orange part is so small it doesn't pop so much, for the chrono I couldn't care less, had a few and found it useless...

Originally Posted by s14roller

Keep in mind new models won't arrive for sale until roughly next Fall...and when they do come, discounts will be slim in the beginning.

I'd get what you want now, and figure it out a year from now.

I would wait to see what there will be, if there's one he loves he can wait a little extra if not then he gets what he wanted, easy

[masterserg]

Forged carbon does not soften with time or by mere contact with air. You don't have the same edges (from day one) since the finishing and material properties are quite obviously different. Hence, "it is not for everybody".

Get your facts straight before posting these nonsensical rants.

You like your ceramic diver...We get it.

[google]

Originally Posted by AK797

Go for the 44mm, not many owners of the beetle/grenade here for a reason.

While I totally agree with you that the survivor, aka grenade / beetle, isn't for everyone, something about it really resonates with me. The more I look at wrist shots and read additional reviews from owners, and factor in the long term potential - I think I will end up with the Survivor.

I had a few minutes to drop by my local AD today and tried on the Carbon AP Roo, and while I admit that its absolutely beautiful on the wrist I just want something a little different. Something polarizing, where some of you hate it and some genuinely love it. I think it highlights my character an personality a bit more.

[google]

Originally Posted by s14roller

Keep in mind new models won't arrive for sale until roughly next Fall...and when they do come, discounts will be slim in the beginning.

I'd get what you want now, and figure it out a year from now.

Honestly I don't think I want to spend the $$ on a new model, esp a limited edition version. With a new house and baby on the way I have to look for the best deal possible these days.

Like you mentioned, in a year everything may change and I drool over something else.

[belk7]

Originally Posted by masterserg

Forged carbon does not soften with time or by mere contact with air. You don't have the same edges (from day one) since the finishing and material properties are quite obviously different. Hence, "it is not for everybody".

Get your facts straight before posting these nonsensical rants.

You like your ceramic diver...We get it.

First, I applaud the OP for knowing what he likes and sticking to it. We don't all need to make the same choices, and you have picked out a very unique and interesting watch.

As to Master's post, I couldn't agree more. It's fine that not everyone likes the FC44, but this continued talk throughout multiple threads deriding the case is misleading at best. I have an I serial FC44 and I find it just about perfect for my taste. I wear it a lot - in fact it's my go to watch for more active pursuits. It frankly has been abused more than any other watch that I own, and it looks just like the day I bought it. Absolutely no problems whatsoever. The anthracite ceramic is lovely, and the original discontinued ceramic in all black was fantastic. All of that said, I wouldn't hesitate for a second to buy the FC again.

Again to the OP, buy what you like and congratulations on settling on a fantastic watch from a great brand.


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[google]

Originally Posted by belk7

First, I applaud the OP for knowing what he likes and sticking to it. We don't all need to make the same choices, and you have picked out a very unique and interesting watch.

As to Master's post, I couldn't agree more. It's fine that not everyone likes the FC44, but this continued talk throughout multiple threads deriding the case is misleading at best. I have an I serial FC44 and I find it just about perfect for my taste. I wear it a lot - in fact it's my go to watch for more active pursuits. It frankly has been abused more than any other watch that I own, and it looks just like the day I bought it. Absolutely no problems whatsoever. The anthracite ceramic is lovely, and the original discontinued ceramic in all black was fantastic. All of that said, I wouldn't hesitate for a second to buy the FC again.

Again to the OP, buy what you like and congratulations on settling on a fantastic watch from a great brand.


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wear the FC44 well my friend!

[masterserg]

Originally Posted by belk7

First, I applaud the OP for knowing what he likes and sticking to it. We don't all need to make the same choices, and you have picked out a very unique and interesting watch.

As to Master's post, I couldn't agree more. It's fine that not everyone likes the FC44, but this continued talk throughout multiple threads deriding the case is misleading at best. I have an I serial FC44 and I find it just about perfect for my taste. I wear it a lot - in fact it's my go to watch for more active pursuits. It frankly has been abused more than any other watch that I own, and it looks just like the day I bought it. Absolutely no problems whatsoever. The anthracite ceramic is lovely, and the original discontinued ceramic in all black was fantastic. All of that said, I wouldn't hesitate for a second to buy the FC again.

Again to the OP, buy what you like and congratulations on settling on a fantastic watch from a great brand.


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Indeed!

To the OP, did you see the watchuwant video on the survivor on youtube? It is a pretty bad (in a good way) watch! I'd love to see some incoming pics!

[lapince]

Originally Posted by masterserg

Forged carbon does not soften with time or by mere contact with air. You don't have the same edges (from day one) since the finishing and material properties are quite obviously different. Hence, "it is not for everybody".

Get your facts straight before posting these nonsensical rants.

You like your ceramic diver...We get it.

Are you feeling ok??? I was just commenting what you said:

"Originally Posted by masterserg View Post
The one trade-off is that you kind of lose the case's razor sharp edges that you get with ceramic, steel or gold."

