10 Years With The Explorer: The Dark Side Of My Favourite Rolex Watch + Ref. 1016 vs 14270

[@petergradilone4784]

Your presentations are creative and thoughtfully crafted. This one is no exception. Now I am a man approaching the age of 70. I have worn my Explorer for a large part of my life, and it has been all over the world in all manner of conditions. I can only speak for my own timepiece. It has acquired a soul, as perhaps I have as well. In the rare instances when someone in a chance encounter recognizes the Explorer, their next glance at my face is not quite the same as the first. Suddenly you have that touch of mystery about you. At this point in life, that is quite priceless.

[@theoriginalaceofspades7829]

You know the old saying, everyone eventually gets the face they deserve.

[@theurbangentry]

Amazing, simply amazing, you really do have the ultimate hero watch I was talking about! Thank you for sharing that, very inspiring. The very best regards, TGV

[@jameskeefe4797]

TGV, you are the ultimate Explorer of Horological History! That watch embodies who you are, and what you do! It's a reminder of what Rolex used to be, and what Tudor is trying to be! I'm so glad you've decided to continue your odyssey with the Explorer!

[@user-iz9co4qf6z]

I just had a Tag Carrera for 10 years. Wore it every day. It went with me on all my travels and adventures. But then I jumped into a lake with it on and destroyed the movement. Cost me a lot of money to replace and I realised 50m water resistance is nothing and there are watches out there specifically for jumping into lakes. I bought a Seiko diver. This got me into collecting and now I have 10 watches. The notion of a one watch collection ended up costing me 800 quid.

[@speedypaul2314]

Lol that is hands down the best excuse yet...😂

[@DXJ_YT]

I own a Sinn 556a and to me that is a proper Explorer style watch; printed indices, drilled lugs, super legibility, great 38mm size, 200m WR, great brand. I wear it on a nato on all sorts of adventures - love it.

[@jonahb2149]

As a Sinn 556A owner as well, I do agree. It is a real tool watch for a real explorer. But a Rolex Explorer is still an Explorer…maybe to explore the cities just no back alleys 😅

[@chronocommander007]

Thanks for taking us along not only for sharing your views but also the actual view from the top. 👍

[@klausm5460]

Hey TGV, welcome to Germany! Funfact: The Black Forest region is not only the sunniest area in Germany it´s also the one with the highest exposure to natural radioactivity. So better bring a Rolex Milgauss next time. 😅 I´m still going back to that epic video intro of yours with the Shakespeare Sonnet No. 12 read by Ian McKellen. Take care and have a great time! Klaus

[@theurbangentry]

🤣🤣🤣 Good to know! Thank you my friend, Best as always, T.

[@adk7962]

Where else can you get a watch review, travel blog, and a history lesson all in one. “Horologically promiscuous…” Never heard it put that way, but it makes perfect sense. Thanks as always!

[@rickyhou7684]

Changed the strap on my Explorer 12470 and a new honeymoon phase began to spark 🔥

[@marcusherts9345]

Tell us what strap? A nato?😁

[@rickyhou7684]

@@marcusherts9345 changed to a yellow ostrich strap and a burnt orange ostrich strap. Those 2 straps just work on it for some reason 😂. As far as nato straps go, my go to is a dark burgundy nato single line strap. Cheers Marc! 😉 🥂

[@marcusherts9345]

@@rickyhou7684 Nice🙌👌

[@briang3598]

Probably a good rule of thumb with any watch one feels is growing a bit stale for them- change up the strap/bracelet.

[@Keffin1]

Great video TGV. Because of your videos, the Explorer quickly became my grail watch. Last month, I finally decided to pull the trigger on a 2004 Rolex Explorer 114270 for £4550. I loved it but unfortunately, the particular watch I received had very loose end links on both 12 and 6 o'clock sides so I decided to send it back. I one day hope to get the Explorer again but for now, my trusty Seiko SARB033 is keeping me company and remains my favourite watch. Keep up the good work.

