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Main Forums => General Discussion - Vintage Watches => Topic started by: SLK on April 21, 2017, 03:19:20 PM

Title: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on April 21, 2017, 03:19:20 PM
Hi MWF!

I'm considering adding a vintage watch to my collection.
I've narrowed it down to between getting a Grand Seiko (5646 series) or a Rolex ( oysterdate or datejust).

Any opinion on which would be the better option?

Looking for something that won't break the bank, probably RM7k and below.

Any feedback will be greatly appreciated.


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Cocas on April 21, 2017, 03:28:37 PM
If only 2 choices of either vintage rolex or vintage grand Seiko, I will go for vintage rolex first.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: dualcarb on April 21, 2017, 03:38:13 PM
Looking at your criterias, I would happily suggest a GS. I got mine for under RM6K. GS for that time period was at the top of the watch game, producing watches that performed above the standards set by the Swiss chronology society. If you dug a little and read up on the history of GS, you will be more than impressed. I have several modern six digit Rolexes, therefore my comments are not coming from a Rolex hater/basher. Just plain facts and a love for all things that tick. Here is my little vintage beauty.

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z157/dualcarb/Watches/5FF18ADB-F930-4D13-9465-2BD9EC5F527A.jpg) (http://s192.photobucket.com/user/dualcarb/media/Watches/5FF18ADB-F930-4D13-9465-2BD9EC5F527A.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on April 22, 2017, 01:24:38 PM
Looking at your criterias, I would happily suggest a GS. I got mine for under RM6K. GS for that time period was at the top of the watch game, producing watches that performed above the standards set by the Swiss chronology society. If you dug a little and read up on the history of GS, you will be more than impressed. I have several modern six digit Rolexes, therefore my comments are not coming from a Rolex hater/basher. Just plain facts and a love for all things that tick. Here is my little vintage beauty.

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z157/dualcarb/Watches/5FF18ADB-F930-4D13-9465-2BD9EC5F527A.jpg) (http://s192.photobucket.com/user/dualcarb/media/Watches/5FF18ADB-F930-4D13-9465-2BD9EC5F527A.jpg.html)

I love the history of both these watches but I must say I'm more inclined to getting the GS.

My only concern for the GS is that if it will it be able to hold its value? I'm pretty sure that if I ever decide to sell the watch in the future, the Rolex would probably be able to hold its value better than the GS.

Do correct me if my assumption is wrong.


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on April 22, 2017, 01:25:40 PM
Looking at your criterias, I would happily suggest a GS. I got mine for under RM6K. GS for that time period was at the top of the watch game, producing watches that performed above the standards set by the Swiss chronology society. If you dug a little and read up on the history of GS, you will be more than impressed. I have several modern six digit Rolexes, therefore my comments are not coming from a Rolex hater/basher. Just plain facts and a love for all things that tick. Here is my little vintage beauty.

(http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z157/dualcarb/Watches/5FF18ADB-F930-4D13-9465-2BD9EC5F527A.jpg) (http://s192.photobucket.com/user/dualcarb/media/Watches/5FF18ADB-F930-4D13-9465-2BD9EC5F527A.jpg.html)

And I must add that is an amazing looking piece


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Cocas on April 22, 2017, 02:16:53 PM
Vintage Rolex movement normally still remains very good condition despite decades passed.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on April 22, 2017, 04:33:31 PM
Vintage Rolex movement normally still remains very good condition despite decades passed.

Definitely no doubting the reliability of a Rolex.
Will most likely end up with both a vintage Rolex and GS at 1 point.

Just not sure on which 1 should I get first


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: dualcarb on April 22, 2017, 07:46:57 PM
Oh yes...absolutely, Rolex will always be a watch which will hold its value better than most. But my question is, do you buy a watch because you love it? Or because it will hold its value better so that you can trade it someday? Or because you love the history or the watch? Or how it makes you feel when you wear it? No wrong answer here. Just buy what you like, your only job is to make sure that you are happy.

If you ask me, I prefer modern six digit reference Rolexes and vintage Seikos. To be honest, vintage Seikos seem to be appreciating in value too.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on April 26, 2017, 02:22:29 PM
Appreciate all the feedback!
Will begin the search for my first vintage piece!


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: jimmyang on April 26, 2017, 04:15:27 PM
I love the history of GS but I'm more inclined for their Spring drive. Their vintage collection doesn't appeal to me aesthetically.

