Perceived Value: Rolex vs. Omega, etc.

[RCrusoe]

Hello all. I initially wanted to post on the Omega forums but feel this forum is more relevant as I do want to solicit the opinion of the Rolex community.

I have been collecting watches since the late 90's and my very first watch was a Seamaster Pro 300m ("Bond") that I saved up for an eventually purchased after a lot of deliberation as to whether or not I could "afford it". This, back then, was what I considered a "grail watch" and I emptied my bank account to purchase it.

I was young back then and times have changed and I've since been through a number of watches including PM Rolexes, Panerai, IWC, JLC, etc. One watch that has always caught my eye, however, and something that I always wanted to add to my collection, was the famous Omega Speedmaster "Moonwatch". A few days back I decided to pull the trigger and my AD made me an offer I couldn't refuse.

Upon buying the watch, I left the AD and went straight to my watchmaker to have it sized. He removed a few links and I returned 10 minutes later. I needed more links removed as it was still too loose. I left. I returned 10 minutes later as now the watch was too tight. I had them add back the link they just took out and it was, again, too loose.

I got home and went online and realized that I wasn't alone and that many, many others had the same problem with the new Speedy bracelet which lacks any real micro-adjustability. How is it possible with such a historic watch? Within a few minutes I'd found a gentleman on YouTube that had purchased a similar clasp from an Omega boutique (one with micro-adjustments) and had it fitted to his Speedmaster. Voila.

Having been so used to dealing with Rolex, I immediately called my Omega boutique expecting a hassle about why I needed the parts, what watch it was going on, etc, etc. Surprisingly, the entire phone call lasted no more than 2 minutes - the sales associate asked for the part numbers, took my name and phone number, and said he would order them up. I though in my head "yeah right, nobody is ever going to call me back". Lo and behold, less than a week later, I got a call from the Omega boutique to inform me that the parts were in. Not only that, but the cost of the clasp was only around $125. Based on my previous experience with Rolex I thought that I'd first have to "convince" the boutique manager why I needed the parts ordered and, if I did manage to succeed, I assumed it would be a princely sum for a new clasp (some have paid close to $1,200 on Chrono24 for the clasp only).

Although I now have a perfectly fitting watch in my new Speedmaster, this whole experience has left me asking myself why I continue to collect Rolex watches when, in general, the ADs are horrible to deal with and parts availability is slim to none. A clasp from Rolex for my Daytona would have likely cost me 10x more (if at all available) but the watch definitely isn't 10x as nice.

Are there any others in the same boat that may now start looking at other brands due to the apparent "lack of value proposition" in going with Rolex? I don't mind spending much, much more as long as there is perceived value but in comparing Rolex and Omega I really don't see such difference in quality...

[Claven2]

Omega is a company that rolex could learn a TON from in terms of customer relations. And I say that as a dedicated rolex owner.

For example, omega returns every single part they replace in a watch at service. Even old gaskets and link pins are returned. Everything.

They also produce more of the watches that sell and fewer of the ones that don't. I can walk into a boutique and walk out with the watch I want. Amazing.

[Pantheon]

From my experience, omega is far superior when it comes to placing orders for parts/accesories. Rolex is not as easy. In fact sometimes it can seem like pulling teeth trying to order something. As far as quality goes I would say Omega and Rolex are pretty close nowadays although I can say Rolex makes a superior bracelet, one of the best in the business.

Of course I've never had much brand loyalty as I entertain any brand as long as I like the watch design. There are many diehard fans here since this is a Rolex forum that wouldn't buy anything that doesn't have the crown

[Art 1]

I just emailed Omega about some info and had a prompt friendly return that turned into several emails. Found out for $100 I can get a copy of the original COSC records for my Omega. I feel my Omega is as good or better than my Rolex’s.

[RCrusoe]

Wow, I'm really surprised at all the positive comments. I thought this post would be full of thrashing from the Rolex fanboys club (of which I am, admittedly, a member). After this most recent interaction with my Omega AD I just can't seem to think that they offer more for the money and, more importantly, actually act like my business is important to them!

[Art 1]

Originally Posted by RCrusoe

Wow, I'm really surprised at all the positive comments. I thought this post would be full of thrashing from the Rolex fanboys club (of which I am, admittedly, a member). After this most recent interaction with my Omega AD I just can't seem to think that they offer more for the money and, more importantly, actually act like my business is important to them!

Give it time. The fan boys will appear.

[EEpro]

Originally Posted by Art 1

I just emailed Omega about some info and had a prompt friendly return that turned into several emails. Found out for $100 I can get a copy of the original COSC records for my Omega. I feel my Omega is as good or better than my Rolex’s.

Some are, some aren't. I love my 300 meter divers. Sold (traded up) my submariner... didn't see the point in tying up $8K in a Rolex diver when the omegas are so darn good.

[locutus49]

Both are fine watches. Rolexes are more en vogue with celebrities at the moment, and so more popular. But collectors buy both brands.

