I prefer the style and horology of JLC and think they’d be more “me.” I’ve spent some time on the rolex forums and ugh, for the most part I want nothing to do with those folks.
As someone who always wore Rolex and now is moving more towards JLC, I found that very interesting. For me, Rolex are tool watches, pure and simple. As a marine scientist, climber and diver and now forester and farmer, Subs and Sea-Dwellers accompanied me recreationally and professionally, through tough conditions and never let me down. Their luxury was their immense reliability and refinement. They worked. They received little comment. But now, I find Rolex has become overexposed, overpriced, their design language increasingly ostentatious and the reaction of others to your watch undesirable - I'm not into displays of obvious wealth/prestige. So now, I'm increasingly splitting my collection between JLC and Seiko/Grand Seiko. These companies make watches of higher quality than Rolex, with more interesting movements and more design flair. The only attention they receive is either complementary: "beautiful watch" or geeky interest from fellow enthusiasts. Either I can live with! I do wish JLC could crack the sports watch - I think the current Polaris is lacking in utilitarian charm compared to it's historical predecessor, the 60s Memovox. However, I'm a fan of the Master Chronograph Calendar - on the radar. As are certain Duometres. But at that end of the market, It would be facing stiff competition (for me) from Breguet - my grail.
James, there's always the path less traveled ... away from the mass-produced and toward interesting independents. In your work, it sounded like the Rolex was the perfect tool watch to have, but the more interest you have in horology, I'd think you'd want to get watches with visible movements in the back. Maybe not. I've found that away from the herd gives a better view of the choices you have. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I just purchased the updated Polaris date over the new Mariner date. They updated the movement to raise the PR on it. Also added the quick strap. Big fan of these. Not sure how good the movement as over time but looks good!
Hi Ripperx, thanks for that info. I haven't seen much feedback on the Polaris, but nothing has been negative. After you've had your Mariner Date for a while, it'd be great to hear from you about it. Take care, Bill
@@watchartsci will do. Quick update. I purchased the green strap from the polaris date green dial and swapped out the black rubber for it. The watch looks incredible. Time keeping over 4 days has been on par with anything Rolex, omega and do… +3 a day! I’ll get back with a final review. Remember the pricing at Msrp is all bs these days! Jlc goes for 35% off!!!!
Having in consideration repair and maintenance service and overall after sales support from Rolex and JLC I must say that at least in the USA, JLC has the worst service I have experienced (extremly slow repairs, lack of knowloeadge on all areas by their service representatives, close to imposible to get probels escalateD) while Rolex has one of the best ones. In the USA I find JLC very much lacking in the service department in all aspects, I used to love JLC but this side of the company turned me off to the point that I sold all my JLC watches. Noisy movements is another strange factor people don't talk about much regarding JLC, their new automatic movements are EXTREMLY noisy, specially the Polaris line, the bearings the rotor is mounted on is annoyingly loud.
I have had poor repair service service experience with JLC as well in the US, very slow turnaround times and lack of communication between other negatives. You are right as well about Polaris movements being loud.
Hi Alex, that's a bummer. Let's let JLC know that they'd better get on the ball with their service! We're the consumers! Take care and stay safe, Bill😷
Indeed the service question is the dark side of jlc. I want to buy a bracelet for my master compressor and I can't. If you are not living in swiss bad luck. From germany is more than 1k to send it. 😚🤑
I have 4 jlc and 4 rollies. To be honest is very difficult to choose. As you said the message is different. R is something that everybody knows , jlc instead is something for your soul. If it would be to put my money on quality it would be jlc. Get both of them and there'll be peace!!!!
One compare and contrast between Rolex and JLC is that the pattern of the design language of Rolex from reference to reference is more consistent than that of JLC. This visual iconography which permits a Rolex to be visually identified by form and shape is something that contributes to the Rolex brand popularity. The general uniformity of the Rolex design language is also reflected in the bracelets with the three segmented links and the taper of the bracelet from the end link or union with the case downward. People respond viscerally to such pattern language and IMHO this pattern language is the secret sauce which explains Rolex popularity. Without pattern language, the JLC lineup was handicapped even though JLC horology is on a level above Rolex. JLC did have some great design language in the Master Compressor line but JLC basically abandoned the tool watch despite the ascendancy of the tool watch in the market place. The Master Compressor had both diver and non-diver references and should have been developed by JLC as a legacy premium tool watch model line on the order of the Fifty Fathoms: the thinking horology buff’s tool watch. I admire and respect Rolex’s masterful command of its design language without being a fan of Rolex watches.
