Submariner / SD dilemma

[hungry_hog]

I have a dilemma around which of these watches to buy. I have ruled out the DSSD as I think it’s too bulky (I am not heavily built / 6’4’’ like most on here)
For context, I have an Omega Speedy Broad Arrow and do not plan on any diving

Option A (£3,000) Rolex Submariner (the previous model)
+ a bit cheaper
+ looks elegant compared to current model
- concerns about the bracelet – does it stretch over time due to hollow links? Clasp is a bit thin

Option B (£4,000) Rolex Sea Dweller (the previous model)
+ the best looking of the three IMO. Chunky but clean design
- similar concerns with bracelet/clasp as per old Sub
- pricier than old Sub

Option C (£4,800) Rolex Submariner (current model)
+ better bracelet, ceramic bezel
- most expensive
- case a bit bulky/wide compared to above two, not as elegant

My heart is saying Sea Dweller, my watch head is saying new Sub and my financial head is saying old Sub
The Sea Dweller seems to be a real favourite on the Rolex forums

I aim to try them all on but there are no guarantees a shop will have all three in stock at once, hence would appreciate your experiences with these watches

[Maxf]

I found my SD a little too bulky - the sub was just that little bit thinner to make it more wearable, while still being a 'tool' watch.

I'd buy another SD though, but for the resale potential and that they seem a nicer place to keep £3.75k than the bank.

[digitise]

I bought an SD last week from Dom H. It's my first Rolex and I love it
I can also heartily recommend Dominic. Great bloke and a great service.

[EJH]

SD. Had the same choice as you in December and haven't regretted it for a moment

[andy tims]

Nuff said surely.

[Highrisedrifter]

I've had my Submariner for a few years now and the poor thing is looking somewhat worse for wear. I wasn't aware of the Sea Dweller but I like the look of it. I was thinking of getting another Breitling to replace my SM but I may look into the SD instead.

[MOD500]

Mr. Tims speaketh the truth

[Mr E Driver]

Highrisedrifter said:

I've had my Submariner for a few years now and the poor thing is looking somewhat worse for wear.

Get it serviced by a Rolex approved repair agent or Rolex and get your Sub returned looking like a new one. Tell them not to change the hands or the face, keep it original.

[Helicopter123]

andy tims said:

Nuff said surely.

I couldn't agree more - a truly lovely watch.

I'm in the market for one.

[skmark]

Bought my SD last year......never looked back, the best choice by far

[Helicopter123]

I don't suppose anyone is thinking of selling a sea dweller?

[Mr E Driver]

http://www.tz-uk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=3&t...

http://www.tz-uk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=3&t...

[Helicopter123]

That's a lovely SD over on TZ - might send off an enquiry - £4,250 ono sounds reasonable money.

I've noticed a couple of Deap sea SD's in the classifieds here for £5200/£5300 and they seem good value as well.

Any thoughts on the respective merits of these? I've tried on a DSSD before and found it very heavy, a bit of a monster.

Would be interested to hear thoughts on the likely residual values on both.

[Ecurie Ecosse]

I was in a similar dilemma last year and bought the SD.

Try and see the different models side by side. The SD is a bit chunkier, but not massively so.

I wear mine every day and it goes well with a business suit or casual clothes. Due to the sizes of modern watches the SD actually looks normal now and not too large.

[Debaser]

Get the SD. Gives me another excuse to post a pic of mine..