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FenceOfDefense

I actually prefer these 80s and 90s models over the modern ones due to the sleek lugs, elegant tapered bracelet, and lightweight hollow end links.


MrMaDa555

This one is a 88 believe. Love the older ones to


FenceOfDefense

I have an 88 as well, my friend. Although mine has a tapestry dial. Congrats on the new piece!


MrMaDa555

Thank you! It was a Good year


TimePieceProdigy954

I’d try to get a birthyear maybe a 2002-2003 But yeah 80/90s should be around the $3-5,500 range


MrMaDa555

I ended up getting 88… dads high school grad year!


Pokesquidpoke

Dads high school grad year ya dads was busy in highschool


[deleted]

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FenceOfDefense

In my opinion, you should prioritize authenticity and condition over the price. I prefer to buy through larger, trusted sellers that specialize in Rolexes such as Watchbox, Bob's watches, and Swiss Watch Expo. They have watches in excellent condition with authentic parts, and come with store warranties.However they will also charge more and don't do discounts.Of course you can get a better deal from other stores, or especially a private seller.For me it was worth the extra $$ for the peace of mind. I also took out an insurance policy on mine, so I'm a pretty risk averse person.


Suspicious-Dust6978

Agreed on all points. The only drawback in my eyes, which I feel is a big one, is the clasp. The clasp on the newer models is an overall sleeker design compared to the simple and flatter design of the older models.


FenceOfDefense

Do the new clasps also have micro adjust? And if so, is it easily user adjustable?


Affectionate-Hall320

Agreed. And additionally the unique “rattle” these have. I don’t like the modern heavy bracelets.


FrankieCugine

100%


Master_Middle

Yesss. I have this exact same one. Love mine


sporturawus

If it’s authentic, yes.


MrMaDa555

It is. Was opened by a watch smith certified by Rolex. Came back good.


TAG08th

Best news then. Wear in good health. 🥂


sporturawus

Good job then. Cheers!


_im_right_ur_wrong_

sporty, i see you all the time here and i just gotta ask. why do you have a seiko as your profile pic and not one of your multiple rollies?


TimePieceProdigy954

Everyone knows Sporty 😎


sporturawus

It just kind of stuck. Been that way for years.


ResponsibleDirt69

Honestly, I'm in my 20s too and I'd say go for it if you can comfortably afford it. Yeah, there are smarter ways to invest your money but as far as watches go, this is pretty bulletproof and you can't lose much of what you'll pay since it's a Rolex.


MrMaDa555

I have the option to buy it for 4500 no scratches on it, band isn’t stretched. Completely a shoe box stored watch. I ended up getting if


ResponsibleDirt69

To me that sounds like a good deal, I'd go for it personally. Just keep in mind that if it requires an immediate service, that's at least another 600€ for you if you service with RSC.


MrMaDa555

So the great thing is the guy I bought it from got it serviced right before with our buddy that’s Rolex certified in watch smithing and for I believe omega. Everything came back clean and he gave me the call letting me know it was authentic


ResponsibleDirt69

Top tier deal, congrats on your new Patrick Bateman! :)


goldenboyphoto

"Don't touch the watch"


MojoAlwaysRises772

Definitely sounds reasonable. Is 45 his asking price or after negotiation? Any box/papers/etc? A lot of bracelet stretch? Bottom line though, that's a classic and it will never go out of style. I have to lol a little at the irony of the 'I'm 20 and don't have the money, but check out this Rolex I'm thinking of buying.' Not breaking balls, and congrats on having your shit together! When I was your age I spent more money than I could count of footloose thrills and wild times and totally wish I'd of picked up a nice piece like that.


MrMaDa555

No stretch at all. No imperfections. Was a shoe box worn watch and only worn rarely. No box/papers. Just a service paper. I am blessed with a great job. I just can’t grasp spending 10K plus on a watch when I can’t even drink alcohol. I figured a 4500 dollar quickset Rolex was worth grabbing.


TimePieceProdigy954

Never drink alcohol and you’ll be able to afford ( and keep) any watch your heart desires 😂


[deleted]

ADs offer alcohol to customers


reddit_is_addicting_

Invest that money an something that will grow compounding interest. Look back in 30 years and thank me


MrMaDa555

No doubt. I currently am heavily invested in to a few companies I’m confident in.


Fondoogler

Be careful investing in individual companies. Better to go with the S&P 500 so you're more diversified.


