Like the last article, Its Time to Flaunt Your Swag, Buying a Rolex Part 1, you have decided to by a Rolex. We talked about the advantages and disadvantages to buy new or vintage, we talked about the best time to buy your watch, and we talked about some changes to a few different models from there last generation to the watches you will find in your favorite jewelry store. Now it is time to choose a model, you may already think you know which one you want but we will talk a little about some of the more popular models.
First things first
First things first, what are your plans for watch? Is the model you are thinking of conducive to your life style? If you’re a scuba diving James Bond fan then you ought to look at the Submariner and its various sub-models. If you’re a scuba diver and you love to travel, a model you may not think of at first is the GMT. The GMT doesn’t boast the same 300 meters depth rating, but it is rated to 100 meters, which is a lot more than a recreational diver will ever need. The classy more dress watch the Datejust is rated to a waterproof depth of 100 meters.
The Submariner
The Submariner is one of the most iconic in the Rolex line up. The Submariner began its legend in 1954 and since then has done nothing but impress. It’s hard not to think of Sean Connery as the super suave British spy James Bond when you see a Submariner on someone’s wrist. Bond’s was the military styled no-date Submariner with the spring bars welded to the lugs making sure that anything less then the strap being completely severed and the watch would stay on the wearer’s wrist. But I don’t think that is necessary for most of us and the option of changing between straps and bands is pretty appealing. The Submariner is has a rotating bezel that is used to help a diver keep track of their dive time and is waterproof rated to 300 meters or 1000 feet, so except for the most extreme technical diving this watch will get the job done. It also looks as cool in a tee shirt and shorts as it does in a tuxedo. This is a very versatile watch.
The GMT
The GMT the ultimate world travelers watch. The advantage of the GMT is it’s ability to keep time in both your home time zone and the one you are currently traveling in. The GMT was designed with a thought that was going to be geared toward airline pilots and world travelers but became a favorite and status symbol in Vietnam with the Special Forces who admired the watches toughness in such a harsh environment. Both the GMT and the Submariner still hold a special place in the hearts of our Special Forces warriors. This toughness begins with the 100 meters depth rating and the fact that the watch uses the ultra tough oyster case.
The Datejust
The datejust, the undisputed king of the boardroom and Rolex’s biggest seller. It is hands down the executive’s choice looking great in anything from business casual to black tie attire. It too boasts a 100 meters depth rating so certainly don’t be afraid to swim with it on. In recent years it has grown from a 36mm case to a 40mm case making it a little more sporty looking while retaining all the formality it is known for.
Now it’s buying time!