Help me decide my next treat: which Rolex or maybe Cartier?

[mangowife]

I value your input! Here’s the sitch: I recently got a big promotion. I also turned 45. I’m thinking of a big treat for myself!

I have:

- Cartier Love bracelet in YG
- Rolex datjust 26mm stainless & WG, fluted bezel with jubilee band, white face Roman markers
- wedding set is in platinum

I love my Love - hadn’t worn it through most of pandemic but recently put it on again and fell in love all over again.

My Rolex has sentimental value and I love it because it is classic - but I hardly wear it, I usually wear my Apple Watch. I did recently wear the Rolex on our first dinner date out in a long while! A total classic.

I debated between the JUC bracelet (small? Maybe with diamonds? YG?) but that desire has sort of faded…

Now thinking about a Rolex. I once had a 31mm, oyster band smooth bezel, black face. Great size but a bit too sporty for my liking. Ended up selling it. Also sold my IWC (the entry level one with mesh band and big face) as I hardly wore it!

Am I crazy to think of getting another Rolex when I already don’t wear the one I have that often?

Here are the choices I’m thinking:

1. 26mm yellow gold President, white face (or maybe black?). I figure it’s different enough from the ss/WG one I have. Keeping it same size because I feel it is more formal, which I feel goes with the YG

2. 31mm SS/WG datejust with my face fluted bezel and jubilee bracelet. Perhaps a darker face to make it feel diff than the one I already have?

3. Forget the watches and go back to the idea of a JUC!

 

[DS2006]

Too funny, but I want a Rolex 31 SS Oyster bracelet, smooth bezel, black dial because it would go so well with my usual casual attire! I'd still do 31 if you went with the solid gold because it's a medium size that will never really go out of style when watches swing larger or smaller. However, if you really mostly wear your Apple watch, maybe you really don't want another watch?

It also sounds like you aren't in love with the JUC and I would not buy in that case. Have you looked at Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry? It's a deep hole to fall into, but they have gorgeous jewelry. Other classics if you don't already have them...diamond studs, pendant, or tennis bracelet?

 

[mangowife]

However, if you really mostly wear your Apple watch, maybe you really don't want another watch?

this is my doubt too! And funny that you’re looking for the midsize that I had before!

As for the other classics - I’ve got studs, diamond hoops, tennis bracelet (which I never wear, sigh), and solitaire necklace.

I think I should visit the Cartier shop - I didn’t think I liked the JUC at first but I visit (years ago) changed my mind. I’m probably due for another visit.

I have peeked into VCA. I have their mini clover studs in turq. I considered their perlee bangle when I ended up with the Love. I love their between the finger rings as a matter of design but not so practical for me

 

[Purrsey]

I'm bias as firstly I don't fancy watch (thank goodness). Not really into VCA though I do own VCA.
So that left me with Cartier. And I love their jewellery and I feel nothing from there can go wrong. Perhaps try to pop by and explore what works for you? If you can, swing by Bvlgari too.

 

[mikimoto007]

this is my doubt too! And funny that you’re looking for the midsize that I had before!

As for the other classics - I’ve got studs, diamond hoops, tennis bracelet (which I never wear, sigh), and solitaire necklace.

I think I should visit the Cartier shop - I didn’t think I liked the JUC at first but I visit (years ago) changed my mind. I’m probably due for another visit.

I have peeked into VCA. I have their mini clover studs in turq. I considered their perlee bangle when I ended up with the Love. I love their between the finger rings as a matter of design but not so practical for me

I don't see the value in getting another Rolex when your current one doesn't get used much. If you always wear the Apple Watch, won't that be an issue with the new purchase also?

I get the impression you're not crazy about the JUC. I was about to suggest tennis bracelet but you already gave one. Honestly, the piece you seem most enthusiastic about is the VCA between the finger ring. I get that it isn't suitable for everyday, but it seems like the watch also wouldn't be every day, and it seems like you don't love the JUC. Maybe have a look at the BTF rings, accepting that it may not be a daily piece,but you'll have it as a special occasion piece.

Maybe another necklace? Perhaps the Verdura initial necklace?

If that doesn't appeal, honestly I'd wait it out....don't purchase for the sake of purchasing.

 

[mikimoto007]

I meant to say, you might have a look at the Cartier forum, I think there has been issues with the small JUC and changing shape.

 

[Lux.]

Maybe 31mm DateJust with the bright blue or mint green dial so you get a nice pop of color but the dial isn't as sporty as a black one would look.
Or have you considered smooth bezel oyster bracelet? I think it is perfect for casual every day - like your Apple Watch that you currently wear. But you can easily dress it up. With the polished links it doesn't look too sporty like an OP. It is versatile and I like that it flies under the radar too.

I think you should check out the new Tiffany knot bracelet too. It looks beautiful with the Love.

 

[mikimoto007]

Maybe 31mm DateJust with the bright blue or mint green dial so you get a nice pop of color but the dial isn't as sporty as a black one would look.
Or have you considered smooth bezel oyster bracelet? I think it is perfect for casual every day - like your Apple Watch that you currently wear. But you can easily dress it up. With the polished links it doesn't look too sporty like an OP. It is versatile and I like that it flies under the radar too.

I think you should check out the new Tiffany knot bracelet too. It looks beautiful with the Love.

The new Tiffany knot is stunning!

 

[mangowife]

The new Tiffany knot is stunning!

yes indeed! Also discovering Chaumet’s Bee My Live line !

 

[missie1]

I think 31 mm Rolex is best out of the three options you presented. It’s a great Mid sized watch that you can wear dressed Up or down. I own few high end watches and I only wear them when going out. The only jewelry I wear daily are my two love bracelets And my diamond studs. Everything else sits until I’m going out. I think you have to decide do you want high end daily piece or are you ok wearing it occasionally. The thin JUC has some issues but works from daily wear perspective

 

[cmigs]

Recently got a 31mm stainless Rolex with a blue face and I wear it a ton. A lot more than I thought I would. I layer it with small gold bracelets to mix it up a bit.

 

[mangowife]

Recently got a 31mm stainless Rolex with a blue face and I wear it a ton. A lot more than I thought I would. I layer it with small gold bracelets to mix it up a bit.

do you have a smart watch and yet still reach for the Rolex recently?

 

[cmigs]

I have an Apple Watch and never wear it. I personally find it uncomfortable. I also have a large Cartier ballon bleu and find it too large to wear with something like a tank or dress. It’s a bit heavier looking.

 

[Yodabest]

My honest opinion…. The small JUC you should just knock off your list, I’m just not a fan of it. I have the classic size and it’s such a more substantial, standout piece. The small JUC is not either of those things.

You don’t seem sold on the watches either. You mentioned not wearing the Rolex you already own. It’s fun to have something new, but I think when the novelty of that new Rolex wears off, you may ask yourself what was I thinking……

I think you have a good budget to work with and spending it should be fun. Go to the boutiques and try lots of options from all different categories. I bet something really great will stand out to you that isn’t even on your radar yet.
Good luck with whatever you decide!!

 

[mangowife]

You are so wise… I went to play a little yesterday…