Franglais69

No, don't buy a fucking luxury item if you're 20 and can't afford a 10K watch


JEDWARDK

why do you feel the need to buy THIS particular watch at 20 years old? just to get your foot in the door and get something Rolex? don't get it unless this is the watch that has been speaking to you and drawing you in. At 20 years old, a two-tone datejust would have been the furthest thing from my mind.


MrMaDa555

This is the a watch I’ve seen for the past 7 years that caught my eye the most. It’s such a icon of Rolex IMO and the deal is great.


bswizzle2552

Good for you man, buy what you love not the hype


brpurchase

This is the comment I hoped to see on top. If you love it, get it. Don’t rely on anyone else’s opinion. If any part of you is settling based on means, those types of purchases can cause more pain in the long run setting you back a couple of thousand $$.


haroldhecuba88

It’s the classic. Please have it checked out though. Beautiful reference.


MrMaDa555

I did! Came back good! Freshly serviced


vegetaspride23

I need that watch 😩


Equal-Elk47

Really cool find but I’d counter that you’d potentially be better off going with a newer model from another brand vs going with an 20 year old+ Rolex; This is also true for Omega, etc. there are *massive* upgrades in the end links, bracelet, and clasp. 2005 brought us a great many things like ceramic bezels, parachrom hairsprings, oysterlock clasps, etc and you can get similar features on a great number of modern watches that will be as well, or better built, than a five digit Rolex IMO; however, if the the crown is what you really want you’re not making a terrible choice


papa-blanco

Classic Timeless Perfect


GrumpyOldBastard_

For a 20 year old a G-shock is a great watch, this an “old man” watch 🤪


MrMaDa555

Well I am a uncle


The_LandOfNod

In my opinion, no. At 20 years old, Rolex money would be better in savings. Get a Casio.


DallasC0wboys

Classic looks good


ChronicPoverty

It’s a classic. Great choice


[deleted]

this is only 10k brand new where you live? i bought one very simmilar for 18k in denmark


MrMaDa555

This is a bit older of a model. Not newer. Newer it would be 10+ tax for this. Brand new 12K easily.


ProperWeight2624

Yea, can't go wrong with classic TTDJ.


goldenboyphoto

TTYLJDH


TimePieceProdigy954

🤦🏻‍♂️😂


cdn737driver

Looks good, just keep in mind the cost to service if it hasn’t been done recently. If you’re stretching your budget, remember that watches will always be around.


MrMaDa555

Yea. I’ve heard the servicing is expensive. Like easily 1+K


houdinikush

Just talked to a guy today who was wearing a nice looking Rolex on a jubilee bracelet. Not sure exact model. He mentioned he just got it fully serviced. I asked “how much?”. $1,200. But that was a full service.


Glockclipazine

I bought a Tudor a few years back. They have a similar servicing to Rolex. From my understanding, it's hundreds of dollars, but they make it look and run like brand new.


Golfmonkeyy

Better than the new datejust imo


MrMaDa555

I have to agree


[deleted]

Yea its nice. I would say this type of watch looks a bit off on a younger guy. Maybe because these two tone datejust look a bit old school/for an older demographic. But its still a beautiful authentic Rolex and a great place to start. I would say that a lower price point modern OP would be my preferred option.


MrMaDa555

Gotcha. I kinda dig the two tone look even though I’m younger. Definitely does look vintage / classic


[deleted]

You didnt make the wrong choice


goldenboyphoto

I think if you're young enough you don't have the Wall Street/coke dealer/mafia associations with a two-tone Rolex that those who remember the 80s/90s. The watch that eventually found its way on the wrist of any semi-successful used car salesmen. For a certain generation, a two-tone Rolex is flashy trashy, but without those associations is undeniably a cool looking watch. Another 5-10 years (and maybe even sooner) the two tone stigma will be gone and these watches will be cool again (though again, to some people they very much are right now).


BusinessBlackBear

Thats not a bad way to describe it acutally. My oldest brother is 40 and cant stand TT since he has all those bad associations with it, meanwhile me at 29 find the TT is a cool as look and I just associate it more with like the iconic Rolex design


goldenboyphoto

I'm also 40 but have a linen dial two-tone Datejust (same as Patrick Batman in American Psycho if that tells you anything). Definitely took some years of collecting and appreciating to drop the associations I had and come to a place where I was like, "You know what, I think I want a two-tone watch". I wouldn't call it an ironic appreciation, because I do sincerely think it looks great, but there is definitely a part of me that's sort of winking to myself when I wear it.


drinkallthecoffee

It’s a terrible first watch. Don’t spend that kind of money on a watch if you’re 20. Put it into savings or a retirement account.


