346 replies to this topic

[Qwerty]

Thanks for those brand new pics, Dell!

[Dell Deaton]

Thanks for those brand new pics, Dell!

My pleasure, as always.

And to think: "BaselWorld," the international watch and jewelry show, doesn't open for three weeks yet. So this sort of an official announcement so early in the game (industry-wise and 007-wise) suggests to me that we're looking at a lot more to come from Omega SA in terms of the wristwatches in Quantum of Solace, on James Bond, and beyond!

[Vodka Martino]

Again, I beg the question, if all the filming "spy-shots" show Craig clearly wearing a PO, why come out with a new SMP? Granted it's decent looking (the all black SMP) but if he doesn't wear it in the movie, why even make it????

Because, Chuck, Omega learned long ago that there's money to be made in this crazy watch collecting business. I was talking to a work colleague today (I sell watches) and he hit the nail on the head when he said; " You know how many customers like the Bond watch but don't buy it because of the blue dial? They always say ' I wish it had a black dial because it goes with more stuff' ".
Personally, I like the blue dial because every man and his dog manufactures black-dialled dive watches. When Omega first brought out a Limited Ed Seamaster back in 2002 to coincide with the release of "Die Another Day" , I was amazed at how many customers came in to buy that watch. I thought the '007' wallpaper dial looked tacky, but if I had a dollar for every time I said to customers; "Well, y'know, I'm a Bond fan, but this watch does nothing for me..." , I'd be retired by now. Fast forward to 2006 when the second (and third) Ltd Ed Seamasters came out for "Casino Royale" and yep, same thing, although these two Ltd Eds took a little longer to sell out compared to the first one. As it happens, my store still has two of the 45mm "Casino Royale" Planet Oceans in stock even as we speak. That's not a shameless plug, btw, I'm just pointing out the fact that the subsequent Ltd Ed Seamasters haven't flown out the door at the same rate as the first one did.
Also, given that this new Ltd Ed has a glossy black dial, that alone separates it enough from the classic Brosnan-era blue dial to make it worth taking a closer look at when its released. I just wish they had done something a little different with the hands.
But what do I know...I just sell the damn things.

It's not that difficult to "fake" an image like that. Omega needed a preview photo of their new watch of which not single one has been produced, yet, so the went to their design or advertising department and told them to make one. They have all the basic elements on their computers to combine them to whatever they want. Colour change is three clicks, and the shadows and reflections shouldn't be a problem at all. Shouldn't take a pro who knows his software longer than an hour (heck, it's his dayjob). The image may not exactly look like the finished product, but it's only intended as a preview to give a first impression.

It's amazing what you can do with Photoshop these days...

And while I'm here: great thread, this one. Not very much watch savvy myself, so I'm happy to learn a thing or two here.

True, Stromberg. Also, if you flick through the 'Omega Designs' book that was published about ten years ago, you will find a prototype version of the Seamaster with a black dial. Never went into production.
Oh well..
Stick around, Stromberg. By the time the dust settles on this Bond watch thread, you'll know more about watches than you may care to.

Vodka Martino

[Dell Deaton]

Again, I beg the question, if all the filming "spy-shots" show Craig clearly wearing a PO, why come out with a new SMP? Granted it's decent looking (the all black SMP) but if he doesn't wear it in the movie, why even make it????

Because, Chuck, Omega learned long ago that there's money to be made in this crazy watch collecting business....

From a truth in advertising perspective, it's also important to understand the difference between "product placement" and "licensed product."

• Product placement is an arrangement made by a manufacturer to have something it's made (or another means of promoting itself) put into a motion picture, television program, et cetera.
• Product licensing is a deal made by a manufacturer that gives in permission to use branding from a motion picture, television program, et cetera, to help sell a product that didn't have to have appeared at all.

There are very strict laws about saying "product X appeared in movie Y" in advertising. The reason is that it is well known that folks like many on this Forum will be inclined to prefer and buy a product for that association. That's why if you go to the Omega SA website you'll see only the 2531.80 and 2541.80 Seamasters listed as "James Bond" watches, but in a lower, separate section, reference to the fact that the 2551.80 and 2561.80 are basically "mid-size" versions of these. To the casual observer, they look like the watches Pierce Brosnan wore as 007; but they're not, and it would be wrong to list them as such because, among other reasons, it would mislead the consumer.