[@vltn3020]

When TGV uploads a video I drop whatever I'm doing to watch this great chap

[@MrsVanB]

Me too!🤩 Love his storytelling!👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@stephengarratt8027]

Certainly a Maverick in watch reviews and great content

[@mohnnadmercedes8246]

He good but i hope he will be less bragging about james bond things 🙄

[@timepiece_enthusiast]

Wearing my 124270 basically every day, to me it's the best watch in the current Rolex catalogue, the ultimate "go anywhere, do anything" watch.

[@aioka1435]

The same I have three watches : 114270, Speed 3572 and a G-shock 5610. Holy trinity 😊

[@siddarthh9089]

Hey was thinking of getting the new explorer, any thoughts two months after?

[@timepiece_enthusiast]

@@siddarthh9089 I have mine for almost exactly one year now, still love it and can’t see myself ever getting rid of it. It now it the foundation of collection, the one watch that will always be there since it’s so versatile.

[@WornDownCrown]

Jeff McMahon might be the one of the most intriguing watch philosophers on KZbin right now. While other KZbinrs mindlessly regurgitate specs, he actually has something interesting to say. On the Explorer 1, it is indeed one of the strongest examples of a blank slate upon which we impart our memories and essence, until it truly becomes an extension of us. Many watches out there have their own personality, but the Explorer becomes part of yours.

[@jamesfussey2658]

You actually make some really valid points in this video and it wasn’t before I watched your videos pointing out that watch “reviewers” are actually ADs that I started to truly question what I was watching. There are not many true independent watch reviewers out there and the lack of pros AND cons in watches is very noticeable. Thank you for your content and continuing to educate and throw your own opinions out there. We may not all agree with everything you say, but nor should we. That’s what brings about good conversations, healthy debates and promotes educated independent thinking like those Greek rapscallions used get up to a few years ago. Keep on being you TGV 🙏🏼👍🏼

[@ccoffin1333]

Your production quality has gone to the next level! Love the videos. Keep them coming

[@555Gear]

Thank you for the feature my old friend! Cheers, Andrew

[@darren9445]

Easily some of the best watch content on KZbin! My man, keep these coming! Would love to return back to the Black Forest, such a beautiful part of Europe!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much, deeply appreciated. I love Germany, I really do. Onwards and ever upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@amankozha9778]

36mm with lug to lug less than 45mm, is the perfect size;)!

[@TheGrenadier97]

One-watches, collections and grails often reminds me of a quote by a certain portuguese minister: "Happiness is a state of satisfaction of the soul, an expression of total harmony between our aspirations and the realities of life. That's why i think it's simpler to achieve happiness by renouncement than by the search and satisfaction of necessities increasingly numerous and intense. The quest for happiness requires, i suppose, a continuous state of insatisfaction." Oliveira Salazar.

[@theurbangentry]

PURE CLASS!!!!!! I love this, thank you for sharing this. Best regards, TGV

[@mr_watchaddict3146]

And the Buddha before him.

[@TheGrenadier97]

Salazar worded it better.

[@DaFox13]

Salazar also said: “I do everything I can to be usefull, and nothing to be pleasant” Be it in watch collecting, tastes, politics, beliefs, life in general… To live, is to take a journey of growth, strive to be better, more and more faithfull to yourself. Be your own man. Gradually giving less and less credit to the childish and superfluous pleasentries sold so cheaply to the masses.

[@designated_hitter_EGA]

Schopenhauer’s Pendulum...

[@amgolfer3591]

TGV, my friend please keep this style of videos coming. There was a particular individual that slammed your content in favor of other channels. Please don’t pay any attention as the majority absolutely love what you do my friend. Your videos are at the next level and I have learned to love watches even more and the meaning behind them and all because of what you do. Thanks you my friend for being you and putting in all this hard work so I don’t have too:-) Cheers.