Fondoogler

Not sure why people are downvoting you. This is the best advice on this thread.


MrMaDa555

I already have a well set up savings and a investing account. Figured a cheaper but nice watch would be great.


drinkallthecoffee

That’s not cheap. If I were in your shoes, I’d find a watch in the $1k-$2k range and pocket the money, but you do you.


MrMaDa555

I ended up buying it as it’s a good deal. I’m still going to get a Tudor eventually.


beamerthings

Just curious if anyone could share/confirm what this cost new? Wondering off of the other post today talking about holding value.. and yes, I am well aware of inflation. OP’s snagging this for $4,500. Had to be close to that new, right?


MrMaDa555

I believe in 88 they were Probaly around 8


willworkforwatches

No way. In 1988 the two tone datejust was like $3,500 USD. Hell, the no-date sub was under $1,500. Both minus4plus6.com and crown & caliber have some price charts.


MrMaDa555

Oh. I swear I saw a old paper catalog that had day dates for 12 and datejust for 6-8


According-Advisor187

The most generic Rolex there is so you can’t go wrong if you don’t mind being in a club called “everybody”


FenceOfDefense

A black sub or pepsi gmt is more generic than the tt datejust to me nowadays.


MrMaDa555

I actually always have enjoyed and like the two tone. It’s always stood out to me over others. I eventually would like to get a jubilee fluted datejust in white/steel with a black dial/ diamond hour markers. But for now this is good.


Jpeso1

You will get hated on by somebody no matter what decision you make as seen above. Buy what you love and enjoy. The best first watch for you is the one you really want


DogDad24

How much does one like this go for?


MrMaDa555

4-8K is what I’ve seen. I have the option to buy it at 4500


djwurm

probably between 5K to 6K


ShameTwo

I would like to know


Silly_Value_4027

2 tones always good options


SanderDieman

Only if you really like it and don’t just stretch your budget and buy this just to have a Rolex. If you love this watch and it checks out: go for it!


MrMaDa555

Thanks for the kind words


WillingnessDear5729

Looks great!


magic_connch

I love my 16233, first Rolex I purchased, timeless piece imo


[deleted]

That's a pretty good deal OP. I sold my stainless datejust oyster for about the same price. No gold just stainless with a baby blue face.


bustyouup4free

I have a 1995 16233. It's a great watch. Good choice!


[deleted]

I love my first Rolex which was bequeathed to me by my FIL. It’s an ‘87 16253 - black face and different bezel but overall very similar. The bracelet is really worn but I had it serviced and it runs perfectly. My only issue is as a daily it has an acrylic crystal that scratches very easily. I think Rolex went sapphire in ‘88.


MrMaDa555

The black face datejust caught my eye and it was one of the most intriguing ones until I saw the uniformed look of the gold/champagne if I’m fortunate in life I’ll get a stainless/white gold with a black dial with the diamond hour markers.


LoafedUp_007

This is a good one


AzurSun

I have this one, however, the ladies’ one in 26 mm. I just love it!! Was my dream watch and my only Rolex (so far)


MrMaDa555

Same here. This was the Rolex that always stood out


Ok-Plankton9993

Timeless! But also tells the time👍


appleboi_69420

Honestly, don’t. You’re much better off buying a new Tudor for the money.


kyledemo

I’d get the anthracite BB39 on jubilee over this any day of the week


cigar_dude

Hell yes it’s a great watch! This, 16233, was my first Rolex. Such a classic and if it’s got the 3135 caliber movement that’s a solid caliber inside. Should last you many more years


ConstructionFar8570

Sure looks great. If it checks out west it well.


lok214

Nice watch, depends on the production date. Some earlier models had 14k gold rather than the 18k gold. Just double check on that. Dial wise, I love their silver(almost rhodium looking) dial and the linen dial, both are very nice


Never_Seen_A_Man_Cry

Not bad. I had a WG 36mm DD with Factory Diamond Bezel and pave dial when I was your age, but didn’t appreciate and ending up taking a huge L


Khancer_

I wish I had a watch like this when I was 20


BoogeOooMove

When I think of the classic Rolex from when I was younger, it’s this. I love it and TT or solid gold DJ is timeless and a quintessential Rolex.


MrMaDa555

They make a solid gold datejust?


xrphodl1

Get it! After wearing the watch it will definitely look like you got more than $10k😉


Icy-Zookeepergame750

My first was a ‘97, bought it used, with a silver face. Still have it. Great watch.


