Rolex

My mind has been split for weeks now to make a decision between 2 vintage acquisitions. One day I am for A the next morning it's B and it just keeps going forth and back. Both are on hold and I need to make a decision soon. I was thinking I might turn to ...  

If you have not owned one yet, then I think the 6542 is for you. End of the day, it is what pleases you more aesthetically. You can’t wear box and papers. Some shots: Best Gatsby ...  

No never owned one. I guess now is the time. beautiful early explorer there!!

towards the 6542 with the superb tropical dial. However, the 6536 looks more “original” as a package from the pix. Are the hands of the 6542 original? Advanced congrats no matter which one you decide on, both really stand out and a dream for vintage colle... 

You can never know really. But they match each other 100%

Best Thomas

I would be cautious about a couple of details of the 6536, the monochrome lettering on the dial, the jubilee bracelet, but the bezel most of all, really ugly. Excuse my frankness. Simone

Bezel is a bit beaten I admit but it has its charm. And paired with the tropical dial it works fine for me. I am however more attracted to the 6542 for sure.

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I'll take the 5508 only because Sean Connery wore one and who doesn't want to be Sean Connery

First one for sure.

That’s 5,5 to 2,5 in favour of 6542 GMT

3,5 for the sub.

Let’s say that the difference is not significant so in that respect they’re even. Just like they have been in my mind for weeks in many other respect. The super serious historically documented and rare collector sub or the flamboyant and entertaining 6542... 

Yes the replacement bezel bothers me a bit too. There is a lot of focus on the original bakelite for this model understandably. But still fabulous indeed. It is still 100% a 6542 and with a beautiful patina and a clear dial.

But what I see are two watches which may have questions about parts and originality. The GMT seems to be the more openly acknowledged for service parts (bezel, hands) and other changes (re-lume). With those disclosed it seems the knowledge on this forum i... 

Tough choice and I can completely understand why you are hesitating. The box/papers are the most compelling part of the 6536, and it’s a Sub. But on pure aesthetics I’d probably lean towards the 6542. The other alternative is to wait for a more ideal opti... 

Difficult also to base such a decision on pure aesthetic-there is overall condition, value, originality-Yeah comes with the territory as Jay says.

On the bracelet side for the sub I am not worrying too much; at the time bracelets were often sold later or not at all with the watch and that particular model of the jubilee is correct for the period and accompanied many GMTs in the 50's and 60's; but an... 

I’m not sure there is such thing as over analyzing this particular decision. And the answer may be, neither watch is the right decision.

...but my vote for Pussy Galore, anytime.

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If the 6542 were all original, the choice would be easy. However, from your posting it appears the the bezel insert is a replacement, and the dial has been re-lumed. These are not de minimus issues in the world of vintage Rolex. The bezel is what it is - ... 

I sort of managed to ignored the re-luming, as this being a minor service thing done in the 1980's when I heard about it. Mainly because I loved the watch-One thing you don't want to do in these cases is pull the trigger just to get rid of the conundrum a... 

And if your James Bond, you can get all the Pussies. Lol. 😂 Cheers. 🍻 Geross.

seriously though, thst 6542 looks awesome even thiugh it is not all original. The 6536 is also amazing and if all original might tip it over the top as well. I don't think you can make a wrong decision here so take your time and think it through. A few ye... 

I completely understand your attitude. I have the same. The focus is the level of enjoyment and the fantastic watches we have the privilege to enjoy and collect. I was so close to pull the trigger on that beautiful 6542 GMT. However you also don’t want to... 

I am not a "Rolex Guy" and don't know the relevant history, but based only upon looks, #1 for me.

The condition of it is on the wrong side though to be a real gem. Really difficult this game. Have a great labor day!

At this level every little negative aspect will count hugely towards any resale vale- for both watches If you are never going to sell then it does not matter but I believe that you should buy the best . I suspect that the financial input for either of the... 

You right. If you want to go, go for the real thing. How could I forget? Thanks!

I would go for the 6542 Matt