Rolex entry level

[DKL]

So where does it start - used examples not new and it must have the date.
I'm probably wrong to say so but I don't want a Tudor.
I'm not sure about the bracelet, "clumpy" look of these sorts of pieces so I thought I'd not spend a king's ransom to start with.
So far an Oysterdate at 550 is what I have found. I'm not necessarily after the very cheapest but good value.
So suggestions?

[DKL]

Presumably all the non chrono models will be the less expensive ones?

[DKL]

The Oysterdate has gone but it was real - on TZ.
Explorer I are nice but no date and that drives me mad during the day.
Not keen on subs, GMT or Expl II.
I think I need to try a few on.
I'd like a blue faced datejust but with batons not RN but they are a bit few and far between.
I'll just keep an eye out for now.
Thanks all.

[DKL]

Incredible Sulk said:

When I said real, I meant real as in a genuine Rolex and not a cheap Thai copy!

That could be read either way!
Real as in there really was a deal going for that price.
Genuine - well I've found TZ members pretty reliable so have absolutely no reason to believe otherwise.

[DKL]

Incredible Sulk said:

Furry Muff. I've only ever bought one watch via TZ, and shortly after that for some reason best known to the guy who owns/runs the site my account got deleted. I've never been back, as I can't be arsed to rack up the posts to even look at the sales corner!

You, however, have a lot to answer for. I thought that I was happy with my current collection, but now you have brought Oysterdates back into the front of my mind, I might have to go and look for one too!

Ahh, sorry about that. If you see a blue one let me know.

[DKL]

rhinochopig said:

No offence, but you're buying a Rolex for the wrong reasons. You should (IMHO obviously) buy a watch because you like it, not because of brand snobbery.

The process should be:

• Bloody hell that's a good looking watch
• Wonder who makes that
• Wonder how much that is

Not, what's the cheapest way to have a brand on my wrist.

I think those are all fair points. I'm looking as I'm not sure about the design principle behind this type of watch, semi diver I suppose. The same could be applied to an SMpro or similar. They have the same basic appearance.
My watches tend to be a bit slimmer so I thought perhaps I had missed something, like the cellini ones.
Now I could try one on but really you need to live with it for a while so yes something where I could get my money back 6 months later would be appealing.
Rolex should be a good quality watch that ultimately would last a lifetime if I liked it long term.

Some AP Royal Oaks tick all the right boxes until you get to the slightly sticky issue of price...