Very informative and interesting content. I am in the market for this particular JLC. I love the blue dial with the orange accents on the Polaris. This will be my first purchase outside of Rolex, AP and PP. I currently own 13 Rolex, 5 AP and 3 PP so obviously I am a little apprehensive.
A. Human, I own none of those. I sold my PP and AP and never bought a Rolex even though I like them fine ... just like other ones better. Year ago I bought my wife a Reverso, and it's been a gem of a watch. Take care, Bill
Cheering and rooting for the underdog (dare I call JLC an underdog), but what would I actually rather own for most comparisons, the Rolex (yes Goliath wins again). It says something about Rolex design, that even when you root for the competition and dislike the show-off nature and social media grab Rolex brings, you ultimately still concede to the champ.
Oldenglish91, I think what's important is to back away and look at the horology and your own style. I've looked at both and asked, "What else is there in that price range?" There's a whole big world of watches out there with value that's greater than either to me. Were there not, I'd just get the one I found the most value in. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Hi Bill, I'm sure Rolex is a great watch and they are, masters of marketing but what a Cliche'( sorry I'm sooo tired of hearing about rolex) Love your show I'm learning a lot.
JLC are class , I’ve got a Datejust 41 with chocolate dial it’s a lovely watch , but JLC are a connoisseur of watches , but saying that a lot of people who could go higher wear a Rolex ,thanks
Confession: my daily is a Datejust. That said, I'd be too self conscious to wear a Sub or Cosy, just too over the top for me. The Air King on the other hand is a favorite, but in a vintage model. I'm currently looking for a Super Precision 1005. Thanks for another great video.
My pleasure Phil. I like the Air King with the 'Bloodhound Dial.' Also, I like the Cellini Prince, but at this time I do not own one. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
hi bill ...very interesting comparison review about two great brands ,,,i have to say I love dress watches and in every comparison I thought the jlc was the better looking watch ,,probably because that’s their forte,,,I also being a watch enthusiast love dive watches and that’s where Rolex excel I suppose it’s horses for courses both these brands grace most high end collections but I would definitely give jlc the overall edge because as the watch maker of watch makers they have the longer higher heritage ,,in my opinion anyway cheers bill all the best for the new year .
Hi Colin, that's pretty much how I was looking at them. Even though the Reverso originally was a sports watch, I'd choose the Air-King, but outside of sports, most likely the Jaeger-LeCoultre. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
In every case in my opinion the JLC is the better looking watch 👌 Nice comparison video , Stay Safe 😷 Bill I went to the doctor yesterday he's saying we might get the vaccine next month !
Good news Junior! I'm scheduled for a week from Tuesday, but my wife is just a couple of years younger and will have to wait. I think part of 2020 has crept into the first month of 2021! You'd look good in a JLC. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I see your point Johan. From what I know, most luxury divers will never go diving; so, the date won't hurt that much. I checked out the divers sold in diver shops, and they were all quartz or smart watches. Take care, Bill
@@watchartsci Yeah I know that a today’s diver watch won’t be a mechanical luxury watch which costs 9000$ but as I said, this is just my idea of how they should be. Because this model had the „purpose“ of diving. Or is meant to be a tool for diving. So the date function jumps into my eye as unnecessary. It feels like …. A microwave which has a timer for the date. No food would need days to get warm in a microwave. So it would be a unnecessary function. But anyway it is just my feeling about this 😄. (I am no fan of date windows in general, accept the big ones from Glashütte) But anyone can buy what he wants.
Dear Bill, Nice comparisons. That Master Thin is beautiful! BTW, I was recently offered the new green bezel sub by my Rolex AD. I have never owned a sub before and do like the slimmer lugs with green ceramic. Think it has nice features and is a solid value proposition at the retail 9600$, but no way is it worth the crazy 17k$ secondary price, imho.
Hey Matt, you have too many good watches to know the relative value of a Rolex. Weren't you going to get an Akrivia? Not owning a sub is nothing to be despondent about...🙄 Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I am coming after the battle😅 but since I am looking for my next one the algo suggested me your video. Collecting both brands they get along very well into the same collection😊. Rolex watches are kind of flawless and very well built, but you kind of see them everywhere and they are lacking some high horology vibes, while my JLCs are less rugged and are more flawed, but also far less common and more interesting, for instance my Polaris Mariner Memovox clasp is big and uber complicated, that innerbezel less practical and on three crowns only one is screwed down😂 which drives me nuts. But that alarm function is soooo niiiice and actually useful in real life, and it gets others interested and smilling, good luck to get any discussion around a Submariner other than "is it real" and "how expensive". Then if you are talking high horology such as a Duometre well Rolex is nowhere to be seen, sure that Sky-dweller annual calendar is nice but JLC offers you a perpetual calendar with the full year digits, you can get it in steel too, either on the sporty Polaris or on the dressy Ultra Thin
The Rolex Sky-Dweller is the only interesting Rolex for the mony asked on the grey market. I would prefer a JLC Reverso Tribute to all Rolex sports watches and fine watches (except of the mentioned Sky-Dweller and a classic Cellini Prince in WG). GMTs, Subs and Daytonas are way overpriced double or triple the list price and more.
