zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

Three years ago, I purchased my first fine watch, my Bond SMP Chronometer. At the very same time, my good friend purchased his first fine watch, a Rolex GMT-Master II. Needless to say, we shopped together and discussed Rolex vs. Omega at GREAT length before making our purchases.

He went with the Rolex because owning that specific watch was a childhood dream of his. He cannot be faulted for buying a superb timepiece. He knew he was paying more for the brand name alone, and I can respect that. Look at Harley-Davidson for another example of a product that is arguably common, obsolete, and overpriced. But, H-D is what the Average Joe thinks of when he thinks "motorcycle." Same goes for Rolex and watches. There is nothing wrong with this, as long as when the time comes to plunk down your money, you recognize what you are paying for.

I went with the Omega because I found it to be more aesthetically pleasing. The wave dial, the red-tipped second hand, the sculpted lugs... and of course the bracelet. Has there ever been a more magnificent bracelet than on the SMP? The matte-vs-polished links makes it sparkle like a jewel, and there isn't a harsh edge anywhere. And how about the gorgeous machined clasp? The Rolex clasp is cheap by comparison. And I could not get past how cheesy it is that Rolex stamps a fake link pattern on the clasp itself to appear as though the bracelet is composed of links all the way around. Yuck.

Another factor in my decision is that my father wears a Datejust that will eventually be on my wrist someday. It was a retirement "present" from Big Blue when they cordially forced him to leave after 25 years of service. So, since I knew I'd be wearing a Rolex eventually (and since all Rolexes look basically the same), that also steered me toward Omega.

Since then I have pruchased a Constellation for my wife and I am desperately fighting the urge to order a moon watch. I am an Omega fan for sure. But Rolex is still a nice watch. When I see one, I assume the wearer knows nothing about watches. Sad but true.

One more thing. When my friend and I are out, people notice his Rolex. They do not notice the Seamaster. I like this very much. In fact, only a handful of people have ever commented on my watch. One was a man who said he owned a jewelry store and complimented me on a great watch. Others were people wearing Omegas themselves. That says a lot too. People comment on it because they know what it is and they appreciate it for what it is. People notice and compliment a Rolex because they think you are a rich big shot. Sorry, that does not interest me.

Thanks for reading.

GT