With the possible exception of the Speedmaster, it seems that each Omega product line has a contemporary in Rolex’s catalog that receives more attention, has greater resale value, and has a larger collector base in the watch community.

Seamaster - Submariner
Speedmaster - Daytona
Railmaster - Milgauss
Constellation - DayDate
Deville/Globemaster - Datejust
Any GMT complication - GMT Master
Planet Ocean - Sea Dweller

Of course this list isn’t precise, but I’m simply curious how fellow Omega collectors reconcile with the idea of investing in a brand of lower brand strength compared to its most direct competitor. Personally, I’m much more drawn to specific vintage Omega models that cannot be outshined by Rolex equivalents.

Are Omega collectors generally more interested in the brand’s pre-1970’s “Golden Age” history? Or for modern collectors, are you more attracted to Omega’s brand placement with the Bond 007 films and brand ambassadors? In other words, I would love to hear in your own words why you choose Omega over Rolex.

I hope this topic is not too controversial. As a collector and lover of both brands, I am genuinely interested in the Omega community’s take on this topic.

 

Easy. The collectors are collecting, not investing.

 

My motto is buy what you like not what has best resale value.

 

Of course Rolex is more popular... how can it not be with such superior quality and heritage.

 

Any Rolex is better than an automatic Speedmaster.

 

I went with Omega because I like Omega more than I like Rolex.

 

I like both brands- happy to own the watches I like irrespective of investment potential. That’s really not part of the equation for me.

 

First - One of the key factors is that I can go to a shop and buy an Omega.
Second - it is at least as effective as it’s equivalent Rolex.
Third - a modern Rolex says something about the wearer that I do not want to be associated with.

 

Modern Omega represents a brand with both heritage and value. It’s been around for longer than Rolex and it operates just as well.

I would be lying not to admit that 007 association certainly helps, but there’s most-certainly more to the appeal to that. I’m not well-researched in the details of the association, but I would imagine Rolex wouldn’t have turned down a partnership with the franchise. Perhaps then there is something about the Omega design that made the franchise choose Omega over Rolex...

Subjective, but in my opinion, Omega makes bolder styling decisions. One can also wear an Omega with less of the perception that it is a “flex.” Also subjective, but the same is not always true with a modern Rolex.

 

Simple. I don't buy watches because they receive more attention, have greater resale value or a larger collector base.

I buy what I like to wear as long as it's at a price I can afford and I rarely sell.

 

Interesting timing on this topic. As I said in another post. Local Omega AD is no longer selling the brand. When I asked what if any they were replacing it with, the answer was Tudor. I was surprised as they already have the Rolex boutique and carry IWC and Panerai. The mgr said they were going in a different direction. In the end it’s about what people want and money.

 

Omega for me because of Nicole Kidman.

 

The most pertinent question is : Do Rolex have anything contemporary to the absolute amazing HOLY GRAIL? Omega 1, Rolex 0.

 

Semi-newb here, but what is the holy grail? Speedmaster seems to be favored by most on Omega Forum

 

Your third point is extremely controversial if not offensive

 

Like others, when I buy a watch it's because at that point in time I have chosen it over all others on the market. So if it's an Omega then I've selected it over every other brand for that purchase for various reasons.

I don't own a Rolex because they've never produced a watch I have any interest in. Then that applies to a multitude of watches and brands that I don't currently or will likely ever own.

My watch purchases are based purely on what I like and what is affordable and available at the time. I don't care about celebrities linked to the brand/model, resale value or showing off. A watch is there to tell the time and make me feel good whenever I look at it, that's all.

 

Like many, I love both and collect others as well. I can find reasons all day for either side of the argument, many admittedly subjective.

In the end, I'll be totally honest about why my "take it with me" watch would/will be an Omega: sentimentality.

A mint condition pre-owned Seamaster was my de facto introduction to 'nice' watch ownership, given to me by a loved one on a very special occasion. So as much as I love many brands, and can admire still more, Omega gives me a case of the warm-n-fuzzies every time.

 

I find the OF website to be by far the most superior forum software available.

I also think the OF community’s intelligence level is extremely high. I think the collectors on this site are highly intelligent and knowledgeable.

 

make also a photo comparison of the respective calibers for each omega-rolex pair you made, if you may.