Rules about licensing products simply means that you have to have permission from a production before you can use certain of its identifying marks to sell your product. Swatch did this w/ its series of quartz pieces, one for each film, that it sold a handful of years ago. None of these watches ever appeared in a James Bond film, EON or otherwise. That's fine, because they never said they did. But Swatch rightly knew that simply having the license to use the James Bond name, film names, and logo on these products would make them more marketable.

Swatch owns Omega, by the way.

From a historical perspective, it's also important to remember that Ian Fleming was the one who appreciated the value of Bond product licensing and put a great deal of effort into making that happen, starting w/ his Casino Royale novel. I highly recommend Andrew Lycett's biography, Ian Fleming: The Man Behind James Bond, for a very detailed accounting of this topic.

Which brings me to Chuck's initial question. It's entirely possible that the non-logo version of the watch we're discussing here will never appear in Quantum of Solace. The official Press Release does not claim that it will. It simply states that Omega is commemorating its long association with (and support of, thank you very much!) the 007 franchise. As VM says, it fills a void among those who are interested in a non-blue Bond watch, and, as I strongly feel, brings Omega more toe to toe in competition w/ established Bond watches by Rolex: A competition Omega has stated in the past that it wants and intends to win.

Finally, again, as VM points out, this effort costs Omega very little in terms of either manufacture (parts already existed) or promotion (photography, followed by some PhotoShopping for touchup, and then copyrighting). But look at what it's gained! The leading watch Forums w/ an Omega focus are exploding w/ this. We're talking about it here, and other James Bond Forums are now picking up the pictures I posted last night. The return on this and talk about Omega now is incredible, and invaluable to them.

That's why "this watch," even "if he doesn't wear it in the movie."

[chuck3]

Do we know if the back of the watch will say "quantum of solace" or just bear the '007' logo? Also, do you think it be safe to assume that Omega will produce the new black/black SMP without the 007 second hand? Furthermore, is there any info stating that this watch will continue to be produced in the years to come as an alternative to the blue faced dial? Also for Dell, could you paste the link with this info from Omega SA into a reply, please? I'd like to see it. Thanks

[Dell Deaton]

Do we know if the back of the watch will say "quantum of solace" or just bear the '007' logo?

No information so far on the caseback. And, for that matter, that it will be anything other than a straight Seamaster design (altho my personal guess is that it will be similar to the 2220.80).

Also, do you think it be safe to assume that Omega will produce the new black/black SMP without the 007 second hand?

Under normal circumstances, I'd say yes. However, as noted in my Post above, it's possible that this watch sits apart from any particular James Bond film, and that, as such, it's not intended to be a Limited version of a more mass-produced piece. So, we'll have to wait and see (which may be frustrating, but, again, doubtful that anyone who wants it will lose it to being "sold out").

Furthermore, is there any info stating that this watch will continue to be produced in the years to come as an alternative to the blue faced dial?

Depends on ultimate answer to your previous question, above.

Also for Dell, could you paste the link with this info from Omega SA into a reply, please? I'd like to see it. Thanks

Unfortunately, I have to say no on this one. (The good news is that I wouldn't have to kill you if I told you!)

[chuck3]

Well from what I understand "double 0's" have a very short life expectancy

Do we know if the back of the watch will say "quantum of solace" or just bear the '007' logo?

No information so far on the caseback. And, for that matter, that it will be anything other than a straight Seamaster design (altho my personal guess is that it will be similar to the 2220.80).

Also, do you think it be safe to assume that Omega will produce the new black/black SMP without the 007 second hand?

Under normal circumstances, I'd say yes. However, as noted in my Post above, it's possible that this watch sits apart from any particular James Bond film, and that, as such, it's not intended to be a Limited version of a more mass-produced piece. So, we'll have to wait and see (which may be frustrating, but, again, doubtful that anyone who wants it will lose it to being "sold out").