[@dropskzim2310]

Anyone else relieved he is keeping the explorer

[@shaunmartinohagan]

the size of the text and the placement of everything on the 1016 dial is just perfect - makes you wonder why rolex ever moved away from it! great video, TGV. Forza 👍

[@andywilson3761]

Love these type of videos TGV, very well shot and edited. Black Forest reminding me of early shooting TGV days! All best 🦖

[@lickerishtuna6449]

Will be wearing my Explorer next week as I climb Mount Snowdon in Wales.

[@laimejannister5627]

will be wearing nothing tonight as I climb the mountains on my gf's college roommate's landlady

[@Amberlynn_Reid]

Will be wearing nothing as I am a part of the slave debt society created when the USA left the Gold standard

[@MrJDR10]

Totally agree TGV. People forget that watch collecting is a personal thing, buy what makes you happy and who cares what others say. Keep up the excellent work!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much! Onwards and ever upwards!!! Best regards, TGV

[@BRV2728]

Definitely enjoy a good TGV video in the morning to get the day started. This is the adult version of Saturday morning cartoons as a kid lol

[@fishhead90]

18:34 Now that is what I call not-so-subtle shade… TB may not be too happy about this one 😅😉.. this channel has always, and will always be my North Star. Passion>Paycheck

[@Sebastian85]

TGV, with that intro you absolutely nailed the Explorer Theme. Awesome! 🎩

[@Jordandagostino]

TGV I totally agree with the social media aspect of the current watch culture. I always felt like I was chasing the next hype release instead of slowing down and enjoying what I had! As always great video my friend 👍🏻

[@merhox5592]

Just relieved that you’re keeping the explorer 😅. I have picked up my 224270 few days ago. I’m loving how much it goes under the radar in this bling era.

[@keithh2028]

I knew you'd keep it TGV haha!! I ran across an old Patek at an estate sale the other day. The folks at the sale had no clue what it was since it was in a straw basket amongst several other old time pieces. My hands were literally shaking when I realized what it was. I did'n't hesitate to buy it. Cost less than a McDonald's Happy Meal LOL. Hopefully I can find someone who can service it.

[@PaulBean-qf5mp]

Another great video. The 1016 will always be my favourite. It was surreal to bump into you at Zurich Airport last week and I hope your trip to Blighty was good. Great to be ‘watch checked’ by you! All the best.

[@theurbangentry]

Lovely to meet you too! Loved that Santos, I hope you are enjoying that new Squale. Hopefully we can meet again if I do another London event one day. Thank you and all the best to you too, T.

[@stephenaubin5358]

A new TGV video is always makes for a good day. One that includes a Neil Breen reference made my day.

[@HobbyOfHours]

Love the James Bond insert of the Explorer lit up by the lighter, brilliant!

[@AdarisTempest]

A good Explorer alternative that maintains the Explorer's "hidden gem" aspect is the Seiko SJE085 1959 Alpinist re-imagining. These things were beautifully made, but flopped at retail because of how simple it looked for a $2900 Seiko; and how it came on a rather divisive bund strap. But at its heart it's a clasically sized and designed watch with almost elemental proportions. It has real heritage and a story behind it, and a "special factor" few watches have. You can pick up new examples for almost half off retail right now as of early 2024, though I doubt that will last forever as only 1959 were made. TGV had a look at it a few years ago and was quite positive.

[@joaovitorfafaroncete7223]

The date window sucks balls

[@AdarisTempest]

​@joaovitorfafaroncete7223 In person, you find it kind of fades into the background, but is easy to read when you need it, and on the first of the month the 1 lines up perfectly with the minute track. Also the angle is surprisingly readable on the wrist. It's a great example of how a watch can give very different impressions in pictures vs in person, on wrist.

[@brentjablonski3730]

I love the existential content. It seems no coincidence that you ended at the top of a literal mountian after spending the video climbing a metaphorical one. Loved the video; great views as well as an interesting viewpoint.

[@jrfuentes2688]

The reason I enjoy watching your videos so much is the effort you put into them. More than that, I feel smarter after watching them. I will say I have had to look up words you've given us. Much obliged.

