help needed by newbie

help needed by newbie

Author
Discussion

aporschefan

Original Poster:

302 posts

240 months

Sunday 1st March 2015
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Hi,

I'm new to this forum and don't know as much you regarding watches so please be kind and apologies in advance for dumb questions...

For my 10th anniversary, I'm buying myself a (second hand) watch. I have between now and November to work out what I want.

The budget is circa £5k. I may not be able to stretch much beyond that though.

What I like:

1. Rolex Submariner (only the blue/gold and black versions)
2. Cartier Roadster (one like this)

I'm not too fused about resale value as I don't intend to sell it any time soon but it would be good if the watch I buy doesn't depreciate too much.

I've tried the Submariner and like both above colour options. I'm yet to try on a Roadster so it may yet be discarded as an option. The watch isn't going to be used everyday. Probably only on certain occasions.

I need some help with the below points. Hopefully you won't mind sharing your thoughts on:

1. What other watches should I consider? (Must be a metal bracelet.)
2. If there anything specific I should be aware of regarding both watches?
3. Can anyone share any links which gives history/details about the 2 watches? (I currently know very little about both.)
4. Regarding the Submariner, was there a change in the movement used by Rolex over the years? If so, which is the better/more preferred movement and why?
5. Do I need to ensure the watch comes with the original box and papers? Or, assuming the missing box/papers are reflected in the price, I shouldn't worry about it?
6. The Roadster is discontinued. Does this make any difference?


That's it for now but I'll probably come back later and more.

Thanks in advance...

annsxman

295 posts

241 months

Sunday 1st March 2015
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You'll find lots of useful information about the Sub on The Rolex Forum - just google it. You can a new non date Sub within your budget - check Iconic watches out.

As for other makes I have an Omega Speedmaster Professional aka Moonwatch which is a lovely watch and available for less than £3k new. Again there are Omega forums out there. A Seamaster 300 is a nice watch.

I'm not sure about how well a Cartier will hold its value. Cartier is more of a jewellery brand than a watch brand. If you buy a Rolex or an Omega at the right price then you won't go far wrong.

It is important to buy what you like. So called "wrist presence" is important, and in this respect, as with so many things, size matters I.e. Size of watch relative to your wrist.

Anyway you have plenty of time to research matters before you decide!

mikeveal

4,557 posts

249 months

Monday 2nd March 2015
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I'm wearing a Roadster today.

Cartier are very much a watch company as well as a Jewellery company. They are credited with the worlds first gents wristwatch, the Santos. They make their own movements, including a tourbillion, but these are only fitted to the pricier watches in their range.

The basic Roadster gets an ETA, (2832?). Not sure what's in the chrono.

The Roadster isn't the most comfortable watch in the world. I find that the crown digs into my wrist and after two or three days wear, it makes my wrist a bit sore. It is a nice watch though, very unusual in it's design.

Resale wise, the non-chrono was selling for about £4000 new the last time I checked. You can pick them up between £1500 and £2000 second hand.


The Rolex too is a good solid choice. You won't lose money on this, but I always argue that money is the wrong reason to buy a watch.


Below 5K, you should also look at Jaeger Le Coultre, Omega, there is one Breitling that isn't hideous. You might get a Patek or AP, not within what I'd be prepared to spend, so I can't really comment .

Grey Ghost

4,583 posts

219 months

Monday 2nd March 2015
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Your budget will get you something very nice but watches are personal things so take your time and go and see a few and try them on as they can look lovely in pictures and then not feel right at all when on your wrist. To get an idea of what is out there have a look through Chrono24 and WatchFinder websites and these will give a good overview of the market, prices, differences in models etc.

Once you have an idea of what you like there are a few PH members who trade in watches and will be good to deal with. My personal favourite is Dom Hackett at www.hackettwatches.com but others will also be recommended from people who have used them and trust them.

aporschefan

Original Poster:

302 posts

240 months

Sunday 8th March 2015
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Thanks for the feedback everyone. Have read up a little about the sub but will continue to seek further info. It does make sense to try them on, especially once I know the difference between the models and establish if (for me) the premium between the model is worth paying.

One thing I forgot to mention is I'm planning a trip later this year for my family. Don't really have a particular destination in mind and am open to going anywhere really. (Was thinking Far East plus a stop over in the mid least) Is there anywhere I should go which is particularly renowned for selling second hand watches at good prices? (Must be better blue than UK) I could potentially kill two birds with one stone here.