Pelagos 39 or Black Bay 55
I know it is a strange pairing but what are your thoughts on which to buy?
Me: 6.5’ wrist, owns Explorer 36, Yachtmaster 37, CW Dune 38 Bronze, Nite Alpha 42 mm.
Do tell me your thoughts either way.
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I’ve been collecting for a few years. I try to stick to the mantra of buying watches I like and not following trends. I’ve definitely made some mistakes but I try to learn from them.
London
Member since
Last active: 20 min ago
6.50” / 16.51 cm
I think, for what it’s worth, that the Pelagos looks cleaner and more refined. It’s quite beautiful! 👌
Do you want a modern diver or a vintage-inspired diver? Mid-size, dark titanium, glossy black (from the sun ray dial and radially brushed ceramic bezel), and blocky white markers vs. reduced size, bright steel, matte black (dial and aluminum bezel), and classic gilt markers. The Pelagos leans casual, though can be fine dressed up with the glossy dial and bezel, while the Black Bay 54 leans dressier, though works just fine casually.
I chose the Pelagos 39 last November when I had the exact same choice, and it really came down to the modern vs. classic/vintage choice. But you really can’t go wrong with the BB54.
Want a tool watch? Get a Pelly 39. Want a dressy diver? Get the BB54. I would keep it that simple and decide from there.
To me, the P39 is the more interesting watch, but the BB54 is the more compelling watch. The latter perhaps intersects a bit more with your 36mm Explorer -- same general size, stainless steel...
I do really enjoy gazing at my BB54. In person, I prefer it to the P39. Again, the P39 is interesting. The BB54 is more timelessly compelling.