Sub 16610 vs SMP 2531.80

Just thought I would share something that have been thinking about:

I have always been into vintage, and the most recently made mechanical watch I own is my 1970 C-shape Constellation. I am generally a careful wearer, and since I work in an air-conditioned office, wearing vintage to work has never been a problem.

There have been a couple of times, though, when it would have been nice to wear something a bit more durable but still a proper mechanical watch. For example, on a trip with the kids, when I would not need to worry about getting it wet at the pool or taking a bit of rough handling. At the moment the Apple Watch is fine, but I miss wearing a mechanical watch and I do not like having to charge it every night.

I considered using my 1966 Girard Perregaux Deep Diver for this purpose. However, it is still a 60-year-old watch, and even if it passes a 3-bar dry pressure test, I would be reluctant to bring it to theme parks or similar situations. This made me realise that having a neo-vintage watch with more modern features would be useful. By that I mean verified water resistance, lume (which discounts the tritium models), sapphire crystal, and hacking. I also prefer the look of an aluminium bezel over ceramic.

One option I had in mind was the 2531.80. I have never seen one in person, but on paper it seems ideal. On the other hand, I once tried on a friend’s 16610, and the dimensions and aesthetics just felt good. It is possible that the Seamaster would feel that way too if I had the chance to try it.

Overall, I think I lean toward the look of the Submariner. At the same time, I have never really pictured myself owning a Rolex, because the brand has a certain image these days that I cannot say I am entirely comfortable with. The watch itself looks fantastic, but it is also far more expensive, often three or four times the cost of the SMP.

I like the slightly more modern appearance of the Seamaster, and I do not mind the Bond connection. The helium escape valve does not bother me, and I like that it is a little thinner. I have always liked Omega, and the SMP would fit naturally within my collection. I also feel more comfortable wearing an Omega than a Submariner in certain cities and settings.

I'm somewhat torn, but I think maybe I should try the SMP in person and see if that makes a difference. Happy to hear your thoughts!

I think you answered your question in the second to last paragraf, it sums up the Seamaster perfectly. The blue Seamaster is a good looking GADA watch. I got the black, sword hands 2254 with the tapering "Speedy" bracelet and it seldom leaves my wrist. I use it in the shower, at work, swimming, on holiday , at scary places I should not go and in every kind of situation I normalt would be hesitant to use any other watch, without a thought. It looks good, it is comfortable and the bezel is nice to have, even if it is a bit hard to grip. It has a great sturdy movement that is easily serviced by any competent watch maker.
I have never owned a sub, so I cant speak on how it is to wear, other than it certainly is a good watch, but not as good looking as the Seamaster and the image is not for me. Good luck on your choise.

Well, personally I prefer the 2254 over the 2531, which looks to me like the lume has fallen out of the hands! I would also choose the 14060 over the 16610, it has cleaner lines and I really don't equate dive watches with needing to know what the date is. Each to their own and good luck with your decision.

Thanks all for your reply!

That is a good point. Yes, I would have to think twice before wearing a Rolex, which makes it less suitable as a worry-free GADA watch. I had already mentioned a few scenarios in which I would be uncomfortable in choosing the Sub.

Thanks for the wrist shot. My wrist is even smaller than yours, but I still found the Sub to look fine on me.

Thank you for sharing. I personally don't like the chunky indices on the 2254 but obviously that's a matter of taste.

That's a good point, though I find selling to be a hassle but yes that is reassuring to know they are both popular with collectors.

Got old pretty fast as in you got bored of them, or they physically deteriorate? I can't say I love the magnifier look either but I appreciate its functional use. I would miss not having a date window.

And yes, I am planning to get one that is already scuffed up a bit (but functionally good of course) to save some cash!

I will still wear my vintage on a workday but here in Sydney it can get up to 40C so it'll have to handle sweat and humidity. I guess a diver can go down 300m so it should be okay with fresh seals.

No no no, don't give me more choices please!! 😂

Damn you. Now I'll have to get me one of these! 🤣
Seriously, that's a beauty and it should also fit my slender 6in wrists.

lol I must say though even though the brand new ones are 42mm they seem to look quite good for smaller wrists too.

What’s your wrist size if I may ask?