Buying time: HKWF’s recommendations of watches under 100k (HKD)

1.      IWC Portugieser Automatic 7 Days

 

The IWC Portugieser Automatic 7 Days is one of the most popular IWC models seen on the wrists of watch enthusiasts.

 

At a little less than 43mm, the watch has a very proper size without being too small. It gives you enough wrist presence with the very well-polished and shaped case. The thickness of 14.5 mm makes it also a watch for sportier occasions.

 

 

With formal attire, this watch complements your looks very well as the dial is finished with classic Arabic numerals. The two sub-dials display the running seconds and the power reserve, which, when fully-wound, is 7 days. At 6 o’ clock is the date window and the watch comes with a very well made alligator strap. You can also buy Santoni alligator straps from IWC. They are very impressive straps with patina you will not see elsewhere.

 

2.      Panerai Pam442

Panerai has been in vogue for a long time. It has brought to the world of horology some very cutting-edge elements. For example, watch size has revolutionized because of this brand. Vintage-style watch dials and patina colored numerals are also two elements brought by the brand.

 

 

 

The Pam422 is a very loyal iteration of the brand’s deep-rooted history with the military. The watch comes with a domed sapphire crystal and a polished bezel and case. At 47mm, it is absolutely a watch to behold when worn.

It has a manual-wound movement on which a power reserve indicator is located and can be seen through the sapphire case back. The hands are gold in color and they complement the beige numerals. This is a fun watch to have as you can wind the watch looking at the power reserve indicator and get a taste of history on your wrist. The watch comes with a Panerai assolutamente strap which is very finely textured. 

 

3.      Rolex Deep Sea D-blue

 

 

The Rolex Deep Sea D-blue has been a very popular watch since its release in 2014. The watch has a gradient blue-black dial with green letters “DEEPSEA”. The color combination has successfully revived a watch that would otherwise be a dull big brick on your wrist. Surely the black dial version is good looking as it looks professional.

 

However, the D-blue looks obviously more interesting. The ceramic bezel stands out more as there is color contrast between the dial and the bezel. The bracelet comes with the Glidelock clasp which is very useful. You can adjust the bracelet according to your wrist’s conditions. The 44mm case with its 18mm thickness together gives you very good wrist presence. It is indeed a heavy watch and a watch that can hardly go unnoticed.

 

 

The price of this watch will not drop too much due to limited supply. So, it is one of the best watches to retain its value.

 

4.      The Rolex Daytona 116520

 

 

What!? The 116520? What about the 116500ln? The new Daytona Ceramic?

Unfortunately, the 116500ln cannot be bought below 100k. So, if you do not have a Daytona yet and do not want to pay a premium for the new Daytona Ceramic, you can go for the 116520.

 

To many people, the price for a stainless steel Rolex should never exceed 100k. The new Daytona Ceramic is great but some of us may find it a bit expensive. The 116520, on the other hand, has been discontinued. That means the price of this watch will not go down. It is a very good investment for you at this moment when you can still easily find NOS 116520. As one of the most iconic Rolexes for 16 years, the 116520 is worth your money.

 

5.      The Jaeger-Lecoultre Geophysic True Second Universal Time

  

 



 

 

 

This is the watch for you if you travel a lot. Even if you don’t, this is also the watch to have below 100k. In short, this is a world-timer with a mechanical movement while the second hand ticks instead of sweeps. The rotor is in solid gold. At 40mm, this watch offers a lot.

 

It is an interesting thing to behold when you see how the mechanical movement actually makes the second hand tick instead of sweep. The dial is finely executed with a world map on it. It will be your best travel companion.

 

HK Snob

Rolex Ref 16264 Thunderbird

Rolex thunderbird Ref 16264 with special dial colour on Sale
Watch only, keeping excellent time asking only HK$26,800

HK Snob

Dive watch comparison: Rolex VS Hublot VS Audemars Piguet

 

 

A diver may be the most frequently seen watch in Hong Kong. When paired with formal attire or casual wear, it serves its purpose well – not to dive – but to tell the time without yielding to conditions such as shock, water spills and extreme weather. A diver is reliable as it is water-resistant to certain meters. It is a very good everyday watch. Here, we have three contenders from three brands today. Let’s see which one wins your heart, and how deep you can dive.

