Echi
[Photo Forum Moderator]
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Since it's a first time buy for either brands..
I'd say go the Rolex route first. Personally, I think it's a rite of passage to own a Rolex or an Omega at least once in any collector's/enthusiast's lifetime.
Besides, the new exp2 isn't exactly an ugly watch. I have the old one. I have tried the new one. There's nothing like the feel of that Rolex "heft" (case and bracelet) on one's wrist. Best stainless steel in that category (904L). It really looks the part and I think looks more "expensive" than its price tag.
Ironically, a couple of Seiko GS has made it to the top of my list over my usual JLC, Rolex, and Zenith faves. SBGM0029 and SBGR0061 for starters.
The pics on their website do not give a fair representation of how they really look like "in person" especially the 0061. I did a search over the weekend for the most "real" pics I can lay my eyes on and the GS really shouts quality for the price.
The GS can come off as boring and heck, even pedestrian, as it does carry that Seiko look for better or for worse. But it grows on you badly for some reason.
One plus to the GS watches that I mentioned is that it can have that ability to give off a vintage feel especially the 0061. Potential downside is the bracelet as I do not know how it stacks against the Rolex. I love Rolex oyster bracelets. It has presence and the brushed steel sheen is very nice. GS bracelet... not so sure.
Exp2 first. Then the GS 
I am considering these two watches
Hi, I wanted to share with the forum two watches that I have been pondering of late to add to my collection. Brand: Grand Seiko Model: Mechanical Caliber 9S Series Reference: SGBH001 Size: 40.0 mm x 13.0 mm Water Resistance: 100 meters Movement: Grand Sei...
GS All the Way :-)
Here is why: Click on the links within my post but before you do, get comfortable, make some coffee and then go for it :-) S
Normally, I would say GS, but...
With GS, in my experience, I have now owned 3 and currently own the Blue dial GMT LE that was recently released... SBGM029, (probably among the most beautiful watches I have ever laid eyes on).... with all that said... It really depends WHICH GS you get. ...
Suggest some GS References Please...
Which GS references do you like and why? What was it about the hi-beat references that left you underwhelmed? Thanks
I did reference one in my post
How can I explain why I was underwhelmed? It is a matter of taste. In the end, it is your decision, but as they always say, you can't go wrong with Rolex. I would try to see the Hi beat before purchasing-- you may fall in love!
GS in a heartbeat
Hope this may go some way it make up your mind. Rolexes are pretty common place if u think about it, GS requires a level of horological maturity and awareness. If u are thinking of GS over a Lex, it shows u want something more the Lex brand equity. That'...
Since it will be your first for either brand..
I will pick the Rolex. cheers fernando
Consider the ease of service
Say what you would about Rolex's ubiquitousness, but its strong AD and service center network, means you have no problems getting the watch serviced in any major city. Getting a Grand Seiko serviced, on the other hand, may depend on where you live, and if...
I have both...IMHO..Rolex for longevity and ease of ownership
GS is a great watch, but it gets boring after a short while. Too cold, and resale poor, when you tire of it. To me, IMHO, the GS is for the man who has tried and tasted Rolex and Omega steel models, and a natural evolution for collectors seeking diversifi...
Yes I did
Being a diver, I cannot stand the helium escape valve. It ruins the Seamaster PO to me.I also looked at the blue dialed mid-sized Aqua Terra Chronometer.
Good advice Horo/ disagree about GS though
Agree with everything about Rolex and Exp 2. But if you find 'your' GS, it may bring a lifetime of love. :) I find the right GS to be worthy of long-term keeping. But the wrong GS is maybe too easy to find... like all watches, you have to make a few mista...
Hey Bob -
- The Rolex will last a lifetime. I'd say go with the Explorer. But if I already had an Explorer, it'd be the GS all the way. So beautiful. So elegant. The Rolex is built like a tank. So what if it doesn't have an exhibition case back. It has all the late...
Since it's a first time buy for either brands..
I'd say go the Rolex route first. Personally, I think it's a rite of passage to own a Rolex or an Omega at least once in any collector's/enthusiast's lifetime. Besides, the new exp2 isn't exactly an ugly watch. I have the old one. I have tried the new one...
Personally....
... I have had Rolex EXP II Black (surprised?), but worn several times and stopped wearing and sold it off with lot of premium (I owned it for 15 years or so). Why stopped wearing? Just got bored. Hated flashy and shouting "Rolex! Rolex" on my wrist. Many...
Thanks very much
First off, thanks to all for your helpful comments and suggestions. Regarding Rolex… I was merely sharing my thoughts of the difference in the shopping experience for a Rolex vs. other high-end brands where knowledge and detailing of the item are essentia...
You can always....
... ask me for help if you are interested in Japan only models. I would be always more than happy to help fellow PuristS.... Understand that SEIKO is in the process of expanding GS availability as well as service centers globally, so in the long run, you ...
Rolex
I'd go with the Rolex, Never owned a Seiko, other than a quartz wall clock, which I must admit still works like a dream even though its from the 80's. Still, I'd choose the Rolex in this case. All the best with whichever watch you do finally choose. Risha...
I noticed your query as it . . .
. . . was posted, Bob, but decided not to respond until there was a ream of replies, just in case someone else would make the point I'm going to attempt now. There is, in my opinion, a world of difference between the two manufacturers. The strength of Rol...
That was a solid advice ...
I cannot add a single comma. GS all the way. Cheers, Nilo
Thanks Art
It's funny, I have never run into anyone wearing a watch like the ones that I own. :-)
GS will be my choice
As Art has so adeptly put it, I do not have a preference for the common. The Rolex is instantly recognizable and there will be many occasions where you will see a few of the same watches being sported right next to you. I get that with my Milgauss, and th...
Thanks to all
Hi, It is always helpful to get all of your input. I think for now, I am going to hold off and wait for SIHH and Baselworld before deciding on a GS or Rolex. I want to see what GS will be introducing before deciding. In the shorter-term I have ordered som...
Good call to wait, perhaps it will pay off
and if it doesn't, they will both still be waiting. Good luck
Hi, Bob. My vote would go hands down to...
... the Rolex. I love the timeless appeal of the design that will look great today and fifty years from now. It is a nicely updated classic design, you just can't go wrong IMHO. Here's a couple straight-on images I put together as this piece was on my lis...
GS is my choice
Bob, I\'ve probably had as many GS watches as anyone here (maybe 24+) and I\'ve eventually sold about half of them. so i still have a dozen. They\'re no harder to sell than anything else (if you\'re a Purist) and I\'ve never regretted owning them. The Exp...
Hey Bob, I would go with the GS in this situation.
However, I wonder if the lack of a GMT function and simple 3 hand design will allow you to become "bored" with this model over time. I know you like to add "new" functions and features when you make a purchase, so I wonder if possibly the GMT version of t...