[jankymutt]

I started collecting watches 1 year ago, but already own 4 omegas (2018 300m, Speedy Saphire sandwich, Vintage MK40, Vintage constellation) but have been lusting after a new Sub or GMT.

The point of my post is that I have taken my 4 pre-owned purchased Omegas to my AD for servicing, questions, etc. and have always left with my issue taken care of with a smile on their face. I have never bought a watch from them, but will when they have the one I want.

They have serviced my watches at reasonable prices, ordered parts from Omega with ease, sized my watches for free, and spent a lot of time chatting about watches with me.

I have not had great experiences with Rolex (been to Rolex boutiques in Rome, Malta and multiple AD's in the US). I know experiences vary, but I have yet to have a Rolex AD NOT laugh when I ask to purchase an SS sub or GMT. I still really want a sub or GMT and having read posts on this forum, I guess I just need to find the right AD.

[Stew7]

Originally Posted by Art 1

Give it time. The fan boys will appear.

Indeed. Resale value and investment comments are coming...

As an owner of both, I agree with the OP comments. I've been very pleased with my sales and service experiences from Omega. I was pleasantly surprised when all old parts were returned to me after servicing my SMP.

[MTdweller]

I’m glad to hear that customer interactions with Omega are so good. With all the Rolex hype, I’ve been considering an Omega and the newer Seamster 300 Pro looks awesome.

[huncho]

Originally Posted by Claven2

Omega is a company that rolex could learn a TON from in terms of customer relations. And I say that as a dedicated rolex owner.

For example, omega returns every single part they replace in a watch at service. Even old gaskets and link pins are returned. Everything.

They also produce more of the watches that sell and fewer of the ones that don't. I can walk into a boutique and walk out with the watch I want. Amazing.

if rolex had steel models readily available no one would want them

[Claven2]

Originally Posted by huncho

if rolex had steel models readily available no one would want them

Maybe so!? Would be nice to find out :)

I'm tired of going to my ad and seeing only women's DJs, cellini models and PM cases.

I mean, honestly, how many rolex buyers are wanting to shell out over 30 grand for a 36mm day-date in yellow gold today? I'm thinking a pretty small percentage.

Omega, on the other hand, has product and great service
Quality-wise, I can't tell the difference in wrist. I have several watches from both brands as well.

[mrmarty]

I’m actually a huge fan of Omegas and keep two in my collection of watches regularly.

2201.50 2500D Planet Ocean and a 3570.50 Speedy Pro.

Based on personal experiences these are my likes and dislikes of Omega

Pros:
-Dollar for dollar value in comparison is better
-Time accuracy I’ve found that even with 10 years out of service they are still within +2 on the timegrapher compared to my GMT that has gone +5 with the same age over time
-Bracelets to me are more comfortable
-Under the radar watch
-After sale support is outstanding

Cons:
-Their boxes are unnecessarily huge for no reason
-Parts for non service center repairs have gotten close to impossible to acquire over the years
-55 editions every other year for every model

I own multiple Rolex’s, but I’ve grown to respect and actually admire the brand. If I had to pick one to wear daily, I’d probably stick to Omega. From prior experience, I’ve put an older 2500C 2208.50 Planet Ocean through a decade of hell and it still beat at COSC spec once I sold it off.

[Chewbacca]

Quality-wise, they’re nearly equals now. Actually, Omega is more innovative and has better designs.

And, I’d give my money to Omega before Rolex after the last few years. Not because I’m in the market for another Rolex, but because I blame Rolex for all the whining on the forums and reducing Rolex buyers into a bunch of kids looking for sold out Air Jordans at Foot Locker.

Can’t understand how Tudor can get it right while Rolex remains tone deaf.

[uscmatt99]

Your experience echoes mine at an Omega Boutique. I couldn't get quite the right fit on my Planet Ocean Chrono, and found out the updated microadjustable clasp could be fitted to my bracelet. I spoke to a rep in person at the boutique, they ordered the part, and held it for me until the next time I was in town. Got it swapped the same day after they cracked open some booze so I had something to enjoy while I perused the ample selection of other watches for sale. $125 later I was in perfect comfort with that top-heavy beast.

Meanwhile recently at Rolex, I got to look at a Submariner "for display only" through the glass and an onyx dial day-date surrounded by a mass of lady DJ's. Felt bad for the sales guy, but what can you do when there is nothing to sell?

[Singslinger]

Another plug for Omega here.

Despite owning 4 Rolex dive watches (Hulk, SD4K, SD43 and Deepsea) my favorite diver is my black 44mm Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean.

Great company that makes excellent watches.

[huncho]

Originally Posted by Claven2

Maybe so!? Would be nice to find out :)

I'm tired of going to my ad and seeing only women's DJs, cellini models and PM cases.

I mean, honestly, how many rolex buyers are wanting to shell out over 30 grand for a 36mm day-date in yellow gold today? I'm thinking a pretty small percentage.