1.      The representative of Rolex – the Deep Sea 116660

 

 

The Rolex Deep Sea 116660 is the crown’s deepest diver ever made. It is water-resistant to 3900m. But is it really its limit? No. You will not test it, though. The fact is that it must be capable to withstand the water pressure at over 3900m’s depth in order to have the official number of 3900m water-resistance. At 44mm wide and 18mm thick, it is a beast on the wrist. Two dial options are available which are the black and D-blue dials. Price wise, the black dial is around 20k cheaper with discounts. If a Sea-Dweller or Submariner cannot give you the solid feeling a diver should have, go for the Deep Sea and you will not regret.

 

2.      Hublot Oceangraphic 4000m



 

 

 

Being water-resistant 100m more than the Rolex Deep Sea, this Hublot is a monster watch on the wrist. The dial is very legible with an inner rotating bezel which can be turned by the crown at 4 o’ clock. It is 48mm wide and thicker than the Deep Sea. The main difference is the weight. As the case is made of titanium, it does not wear as hefty as the Deep Sea. It is a good choice for you if you are into something special.

 

3.      Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver



 

 

 

A diver with a display case back? Here you have the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore which is now offered with a see-through case back. The watch is “only” water-resistant to 300m. However, the polishing and the shape of the case as well as the finishing of the movement are top-notch. It is really a joy to see the well-decorated solid gold rotor on your diver, isn’t it? The watch has an inner rotating bezel which can be turned by the crown at 10 o’ clock. It is worn on a thick and well-crafted rubber strap.

 

Let us know which of the above your diver of choice is. To us, the Rolex Deep Sea is currently the winner as the price, the function and the value it can retain are the best among the three.

 

HK Snob

What make the crown stand out?

When we talk about watches, we always talk about Rolex. When we talk about Rolex, we always talk about…errr… the Submariner? the Daytona? Or… the Day-Date?

 

Have you wondered why Rolex has been so successful all over the world? HK Snob weighs in.

 

 

 

 

 

1.      Price

In Hong Kong, Rolex stainless steel watches are around 30k-90k. It means a stainless steel Rolex is never over 100k HKD (now it may be different with the new Daytona). That has been the case for many years.

 

A Rolex is a symbol of status in Hong Kong and many of us do not mind buying a symbol of status under 100k HKD. It is a mental trick. Rolex understands how big the amount of money we are willing to spend on their watches.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.      Iconic design

Be it a Submariner, a Daytona or a Datejust, we can always recognize a Rolex easily. When worn on the wrist, you are wearing something that you know others will envy. There are so many iconic designs in the Rolex collection. Each of them has its own features and character.

 

This successfully makes people want to buy more and more after they own their first Rolex. Of course, movie stars wearing Rolex watches contribute a lot to its success, too.

 

 

3.      Practicality

Every Rolex is tough. Every Rolex movement is an unbeatable workhorse. Yes. This is the image of Rolex – its being super practical.

 

Although you may not dive with your Submariner or check the other city’s time with your GMT Master, these watches are made with practical function and outstanding durability.

 

You seldom hear that a Rolex is not accurate or it breaks down easily. Each Rolex watch has its own practical function. It has nothing excessive. The image of each Rolex model is so clear that laymen understand easily.

 

HK Snob

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rolex Day-Date – how to choose the right dial for your age?

We do not see people wearing the Day-Date in Hong Kong very much as most of us seem to prefer sports models of Rolex. However, when the one standing next to you in an MTR compartment is wearing the same 116710 as you do, why not stand out by wearing something different – the most prestigious watch of Rolex- the Day-Date?

