[F]Rolex Submariner 16610 pairs. Omega Seamaster 2254.50

Welcome to the Sunday morning showdown! After some battles between modern clocks this week, we’re going back in time. Daan and Thomas attack each other two neo-vintage divers. Dern defends the Omega Seamaster 2254.50, while Thomas defends the Rolex Submariner 16610.

With its thin case, sapphire crystal, aluminum bezel inserts, and radar under the radar styling, these watches share a typical late 20th century recipe that is loved by many. Of course, there is one major difference between the two prices. In the late 1990s, Rolex submarines cost almost twice as much as Omega’s sailors. The differences are now even greater in the second hand market. Today, the sub costs about three times more than the 2254. The key question today is whether it is worth it. Let’s jump in!

But first, last Sunday morning showdown

Last week we pitted two racing chronographs against each other. Jorg and Mike took them to the ring with the Tag Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Bay and the Tudor Black Bay Chrono “Carbon 25”. Certainly, to my surprise, the more expensive and luxurious tag that Heuer won. They didn’t win the landslide, but they still managed to secure 54% of the vote.

Both watches sparked some strong emotions in the comments section. Frankly, that was something to be expected given the powerful and attention-grabbing design. Tudor won several votes for its more ergonomic shape and size. Meanwhile, Monaco scored points in his race pedigree. Well, so that it gets out of the way, we continue our battle with today’s Neo-Vintage divers, accompanied by date complications.

Thomas: Rolex Submariner 16610

Good morning, Fratelli! Today’s matchups may seem a bit unfair. After all, my candidate costs three times more than Darn. Still, conceptually, these watches are very similar. Both the Rolex 16610 and the Omega 2254.50 have a 1990s/2000s vibe. Both follow beloved recipes with moderate proportions, aluminum bezel inserts and subtle styling. These were definitely the last before divers of luxury brands. Thus we feel they guarantee a showdown in a Sunday morning showdown.

Certainly, I get a strong 90s vibe from both watches. However, the Rolex Submariner 16610 dates back to 1988, and the Seamaster 2254.50 was not introduced until 2000. Technically, neither watch was released in the 1990s. However, Seamaster can argue that it follows the template set by Seamaster in 1995 in the film Goldeneye.

Anyway, both watches clearly feel the previous generation. Their modern counterparts have become bigger and more luxurious. The current glossy ceramic bezel inserts probably make these changes better than anything else. As a result, these two watches have a faithful follow among enthusiasts who prefer the Spartan look and feel over the more decorated modern versions.

The Rolex Submariner 16610 is simpler and better

The first point I want to make is related to design. The Rolex Submariner 16610 may be 12 years older than Daan in 2254, but I haven’t seen it. It’s simpler in every way, and this is a composure. Putting these two side by side will make the Rolex look much more natural. It’s more important and functionally wise. Omegas look very complicated by comparison. From the lyr lugs to the scalloped bezels, the oversized bezel counts, and the retro handset, it’s all a bit.

As a result, the 16610 Submariner is much better. In fact, I would argue that it doesn’t look outdated at all. Rolex today can release it as an alternative to the lower radar of the ceramic sub and it will thrive. To be honest with that is completely timeless.

The bracelet continues this theme. A bracelet is not as easy as a Rolex Oyster style. The additional narrow, refined link of the sailor is adjacent to the central link, making it feel sick and a bit outdated. Sometimes, simpler things may be better.

Rolex Submariner 16610 vs Omega Seamaster 2254.50 From a technical perspective

Technically, these two check many of the same box. Both have a rating of 300m depth, but the Seamaster also includes the (controversial) helium release valve. Both have screw down crowns and screw-in steel casebacks. The grip on the Rolex bezel is very easy, but a 120-click unidirectional bezel with aluminum inserts works as well.

In terms of motion, you get two of the most reliable automatic ever made, time and date caliber. In my book, the Rolex Caliber 3135 won the Omega Caliber 1120. Technically, both are not internally as Omega is the ETA 2892-A2. However, the Rolex 3135 has a full balance bridge and a Palallum hair spring. This large caliber also gives you an additional six hours of power reserve. Certainly, that’s a negligible advantage in real life, but still, you’re splitting your hair here.