I have a two tone sub and an explorer. I also have a Polaris and a reverso. I believe the four of them can peacefully coexist in any collection. The explorer is a great daily. I wear the reverso as a dress watch. I like the sub if I’m going out with the guys and the Polaris is a good date and social watch. No, I don’t dive with either one.
Another great video! To me, the green bezel sub is a little worse value but such a cool watch that I like it a little better (if I could find it at msrp).
Burnt Eggs, with all of the other options, I have no idea why Rolex lovers would pay, double, triple and even more for a popular model when there are plenty of watches with better horology, style and craftsmanship for the same or lower prices. I think Rolexes have the same status as stocks in the commodities market-the price and its trade value; not the horology.Take care and be safe, Bill😷
You should buy and wear what you like. But I think with a JLC you send out the image ‘ I like watches’ and with an Rolex you send out the image ‘ I like being seen’. Then again I do think that there is a difference in perception when you live in Europe or in the US. And there are so many fake Rolex people out there that mess up the legacy of rolex. It seems harch when the first question always is ‘ is it real?’
Hello Arent, there are different messages but there are also different receptors. Some see a Rolex watch and think "rich, makes great choices," while another sees, "herd-following conformist, nouveau riche." As for fake Rolexes ... I've found there're fake everything, and that's why if we're going to spend thousands on a watch, we need to learn about horology. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I’m considering a Reverso Duo and a Sub (no date) as my belated 40th - I’m going towards the Reverso as the sub is a great watch but doesn’t feel special enough. I know so many people who own it who don’t like watches, and my lifestyle is casual but not sporty enough that a Reverso would be too dressy.
@@watchartsci I have owned maybe 100 watches and am finally ready to settle down so this is the result of a very long decision making process - don’t make me start again 😂 Thanks for your video and hope you are safe well and too! I’ve had my second vaccination so I think I am now invincible now... I’m sure that’s how it works? 🤔😄
Thanks, Tim, yes the Rolex prices are all over the map. I was trying (for the most part) to tag those in stainless steel, representing the starting point for each of the models, and you're right-the secondary market for new Rolexes is a pirates paradise. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Hi Bill both watch companies are fabulous watch makers, Rolex go down the road of demand and supply keeping the supply low, I am disappointed to see the way ADs treat new potential Rolex owners, they are left to pay well over retail prices, so the question is are Rolex watches worth paying 20/30%. More Than a Jaeger LeCoultre ??
Well John & Marita ... I called our local Rolex dealer and asked if they had an Air King, and the woman told me I'd have to come down there.... maybe she didn't realize ..." We're in the middle of a pandemic!!!" ... anyway, there are so many more watches I'd rather have, that I didn't even bother to tell her to jump in a lake. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Rolex do not keep supply low- they probably sell more in a year than AP have sold in their history. They also sell all their watches- the issue for us is that we tend to want steel sports Rolexes which have the lowest profit margin and the highest demand. It wouldn’t be sensible for Rolex to meet that demand and risk losing the hype. Especially as people are now starting to buy two tone models w have much higher profit margins.
JLC has better finished movements with much more attention to detail, the experts mention JLC as the watchmakers watch. Rolex holds their value much more than Jaeger-LeCoultre. I have the JLC Duometre in the black dial, limited to 200 pieces in 18K white gold. A masterpiece with an amazing movement finished as well as any watch available. Both watches are thick, the JLC is 42mm and 12.3mm thick. The dial is very busy on the Duometre, however, an amazing timepiece.
@@watchartsci thank you, Bill, love your passion and content, my favorite watch channel. I also have the Breguet 7097 recently purchased at 35% off retail, brand new.
Interesting Dive Watch comparison (Polaris VS Sub). I would take the JLC Polaris as it's styled more uniquely. There are so many great and more affordable substitute dive watches similar in appearance to the Submariner.
Another great video Bill. I love both of these brands. Several of your choices I have either owned, or hope to own in the future. Be well and stay safe.