 

 

Some of us may feel that the Day-Date belongs not to the young but to the grandpas who are over 60 years old. The impression is formed because of the overall design of the Day-Date which is very elegant and classic. The President bracelet is, together with the Jubilee bracelet, seen as something that the young will not want to wear because the overall style is too formal and mature. Nevertheless, what is notable is that when you look at NBA stars and young musicians in the West, they wear their Day-Dates and they wear them well. That brings out one point: when you are young, it does not make you look old wearing a Day-Date. What is more is of course about the choice of the right size and the right dial.

 

 

The 36mm Day-Date has been around for so many years. It is the more standard size of the Day-Date. However, for younger people, this size is not recommended. If you are under 30, you can go for the Day-Date 40. To stand out, choose dials of darker colors instead of champagne gold or light silver colors. These dials pair with yellow gold or rose gold very well. The 2016 olive dial on the 228235 Day-Date 40 rose gold is a great choice. If you prefer yellow gold, go for the black diagonal motif dial. Surely, you can go for the white gold versions which offer blue and grey stripe motif dials. They look stunning with the President bracelet which reflects light like nothing else.

 

 

 

If you would like to have a more formal style, then go for the lighter dial colors such as the sun dust motif dial of the rose gold version. It is a very special color. The Rolex Day-Date 40 is indeed a better choice than sports models which you can find most people wearing on many occasions. It is a watch that is made only in precious metals. It is a watch which makes you stand out.

 

HK Snob

HK Watch Fever Group

 

 

 

 

 

Zenith El Primero Chronograph on Sale

 

This is the second one I brought for Pinoy who appreciates the good taste in life.

Zenith El Primero 36000 VPH hi beat, this Movement had been installed in Rolex Daytona before 2000.

Rolex loves to use this El Primero movement simply it is proven superb in reliability since 1969 it was introduced.

It is accurate.

it is beautiful too.

El Primeo Ref. 03-2150.400/69. M2150

HK AD list price HK$59,600 now I can get you one at about HK$42,000

Delivery to Philippines Manila, Makati and or Alabang.

HK Snob

Rolex Day Date with a Special custom Dial order through Rolex AD,

Day Date in Coral

 

 

Day Date in Rubellite Wood

Day Date with Aventurine

 

Have you ever mesmerized these Rolex Day Dates with exotic dials?

 



You must know that I am the one who is...

 

Now, after talking to Rolex AD, we can order these watches from Rolex SA Switzerland for you.

 

All Brand New Rolex watch made for you Brand New in Box Full Set from Rolex AD.

 

Price estimated HKD$260,000

 

50% deposit to the Rolex AD then wait for 6 weeks or so, then you can get these watches.

 

if you cannot get these watches from Rolex after the period of them you can ask for refund.

 

Well, you don't have to go to the Sham Shui Po, Mong Kok or TST looking for these old watch...

 

New watch has better movement, better waterproof,  better in anything as it is NEW

 

Only HK Watch Fever Group can get this deal for you.

 

Now we have only three types of dial as shown above.

 

Model Ref.118238 in yellow gold.

 

Hope One day we get Submariner with Onyx or Lapis Lazuli Dial!

 

HK Snob

HK Watch Fever

Date Just II Ref.116334

Attached is a Date Just II that most of us name it as the most adorable Date Just II.

Date Just II 41mm in grey Dial with Diamond Dial.

Date Just II go with Oyster bracelet only.

Rolex AD HK List price HK$80,800.

Gray Dealer offers more than 20% off the list price.


HK Snob

The Rolex 116600 Sea-Dweller – the legend continues

 

The Rolex Sea-Dweller (not the Deep Sea) has been one of the best-selling Rolex models. It has a professional image and very proper size and weight. Unlike the Submariner, the Sea-Dweller is preferred by professional divers as it is water-resistant to 1200m. As the latest member of the Sea-Dweller family, the 116600 is a must-have for any Rolex collector.

 

Unlike its predecessor 16600, the 116600 has a ceramic bezel on which markers from 0-60 minutes are engraved, just like the bezel of the Deep Sea. It makes the watch look more professional. The lume on the markers and the hands is now Rolex Chromalight which is blue in color and it is stronger than previous luminous materials. At 40mm, the difference between the 116600 and the Submariner 116610 is now more obvious. Other than the bezel markings, the whole watch weighs more and has thicker case and bezel ring. The helium-escape-valve on the 9 o’ clock position is also another feature that differs it from the Sub.

