So I haven’t worn my Ultramen yet and was thinking of either selling and buying a Sub or seeing what I could get swapping

Looking for something modernish that can still get wet

So what am I looking at swap wise ?
How modern a Sub could I get ? ( willing to throw a few $$ in )

I am not Rolex savvy in any way. (Last Sub I owned was over 20 years ago)

This is not a wanted to buy - yet

 

I would hold the Ultraman another couple months and see where prices average out . At the same time, Basel will come along and we'll see if the new movement gets into some more of the SS professional models. Depending on the watch fairs releases, it could impact the market a decent bit and it wouldn't hurt to see how things fall before making the decision.

 

Good idea.

Also, be really sure that you want a sub knowing what it is (mass produced, massively hyped, instantly recognisable product). It is easy to be blinded by the rolex mythology, and to bypass the reality of the product. Do you really like all the details (or lack of) on this watch, the shape of the case, the shiny surfaces ...? It is sometimes hard to know if we like the watch for itself or for what it represents. Happened to me lately, I thought I loved my expII at first, months later the magic had completely worn off and the watch looked very bland: nicely made, working very well, but no charm at all.

Pricewise, the sub could be 6-8k depending on condition, seller and geographic location. Not a great deal imho, but that's just my opinion.

 

I would sell the Ultraman and buy a Sub 16610 or 14060M. For me the Sub -especially the 5-digit models- is far more attractive than “just another” limited edition Speedy. With each year seeing 2-3 more limited editions Speedmasters I am simply loosing interest in them. The ordinary Speedy Moon Watch is still the best Speedy out there to me and is just as attractive as a Submariner to me. It’s amounting limited edition brothers not so much

The first time I opened the parcel and saw my 14060M something happened to me. It is an incredible watch. Is Rolex hyped? Is a limited edition Speedy more unique? I really don’t care. If I was blinded by Rolex at that moment, when I received my first one, it was probably because it is such a damn fine watch.

A bit of enabling :

 

If you plan to swap I would do it sooner rather than later as I think the Omega price will tail off and the Rolex will only continue to rise.

 

Had a Sub 20+ years ago. So know what I’m in for....

 

Good! Maybe stay away from the new maxicase, I think it has a very different look and feel (and disclaimer, I hate those new cases!)

 

Looking for what going rates for modernish Rolex’s are. Compared to a Ultramen

Have checked a few dealers but want forum prices as they are a bit healthier in my book

 

I don't think you'll have too much trouble finding a Sub in a similar value range. Might be easier to sell and then buy. Swaps can be problematic with someone you don't know.

 

Yes, sell the ultraman to maximise the money in that. Then have a good look round. Depends what you want really. I don’t like the modern Rolex sports watches so would absolutely do the trade for 5 digit. Rather than a sub I’d look for a 16710, have all three bezels (so you can have the black look) and maybe a jubilee too and you have 6 watches in one. Either way you end up with a classic that will always be timeless.

Not sure what impact the next big thing of the 50yr LE will have on the ultraman price. Maybe look to move it on while the market is ok. The market is flooded with LE’s currently.

 

I currently have an 114060 SubC on my wrist as I type. I must admit that it doesn't have the charm of the matte dial 16800 I previously wore, but I find it to be a great everyday beater. I especially like this no date version as I find the cyclops crystal very unattractive. However, that's just me.

Simple answer is that if you're looking to put a watch on your wrist when you get out of bed in the morning and take it off when you go to bed at night, then a new Sub might suit you best.

 

So a new 114060 Sub is looking good.
Or
A 16610 from about 2005-6

An Aussie who missed out on the ultramen might get a surprise soon.

 

Why not consider a 16800 glossy or matte? I know the matte is getting expensive, it nice glossy with some patina is well within range.

 

For me, the Ultraman was very attractive at first view but the wow factor has worn off. I much prefer the ST1 so
I would make that move in a heartbeat.

Your choices are sensible. Of the new case subs, the 114060 is more balanced. The classic 5 digit subs in date or no date are great choices as well. Don't wait too long if you're on the hunt for a 5 digit sub. The 14060 has already reached very high prices and the ubiquitous 16610 has started moving up from where it once used to sit.

Good luck in the search.

 

Agree

Have the ST1 but the ultramen is not that much different to the 2013 moon watch I wear everyday. ( probably why I haven’t worn it yet )
I would rather move it on to a more enjoyable owner.

Bobs watches has the 16610 for $6600 to $7000 so this might be the reference I will go.

 

Can't say I fully agree. To me the ST1 is closer to the regular 201X moonwatch, reverse panda aside. And its all due to the color and texture of the lume and the lack of step-dial.

I have no idea what your collection is or preferences are, but I prefer an AML step dial with patina, and this is where the ST2 hits the nail on the head. I am almost fooled when looking at it as the lume is the same color as more desirable vintage speedies of that era (the late 60's), and it also has the same texture (I wish they did this lume on the 60th An. Speedy). Then there are the subtle bits of orange...and the step dial which is almost the same, but ever so different...

But all this might only make sense if you actually took it out into the sun on the wrist and allowed the honeymoon to commence ...

Just my $0.00002 ... good luck whatever you decide

 

I really like the Ultraman a lot , I could easily see myself owning one too & would personally keep hold of it but if it doesn't float your boat then get rid . I'm pretty sure you could trade it for a great condition 16610 with B&P quite easily , or maybe consider some other 5 digit sport references like a GMT , LV or consider something more vintage like a 16800 matte dial .

 

I’d go for a five-digit reference Sub over any of the newer/six-digit reference models...

 

14060 Subs are running in the $6000s, typically.
11610 Sub Dates are running in the $7000s.

If you're thinking about a 6-digit sub, check some out in real life. I ditched my 116710 because I find it to be super-reflective. The glare on those is pretty strong w/ the ceramic bezel. I'm looking really hard at a 5-digit, likely the 14060, although I admit I'm also looking at the 79230 Tudor and the 42mm Planet Oceans. And some oddballs like Sinn, Damasko, and the Oris Aquis Date.

 

Its obviously down to personal preference, but I tend to lean on the sub’s side. I’m not a modern watch guy and this sub is the only luminous watch I own, so my choice would be a 14060, 1600 or 16610. I like the green bezel or the GMTs as they pop a bit more than a “standard” sub.

As much as I love any variation of the Speedmaster, it must be aknowledged that Rolex became what it is because they are not only marketing geniuses, but because their watches speak for themselves as far as quality, design and finishing are concerned...