Furthermore, is there any info stating that this watch will continue to be produced in the years to come as an alternative to the blue faced dial?

Depends on ultimate answer to your previous question, above.

Also for Dell, could you paste the link with this info from Omega SA into a reply, please? I'd like to see it. Thanks

Unfortunately, I have to say no on this one. (The good news is that I wouldn't have to kill you if I told you!)

Well from what I understand "double 0's" have a very short life expectancy

[chuck3]

? Does anyone know where I can find a complete list of all the watches Bond has worn throughout every movie from Dr. No to Casino Royale?

[Dell Deaton]

? Does anyone know where I can find a complete list of all the watches Bond has worn throughout every movie from Dr. No to Casino Royale?

Do you want a "list" or an "accurate list"?

The former exists all over the Internet, mostly form wanna-be's who've copied the mis-information of those who have posted before them. I'll also risk controversy here by saying that none of the lists so far published on other James Bond fan sites are accurate or complete (and most are down-right misleading).

As someone who's really studied this for years, sometimes reducing the "possibilities" by a mere one model from a list for one scene in one film after the work of several months, and considering that a great success, my advice is to simply enjoy the search! And, of course, share the nuggets you unearth along the way.

I truly love the effort. :tup:

PS: There is actually a better Thread for this more generalized James Bond watches question, titled, appropriately, "Watches, James Bond Watches," which I started and regularly contribute to, in the CBn Collecting Forum. Keeps this Thread cleaner, and will probably attract more the sort of folks interested in a discussion of vintage wristwatches. Hope this helps.

Edited by Dell Deaton, 13 March 2008 - 11:21 PM.

[D. Bond]

I've been looking to buy a watch lately, but I'm having trouble with what to pick, either Rolex Submariner (with the black face) or the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean...

I've been debating this for like a month, both are excellent watches just not sure which to choose, not to mention their both Bond watches too!! In the end it's my decision but what would you choose?

[post="http://hkyms.files.w...iner.jpg"]Rolex Submariner[/post]


[post="http://www.2000watch...0.00.jpg"]Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean[/post]

[Byron]

I've been looking to buy a watch lately, but I'm having trouble with what to pick, either Rolex Submariner (with the black face) or the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean...

I've been debating this for like a month, both are excellent watches just not sure which to choose, not to mention their both Bond watches too!! In the end it's my decision but what would you choose?

[post="http://hkyms.files.w...iner.jpg"]Rolex Submariner[/post]


[post="http://www.2000watch...0.00.jpg"]Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean[/post]

Neither of your links work.

[Peregrine Carruthers]

And why not the original Rolex from the books, with big numerals ?

[Dell Deaton]

I've been looking to buy a watch lately, but I'm having trouble with what to pick, either Rolex Submariner (with the black face) or the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean....

A lot of folks in Bienne, Switzerland, are no doubt right now quite happy that you are comparing these two watches at all, irrespective of your final decision. To your direct question, "which would you choose?" my personal answer is that I chose and continue to own both. So maybe I can add a little more value to this Thread by suggesting some criteria by which you (and others) can make personal decisions for yourselves.

Which Bond watches are still available?

When you mention the Rolex Submariner, note that the last model worn by James Bond that we know by reference was the 5513 worn by Roger Moore in Live and Let Die (and in all likelihood, The Man with the Golden Gun). After a long and successful run, and a number of different dial variations which differ from the 007 look, that wristwatch was discontinued about two decades ago. Rolex still makes a Submariner model, but, in my opinion, it's too far from what was worn in the films to satisfy our interests here.

Dalton-Bond Rolex Submariner Date

There was a rapid (by industry standards) succession of Rolex Submariner Date models in the period leading up to production of Licence to Kill. The last of which was the model 16610, which is currently in production and has, to the typical buyer, changed imperceptively since its introduction. All "possible" models for the Timothy Dalton Rolex are so similar in dial, crystal, hands, case, and bracelet, that I'm comfortable saying that the current Sub Date is still a Bond watch and recommending it.



