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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

Omega Speedmaster over Rolex Datejust

51 replies

Johnsonian · 09/09/2024 01:10

DP's 30th is next month and have been mulling over getting him a watch to mark it and torn between two.

He is a history buff, but works in scientific research, so the Omega Speedster "moon watch" stood out as it is sort of a cross between science and history. Would go for the sapphire version (not the hesalite) as I have read the hesalite is quite prone to scratching.

Other option I've been looking it is a Rolex Datejust - he would like the simplicity of it, especially the blue version.

Am more geared towards the Omega, but not sure as Rolex is more renowned. AIBU to pick Omega over Rolex?

Omega (sapphire version) Speedmaster goes for £7,500 whilst Rolex Datejust is about £12,500. Not sure if Rolexs tend to be a bit overpriced due to their excellent marketing and brand image, or if the £5,000 premium would actually result in a superior, and more robust, watch?

Anyone on here have any experience with either (or both) of these mens watches?

OP posts:
Thread gallery
5
offyoujollywelltrot · 09/09/2024 01:13
Biscuit
yeesh · 09/09/2024 01:19

Lol

AsYouWiiiiiiiiiiiiish · 09/09/2024 01:30

Omega.

Rolex just doesn't carry the same weight it used to with every influencer wearing one.

If he is to keep it forever (vs an investement) then I think the Omega will be more of a sentimental choice, especially with the connection to his interests.

OP posts:
Lorelaigilmore88 · 09/09/2024 01:34

What is it with these threads tonight? There must be some watch forum you can post on, why in aibu?

Original poster
Johnsonian · 09/09/2024 01:34

Here are the ones. I think he would like the blue colour of the Rolex but will value the history of the Omega "Moonwatch"more.

Omega Speedmaster over Rolex Datejust
Omega Speedmaster over Rolex Datejust
OP posts:
samedifferent · 09/09/2024 01:38

I would also veer towards the Omega.
Like cars I prefer to buy gently used ones with original paperwork etc. That way someone else takes the deprecation hit.
DH has a couple of Omega ones, special edition ones and they have appreciated in value of the last 10/15 years.

Appleblum · 09/09/2024 01:40

Based purely on the aesthetics of what you've posted, I'd choose the rolex date just. I know my DH would also prefer the date just. The omega watch that I think looks really nice is the seamaster.

How far away is his birthday though? There's a waiting list for rolex and you may not get it in time.

smashburgers · 09/09/2024 01:40

Just get both 🤷🏼‍♀️

offyoujollywelltrot · 09/09/2024 01:58

Lorelaigilmore88 · 09/09/2024 01:34

What is it with these threads tonight? There must be some watch forum you can post on, why in aibu?

More traffic to flash their money about most likely.

InterIgnis · 09/09/2024 02:40

I like the Datejust personally, but based on what you’ve said I’d go for the Omega for your DH. Look up variations on the dial if you think he’d like the blue:

luxurytimenyc.com/collections/speedmaster/blue

Netaporter · 09/09/2024 02:49

@Johnsonian it’s a moot point really - you won’t get a Rolex at rrp unless you have an existing’relationship’ with Rolex. The watches you see in the window are display stock only - you can’t actually buy them. You’ll most likely have to purchase from a reseller so you’ll be looking at a price higher than the rrp. A Rolex will hold its value over the years, the Omega might not.

If he’s into history consider a vintage version of either. Maybe a 1969 watch to mirror the moon landing or something? There are a couple of reputable places in central London who could help you source something like that.

Post in style and beauty for more opinions, it isn’t really an AIBU question…

HauntedbyMagpies · 09/09/2024 02:51

That's half my yearly salary. Some people have more money than sense

Jillybloop393 · 09/09/2024 02:54

Rolex every time - they're the best. I've had mine about ten years, and love it.

InterIgnis · 09/09/2024 03:02

HauntedbyMagpies · 09/09/2024 02:51

That's half my yearly salary. Some people have more money than sense

No, some people just have more money than you, and spending that on a watch isn’t going to break the bank.

I think it’s great when people spend their money on things they enjoy, no matter the price of those things. Good for them.

JohnSt1 · 09/09/2024 05:30

I'd choose the Omega. I don't like the Rolex look, apart from the Explorer.

JaceLancs · 09/09/2024 05:38

I don’t like the look of Rolex and have always been an omega fan

ILikeItWhatIsIt · 09/09/2024 06:25

Netaporter · 09/09/2024 02:49

@Johnsonian it’s a moot point really - you won’t get a Rolex at rrp unless you have an existing’relationship’ with Rolex. The watches you see in the window are display stock only - you can’t actually buy them. You’ll most likely have to purchase from a reseller so you’ll be looking at a price higher than the rrp. A Rolex will hold its value over the years, the Omega might not.

If he’s into history consider a vintage version of either. Maybe a 1969 watch to mirror the moon landing or something? There are a couple of reputable places in central London who could help you source something like that.

Post in style and beauty for more opinions, it isn’t really an AIBU question…

There's a waiting list for Rolex perpetual datejust? I'd be surprised at that since the one OP posted would probably be considered a budget model. There certainly wasn't any wait when I bought mine. I just walked into Laing's, tried a few on, ordered & got it about a week later. That was about 10yrs ago right enough.

DreamW3aver · 09/09/2024 06:29

What is your AIBU and why do you think they people who don't know your partner will have a better idea what he likes than you do?

Jjiillkkf · 09/09/2024 06:52

Omega

Netaporter · 09/09/2024 06:53

ILikeItWhatIsIt · 09/09/2024 06:25

There's a waiting list for Rolex perpetual datejust? I'd be surprised at that since the one OP posted would probably be considered a budget model. There certainly wasn't any wait when I bought mine. I just walked into Laing's, tried a few on, ordered & got it about a week later. That was about 10yrs ago right enough.

Show quote history

10 yrs ago you could buy pretty much any model save for a submariner or sea dweller. Then Instagram/SM changed the whole ‘lux lifestyle’ and the ability to generate a profit from any Rolex became a business model for a younger generation. Patek have the same issue as does Audemars Piguet. It is very frustrating for people like the OP who want to buy one as a gift and not something to resell.

arinya · 09/09/2024 06:58

I chose Omega over Rolex. I just didn’t feel like a Rolex person when I tried it on. Not sure i’m an Omega person either tbh, I’m a bit scruffy. But I liked the Omega more. I have the ladies Seamaster Aqua Terra. It’s more expensive to purchase new now than when it was bought for me. No plans to sell though, will pass on to my daughter.

wickerlady · 09/09/2024 07:04

Are you looking to get these items new? You can't just walk into Rolex for one of these watches, there will be a waiting list.

Omega you might be ok.

You could of course pay after market prices for a new Rolex (bought from a person who has been sat waiting on the list) but you'll pay a premium.

Firenzeflower · 09/09/2024 07:06

Rolex if you can get one.
I waited two years for mine.
Also it’s not easy to get on the waiting list for some Rolex’s.

Firenzeflower · 09/09/2024 07:09

Rolex dealers now sell a lot of vintage Rolexs so you might get one from them. Watches of Switzerland are very good.