zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: Gentlemen,
: I purchased my first SMP chronometer last year,
: mainly on advice and information on this
: forum. I have a further question. I am
: looking at buying a second timepiece for my
: collection, I love the 45mm PO but also the
: Rolex sea dweller.
: Any thoughts, comments will be appreciated..

I consider the PO to be the most "Rolex looking" watch of anything made by Omega. It does bear many similarities to the Sea Dweller (applied markers, all brushed bracelet, black dial and bezel, finer teeth on the bezel). However, the PO looks like a more modern upgrade on the Rolex design. The Omega clasp is far superior to the ultra-cheap clasp on the Rolex, and the Omega bracelet is more rounded, making it look more modern.

The PO has an anti-reflective coating on both sides of the crystal, while the Sea Dweller has none. The PO's crystal is domed while the Rolex lays flat. The 45mm PO is also quite a bit larger than the Sea Dweller. The PO can be had for less than half of what a Sea Dweller costs when purchased from a good authorized retailer.

So, what makes the Rolex worth more money? Two potential things, one of which is resale value. Rolex watches often retain twice the resale value of a comparable Omega after a few years of use (ex. a well worn Omega may retain 40% of MSRP while a comparable Rolex may retain 80%). Also, some will argue that the Rolex in-house movement is better and that this movement alone is worth the significantly higher price tag. I, personally, feel very confident that the Omega co-axial movement is superb and would not hesitate to buy one. Mine has kept better time than any of my friends' Rolexs.

What I usually tell people is that if they want a watch to wear and enjoy, the Omega is cleary the better value. If they trade-in watches often and want the one that they will lose the least money on, Rolex is the better bet. Of course, the PO is a new and highly sought after model, so right now its resale value is much higher than most Omegas....so, you may not lose a lot if you decide to sell your PO one day.