Omega, on the other hand, has product and great service
Quality-wise, I can't tell the difference in wrist. I have several watches from both brands as well.

what do you mean would be nice to find out? before this hype they were all readily available with discounts lol, same with royal oaks and nautilus models

[mrmarty]

Originally Posted by huncho

what do you mean would be nice to find out? before this hype they were all readily available with discounts lol, same with royal oaks and nautilus models

Agreed. There was a point in time (three years ago) you could walk into an AD and virtually buy any stainless sports model except the Daytona on the spot.

[jitdc]

The Speedmaster Pro has long been on my list as well. Its hard to argue with the history of some models, availability, options and pricing (new or used). It is a bit annoying to see 4 million different types of Speedmasters but I guess one can spin that to be "a model for everyone." Thats probably the only Omega that I'm really interested in.

[meyers]

I own both Rolex and Omega and I say this: It's cool that a guy can walk into an Omega boutique and walk out with a moonwatch. But I'm not buying the "Rolex could stand to learn a thing or two from Omega" argument. The fact that Rolex are difficult to get (from the lack of availability to the less-than-stellar AD customer service) likely make folks want them even more. People want what they can't have. Psychology 101

[No SUBctitute]

I have no problem with Omega. It was almost my first luxury watch.

But I'm now in the market for a GMT and an oyster-bracelet DJ41. Show me an Omega GMT that is as thin and comfortable as Rolex, and show me an Omega DJ-type watch with as nice of a bracelet. I would consider either that fit that bill.

[1kw]

I have owned lots of Rolex watches over the last 30 years. I bought a speedmaster pro a few months ago, a Saphire sandwich and put a rubber b strap on it and love wearing it. It is impossible to buy any of the SS Rolex sport models and I refuse to pay one retail so now I am starting to look at other brands including omega. By by Rolex until I can buy what I want without paying one retail.

[mrmarty]

Originally Posted by No SUBctitute

I have no problem with Omega. It was almost my first luxury watch.



But I'm now in the market for a GMT and an oyster-bracelet DJ41. Show me an Omega GMT that is as thin and comfortable as Rolex, and show me an Omega DJ-type watch with as nice of a bracelet. I would consider either that fit that bill.

Aqua Terra GMT. You get a DJ’eque watch and a GMT with a similar thickness to a 126710 maybe a smidge more and at a price point if $7900 or so. The newer AT bracelets IMO just as comfortable if not more than the oyster with more adjustability. I prefer the clasp which is a semi hidden butterfly and offers 500 feet WR.

Preowned market floats around 4K all day.

[SS Oyster]

Omega make incredible sports watches. They are highly technical, although I think their Helium screw down valves are silly. Incredibly well made. Excellent availability and customer service.

What do they lack?
1. Value retention
2. Prestige
3. 904L steel
4. Hype

All of the above may be important to you, but the first hit is important to everyone who isn’t rich or never expects to sell their watch for any reason.

What is a 1963 5512 worth? How does that compare to same age SeaMaster?

There are also perceptions on relative durability of Rolex over Omega, but I don’t know the truth there.


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[amanbra]

Rolex are like Apple, they dictate to you what you can and can't have. They don't like it when you put an oysterflex on a non-oysterflex model etc. Omega you can buy and put different dails in to your speedy. For stuff like this I really really prefer Omega, the thing is overall Rolex watches fit me better...

[No SUBctitute]

Originally Posted by mrmarty

Aqua Terra GMT. You get a DJ’eque watch and a GMT with a similar thickness to a 126710 and at a price point if $7900 or so.

The AT GMT is 43mm versus about 40mm for the Rolex GMT and DJ41, I think. I believe the AT is thicker, too.

[SS Oyster]

Originally Posted by mrmarty

Aqua Terra GMT. You get a DJ’eque ...

Sure, but does it command the same emotions and will it endure like the Pepsi? What will it be worth in 20 years relative to the BLRO?



Great watch, but wear that AT to a business meeting and people might mistake it for a Citizen from Costco.

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[SS Oyster]

Great watch, but wear the Omega AT to a business meeting and people might mistake it for a Citizen from Costco.

[mrmarty]

Originally Posted by SS Oyster

Sure, but does it command the same emotions as this? Will it endure like the Pepsi? What will it be worth in 20 years relative to the BLRO?




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Sure, we can all agree the values in 20 years time will nowhere anything close to a 126710 BLNR/BLRO or a 116710 BLNR or a LN.

But if we remove that mentality of value retention attached to the brand, the emotional values would be subjective to the person who chooses and buys what makes them smile regardless of brand.



Even though I own both of the newer 3285 movement options which most people on the forum would die for either or, I have a stronger emotional tie to a worthless Planet Ocean that works very well and is still in COSC spec after a decade without service at +2 seconds per day vs my not even five year old 116710LN that needs to be recalibrated running +11 seconds per day.

Originally Posted by No SUBctitute

The AT GMT is 43mm versus about 40mm for the Rolex GMT and DJ41, I think. I believe the AT is thicker, too.

Your right, it is a 43mm but it doesn’t wear like one. But the thickness depending on your wrist size may be negligible. One thing I don’t like about the newer models is the thickness of the 8500/8800 movement which did increase case thickness over its older counterpart in the 2500 movement which I failed to realize.