Rolex is new money or for people who don’t appreciate Horology but just want to make a statement, show off. It’s a steak dinner with potatoes. JLC is refinement class, old money, appreciation for Horology heritage. It’s a fancy French dinner
@@watchartsci I really do because it flies under the radar. It's not an attention monster, it's class, and no one will know what a JLC is. I like Rolex also, only the Explorer 36mm and Submariner 14060M two line or vintage 5513. Other than that I wouldn't care less for Rolex. I appreciate the build quality and I use to like it's tool watch workhorse adventurers aesthetic. Now I can't get one even if I had the money. I don't like to beg or kiss a$$ to AD reps just to get on a waitlist. I gave up on Rolex unless I get a call for an Explorer 36mm. That brand has turned off loyal generational customers and they don't care about collectors/enthusiasts. This shortage has the used market out of control. AD's only sell to flippers or VIP customers who sell to grey market dealers. Prices already double before the AD's take delivery. Grey market resellers go by speculation. Now we are starting to hear stories about guys getting killed for their Rolex Submariners in Europe. Rolex doesn't care to help guys track stolen watches. Then the stigma of douchebags and sleazy show-offs remains more than ever.
@@Milofchg Hi Milo, it looks like a lot of different luxury models are sold out. I contacted the New York City Vacheron Constantin boutique, and they are sold out of Overseas and have a waiting list. That's a first, as far as I know for VC. The market goes up and down, and our best plan as collectors is to seek out good horology and forget about brands. Don't kid yourself that JLC wouldn't do the same if suddenly their stock fell so low that they could charge premiums. Take care and learn about horology ... forget brands that you know and look deeper into horology. Be safe, Bill😷
Great video Bill, I think there are three ways to look at this comparison, for someone that has no idea what Rolex or JLC is, and not aware of the Hype, they might tend to choose more JLC watches, the second view is the normal watch enthusiasts and they will choose Rolex in every choice, last but not least the informed watch collector, whom will look at every aspect of the watch and will have a variety of choice, each choice dependent on a situation or some kind of an event :D so at the end of the day, if you are able to buy one of the Steel sports watches for MSRP, it would be a great addition, but also if a JLC is offered -40% off MSRP it would be a great addition as well. Cheers, Abdul
Interesting take Abdul. You may well be right, but Rolex can make it very difficult to like them....and I've heard rumors about poor JLC service. Get the Habring2 in every instance! Take care and be safe, Bill😷
With Omega prices on the increase and other brands, can we take it that Rolex will be simply unobtainable for the foreseeable? I think so. The new OPs are trading ridiculously, just for a dial colour and updated movement. I may look at getting one in a decade, but who knows what the landscape will look like then. JLC gets the win. Cheers.
In my case, an independent from the AHCI group or a Grönefeld, or Agenhor .... or a whole list of great watches that do not know the conveyor belt of mass production. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I prefer the style and horology of JLC and think they’d be more “me.” I’ve spent some time on the rolex forums and ugh, for the most part I want nothing to do with those folks.
That Ced, is a smart and comfortable preference ... what you like. That's what counts in the long run. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Rolex is great but JLC is just another level.For me at least.
Great video.
Thanks Patriot. I generally prefer JLC, but Rolex makes solid tool watches. Takes care and be safe, Bill😷
You can’t go wrong with Rolex or JLC in my book :)
I agree! Both are excellent watches. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
As someone who always wore Rolex and now is moving more towards JLC, I found that very interesting. For me, Rolex are tool watches, pure and simple. As a marine scientist, climber and diver and now forester and farmer, Subs and Sea-Dwellers accompanied me recreationally and professionally, through tough conditions and never let me down. Their luxury was their immense reliability and refinement. They worked. They received little comment. But now, I find Rolex has become overexposed, overpriced, their design language increasingly ostentatious and the reaction of others to your watch undesirable - I'm not into displays of obvious wealth/prestige.
So now, I'm increasingly splitting my collection between JLC and Seiko/Grand Seiko. These companies make watches of higher quality than Rolex, with more interesting movements and more design flair. The only attention they receive is either complementary: "beautiful watch" or geeky interest from fellow enthusiasts. Either I can live with! I do wish JLC could crack the sports watch - I think the current Polaris is lacking in utilitarian charm compared to it's historical predecessor, the 60s Memovox. However, I'm a fan of the Master Chronograph Calendar - on the radar. As are certain Duometres. But at that end of the market, It would be facing stiff competition (for me) from Breguet - my grail.
James, there's always the path less traveled ... away from the mass-produced and toward interesting independents. In your work, it sounded like the Rolex was the perfect tool watch to have, but the more interest you have in horology, I'd think you'd want to get watches with visible movements in the back. Maybe not. I've found that away from the herd gives a better view of the choices you have. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I just purchased the updated Polaris date over the new Mariner date. They updated the movement to raise the PR on it. Also added the quick strap. Big fan of these. Not sure how good the movement as over time but looks good!