[@johanvandersandt8904]

I have often thought of this. A watch that I would be known for. Something that defines my style and personality. It's a heck of a thing for us watch lovers.

[@johnneville403]

Could I make a suggestion? Could you do a video on the psychology of collecting. So many of the themes you explore come back to this compulsion. Love the channel. And love your thoughtful take on this hobby.

[@theurbangentry]

I love that idea. But in all honesty, I pale in comparison to the great Jeffrey McMahon, he is the undisputed master of such types of watch analysis, but I will certainly consider having a go when inspiration strike or I have made enough notes. Thank you so much for the kind words, it really inspires me. Best regards, TGV

[@johnneville403]

@@theurbangentry Thank you so much for your reply! I think there's something genuinely interesting about the compulsive nature of any kind of collecting. It goes beyond need, desire, or enthusiasm. Collectors of all kinds are fascinating beasts.

[@RedFuryBooks]

This was one of your best scripted videos and I loved the music choices. Thank you! Onward and upward!

[@daleyfamily2179]

For myself this rings so true, there is no one watch to rule them all, but for my wife I bought her a ladies Rolex pink dial day date on a jubilee bracelet 21 years ago as my wedding gift to her and its the only watch she has worn everyday since. To here it is perfection, maybe its cause it Rolex, or maybe because I bought it for her, or a combo of the two. My Tudor Pelagos FXD is my Rolex explorer.

[@markgwaldman3273]

You finally lost me, sir. I have watched you for many years and have learned a lot over those years. I disagree on the timeless (pure class) of the Explorer. Simple, elegant and stunning. I purchased my 114270 about a year ago and adore it. It’s the only Rolex I own. I agree with your sentiment on modern Rolex but am so happy to own the 114270. I have a large wrist but quickly grew used to the vintage size. I also have a Panerai (PAM 111) and sizes in between. I respect your opinions and like I noted, have watched and loved your videos for many years. This one with all its film clips and rather harsh take I disagree with entirely, but that’s ok. How about more videos about EDC and London? Made it out there last year and hope to go back soon. Your London videos are truly inspiring. A trip that would be made better with a trusty Explorer on one’s wrist.

[@NoNameNo.5]

Uhhhh this channel made me LOVE the explorer TGV, it’s my grail!

[@jdwxflyer]

It’s the size. 36mm Rolex is perfect for those of us who lack overstuffed appendages. My DJ41 is truly a work of art but damned if it doesn’t look simply gargantuan on my puny 6.5” wrist. Cursed Arnie and Sly are responsible for Rolex diving headlong into the (hopefully short-lived) Uber-large watch trend. That only works on a diver or Pilots watch or G-shock, not an everyday do-it-all like the Explorer, DJ, or Day-Date. Well-done as always Mr. TGV!

[@brentjablonski3730]

I came looking to watch an old video. Lo and behold! There's a new one. Jackpot.

[@matthewhelm3035]

Nice ending indeed TGV. Though I was wondering…Forget the hipsters. It’s how the Explorer makes you feel when you wear it! 😎

[@theurbangentry]

👏👏👏👏👏 Thank you, onwards and ever upwards Best regards, TGV

[@JonMurray]

Glad you’re keeping it mate. Enjoy your trip, safe travels.

[@dominickfrancis9808]

You have the best intros in the business please keep up the creativity ❤

[@chrisbliss7130]

Great video, Tristano! All those packed snippets with movie references are just mindblowing and fun!

[@dominicfurfaro8577]

Content creation has never been better IMHO. What’s life? Watches are just a part of life and you bring life to watch nerds and people like me who enjoy watching the content.

[@fenwickc2274]

I had always wondered if The Urban Gentry had undergone a channel name change years ago cause TGV was always how I heard others refer to it thinking it was the old channel name however now I feel kind of silly learning now that TGV are his initials.