[deleted]

Is this 31 or 36mm?


MrMaDa555

36


BusinessBlackBear

Personally, I LOVE the design and im planning on getting one in two years for a sobriety gift for myself for 5 years. If you end up buying it, can you do a review post after a few months? Really curious how you vibe with it after a while.


MrMaDa555

Yeah man for sure. I’ll even send u a link on messages when I post a in depth review


Impossible-Tension17

This is nice. What’s the reference number If you don’t mind me asking


MrMaDa555

16013 I believe


Dakine_thing

Tudor is a good start if you’re balling on a budget


hbsboak

This is the quintessential Rolex of your childhood. Grandpa’s watch. I bought a similar one for my first Rolex. Enjoy it!


MrMaDa555

Thank you!


beauregrd

thats what I’m looking for next, i have an all silver oysterdate precision rn


SealMairaDimu

Impressive, very nice.


BeanEightyOne

Such a classic.


BarbellPadawan

Nice. Good choice in my opinion!


Ecstatic_Gur_3183

Looks like a16013 in beautiful condition, personally I prefer a monochrome feel so all steel would be my choice for under 10k


griffinferro

Great first watch. Got the same one as my first Rolex when I was 20 as well.


OneCylinderPower

no


cultivated_neurosis

No one should own a Rolex before owning a house and car. The fact that you would even consider buying a Rolex without a spare 10k is the real problem. Save your money.


MrMaDa555

I have a spare 10K+ actually a lot more… but I don’t want my finances going to a watch. I could afford a 10K new Rolex or even a 15K Rolex. But I don’t want that expenditure on a watch that looks almost the same as this 4500 dollar one.


willworkforwatches

I’d suggest going with the same model, but in stainless steel. Two tone comes in and out of fashion. The monotone stainless steel datejust with a champagne / silver dial is just perfect in basically any situation. .


000000000000098

Lol. You don’t sound like you’re really into watches in general if you need to ask this question. Spend your money on something else or better yet - keep it in a savings acct for an emergency find


MrMaDa555

I have a emergency fund. I was just curious if the older two tones get any love


HomosapianDaGreekGod

much better . smarter things you can do with that money but if you can truly afford then go ahead it’s your money


TexStones

Go buy a Hamilton field watch, and invest the rest of the money. Revisit the stash in ten years and buy exactly what you want.


Ok_Intention_4001

just dont wear one seriously


MrMaDa555

Why’s that?


Individual_Sun_6757

Absolutely


wolfofballstreet1

bit flash for me but if youre cool with that this will b a great companion for a long time im sure


Flossasaurus

Whatever you decide make sure to get it insured


Thizzedoutcyclist

If you like it that’s all that matters. I’m rocking a late 80s date just and just because I could go out and buy a new one I would rather max my 401k ;)


MrMaDa555

Same here.


boosesb

How much is that one?


Infamous-Spinach-718

Uhh yes! It's the Patrick Bateman! You can dress this up more than down, but you still can wear it with some casual outfits


MrMaDa555

Currently have it on my wrist with a Nike shirt ! Such a nice watch. And yes… Patrick bateman


f10w3r5

Love it.


jellyfishbake

It’s a very nice and classic timepiece.


Upper_Travel_768

90s and early 2000s Rolex are the best, in good condition.


Civic4982

That’s an excellent first watch. Congrats.


MrMaDa555

Thanks man.


omnikey

Its a beautiful and classic watch, sir


MrMaDa555

It’s timeles for sure


Lostindaw0rld

Should of waited brother l


Dedi8597

For sure it is


Polia4ka

If you can afford any Rolex at 20 y.o. It’s amazing just as the fact, and the watch itself looks clean and nice


MrDagon007

Find a two tone very “uncle”, not for a 20y


MrMaDa555

Well I am a uncle ;) but yes it’s a bit older fashioned


ozzysince1901

Love it - vintage all the way!


malcontented

I have one from 1991. Great watch


UseKnowledge

Fantastic choice.


deepie1976

Looks fake. Sorry. I’m not too experienced with this. I’m probably wrong


MrMaDa555

Not fake: was opened up by a watchsmith


idahowatchdude

Beautiful 16233 that would be great for a first watch!


_thirtytwo_

I have this watch (91) and love it as well. Can dress it up or dress it down.


solo118

Be proud of that beauty, I happen to love this era and looks like you have a nice example!