 

 

 

Unlike the Deep Sea, the 116600 has more proper size and weight. On the wrist, it feels very comfortable and you do not have to have big wrists in order to wear the watch well. The cosmetics upgrades are very well done. The watch looks more like a luxurious dive watch now than ever. The Glidelock clasp is included which gives the 116600 a more professional touch. You can adjust the bracelet whenever you want.

 

 

The 116600 is the ultimate diver of choice. You will understand how well-made the Sea-Dweller is if you compare it with other 1200m divers. The Deep Sea is of course an engineering marvel. However, the size and the weight make it hard to a lot of people to wear. The 3900m water-resistant ability is not really needed to, at least, most of us. On the other hand, the 116600’s 1200m water-resistance is just about right. It is not just an ordinary diver with 300m or 600m water-resistance. It is one solid watch to have and wear every day.

 

HK Snob

Vintage time : Rolex 5513 and why you should buy it over a modern Sub

The Rolex Submariner is perhaps the best-selling and most famous tool watch that has ever been produced. The 5513 is one of the most popular references among the other few. The 5513 was produced between 1962 and 1989. It was one of the best diver in that period as the watch was very simple and easy to maintain. The 5513 is a 200m diver with a lot of dial variations. But, let’s talk about the basics first.
 

 

 

The 5513 is 40mm in diameter and it is a good entry level vintage Rolex. It has a matte dial and no date. It has a domed Plexiglass crystal and tritium markers. Most of the 5513 you can find today have aged markers which are beige in color. A normal 5513 with white dial letters and “feet-first” dial is around 47-50k HKD

 

 

Compared with modern Submariners, the 5513 feels more like a tool watch. It has better curves on the case and there are lug holes. The Maxi dial gives it very good legibility. The fun thing is that you can pair it with different leather straps and watch the watch age. The aluminum bezel insert will fade in color in time to give it a unique look. The dial markers will grow darker in color. It is not cold modern Submariners can compare. You can opt for the gilt dial on which letters on the dial are gold in color if you are willing to pay a premium for the added vintage feeling. The 5513 houses a robust 1530 or 1520 movement which is not COSC certified like that in the 5512. However, as always, Rolex’s workhorses do not fail.

HK Snob

AP watch Owner Wanted, you have got a potential Buyer

Sorry that I lost the original watch owner information for this watch I put ad in March 2016.


Please contact me as there is a Blog read who is interested for your watch.

HK Snob

The color game of Rolex – tricks or real aesthetics?

Rolex, as we all know, is very good at playing with colors. The 116610lv “Hulk”, the 116710blnr “Batman” and the 116660 Deep Sea D-Blue are among the best-selling Rolex watches with “special” colors.

 

The Deep Sea D-Blue has the most appealing aesthetics as it has a gradient blue-black dial with sharp green “DEEPSEA” letters. At 44mm, it is a way more attractive watch than the Deep Sea black. However, the price of it is also much higher than the Deep Sea black after discounts. You may end up paying 20k more than the Deep Sea black. But, it is always worth it if you want to wear something special.

 

 

In the world of Rolex, colors seem to represent a kind of prestige. For example, the Platona (Platinum Daytona) has ice blue dial while the Yellow gold Submariner has blue dial and bezel.

 

 

Other choices? The Milgauss Z-blue and the Yacht Master blue dial are not bad if you are into the color blue. Colors come with a price in the world of Rolex. Different colors are also a sign of prestige, meaning that you are not the ordinary man with a ordinary watch.

HK Snob

PS

We can supply Ref.116610LV Submariner Hulk at HK$66,500 BNIB

Ref.116660 DeepSea D-blue at HK$92,500 BNIB, Batman GMT Master II HK$65,000

 

 

 

 

HKWF gathering 2 July 2016

 

 

 

Happy Gathering
HK Snob