The vintage datejust however is just classic. One of the most imitated watches in history and one of the most recognizable. The 4 digit vintage datejust can fall under 6k if you have some patience. 
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Timeless on May 05, 2017, 06:14:53 AM
Be prudent of purchase any vintage Rolex, there are plenty of incomplete original parts and beware of those "makeup artist" who can make the dial and hands aged in cosmetic way.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Cocas on May 05, 2017, 07:08:27 AM
@Timeless bro :thumbsup:

I was told a spider web crack crystal vintage Rolex fetches higher price. But I once questioned the preowned shop, it can be easily achieved by exposed it under the sun nonstop till it crack. And above all the spider web crack looks so ugly to me. :D
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on May 05, 2017, 10:51:20 PM
Be prudent of purchase any vintage Rolex, there are plenty of incomplete original parts and beware of those "makeup artist" who can make the dial and hands aged in cosmetic way.

Thanks! Appreciate the warning!
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: blackatana on May 07, 2017, 09:23:18 AM
rolex for me ... :o
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: kbng on May 25, 2017, 08:37:39 AM
I like both, but comparing the two, my heart feel that Rolex with more value.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: yaptimming on May 31, 2017, 12:58:24 PM
GS for more bang for buck...I owned a datejust and was surprised by how well made the GS was when i purchased one this year

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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: opp61 on July 14, 2017, 10:39:11 PM
Go with the Rolex. The 6694  or DJ are timeless pieces.  They are super reliable top and are not terribly expansive.  Sill hold the resale better than the Gd.

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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: mico on July 18, 2017, 09:31:08 AM
I will go through with Rolex first  :)
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: opp61 on July 18, 2017, 10:39:27 AM
HI Mico,

For me, the GS is a good watch and a good following. Really good and reliable.

However, I would go for a Rolex first and then move on to other brands later.

Again that is me .
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Cocas on July 24, 2017, 08:51:10 PM
Just an info sharing.

I ask the same question to the old watch shifu. He recommended Rolex (and only) too.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: nivek on July 24, 2017, 09:19:22 PM
Rolex for the win from every angle.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: jasey on August 11, 2017, 12:16:33 PM
I say Rolex but Can you really get a vintage Rolex for 7k?
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: jimmyang on August 11, 2017, 12:35:44 PM
I say Rolex but Can you really get a vintage Rolex for 7k?

Truthfully, yes. I got my 1601 two tone for a bit less than that but without the bracelet. Just the head.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: mongourou on August 18, 2017, 02:49:51 PM
I could go for any GS without procrastinating on which one to get whereas for Rolex I will be very careful and probably get a very simple Datejust without exotic particularities (tropical, flat 4, spider web, transition model...). Those have been built by the millions and it should be easy enough to get one that wasn't altered.


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: WatchAmateur on August 18, 2017, 03:29:25 PM
save up a 'lil' bit and get the 2 liner submariner
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: jasey on August 18, 2017, 04:03:46 PM
Rolex first then gs


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: FIFTY FOUR on October 26, 2017, 07:12:44 PM
seiko 6217 /62mas for me
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Watchlover90 on July 10, 2018, 08:17:41 PM
Rolex will have a better resale value
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: irmavep23 on August 01, 2018, 01:48:38 PM
Grand seiko is definitely looks sexier than rolex for vintage
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: meoramri on August 01, 2018, 06:51:04 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180801/9e9b380d778ab211eefe6868ae7ae15a.jpg)


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: meoramri on August 01, 2018, 06:52:35 PM
??GS is sexy


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: iceburn on September 01, 2018, 09:24:19 AM
Definitely GS for me.

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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Richie Richs on October 03, 2018, 06:14:30 AM
Preferably i'd go for the vintage rolex.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on October 05, 2018, 11:21:32 AM
Decided to get myself a King Seiko to satisfy my itch.

Aiming for a Rolex 6694 next
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181005/d471be19e4521b7b3511eee8c1a731d3.jpg)


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: bjorkqvist.h on October 07, 2018, 05:29:21 PM
Regarding value I don't believe there is any substantial down side risk to either alternative.

Then there is cost of maintenance, not sure how easy parts come by for the vintage Seiko but for Rolex you will find plenty of both parts and watchmakers who are able to service at decent cost.

If both are as attractive to you I would go with the Rolex. Always chose that watch that speaks the most to your heart =)
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: bjorkqvist.h on October 07, 2018, 05:42:48 PM
Decided to get myself a King Seiko to satisfy my itch.

Aiming for a Rolex 6694 next
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181005/d471be19e4521b7b3511eee8c1a731d3.jpg)


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Hey sorry, didn't catch there was already a second page.

Your GS looks great, nice vintage feel to it. Your surely be happy =)
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: takezhiro on October 12, 2018, 08:20:40 PM
Decided to get myself a King Seiko to satisfy my itch.