Craig-Bond Omega Planet Ocean

As 2008 unfolds I doubt anyone will be referring to "the" Daniel Craig Planet Ocean any longer, since it's all but certain that Quantum of Solace will bring us another configuration, if not model. But for now, we're talking about the model 2900.50.91 "Seamaster Planet Ocean Big Size" on a rubber strap. This is the Casino Royale watch, and it continues to be available; as VM said earlier in this Thread, this 45mm version of the PO outsells the 42.5mm version. But if you're inclined toward Omega, I'd wait to find out what's coming in QoS before making a final selection.

How do these two watches differ?

Rolex has an overall finer feel to me, taking into consideration such things as bezel rotation and the screw-down crown. Its caliber 3135 movement has a longer track record than the co-axial technology in the Planet Ocean, and is rock solid reliable. The outside of the sapphire crystal is not coated, therefore less succeptable to scratching. Personally, I prefer the double-lock bracelet clasp, altho a fair number of respectable folks think it looks cheap and hate it.

The Planet Ocean dial is much easier to read in all lighting conditions, and, as a practical matter, probably more diver-friendly because of this. The sapphire crystal is also cleaner w/out the Rolex date-bubble, and many folks prefer its domed shape to the flat surface of the Sub Date. The rubber strap is incredible, and makes for a watch that compensates for wear on a smaller wrist at this size. It'll definitely give you a greater wrist presence, but it's not ostentatious.

What about comparing economics?

You'll pay just about twice as much for the Rolex Submariner Date new as you will for the Omega Planet Ocean Big Size. That takes into account that there's not much movement on MSRP in the former, and that few saavy buyers pay full retail for the latter. You'll hear about shortages off and on for the Sub Date; not so much so on the PO. Hunt around and you'll find "previously enjoyed" versions of both at local shops in your area (and ADs can sometimes refer you), and that can help a great deal w/ sticker shock. Under no circumstances would I recommend buying on the Internet: There are too many fakes out there, too many horror stories.

Long-term, Rolex is said to appreciate in value better. But in my experience, a well cared for (but still reasonably worn) Omega holds its value quite well. For example, just last month, I sold a two-year-old Omega Seamaster for almost exactly what I paid for it in 2005.

Bottom Line

There's probably some correlation between price and value here; in areas where Rolex appears to have favor over Omega, you can and should consider the added price you're paying in that. Overall, my bottom line is that you really can't go wrong w/ either choice!

And why not the original Rolex from the books, with big numerals ?

A legitimate interest, w/out a doubt. My response to D. Bond was, of course, based on the choices he'd narrowed in his question.

Beyond that, however, we have the problem in the novels of not knowing exactly which model(s) of Rolex Mr. Fleming had in mind for James Bond. Unless, of course, you have some particular insider-knowledge you'd care to share?

[Four Aces]

Great reply Dell.

[Dell Deaton]

Great reply Dell.

My pleasure. Also see that you've just made this Thread hit 5,007 Posts!



Perhaps a subliminal message to Omega SA that we prefer our "Limiteds" to be limited to 5,007 pieces!

[Peregrine Carruthers]

And why not the original Rolex from the books, with big numerals ?

A legitimate interest, w/out a doubt. My response to D. Bond was, of course, based on the choices he'd narrowed in his question.

Beyond that, however, we have the problem in the novels of not knowing exactly which model(s) of Rolex Mr. Fleming had in mind for James Bond. Unless, of course, you have some particular insider-knowledge you'd care to share?

I took great pleasure to read you.

About watches, I'm just an amateur. I have one Omega Seamaster 300.
Omega Seamaster 300M

If I refer to Rolex, and to the Fleming's books, I note:

* Rolex with some big numerals are few. The first with a complete serie of numerals (not only 12-3-6-9) have been manufactured in the 30's. (called Rolex "Precision")

http://img299.images...20776760ug3.gif

According to Fleming, Bond was born in 1921 or 1924 depending on the novels. The Rolex Precision can not match with the novels (in 50's/60's this model isdiscontinued)
The Rolex Sterling are from the 30's too so...And Bond with a Sterling, I don't think so.
http://img171.images...839/5692yh7.jpg
The Rolex SkyRocket (or Victory for the US) was produced in 1942 BUT for Canadian Forces only.
http://img374.images...subsec2buk4.jpg

There's only the Oyster who had those criteria. The novels take place between 50's and 60's so only two models in this series match. The Oyster Bubbleback (but without 3-6-9) and the Oyster Royal with the Oyster stainless band that Fleming recommends....
http://img442.images...lexroyalsg4.jpg

Edited by Peregrine Carruthers, 17 March 2008 - 07:46 PM.

