36mm OP v GS SGBX263
I love both of these watches.
The silver dial 36mm OP in stainless steel has always been my favourite Rolex. A beautiful, classic design that’s perfect for everyday wear. Simple, elegant & understated. At the time I bought it I had to pay £5,850.
Fast forward 18 months & my desire to own a Grand Seiko was extremely strong. I happened to come across a SGBX263 on eBay, less than 6 months old. The watch was in Glasgow & the seller was happy for me to view the watch prior to purchase.
On sight of the watch I couldn’t believe how similar it was to my OP. The size & the quality of finishing was equal, if not better than the Rolex. Due to the similarity, I couldn’t justify the purchase at £1,750.
Two weeks later I was offered the watch from the same seller for £1,200. I didn’t think twice. The GS was almost 80% cheaper. The reason I bring this up is that if you’re saving for an OP be aware that for a fraction of it's cost there’s an equally beautiful watch available at a very affordable price now.
I know an OP is an aspirational piece. I know it’ll retain its value. I know it carries a lot more cache than the GS. Trust me though, this GS will not disappoint should you decide, f3ck it I want something now.
I'm really a strap collector just looking for the right watch.
Both very nice! My exit watch will be a Grand Seiko. I have one more Rolex I want to add to my collection (16710). But I want a Grand Seiko (or two) to be my last watch purchase…in Japan 🤞
Both very nice! My exit watch will be a Grand Seiko. I have one more Rolex I want to add to my collection (16710). But I want a Grand Seiko (or two) to be my last watch purchase…in Japan 🤞
Do you have your eye on a particular GS model?
I’m not quite well-versed on GS but it’s something like this: https://www.grand-seiko.com/us-en/collections/sbgk007g and https://www.grand-seiko.com/us-en/collections/sbgw305g (almost like yours without the date). The two together will still be less than the vintage gmt. I just know based on “beauty”, GS is the last watch I want to buy.
I’m not quite well-versed on GS but it’s something like this: https://www.grand-seiko.com/us-en/collections/sbgk007g and https://www.grand-seiko.com/us-en/collections/sbgw305g (almost like yours without the date). The two together will still be less than the vintage gmt. I just know based on “beauty”, GS is the last watch I want to buy.
Gorgeous watch, I'd love that one myself 👍
The big difference is lume— the GS has none. ☹
The big difference is lume— the GS has none. ☹
I can honestly say that for all the watches I've owned, I never once considered the quality or presence of lume to be a deciding factor. I still find it baffling how much attention YouTubers give it in their reviews.
The big difference is lume— the GS has none. ☹
Very true but I have to say I can't tell the time in the dark when I'm wearing my OP either.
They are both nice watches with better parts than the other. The razor sharp hands on the GS plus the insane attention to detail blows OP away. However, the OP case and bracelet are arguably better.
They are both nice watches with better parts than the other. The razor sharp hands on the GS plus the insane attention to detail blows OP away. However, the OP case and bracelet are arguably better.
Spot on SG. For me it's all about the beauty & I think the SG just shades it 👍
Yes, the GS looks similar but at the end of the day if you want the OP you won’t be satisfied with the GS. They might look the same and the GS might even be finished better but at the end of the day it’s not a Rolex… just my two cents worth…
Yes, the GS looks similar but at the end of the day if you want the OP you won’t be satisfied with the GS. They might look the same and the GS might even be finished better but at the end of the day it’s not a Rolex… just my two cents worth…
I don't disagree with that at all. My point is more around cost. I want an A Lange & Sohne. I may have to settle on a Glashutte Original.
In an imaginary world where I was shown both of these watches, knowing nothing about brands, legacy, cachet or “status” of any kind, I’d immediately say yes to the Grand Seiko. In this real world, given all of the above parameters, I’d still go with it.
I don't disagree with that at all. My point is more around cost. I want an A Lange & Sohne. I may have to settle on a Glashutte Original.
That’s a perfect analogy
I’d also consider an Omega AT silver dial
Reading your post as I wear my GS.
The champagne sunray on that GS is mind blowing hard to make.
I know in many aspect the Rollie might win, but that GS’s dial and exquisitely precise design will win every time you glance at it
Both are beautiful and excellent watches! 🔥❤️💯👍😍
Reading your post as I wear my GS.
Sweet 🍻
I'm secretly pining for a GS spring drive..
I'm secretly pining for a GS spring drive..
The Spring Drive is great, especially if you frequently change your watches. The power reserve is excellent on my Skyflake 👍
Seiko
Nobody will ask you if the GS is real nor will you be robbed at knifepoint in broad daylight.
So I think you’re good with the GS.
👌👌
Had both GS and Rolex OP39 over the years, and really came to the same conclusion.
I’d also consider an Omega AT silver dial
Absolutely 🤝
OP is classier!