[@GregTaylor-ei2tz]

There is so little joy of watches in TGV’s videos these days, that watching his videos has become more of a chore than the pleasure it used to be. His videos are incredibly well made, but his content has become about 70% social commentary, and 30% about watches. The Urban Gentry was the first watch channel I subscribed to years ago, but his recent offerings have made me better appreciate the fun and smart content provided by Andrew Morgan, Jody at “Just One More Watch”, Brit Pearce, Russell the “Mad Watch Collector”, Evan at “You’re Terrific”, and Adrian Barker.

[@jeffreardon3969]

I second that thought. These are less about actual watches and more about his philosophy. He needs to get back to reviewing products and less socio historical topics.

[@jaunman71]

Yeah more self style over substance these days. Kinda like a chav crossed with an ‘allo allo’ Italian version spiv. lol . How we miss the good old days when it was just about watches. Ciao

[@glennhaley7404]

Yep, totally agree, hence my comment that it’s just word salad, the content is just complete nonsense.

[@jeffreardon3969]

If an explorer makes a tic, tic sound in the woods, does anyone hear it?

[@amgolfer3591]

Greg, it would appear you have plenty of other channels to watch-press on my friend. Why waste precious time commenting on how unimpressed you are with the UG and go watch Brit or Jody to quench your thirst for that content you’re seeking. For every one of you there are 50 others who love this style and content. The “5” that thumbed you up, peace to you as well. Just move on to others as there is plenty of content to go around. Stay classy, Mr. Taylor.

[@harkonen1000000]

One thing that happened with Explorer's popularity is that there are now homages that offer some variation to the design, and some of them are awesome in their own right (I have a brown dial 36 mm Baltany, it's biggest flaw is that it looks so tasteful I keep wanting to eat it).

[@tactofu]

That new baltany looks amazing! I snagged a smith's everest awhile ago, or else that brown dial baltany would be on it's way to me!

[@TheGrenadier97]

Baltany makes two good homages of modern references, and in both i think they made something more proper than the "real deal": lumed numerals. Recently they came up with a sweet 36mm vintage reference homage that i'm definitely getting. The trio are a fantastic example of how to homage correctly in my opinion.

[@1970HondaCL100]

This video has more fluff than a marshmallow in space.

[@theurbangentry]

The only way it could be done! Enjoy and thank you. Best regards, TGV

[@paulgraham1465]

*in best bombastic, cinematic “lost in space” / “Buck Rogers” voice :- Marshmallows in spaaaaace”. Lol

[@m.e.p.r]

@@theurbangentryignore the 🤡

[@chiliprepper7678]

That's OK. We come here for the fluff.

[@xd1be9nb7v]

Maybe too much for pseudo intellectuals like you. Your comment does not even make sense.

[@whalford8353]

I know I'll never be able to afford an Explorer, so I've been looking for alternatives. Unfortunately the best alternatives seem to be sold out. The best ones I've seen are the Lorier Falcon III, and the Smiths PRS-25 Everest.

[@theoriginalaceofspades7829]

I just love the writing on these pieces. TGVs videos aren't so much about watches as watches are a launching point for more interesting and important things.

[@sinjinadams2862]

I never realized that was a picture of your Grandfather. I thought it was a picture of a British Spy or some famous adventurer or novelist that you admired. Your Grandfather was a very dashing looking man. The ladies must have loved him! 😊😊

[@korn123123147]

Hey man just wanted to let you know first as I respect you as a watch guy and have been watching you for many years now and support your channel, I bought my first “luxury” watch well to me luxury to my personal finances, I bought a Tudor black bay master chronometer red bezel black gold dial with a jubilee-esx bracelet which I love, keep up with the videos they are great, be safe, stay healthy, live long and prosper !

[@cosmodoc]

I love your videos so much! They also got me through my pandemic-depression! Thanks sooo much!

[@theurbangentry]

That makes it all worth it! Thank you so much for taking the time to share that. Best regards, TGV

[@danielmarshallpeters]

Still the best intros in the biz…🎬✨

[@jorgefalconjr]

I almost pulled the trigger on the Explorer last year but ended up getting an Air King 14000 and couldn’t be happier. Flys more under the radar which I love.