[Emma]

The 007 logo on an Omega is TACKY!

Which is why I opted for the exact Black one which Craig wore in CR when I decided to get one. Besides it's bad enough that I'm wearing a man's watch. To be seen wearing one that has '007' on the dial face is not good for career mobility! I only take my Bond geekiness so far .

I picked up (the magazine) Arena yesterday and there was a picture of Craig wearing the Black Seamaster.

[Dell Deaton]

And why not the original Rolex from the books, with big numerals ?

... you have some particular insider-knowledge you'd care to share?

I took great pleasure to read you.... If I refer to Rolex, and to the Fleming's books, ... only two models in this series match. The Oyster Bubbleback (but without 3-6-9) and the Oyster Royal with the Oyster stainless band that Fleming recommends....

Impressive analysis!

If memory serves, Ian Fleming set the period during which his novel Casino Royale took place at sometime on or subsequent to June 15, 1951. Neither the James Bond of those original books nor the EON films thereafter seems to be able to hold onto his wristwatch for more than 5 to 10 years, so we are talking about an early 1940s piece at the earliest.

The Casino Royale watch was most likely lost, of course; and no identifying information on make or model was ever provided on it. To simply assume that it was a Rolex based on some inferred brand loyalty on the part of 007 is unsubstantiated.

Thus a very strong argument could be made that of all the films, the most recent Casino Royale re-boot is on very firm footing to put Daniel Craig in an Omega as James Bond. Why would that wristwatch have been any less likely the one Ian Fleming had in mind in the early 1950s than any other?

[chuck3]

some very nice analysis here! great reads!

[Professor Dent]

Dalton-Bond Rolex Submariner Date

There was a rapid (by industry standards) succession of Rolex Submariner Date models in the period leading up to production of Licence to Kill. The last of which was the model 16610, which is currently in production and has, to the typical buyer, changed imperceptively since its introduction. All "possible" models for the Timothy Dalton Rolex are so similar in dial, crystal, hands, case, and bracelet, that I'm comfortable saying that the current Sub Date is still a Bond watch and recommending it.

Thanks for this very basic summary on this watch. I've debated buying one of these for years but can just never seem to pull the trigger. Looks like I need to look harder at it.

[MkB]

I picked up on a link given by Peregrine Carruthers (nicely chosen screen name, by the way ) and found this online shop selling Rolex and Omega (and other brands) watches, and I'm a bit confused: I'm not really watch-wise, but the prices listed seem to me an incredible bargain... Or are these watches replicas?? But they seem to have the logos and so on

Maybe some of our specıalısts here could shed some light? Thaks in advance for your help!

MODERATOR'S NOTE: The watches in those links are fake thus rendering those websites illegal.

Edited by Righty007, 18 March 2008 - 12:06 AM.

[Sriram619]

How many of you want the PO to be the new 007 watch will you guys miss the old seamaster ? i like the band on the old seamaster better than the planet ocean band what do you guuys think

Edited by Sriram619, 18 March 2008 - 06:33 PM.

[Dell Deaton]

I picked up on a link given by Peregrine Carruthers (nicely chosen screen name, by the way ) and found this online shop selling Rolex and Omega (and other brands) watches, and I'm a bit confused: I'm not really watch-wise, but the prices listed seem to me an incredible bargain... Or are these watches replicas?? But they seem to have the logos and so on ... MODERATOR'S NOTE: The watches in those links are fake thus rendering those websites illegal.

Trust your instincts!

First off, one of the great steps we all take at some point in our interest in these great brands is to venture forth into an Authorized Dealer to actually touch the pieces first-hand. And in every case, Rolex and Omega, you should see some sort of warning that they do not authorize sale of their watches on the Internet. So in all cases, you're either dealing w/ someone selling fakes or someone who's lying in his dealings w/ the manufacturer (with whom he has a lot less to lose than lying to you and me!).