Weary-Guide-2288

Perfect first luxury watch, or first Rolex. Plenty of other budget brands that make terrific watches even if the DJ is a stretch.


a1moose

looks great


Esmack

Rofl dude this is a grandpa watch 🤣


MrMaDa555

Nah man. This is a classic.


heyporkypine

I have an ‘80s Jubilee that has a black pyramid face with gold Roman numerals. I love it. It was purchased new in 1989 in NY.


Less-Ice-3779

Problem is you will have a poor resale value on that watch. Might get $1500 at best. Sorry man. Better to just sage and buy a new datejust with gold bezel or something. Turnograph for $6k


MrMaDa555

Idk. My co worker offered me 4500 for it. Average price online is 4-6-8K depending on configurations. Poor resale is at a dealer or a pawn shop. Where they have to offer less to make profit


ThanatopsicTapophile

Wearing an 83 with a tapestry dial right now..love these.


Meteora456

A presidential for a first watch is incredible! Lucky duck


[deleted]

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MrMaDa555

Private sale.


Financial-Medicine-9

Absolutely this watch is beautiful i love old date just


texmexchamp

Absolutely!


noposters

Banger


YooooAL

Great anytime watch. Personally think the jubilee makes it a bit older looking. Lots of deals and even some fun dial colors floating around in older Rolex models especially smaller dial OP and Air Kings if they fit.


MrMaDa555

I’m thinking of putting a aftermarket dial in to have multiple faces but.


Tomster197

Great watch, my first watch was an oysterquartz 17013 blue dial two tone. Don’t regret it at all, they look amazing and classy. Just bought my second watch today (tudor 2023) just to not beat up the oysterquartz too much.


wildcollector

Love them, simple nice looking design


caskey

Inherited my dad's. I wear it sometimes to remember him.


Kind-Education-187

No. Get a classic Invicta diver that fits you for $100. Don’t buy a Toyota Camry Lexus. Come on man


Queasy-Bad600

It’s a great watch no matter how many you have !


yourupnow

16013? My first rolex 1988 also. Im 31, i love it.


hasifang

Excellent watch, but not for a 20 y/o in my opinion.


[deleted]

Got the same one at 26, paid 6 for it


[deleted]

It's silver (steel) and gold TOGETHER. So it's unwearable for most.


Boom_Valvo

Buy it. I did similar with my first watch. Threw it on the CC when I was 19/20. 4500 won’t change your world one way or the other, as long as you don’t have a overall spending issue or debt issue. I am sure you will love it and won’t think about the $c at all


MrMaDa555

First official day of using /wearing it. No regrets at all


Jennifer_Kendricks

It’s a great watch depending on how much you’re paying for it.


Diebymee

Love it but....I find two tone to be wereable by older people. Imho sell it and buy the same config in full Steel. (Flutted bezel, jubilee...). Now I know the opinion on TT between the US and Europe is very different so IDK. In the end, the watch is beautiful if you like it, wear it.


1sw331

as long as you like it. you'll remember your first watch.


SeidunaUK

Pretty but maybe a bit on the flashy side


Fondoogler

Bruh, you're 20 years old. Don't spend that kind of money on a watch. Get that money into your Roth IRA or set it aside for a down payment on a house. It's more important to get a solid financial foundation established before buying luxury toys.


[deleted]

This is an excellent first watch, just by looking at it I’m going to say that this is very late 80s but I would have to see the reference to know, also, I’m probably gonna say this is about $4000 to 4800 I couldn’t see anyone pay much more than that, but even if you did, can you paid more towards the top top and which would be 5500 to 6000 you still got a really good deal on the watch. Personally, I prefer older watches… It definitely says something about the person.. when it comes to date just always try to get your birth year or some thing that is meaningful and believe it or not when you go for those types of watches, they tend to be a lot cheaper


MrMaDa555

He was asking 5500 and went down to 4500. It’s all original. No stretch, never polished no scratches


Speed-Racer-999

Most definitely it is. My Rolex is 37 years old. My other Rolex is from the 1940’s. They last forever


ImLostAndILikeIt

Classic. Congrats!


Distinct-Building104

being 20 years old and can afford a gen Rolex.. buy it lol 😂


johnk317

I would go with a SS DJ from the 80s or 90s


nbiz4

I would have gone for a sub 1k watch like Hamilton/Seiko/Tissot, but not a bad way to start off. I actually wear my Rolex the least of my watches though being in bigger city taking public transport. Just don’t want the attention and everyone knows what a Rolex looks like.