Hi Ripperx, thanks for that info. I haven't seen much feedback on the Polaris, but nothing has been negative. After you've had your Mariner Date for a while, it'd be great to hear from you about it. Take care, Bill
@@watchartsci will do. Quick update. I purchased the green strap from the polaris date green dial and swapped out the black rubber for it. The watch looks incredible. Time keeping over 4 days has been on par with anything Rolex, omega and do… +3 a day!
I’ll get back with a final review. Remember the pricing at Msrp is all bs these days! Jlc goes for 35% off!!!!
Having in consideration repair and maintenance service and overall after sales support from Rolex and JLC I must say that at least in the USA, JLC has the worst service I have experienced (extremly slow repairs, lack of knowloeadge on all areas by their service representatives, close to imposible to get probels escalateD) while Rolex has one of the best ones. In the USA I find JLC very much lacking in the service department in all aspects, I used to love JLC but this side of the company turned me off to the point that I sold all my JLC watches.
Noisy movements is another strange factor people don't talk about much regarding JLC, their new automatic movements are EXTREMLY noisy, specially the Polaris line, the bearings the rotor is mounted on is annoyingly loud.
I have had poor repair service service experience with JLC as well in the US, very slow turnaround times and lack of communication between other negatives. You are right as well about Polaris movements being loud.
Hi Alex, that's a bummer. Let's let JLC know that they'd better get on the ball with their service! We're the consumers! Take care and stay safe, Bill😷
Good to know. Thanks
This is great to hear. Ive been considering JLC for a while now and lately have been leaning towards their brand and I may avoid it at all costs now..
Indeed the service question is the dark side of jlc. I want to buy a bracelet for my master compressor and I can't. If you are not living in swiss bad luck. From germany is more than 1k to send it. 😚🤑
I have 4 jlc and 4 rollies. To be honest is very difficult to choose. As you said the message is different. R is something that everybody knows , jlc instead is something for your soul. If it would be to put my money on quality it would be jlc. Get both of them and there'll be peace!!!!
Great point, Alex! We're not dealing with a zero-sum game model ... you can get both! Take care and be safe, Bill😷
One compare and contrast between Rolex and JLC is that the pattern of the design language of Rolex from reference to reference is more consistent than that of JLC. This visual iconography which permits a Rolex to be visually identified by form and shape is something that contributes to the Rolex brand popularity. The general uniformity of the Rolex design language is also reflected in the bracelets with the three segmented links and the taper of the bracelet from the end link or union with the case downward. People respond viscerally to such pattern language and IMHO this pattern language is the secret sauce which explains Rolex popularity. Without pattern language, the JLC lineup was handicapped even though JLC horology is on a level above Rolex. JLC did have some great design language in the Master Compressor line but JLC basically abandoned the tool watch despite the ascendancy of the tool watch in the market place. The Master Compressor had both diver and non-diver references and should have been developed by JLC as a legacy premium tool watch model line on the order of the Fifty Fathoms: the thinking horology buff’s tool watch. I admire and respect Rolex’s masterful command of its design language without being a fan of Rolex watches.
Good point Howard ... and they dropped the whole Geophysic line. I think it was a Richemont decision. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Very informative and interesting content.
I am in the market for this particular JLC. I love the blue dial with the orange accents on the Polaris.
This will be my first purchase outside of Rolex, AP and PP. I currently own 13 Rolex, 5 AP and 3 PP so obviously I am a little apprehensive.
A. Human, I own none of those. I sold my PP and AP and never bought a Rolex even though I like them fine ... just like other ones better. Year ago I bought my wife a Reverso, and it's been a gem of a watch. Take care, Bill
Cheering and rooting for the underdog (dare I call JLC an underdog), but what would I actually rather own for most comparisons, the Rolex (yes Goliath wins again). It says something about Rolex design, that even when you root for the competition and dislike the show-off nature and social media grab Rolex brings, you ultimately still concede to the champ.
Oldenglish91, I think what's important is to back away and look at the horology and your own style. I've looked at both and asked, "What else is there in that price range?" There's a whole big world of watches out there with value that's greater than either to me. Were there not, I'd just get the one I found the most value in. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I would go with JLC one of the most underrated watch company and with the most in-house movements about 1000 ,thanks 🏴
If you get one, which one would you go for? Take care and be safe, Bill😷
@@watchartsci Hi Bill, master control calendar, they did do a model that look like a AP that was nice as well , stay safe 🙏🏴
Hi Bill, I'm sure Rolex is a great watch and they are, masters of marketing but what a Cliche'( sorry I'm sooo tired of hearing about rolex) Love your show I'm learning a lot.