Second, the hundred-something dollar price point is another red flag. That seems to be the price point at which folks willingly seem to be able to lie to themselves that they've somehow stumbled across the Deal of the Century and take a risk (ending up w/ scrap). The wholesale price of these watches is many multiples of that number, so no Authorized Dealer could have afforded to have bought the inventory in the first place and then turned it around for these prices. And at they could easily sell out their stock on liquidation for much more than that at far less effort and risk.

Sometimes you'll see in these places a clue in the reference to the movement. All are invariably quartz, which most of the models we're discussing here as Bond watches are not. Thus, you're looking at someone who's putting the Omega or Rolex brand on another watch w/out permission, which is a violation of intellectual property rights. I liken it to stealing the content of CBn and rebranding it as one's own: We all see a lot of value here, and we'd hate to see our hosts hurt by having someone else take their products, repackage it, and try to make profit on it.

Finally, believe it or not, fake watches are profitable. I held a $50 knock-off of a Brosnan-Bond Seamaster once that wasn't as nice as my $25 Timex! So why would you pay $100 for a $5 watch?

In the end, remember what you're grandfather told you about getting what you pay for. And it's well worth the effort to save and sacrifice to buy the real thing down the road. That's where you'll really be satisfied!

PS: You probably didn't know much of this when you Posted, so I hope this isn't taken as a criticism of your question. It's good to ask (just w/out the links). It's a necessary topic to discuss, and I hope we're helping a lot of people avoid making a mistake here.

[MkB]

Apologies for posting these links! I realise adding the links was a mistake (but I thought it would be easier to react), and thanks the moderator for correcting it. I didn't mean to promote this site at all, on the contrary: if those watches are illegal fakes, they are clearly sold at an incredibly high price (and illegally, to top it all off)!
Nevertheless, I hope my candid question and your wise reaction will prevent some other newbies to buy such things.

[Dell Deaton]

... I hope my candid question and your wise reaction will prevent some other newbies to buy such things.

Indeed!

Unfortunately, such matters inevitably have to be a part of these discussions. Kudos to you for your thoughtfulness, and to CBn for keeping this place clean and free of bottom-feeders.

[HildebrandRarity]

For Dell...

"The James Bond Submariner, An Unauthorised History" :

http://www.qualityty...submariner.html

[D. Bond]

I've been looking to buy a watch lately, but I'm having trouble with what to pick, either Rolex Submariner (with the black face) or the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean....

A lot of folks in Bienne, Switzerland, are no doubt right now quite happy that you are comparing these two watches at all, irrespective of your final decision. To your direct question, "which would you choose?" my personal answer is that I chose and continue to own both. So maybe I can add a little more value to this Thread by suggesting some criteria by which you (and others) can make personal decisions for yourselves.

Which Bond watches are still available?

When you mention the Rolex Submariner, note that the last model worn by James Bond that we know by reference was the 5513 worn by Roger Moore in Live and Let Die (and in all likelihood, The Man with the Golden Gun). After a long and successful run, and a number of different dial variations which differ from the 007 look, that wristwatch was discontinued about two decades ago. Rolex still makes a Submariner model, but, in my opinion, it's too far from what was worn in the films to satisfy our interests here.

Dalton-Bond Rolex Submariner Date

There was a rapid (by industry standards) succession of Rolex Submariner Date models in the period leading up to production of Licence to Kill. The last of which was the model 16610, which is currently in production and has, to the typical buyer, changed imperceptively since its introduction. All "possible" models for the Timothy Dalton Rolex are so similar in dial, crystal, hands, case, and bracelet, that I'm comfortable saying that the current Sub Date is still a Bond watch and recommending it.



Craig-Bond Omega Planet Ocean

As 2008 unfolds I doubt anyone will be referring to "the" Daniel Craig Planet Ocean any longer, since it's all but certain that Quantum of Solace will bring us another configuration, if not model. But for now, we're talking about the model 2900.50.91 "Seamaster Planet Ocean Big Size" on a rubber strap. This is the Casino Royale watch, and it continues to be available; as VM said earlier in this Thread, this 45mm version of the PO outsells the 42.5mm version. But if you're inclined toward Omega, I'd wait to find out what's coming in QoS before making a final selection.