Aiming for a Rolex 6694 next
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181005/d471be19e4521b7b3511eee8c1a731d3.jpg)


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beautiful piece ! enjoy ~
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on October 17, 2018, 02:02:11 PM
Decided to get myself a King Seiko to satisfy my itch.

Aiming for a Rolex 6694 next
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181005/d471be19e4521b7b3511eee8c1a731d3.jpg)


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Hey sorry, didn't catch there was already a second page.

Your GS looks great, nice vintage feel to it. Your surely be happy =)


It’s not a GS!
King Seiko is a discontinued line by Seiko, a level below GS.

Finishing may not be as good but I’m really happy with it!


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: ciili88 on October 19, 2018, 10:07:25 PM
my 1st choice is grand seiko snow flakes
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Horologist on January 10, 2019, 07:55:43 AM
Rolex would be a good choice.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: derick93 on February 03, 2019, 10:29:49 AM
Hi MWF!

I'm considering adding a vintage watch to my collection.
I've narrowed it down to between getting a Grand Seiko (5646 series) or a Rolex ( oysterdate or datejust).

Any opinion on which would be the better option?

Looking for something that won't break the bank, probably RM7k and below.

Any feedback will be greatly appreciated.


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Get a pre-owned Rolex with your budget! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: limingt on February 04, 2019, 03:50:57 PM
Rolex !! I’m also starting to get into it. Would be great if you could share your experience and how you source for it.

Thanks.


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: lolzxx on February 06, 2019, 07:36:53 PM
Seiko...
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: hadi9802 on February 15, 2019, 03:18:33 AM
With the price range, you would get a better (higher-line) GS vs. an entry level Rolex. Would rather go for GS first, then collect more money to buy 5513 or 1016.


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: danielcf on February 15, 2019, 10:35:18 AM
i will go for Rolex, coz of value !!

just my own Opinion!!
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: 2Dragon on February 15, 2019, 03:49:17 PM
I would choose a Grand Seiko.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: jaushiarn91 on April 09, 2019, 08:46:03 PM
Rolex is an amazing brand with advance technical specs and brand knowledge.
Grand Seiko is the one that will impress fellow watch collectors thp.  :Laughing_on_floor:
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: tcken on April 14, 2019, 01:53:14 AM
Definitely Rolex for the first. There are many nice vintage watches in Rolex.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: eugenegan on May 20, 2019, 10:22:06 PM
For retaining value I think the type of Rolex is important too. Anything lesser than a datejust I don’t think  will retain much value.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: tannitech on June 02, 2019, 09:18:28 AM
Hi MWF!

I'm considering adding a vintage watch to my collection.
I've narrowed it down to between getting a Grand Seiko (5646 series) or a Rolex ( oysterdate or datejust).

Any opinion on which would be the better option?

Looking for something that won't break the bank, probably RM7k and below.

Any feedback will be greatly appreciated.


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Grand Seiko could appreciate in value also, especially if the time piece is limited edition.

The Rolex is a straightforward choice, but because its pre-owned, there's important research work to do, and I guess you might not have many options to consider if you are aiming for one particular model.

My two cents, please correct me if I'm wrong  :Cheers:
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Hermanyee213 on June 06, 2019, 10:59:21 AM
can consider oris and tudor also
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Zanyxxlorde on July 15, 2019, 08:43:55 PM
Grand seiko
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: edwin880721 on July 17, 2019, 11:56:31 PM
Any sifus can recommend where to buy vintage Rolex? No luck in finding one I like


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Cocas on July 18, 2019, 06:29:40 PM
Any sifus can recommend where to buy vintage Rolex? No luck in finding one I like


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If you talk about sport models, no luck is a norm . As for the rest of non popular, it's a piece a cake bro.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: edwin880721 on July 18, 2019, 09:50:10 PM
Any sifus can recommend where to buy vintage Rolex? No luck in finding one I like


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If you talk about sport models, no luck is a norm . As for the rest of non popular, it's a piece a cake bro.


Keep looking, and impulse buy is require for purchasing. Don’t settle for second choice when you know you will be regretting in near future.


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: watchpassion on July 19, 2019, 12:11:30 PM
Any sifus can recommend where to buy vintage Rolex? No luck in finding one I like


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If you talk about sport models, no luck is a norm . As for the rest of non popular, it's a piece a cake bro.


Keep looking, and impulse buy is require for purchasing. Don’t settle for second choice when you know you will be regretting in near future.