[@m.e.p.r]

I’m glad to hear that you will retain the explorer. Your love for the watch is a big part of the reason I purchase one of my own. Cool video as always. Cheers 🥂

[@JeffreyMcMahon]

I love seeing the Rolex stay in the collection and my video excerpt has more power and cogency in a TGV video. I'm flattered. More videos like this, please.

[@dannyg6592]

Good move keeping your Explorer - it is iconic - sporty and classy - durable and accurate - easy to wear all day - and it "flies under the radar screen". I love my 124270 (although my favorite Explorer is the 1016). Cheers!

[@Doggo-frencton]

It’s just the Rolex name you like. Nothing wrong with that, we are all susceptible to manipulation.

[@nicholas802]

​@@Doggo-frenctonok karen

[@vezquex]

You mentioned the unlumed numbers which has been rectified in later models. I'm surprised people even like numbers at all. Tudor Black Bay 36 has all marker indices just like a Submariner.

[@bobbycalifornia7077]

Well said, Sir. Recently picked up a 1016 from 1975 and had the sentiments toward it. Was sold within two weeks. I was obsessed until that point and learned a lesson. Great video!

[@paulydonn7911]

Great video. Very well written. I’m a 124270 owner and now want a 1016 after watching this and a few other videos - the 1016 has a romanticised watch place in my head for some reason

[@nedflanders3769]

Awesome callout to Jeff McMahon’s channel. Great channel!!

[@alexanderdylanthomas1891]

How Nietzschean! Hiking to the top of a German mountain to reinforce the connection you have with a timepiece.... Truly "the highest formula of affirmation". Keep it up TGV, its this stuff that keeps us coming back!

[@carlosyoung1984]

I have achieved the ONE watch for all status with an IWC 866ad I inherited. I have worn it every day for 2 years now and even though I absolutely adore my seiko5 batman, PRX and my Hamilton Murph, I just can't take this thing off my wrist. It's tough and sporty in jeans and t-shirt but spectacularly elegant when suited up and I'm in love with the blue sunburst dial. I'm happy with never owning another watch again to be perfectly honest and that being said I used to have a long buy list for watches haha.

[@963seeker]

Huge fan of Nassim as a finance practitioner, loved the snippet of the person explaining the Lindy effect.

[@tilio9380]

The video that I thought would never come. Almost thought we were one month behind when I saw the title pop up in my notification. It is great to see you finally addressing the increasing hipsterfication of the explorer 1. It has almost become this "insider Rolex" especially within the watchtuber community, a trend I partially blame you for initiating lol.

[@J_adventures1]

Great video as always. Talking about one watch collections, I have gone down from a 15 watches to a single custom full metal dw6900 with Jay & Kay’s adapters and a nato strap. It’s gone all over the world with me and still looks good in the office. For me it’s the ultimate watch. The design looks like it came out of blade runner or dune while being durable enough to take with me diving or on ultra marathons. Never thought my grail watch would be $100 g shock….. Ignore the hype, just ware what makes you happy!

[@linushyden7634]

Always liked your content TGV. I saw your very first video back when I also used to live in NYC. I am blessed with a collection of nice watches, among them a speedy, a submariner, a Mark XX and a Monaco. But the one I keep going back to is my Grand Seiko SBGR253. A 70 hours power reserve 37 mm deep black dial under the radar watch with the seratsu polishing. It has been discontinued but can be found for less than half the price of an Explorer. It has become my Explorer. It is the perfect watch. A much upgraded version of the SARB033.

[@handerson3263]

Possibly one of the greatest watches of all time.

[@Ritra-Official]

Good choice TGV, I'm a Rolex Explorer owner myself, Ref 124270, funilly enough I sold my last Explorer thinking the same thing "Maybe I can get a cheaper alternative that gives me the same feeling and pocket the rest of the money" but the moment the Watch was sold, I had immediate regret, spent months agonizing over selling the one watch that I felt the most attached to. Long story short, bought another 124270 to replace the one sold, and I've vowed since not to sell it.

