A recent trip where I could only bring 1 watch (I chose a blue 36mm Aqua Terra - which I decided was the most flexible watch in my small personal collection) led me to give a lot more respect to the "sporty watch". So of course I am now thinking of adding a vintage Datejust or similar Rolex. My understanding is that there were enormous variations that were available, but my current knowledge about them is slim. My criteria is:

- something affordable, but interesting
- 35-39mm
- simple, legible dial - no roman numerals!
- something that will not overlap what I already have in the space.

Suggestions appreciated! These are the watches it needs to live with:

(most of these pix not mine)
Explorer 1016

Aqua Terra 2504.80

Vintage IWC Yacht Club


and competitors to a lesser extent, as they swing more dressy:
JLC Master Control

IWC 521 "Shark Lugs"

Vacheron Royal "Batman"

 

Wow, nice collection.

 

You don't need a DateJust judging by what you have already. You need a ____________ (fill in anything BUT Speedmaster).

You could always send either the VC or the IWC to me for Christmas though, which would open up the option of a silver or aged white dial DJ.

 

The grey tapestry dial with coin edge Bezel someone posted last week... the grey tapestry is visually eye catching from a distance. The grey goes with anything. Dresses up and down. The non fluted bezel makes it stand apart to Rolex snobs. 36mm, but not sure if I like the Jubilee on it.

One here for reference on a different bracelet.

http://raymondleejewelers.net/produ...16220-datejust-dark-grey-tapestry-dial-watch/

 

Snobs.



This is exhausting! Being a Grammar Cop is more work than a moderator.

 

I fixed it as you where writing that! I blame autocorrect on my phone....

 

I like the grey! Aside from black and white, stuff that works with my wardrobe are earth colors - blue, grey, green, maroon. That bezel though, I think some people call it "castellated" (which I assume refer to the bezel that looks like castle battlements) - my brother in law has one and I'm not sure I like it.

 

It is taste on the bezel, it was the pictures in this thread that sold me. I have not seen one in person and I could see how it does not look good in person.

https://omegaforums.net/threads/1988-dj-16220-tapestry-dial.48977/#post-588632

 

If you already have an explorer - I do not believe you "need" a DJ. But since I am not living what I preach (owning both a 36mm exp and a DJ) I am not to judge...

Get a smooth bezel plain DJane = Ref 1600

 

Wow! I can imagine this perfect with a winter sweater..

 

"were"

Ok, I give up.

 

Or the ever underappreciated co-moderator ...

... I tell you, my feet are killing me, and don't get me started on my fungus problems in the groin area ...

 

A buddy is selling a pristine 16030 from '82 with boxes and papers. Classic oyster dial and fluted bezel...total classic, and fully serviced to boot.

 

+1 on grey tapestry dial.

Another blue watch perhaps , to add to your AT? This looks very different - blue linen dial Datejust. (pic from VRM)


And I love your IWC 'shark fin' 521... sweet!

 

Here's a shot of my first ever "high-end" watch. Rolex Ref. 1601 two tone with champagne dial. I got called a grandpa for wearing it but I think this classic design is timeless. It's been passed on to a new owner, but the DJ will forever hold the "first purchase ever" award in my book. Good luck finding one that suits your taste....incredible collection, would love to be able to offer on the VC if it ever comes up for sale.

Best,

Thomas

 

This one can be yours...sold it to a buddy and he had it fully serviced. It is a great example

 

Lovely but too many white dials already! May consider after I send @ulackfocus his christmas package /jk

 

how about the JLC Master Ultra thin Moon?

It's a fairly uncomplicated dial and in SS it should be ballpark.

 

Something like this...or this?
(Sorry, mine are not for sale though!)

 

Well...1601 white gold all bezel...Full black dial..