It’s more expensive, but is it safe?

Now, on a delicate theme – money. Yes, Daan, Seamaster 2254.50 can be found for one third of my Submariner 16610 price. Is that difference necessary from a technical standpoint? Probably not. Still, if you can afford to buy spending, I would argue that’s the way to go.

After all, look at the fact that the Submariner 16610 was originally nearly twice as expensive as this Seamaster 2254.50. Today, it costs three times more. why? Because it is more desirable and, as a result, represents a safer investment. Now I am not planning on predicting the future or suggesting that watches are an investment. Still, I would rather be forced to settle Submariner 16610 in a pinch.

Now, let me finish it here. Darn, please tell me why all of the above is wrong and why a good Fratelli should vote for Omega!

Daan: Omega Seamaster 2254.50

ooof, Thomas, that’s a difficult thing to beat. But of course, I’ll try anyway. Spec-wise, these two watches are very close to each other, so ultimately it comes down to the very subjective feeling you get when you’re wearing them.

The Rolex Submariner is a watch that is recognized by almost everyone, regardless of reference. Its quality is what some people are looking for when they wear it. I argue that these people don’t necessarily look at lovers. To them, the Rolex Submariner on their wrists is a symbol of success, status and achievement.

However, the Rolex Submariner is also extremely popular among watch enthusiasts. Many people consider it the ultimate watch. For them, it is the most iconic sports watch out there. As Thomas has already said, its nonsense design is completely timeless.

So, is that what you want when you buy a Rolex Submariner? On average, the reference 16610 sells on Chrono24 for 8,727 euros. Yes, Rolex may take a little time to appreciate, but you really aren’t very original and want to spend such money on all the Tom, Dick, Harry and their moms wear?

2254.50 is a more original choice…

The Omega Seamaster 2254.50, on the other hand, is a more original choice in my eyes. It certainly isn’t the most famous SMP out there. That’s because it has to be James Bond, one of the variations that Bond wore. However, compared to them, it is a more classic and toned version. Black and white colorways are any outfit, and the thin waves on the dial are only visible when you want to see them. Okay, Thomas, that bracelet may not be as handsome as a Rolex Oyster, but at least it’s not as mismatched as almost all Grand Seico bracelets. What’s more, you can wear your watch with a NATO or rubber strap at any time, as NACHO lists nearly 100% of the time you spend wearing the 2254.50.

I also appreciate Seamaster’s quirky designs. It’s dare to make things different with twisted lugs, wavy bezels and distinctive sword hands. The movement of the internal ETA 2892-A2 makes this one of the thinnest Omega Seamaster divers ever. That’s something I really noticed while wearing my RJ 2531.80 for several days in a row. What I’m saying is that 2254.50 looks like a lover’s favorite, and seeing the increase in value over the years shows that love is strong.

…And that could be a wiser choice too.

Of course, Rolex seems to be a solid investment all the time. Even if you’re not thinking about selling it, it’s still nice to know that it will probably never stop you from being grateful. That said, the Omega Seamaster 2254.50 doesn’t look like a very bad investment either. The current average price for the Chrono24 is 3,305 euros, giving you a solid, good-looking diver. But the most surprising thing is that its prices have risen quite steadily since the site began tracking in 2009.

Average selling price for 2254 for Chrono24

Average 16610 sales price for Chrono24

There were some small bumps along the road, but 2254.50 was able to maintain its value even after major prices rose during the global pandemic. That’s not what you can say about the Rolex Submariner 16610.

So, do you want to wander around with a €9,000 watch that many others wear and may actually be a bit boring, or go for a quirky design watch that offers more bang for your dollars?

Time to vote

There you have it. Thomas and Dern presented their case, and now it’s time to think about which of these two iconic divers you get. Vote below and follow your choices in comments. Also, tune again for another installment payment for next week, Sunday morning showdown!