And I was saying that for me the razor sharp edges is a big part of AP RO and ROO's, so basically I'm saying exactly the same thing as you and that yes as you again say it's not for me at all, so saying "nonsensical rants" when I'm saying exactly the same thing as you is quite strange, and excuse me but how many posts did we have here about owners saying that their FC AP's were mousing material with their fingers? at least 7 or 8 owners of FC AP's and how many pics of FC watches especially the Grand Prix which look like crap after a few months, I get that you like your FC AP as much as you get I like my CE diver but you can't deny the fact this happened to quite a certain number of owners of FC pieces, I absolutely accept any criticism of my watches, don't care a rat's ass if others don't like them but if they have some kind of default I'm not going to go crazy about it and post something like "Get your facts straight before posting these nonsensical rants". Enough owners here have had quite disappointing things about the durability of their FC pieces while others have had the chance of them not budging, if you're in the second category great for you, I wanted to buy a FC at some point but didn't want to take the risk to fall in the 1st category, I've noticed more than one FC owner to violently react and defend the qualities of FC when other owners were telling their misfortunes… But hey happy holidays anyways

[google]

Originally Posted by masterserg

Indeed!

To the OP, did you see the watchuwant video on the survivor on youtube? It is a pretty bad (in a good way) watch! I'd love to see some incoming pics!

I did check see the watch u want video on youtube, and thanks to the TRF member that posted the url. The youtube video was more or less what pushed me to the Survivor/Beetle/Grenade/Predator or whatever its called unaffectionately. Soon as the deal is done and the watch comes in I will post some pictures.

Thanks for all the help guys!

[masterserg]

Originally Posted by lapince

Are you feeling ok??? I was just commenting what you said:

"Originally Posted by masterserg View Post
The one trade-off is that you kind of lose the case's razor sharp edges that you get with ceramic, steel or gold."

And I was saying that for me the razor sharp edges is a big part of AP RO and ROO's, so basically I'm saying exactly the same thing as you and that yes as you again say it's not for me at all, so saying "nonsensical rants" when I'm saying exactly the same thing as you is quite strange, and excuse me but how many posts did we have here about owners saying that their FC AP's were mousing material with their fingers? at least 7 or 8 owners of FC AP's and how many pics of FC watches especially the Grand Prix which look like crap after a few months, I get that you like your FC AP as much as you get I like my CE diver but you can't deny the fact this happened to quite a certain number of owners of FC pieces, I absolutely accept any criticism of my watches, don't care a rat's ass if others don't like them but if they have some kind of default I'm not going to go crazy about it and post something like "Get your facts straight before posting these nonsensical rants". Enough owners here have had quite disappointing things about the durability of their FC pieces while others have had the chance of them not budging, if you're in the second category great for you, I wanted to buy a FC at some point but didn't want to take the risk to fall in the 1st category, I've noticed more than one FC owner to violently react and defend the qualities of FC when other owners were telling their misfortunes… But hey happy holidays anyways

Look dude, I have nothing personal against you, at all. I don't even know you.

BUT, you and I did not say the same thing. You keep implying that FC somehow deteriorates and softens over time by itself and this is simply not true. You had several actual owners respond to you indicating that you are incorrect. I owned FC pieces 3 times. It sucks that people had issues, but I don't know how they treated their pieces or what did they do with them. The vast majority are issue free. If you knock your ceramic diver (which I love) hard enough, it will break, steel will dent and so on.

It is just a different material with its own properties, that some people like and some people don't.

Watches are emotional, so when one sees incorrect information about pieces one owns / loves, one gets upset.

That's that and back at you. I don't like internet fights.

[lapince]

Originally Posted by google

While I totally agree with you that the survivor, aka grenade / beetle, isn't for everyone, something about it really resonates with me. The more I look at wrist shots and read additional reviews from owners, and factor in the long term potential - I think I will end up with the Survivor.

I had a few minutes to drop by my local AD today and tried on the Carbon AP Roo, and while I admit that its absolutely beautiful on the wrist I just want something a little different. Something polarizing, where some of you hate it and some genuinely love it. I think it highlights my character an personality a bit more.

You're absolutely right, get what you want, don't care what we like, the survivor is a clearly unique looking AP, no other even looks close to it, now it was limited to 1000 which is not a small edition for AP, and you have 16 on sale on Chrono 24, so don't expect it to sky rocket in price, but you will have a quite rare AP that you won't see on every bloke's wrist, and that is something I like in fine watches, exclusivity, I had my Rolex/Panerai period but that's over for some time already, basically when I got my first Patek, a 5712, the level of finition, feel, comfort, beauty, and the list is long, for me blew completely Rolex and Panerai out of the water and I couldn't wear them anymore.

Since it's titanium I think it should be comfy, and the bezel on the side looks very cool, it's clearly one of a kind, if you like it get it, don't listen to us