Hey Bill, we can like any watches we want for any reason we want ... took me a while to understand that. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
JLC are class , I’ve got a Datejust 41 with chocolate dial it’s a lovely watch , but JLC are a connoisseur of watches , but saying that a lot of people who could go higher wear a Rolex ,thanks
Hey Charlieboy, good to hear from you! You are right, it's very much a matter of taste and style. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Confession: my daily is a Datejust. That said, I'd be too self conscious to wear a Sub or Cosy, just too over the top for me. The Air King on the other hand is a favorite, but in a vintage model. I'm currently looking for a Super Precision 1005.
Thanks for another great video.
My pleasure Phil. I like the Air King with the 'Bloodhound Dial.' Also, I like the Cellini Prince, but at this time I do not own one. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
hi bill ...very interesting comparison review about two great brands ,,,i have to say I love dress watches and in every comparison I thought the jlc was the better looking watch ,,probably because that’s their forte,,,I also being a watch enthusiast love dive watches and that’s where Rolex excel I suppose it’s horses for courses both these brands grace most high end collections but I would definitely give jlc the overall edge because as the watch maker of watch makers they have the longer higher heritage ,,in my opinion anyway cheers bill all the best for the new year .
Hi Colin, that's pretty much how I was looking at them. Even though the Reverso originally was a sports watch, I'd choose the Air-King, but outside of sports, most likely the Jaeger-LeCoultre. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
In every case in my opinion the JLC is the better looking watch 👌 Nice comparison video , Stay Safe 😷 Bill I went to the doctor yesterday he's saying we might get the vaccine next month !
Good news Junior! I'm scheduled for a week from Tuesday, but my wife is just a couple of years younger and will have to wait. I think part of 2020 has crept into the first month of 2021! You'd look good in a JLC. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Rolex is a good brand, its just its fan base these days are primarily new money. And now Patek Phillipe is starting to become the new rolex
At least Rolex has not fully succumbed to silicon hairsprings. I hope they don't. Take care, Bill
I hate divers with Dates. If u go diving and have to check the date. It is already too late.
But that is just me.
I see your point Johan. From what I know, most luxury divers will never go diving; so, the date won't hurt that much. I checked out the divers sold in diver shops, and they were all quartz or smart watches. Take care, Bill
@@watchartsci
Yeah I know that a today’s diver watch won’t be a mechanical luxury watch which costs 9000$ but as I said, this is just my idea of how they should be. Because this model had the „purpose“ of diving. Or is meant to be a tool for diving. So the date function jumps into my eye as unnecessary.
It feels like …. A microwave which has a timer for the date. No food would need days to get warm in a microwave. So it would be a unnecessary function.
But anyway it is just my feeling about this 😄.
(I am no fan of date windows in general, accept the big ones from Glashütte)
But anyone can buy what he wants.
Dear Bill,
Nice comparisons. That Master Thin is beautiful! BTW, I was recently offered the new green bezel sub by my Rolex AD. I have never owned a sub before and do like the slimmer lugs with green ceramic. Think it has nice features and is a solid value proposition at the retail 9600$, but no way is it worth the crazy 17k$ secondary price, imho.
Hey Matt, you have too many good watches to know the relative value of a Rolex. Weren't you going to get an Akrivia? Not owning a sub is nothing to be despondent about...🙄 Take care and be safe, Bill😷
@@watchartsciThanks, Bill. Gronefeld Principia coming next week. 11 month wait. Now we're talking!
@@mcm367 Now that will be a watch worth having!!! You didn't forget to order one for me too?😉 Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I am coming after the battle😅 but since I am looking for my next one the algo suggested me your video. Collecting both brands they get along very well into the same collection😊. Rolex watches are kind of flawless and very well built, but you kind of see them everywhere and they are lacking some high horology vibes, while my JLCs are less rugged and are more flawed, but also far less common and more interesting, for instance my Polaris Mariner Memovox clasp is big and uber complicated, that innerbezel less practical and on three crowns only one is screwed down😂 which drives me nuts. But that alarm function is soooo niiiice and actually useful in real life, and it gets others interested and smilling, good luck to get any discussion around a Submariner other than "is it real" and "how expensive". Then if you are talking high horology such as a Duometre well Rolex is nowhere to be seen, sure that Sky-dweller annual calendar is nice but JLC offers you a perpetual calendar with the full year digits, you can get it in steel too, either on the sporty Polaris or on the dressy Ultra Thin
I worry about mariner JLC 's crown is not screw type
Is it ok under water?
Great video. Very informative and enjoyable 🙏
Hey Mark, thanks man! Take care and be safe, Bill😷
The Rolex Sky-Dweller is the only interesting Rolex for the mony asked on the grey market. I would prefer a JLC Reverso Tribute to all Rolex sports watches and fine watches (except of the mentioned Sky-Dweller and a classic Cellini Prince in WG). GMTs, Subs and Daytonas are way overpriced double or triple the list price and more.