How do these two watches differ?

Rolex has an overall finer feel to me, taking into consideration such things as bezel rotation and the screw-down crown. Its caliber 3135 movement has a longer track record than the co-axial technology in the Planet Ocean, and is rock solid reliable. The outside of the sapphire crystal is not coated, therefore less succeptable to scratching. Personally, I prefer the double-lock bracelet clasp, altho a fair number of respectable folks think it looks cheap and hate it.

The Planet Ocean dial is much easier to read in all lighting conditions, and, as a practical matter, probably more diver-friendly because of this. The sapphire crystal is also cleaner w/out the Rolex date-bubble, and many folks prefer its domed shape to the flat surface of the Sub Date. The rubber strap is incredible, and makes for a watch that compensates for wear on a smaller wrist at this size. It'll definitely give you a greater wrist presence, but it's not ostentatious.

What about comparing economics?

You'll pay just about twice as much for the Rolex Submariner Date new as you will for the Omega Planet Ocean Big Size. That takes into account that there's not much movement on MSRP in the former, and that few saavy buyers pay full retail for the latter. You'll hear about shortages off and on for the Sub Date; not so much so on the PO. Hunt around and you'll find "previously enjoyed" versions of both at local shops in your area (and ADs can sometimes refer you), and that can help a great deal w/ sticker shock. Under no circumstances would I recommend buying on the Internet: There are too many fakes out there, too many horror stories.

Long-term, Rolex is said to appreciate in value better. But in my experience, a well cared for (but still reasonably worn) Omega holds its value quite well. For example, just last month, I sold a two-year-old Omega Seamaster for almost exactly what I paid for it in 2005.

Bottom Line

There's probably some correlation between price and value here; in areas where Rolex appears to have favor over Omega, you can and should consider the added price you're paying in that. Overall, my bottom line is that you really can't go wrong w/ either choice!

And why not the original Rolex from the books, with big numerals ?

A legitimate interest, w/out a doubt. My response to D. Bond was, of course, based on the choices he'd narrowed in his question.

Beyond that, however, we have the problem in the novels of not knowing exactly which model(s) of Rolex Mr. Fleming had in mind for James Bond. Unless, of course, you have some particular insider-knowledge you'd care to share?

Dell Deaton....That Was A Perfect Answer For Me, Gave Me Everything and all the Info I Was Looking For!! Thank You!!!

[Peregrine Carruthers]

I picked up on a link given by Peregrine Carruthers
MODERATOR'S NOTE: The watches in those links are fake thus rendering those websites illegal.

I used photos of these models to illustrate my point.
I don't have done publicity for these sites and I haven't any kind of judgement on the legality of their existence.
I used an images hosting service and there's no link to any commercial site.

Edited by Peregrine Carruthers, 18 March 2008 - 09:47 AM.

[Peregrine Carruthers]

I sold a two-year-old Omega Seamaster for almost exactly what I paid for it in 2005.

I'm very surprised you are able to sell a second-hand watch the same price that a new one...
A 20% discount is automatic at the moment you leave the store (for a car, a watch...). Even in a perfect condition...You're a terrific salesman !

[HildebrandRarity]

Dell Deaton....That Was A Perfect Answer For Me, Gave Me Everything and all the Info I Was Looking For!! Thank You!!!

Yes, Dell and some of our other fine friends in this thread have been most informative.

Here, however, is a terrific link which directly compares Rolex 'Sea-Dweller' to Omega Seamaster 'Planet Ocean' in great depth:

http://rolexreferenc...O/sd vs po.html

I, too, am in the market after 13 years of wearing a TAG Heuer in memory of the late great Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix triple world champion Ayrton Senna.

Now, that i've got the spare cash, i'm torn between Submariner and Seamaster 300 Diver...and the attached link has now thrown the Sea-Dweller into the mix (because it does not have the date 'bubble'). Unfortuanately, it does not have 'the Bond connection'!