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true, i've learnt to know how and when pull trigger if you have the bullets. never look back regret of all the triggers i've pulled.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: chrisc on July 24, 2019, 07:26:08 PM
wow! this question is the classis question. i had this question for sometime..end up ...i went for Rolex first...well! because i know rolex..the price either goes up..of if drop also its a slight drop...but Grand Seiko, even for being such a beautiful build..but its quite uncertain...hmmm
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: SLK on August 15, 2019, 08:49:39 AM
wow! this question is the classis question. i had this question for sometime..end up ...i went for Rolex first...well! because i know rolex..the price either goes up..of if drop also its a slight drop...but Grand Seiko, even for being such a beautiful build..but its quite uncertain...hmmm

In terms of price retention or appreciation, Rolex is a clear winner. However I’m always still drawn by the level of quality in a GS.

Will most likely end up owning both sometime in my life.


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: chrisc on August 15, 2019, 09:05:14 AM
Totally agree with SLK. I have a feeling ill end up with both, rolex and gs. Actually I'm trying to find a nice affordable vs... Still haven't pull trigger.. Waiting
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: dualcarb on August 15, 2019, 04:14:34 PM
While I also agree with you all about eventually owning both brands, I would also like to share with you my experience. When I wear the GS, I tend to be more aware of my wrist, very afraid of banging my watch against something as I don’t treat it like a watch, it’s more like a work of art. The Rolex on the other hand, gets worn with abandon, without a care in the world. It gets scratched and stuff and I really don’t care. Weird isn’t it?
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: AKM on September 28, 2019, 10:23:34 PM
Go for vintage Rolex.. don’t think twice
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: exodus on March 13, 2020, 12:34:01 PM
Depends on your budget but I'll go for the Rolex any day of the week.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: fitri on August 10, 2020, 09:22:56 AM
GS spring drive anytime, beautiful movement. I'll only go for Rolex if only it is a GMT, Sub or daytona. Others, i will only buy because it is Rolex on very good deal, not something nice to MY eyes.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: samuelk on August 10, 2020, 12:50:54 PM
You can't go wrong with a Rolex with it's heritage, built quality and robustness also with a wide range of models to choose from, then of course depending on your budget.
As for GS, the snowflake is really nice, gaining quite a bit of popularity in the recent years, couple with the spring drive movement and refinement in the built quality, that is a watch to go for after the Rolex.  ;D
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: dpkong on August 11, 2020, 09:56:20 AM
Mercedes or Lexus? Without doubt the Mercedes reputation is better but the fans of both camps can really argue out their support.

The Lexus is a great car, probably with features that can easily beat Mercedes and far better than it's Toyota sibling but it's genes are still Toyota.

The Spring drive movement should have been kept to the lower level range of watches with it's electronics inside and just build Grand Seiko with fully automatic movements. Mixing up hi-beat movements with Spring Drive just dilutes the desirability.

Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: pleasuresaurus on October 07, 2020, 09:58:49 AM
If for the sake of keeping for good, either GS or Rolex would be fine. If there is an intention to trade off later on, perhaps Rolex?  A 6694 seems a reasonable addition.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: fitri on October 26, 2020, 04:09:54 PM
Looking for investment guarantee...get a rolex. Looking for great watch, get a seiko...zaratsu finishing, spring drive movement
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: kinteru on November 14, 2020, 05:34:42 PM
Rolex all the way. then i'd get a seiko lol
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: faizall on December 03, 2020, 08:22:08 PM
Well..I’ve to dig deep enough to find fews topics like this. Haha I’ve the same question..but on the other hand, hope someone could share where i could look for a vintage rolex nowadays? Please help a lost soul here. Thanks!


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: cvl003 on April 03, 2021, 11:12:08 AM
I prefer Rolex if I need to fork out $$$$$ cos Rolex is still indisputable watch tools plus formal dress code compare to Grand Seiko


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: WestFly on April 10, 2021, 11:05:14 AM
If you option for an asset, Rolex it is. GS is a good watch but it consider as a liability
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Champ66 on June 18, 2021, 06:49:48 PM
Both would be good collection, but if I to choose 1,i go for rolex
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: jonhtks on June 19, 2021, 12:54:00 PM
Get rolex than GS, wouldn’t go wrong for both

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210619/053b229d9e83d512c055670a0a61628e.jpg)


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Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: ExplorerII on July 05, 2021, 04:56:10 PM
I would go with the Rolex first as generally it will hold its value.  After that if you feel the need to get another watch, consider the GS. 
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: Cocas on July 06, 2021, 07:13:00 AM
JB is still MCO fasa 1. Rolex AD not yet opened.
Title: Re: Grand Seiko vs Rolex
Post by: aclosewatch on February 09, 2024, 04:52:12 AM
Love the GS dials, but Rolex still has that classic/classy look.