Hi Alkaschi, yes, the Sky-Dweller and Prince are two stand-outs in the Rolex stable. Take care, Bill
I have a two tone sub and an explorer. I also have a Polaris and a reverso. I believe the four of them can peacefully coexist in any collection. The explorer is a great daily. I wear the reverso as a dress watch. I like the sub if I’m going out with the guys and the Polaris is a good date and social watch.
No, I don’t dive with either one.
Who needs to dive in a diver, Mjvjr?! My desk is my ocean...desk diver! Take care, Bill
You got that right Bill, lol
Another great video! To me, the green bezel sub is a little worse value but such a cool watch that I like it a little better (if I could find it at msrp).
Burnt Eggs, with all of the other options, I have no idea why Rolex lovers would pay, double, triple and even more for a popular model when there are plenty of watches with better horology, style and craftsmanship for the same or lower prices. I think Rolexes have the same status as stocks in the commodities market-the price and its trade value; not the horology.Take care and be safe, Bill😷
You should buy and wear what you like.
But I think with a JLC you send out the image ‘ I like watches’ and with an Rolex you send out the image ‘ I like being seen’.
Then again I do think that there is a difference in perception when you live in Europe or in the US.
And there are so many fake Rolex people out there that mess up the legacy of rolex. It seems harch when the first question always is ‘ is it real?’
Hello Arent, there are different messages but there are also different receptors. Some see a Rolex watch and think "rich, makes great choices," while another sees, "herd-following conformist, nouveau riche." As for fake Rolexes ... I've found there're fake everything, and that's why if we're going to spend thousands on a watch, we need to learn about horology. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I’m considering a Reverso Duo and a Sub (no date) as my belated 40th - I’m going towards the Reverso as the sub is a great watch but doesn’t feel special enough. I know so many people who own it who don’t like watches, and my lifestyle is casual but not sporty enough that a Reverso would be too dressy.
Spread your search to a wider field, Sam. Rolex and JLC were just two examples. Take care and stay safe, Bill 😷
@@watchartsci I have owned maybe 100 watches and am finally ready to settle down so this is the result of a very long decision making process - don’t make me start again 😂
Thanks for your video and hope you are safe well and too! I’ve had my second vaccination so I think I am now invincible now... I’m sure that’s how it works? 🤔😄
Great content. Actually the New 41mm Rolex Sub Kermit gray market goes for $20k+. Nice video mate.
Thanks, Tim, yes the Rolex prices are all over the map. I was trying (for the most part) to tag those in stainless steel, representing the starting point for each of the models, and you're right-the secondary market for new Rolexes is a pirates paradise. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
For me:
sub > polaris
air king > classic reverso
reverso dual face > explorer 2
daytona > master chrono
master ultra > cellini
duo metre > sky dwellar
That's a clear set of choices, Jack! Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Take resale out the equation and does the list change?😁
Hi Bill both watch companies are fabulous watch makers, Rolex go down the road of demand and supply keeping the supply low, I am disappointed to see the way ADs treat new potential Rolex owners, they are left to pay well over retail prices, so the question is are Rolex watches worth paying 20/30%. More Than a Jaeger LeCoultre ??
Well John & Marita ... I called our local Rolex dealer and asked if they had an Air King, and the woman told me I'd have to come down there.... maybe she didn't realize ..." We're in the middle of a pandemic!!!" ... anyway, there are so many more watches I'd rather have, that I didn't even bother to tell her to jump in a lake. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
@@watchartsci Rolex are gone too expensive to be in category of a tool watch . Would you get into your best suit to do the gardening😂😂😂
@@johnmaritaodonnell6493 Perhaps the category, "Overpriced Tool Watch?" ... Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Rolex do not keep supply low- they probably sell more in a year than AP have sold in their history.
They also sell all their watches- the issue for us is that we tend to want steel sports Rolexes which have the lowest profit margin and the highest demand. It wouldn’t be sensible for Rolex to meet that demand and risk losing the hype. Especially as people are now starting to buy two tone models w have much higher profit margins.
Hi Bill sorry didn't mean to be rude
Bill, I don't think people thought that. No worries. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Thank you for the video. JLC is more aesthetically refined, with the exception of the Skydweller, in the comparisons. Love both brands though.
