Rolex sky dweller or deep sea | FerrariChat

Rolex sky dweller or deep sea

Discussion in 'Fine Watches, Jewelry, & Clothes' started by Robb, Apr 5, 2025.

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  1. Robb

    Robb Moderator
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    Feb 28, 2004
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    Looking at first Rolex. Not a fan of the 40mm models. I realize these are different watches. I prefer the larger sizes as most of my watches are larger.

    thoughts on retaining value over time?

    I like the multiple time zone function of the sky dweller, but not as excited about its fluted bezel. Seems a bit dressy. Prefer the ceramic bezels of the sport watches but again don’t want a 40mm size.

    thanks for thoughts.

    Robb
     
  2. NYFAIM

    NYFAIM Formula 3
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    I have a blue face stainless steel Skydweller - for sure it is more of a dressy watch with the fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet. I generally wear it if I'm going out to dinner etc. So if you're not wanting a dressy style watch I'd go for the Deep Sea. I have a friend that has the Deep Sea - it's a big chunky watch. If you're leaning in that direction, I'd suggest trying one on to see how you like it. I've tried it on, and it's too big and heavy for my wrist. He has a bigger wrist so I think it works for him. The oyster bracelet is also less dressy. Love the James Cameron version too.
     
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  3. Mike Morrissey

    Mike Morrissey Formula 3
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  4. flat_plane_eddie

    flat_plane_eddie F1 Rookie
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    Robb, have you tried on a Rolex GMT? The 40mm thing is a bit misleading. That's the diameter of the case but the lug to lug length is the most important measurement. I'd make the argument that a modern 40mm Rolex watch wears closer to 42-43mm models from other brands.

    Ultimately, if you want a Rolex with a GMT function you're limited to the GMT-Master II and Sky-Dweller. If you're OK with a 2 time zone watch then the Explorer II is an option.
     
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  5. mikesufka

    mikesufka F1 Veteran
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  6. poljav

    poljav F1 Veteran
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    Take a look at the Yatch-Master II if you want a big Rolex.
     
  7. Robb

    Robb Moderator
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    not a fan of its style or limited functions…. But thanks.
     
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  8. ridege55

    ridege55 Formula 3
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    I have both a YM2 and Sea Dweller. Yes YM2 is one trick pony but it looks so good. Sea Dweller is a nice in between size that is not as big and chunky as Deep Sea. It’s my daily now.
     
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  9. poljav

    poljav F1 Veteran
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    Yup, not a fan of the YM II either. That's the problem with Rolex, all models with the exception of the DD are just a variation of the same watch which makes the Sky-Dweller unique in the line up. If it has to be a Rolex, the Sky-Dweller is the better choice, you get more watch for your money. Now if your first/only concern is value retention then I'd look at other brands and pass on the SD & DS, if not, old adage...buy what you like.
     
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  10. spirot

    spirot F1 World Champ

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    I have a regular Submariner and a James Cameron Deep Sea... ( as well as polar explorer, daytona etc... ) I like the Deep Sea best outside the Daytona. Its big and chunky, and the blue to black fade is really eye catching..... My wife wears my sub most of the time... the Deep sea looks better on me.
     
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  11. Adamas

    Adamas F1 World Champ
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    FIFY :D


    Mike
     
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  12. Robb

    Robb Moderator
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    I went to a recommended AD from one of my Ferrarichat buds and am on another list after 3 years of non success at three other AD’s.

    I added any gmt after seeing on my wrist along with explorer ii in white and any sky dweller other than black. So appreciate the suggestion on gmt lug to lug.

    I wanted a gmt or second time zone function so removed the deep sea for now.

    if they come up with a green gmt left hand, would you all still go for that one if you are right handed? How will it compare to right handed majority of gmt watches?

    We’ll see if this works this go round.

    Robb
     
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  13. ronfrohock

    ronfrohock F1 Rookie
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    Blue dial Dweller! My son just got one and it’s amazing.
     
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  14. mdrums

    mdrums F1 Rookie

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    Sea-Dweller for me is the perfect Rolex. Has that Submariner style but not the small 40mm look feel. I use to have a lot of Rolex around 12 of them....sold them all when prices in 2021-2022 went insane and only kept 1...my Sea-Dweller.

    Glad I sold too as prices for used can fallen and now with all the report coming out of Chinese parts manufacturing for Rolex and other high end Lux brands super glad I got out of watched and made money when it was good. I kept my SeaDweller and my AP ROO Elephant but might sell the AP one day in the near future as I never wear it.
     
  15. mdrums

    mdrums F1 Rookie

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    All the best with "the List". I've bought many Rolex from a local Tampa AD ( Mayors and another store that is no longer around) back in the day and have been on this so called BS list for ever and a day. Then a couple local guys I know who did not have any real past buying with Mayors can waltz into Mayors and pick up Rolex's that they immediately flip. These AD's all over the world pretty much sell to flippers all the time who will buy multiple new Rolex from the AD and the AD keeps these Rolex in back just for the flipper to come in and take the inventory.
     
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  16. stretchgeneral

    stretchgeneral Formula 3
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    Well I have both a James Cameron Deep Sea and a rose gold sky dweller with the black band. The deep sea (non James Cameron) is more common. I have seen three in the last week. They are much bigger than almost anything. I like the weight and size, but mostly wear it riding a motorcycle or when doing manual labor. It seems indestructible. The Sky Dweller is wonderful and although I have many watches, I seem to lean toward it very often. It is a great watch for multiple time zones as already mentioned. I have it on presently in flight to Asia. :)
     
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  17. Robb

    Robb Moderator
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    Am checking back in with several AD’s this week. still not particularly hopeful for sky dweller in blue or green if I’m being honest. I think I may go the sea dweller 43 since deep sea is a bit too top heavy / brickish and since those are easier to find. Wish it had dials other than black… if that works out May swap up one of my other watches with black dials Panerai / iwc for a blue or green dial. Life goes on.

    Robb
     
  18. ferrariwithsnowtires

    ferrariwithsnowtires Formula Junior

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  19. mdrums

    mdrums F1 Rookie

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    I had a Deep Sea for many years but sold it in 2021 when price went nuts. I have a Sea-Dweller now and wear it much more. I am a big guys too 6'5" 225lbs so the Deep Sea fit well but I like the Sea Dweller much much better for how it fits and looks and feels. I love the Sky Dweller as well and have tried many on but never bought one as I am not into building up a watch collection again. My AP ROO and Sea Dweller are perfect and enough.
     
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