Hi El Cruze, I like both the Air-King (with the Bloodhound dial) and the Yacht-Master II from Rolex. Several from JLC are outstanding. Take care, Bill
JLC has better finished movements with much more attention to detail, the experts mention JLC as the watchmakers watch. Rolex holds their value much more than Jaeger-LeCoultre. I have the JLC Duometre in the black dial, limited to 200 pieces in 18K white gold. A masterpiece with an amazing movement finished as well as any watch available. Both watches are thick, the JLC is 42mm and 12.3mm thick. The dial is very busy on the Duometre, however, an amazing timepiece.
You are fortunate, the JLC Duometre is a gem of watch! Take care, Bill
@@watchartsci thank you, Bill, love your passion and content, my favorite watch channel. I also have the Breguet 7097 recently purchased at 35% off retail, brand new.
Hi Bill ,do you have any Rolex watches ,I think I heard you say a long time ago you don’t ,thanks
Nope, but there are some I do like. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Interesting Dive Watch comparison (Polaris VS Sub). I would take the JLC Polaris as it's styled more uniquely. There are so many great and more affordable substitute dive watches similar in appearance to the Submariner.
The more you compare, 20thC-Man...the better your watch choices! Take care, Bill
Another great video Bill. I love both of these brands. Several of your choices I have either owned, or hope to own in the future. Be well and stay safe.
I wanted to say something about a special 'Bluesy😉'... but didn't. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
The Rolex watches look relatively ugly next to the JLCs!
Rolexes are like any other watch ... the beauty is primarily in the eye of the beholder. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
Rolex is new money or for people who don’t appreciate Horology but just want to make a statement, show off. It’s a steak dinner with potatoes. JLC is refinement class, old money, appreciation for Horology heritage. It’s a fancy French dinner
Hi Milo ... I take it your prefer the Jaeger-LeCoultre? 😉 Take care and be safe, Bill 😷
@@watchartsci I really do because it flies under the radar. It's not an attention monster, it's class, and no one will know what a JLC is. I like Rolex also, only the Explorer 36mm and Submariner 14060M two line or vintage 5513. Other than that I wouldn't care less for Rolex. I appreciate the build quality and I use to like it's tool watch workhorse adventurers aesthetic. Now I can't get one even if I had the money. I don't like to beg or kiss a$$ to AD reps just to get on a waitlist. I gave up on Rolex unless I get a call for an Explorer 36mm. That brand has turned off loyal generational customers and they don't care about collectors/enthusiasts. This shortage has the used market out of control. AD's only sell to flippers or VIP customers who sell to grey market dealers. Prices already double before the AD's take delivery. Grey market resellers go by speculation. Now we are starting to hear stories about guys getting killed for their Rolex Submariners in Europe. Rolex doesn't care to help guys track stolen watches. Then the stigma of douchebags and sleazy show-offs remains more than ever.
@@Milofchg Hi Milo, it looks like a lot of different luxury models are sold out. I contacted the New York City Vacheron Constantin boutique, and they are sold out of Overseas and have a waiting list. That's a first, as far as I know for VC. The market goes up and down, and our best plan as collectors is to seek out good horology and forget about brands. Don't kid yourself that JLC wouldn't do the same if suddenly their stock fell so low that they could charge premiums. Take care and learn about horology ... forget brands that you know and look deeper into horology. Be safe, Bill😷
Well explained, Milo!
Great video Bill, I think there are three ways to look at this comparison, for someone that has no idea what Rolex or JLC is, and not aware of the Hype, they might tend to choose more JLC watches, the second view is the normal watch enthusiasts and they will choose Rolex in every choice, last but not least the informed watch collector, whom will look at every aspect of the watch and will have a variety of choice, each choice dependent on a situation or some kind of an event :D so at the end of the day, if you are able to buy one of the Steel sports watches for MSRP, it would be a great addition, but also if a JLC is offered -40% off MSRP it would be a great addition as well. Cheers, Abdul
Interesting take Abdul. You may well be right, but Rolex can make it very difficult to like them....and I've heard rumors about poor JLC service. Get the Habring2 in every instance! Take care and be safe, Bill😷
@@watchartsci Totally agree a Kudoke o Harbring2 would be my top choices.
With Omega prices on the increase and other brands, can we take it that Rolex will be simply unobtainable for the foreseeable? I think so. The new OPs are trading ridiculously, just for a dial colour and updated movement. I may look at getting one in a decade, but who knows what the landscape will look like then. JLC gets the win. Cheers.
In my case, an independent from the AHCI group or a Grönefeld, or Agenhor .... or a whole list of great watches that do not know the conveyor belt of mass production. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
JLC hands down. End of discussion.
Hey Merk, that should be the beginning of the discussion! Take care, Bill
@watchartsci 😆 we all have our biases. Mine as you can see leans towards JLC. I say that owning 2 Rolexes and 4 JLC. 😉