[@MrJerry160]

haha the Mount Olympus Effect, thats my English Teacher right there, great lad, love the guy

[@DCbell5]

Great video, worth the wait. I too fell into watching lots of watch content a few years ago, but got sick of it all, particularly the “here’s my latest new Rolex” videos. You are the last man standing. Perhaps of interest, I’ve had a couple Rolexes, and sold them both to fund projects on Guzzi’s and old Land Cruisers over the years 😮. Meanwhile my less expensive old Brosnan Omega stays around. Glad you’re keeping the Explorer as you were its biggest advocate for years, the Day-Date could sure fund some incredible global explorations though…🤔

[@Scottydog99]

when you said you were carrying a compass it reminded me that you can use a watch as a compass Check that the watch is showing the correct time and then lay the watch horizontally and align the hour hand of the watch with the direction of the sun. The point approximately mid-way between the 12 o'clock position on the dial and the direction of the hour hand when it is aligned with the sun indicates south.

[@russtattersall2746]

Great review TGV, you create the best and most evocative intros I’ve seen on KZbin. You talk a lot of sense, quite a rarity these days.

[@grt42]

The YT transcript also butchered your name, but not only that, they transcribed TGV as TGB..funny that. Keep up the good work. Lovely video as always.

[@thestevepbrady]

I love the Explorer, but as someone relatively new to watch collecting and on a teacher's salary at that, I just find the quality and choices in the micro brands to be much more appealing.

[@rebeccawarren2976]

I like the time you upload your videos recently. I live in GMT, I'm back home from work, afternoon coffee and new Urban Gentry video!

[@tomjsmith000]

Where is GMT right now?

[@davew1337]

@@tomjsmith000+0

[@wescobts]

Once again, thank you for another great video. Hype is the great destroyer, as so many have said, wear what you like. Be it a Rolex Explorer, or maybe it's a TAG or a 556a. Mine happens to be a Seiko Samurai. Embrace what you own, make some memories, we'll all look back and smile one day.

[@mrt2760]

The Explorer really grew on me in recent times, picked up the 40mm version and absolutely love it, it gets the most wrist time. Simple, classic.

[@barrettwbenton]

Ah, me...when that Nivada Grenchen appeared on the screen, pretty much everything you seemed to be building up to suddenly crystallized for me: that's a watch to accompany you as you beat your own path, rather than preoccupy yourself with its tales of paths already beaten. Some watches get widely known for their swashbuckling history (Explorer), while others are slightly less-known but nonetheless stand on their own (Alpinist, my preference), but something like that NG? That's simply a good watch requiring you to bring your own story, however seemingly minor or momentous. Not to knock the Explorer at all, but I think the watch has possibly been infused with more "meaning" than might be healthy. Damned good presentation, again, T.

[@HRM.H]

Its such a classic piece, but I just have a hard time justifying the price for a explorer.

[@mi626]

Thanks TGV. This is exactly my sentiments with Rolex and I think lots of watch lovers feel this way.

[@djmaciiiii]

Great to see you in Germany! I wear my explorer because its the only one of my watches I can clearly read without my glasses.

[@jamiehull7238]

Thanks for another great video, with beautiful locations and insight into the Explorer. Glad you’re enjoying a second honeymoon with it.

[@1988banker]

TGV wondering through the black forrest!😂 You're awesome bro! I think the "perfect" watch is the one we decide is perfect, for us. It's about appreciation, and knowing when to stop. The sentimental bond is something we attach to the object, it doesn't come out of the factory with it. I've gave this some thought. Any watch, at any price can possess this. From the very cheapest, to the most exquisite. Does it fit right? Does it function properly? Will it last? Can it be maintained? From quartz to mechanical it doesn't matter, the decision must be made by the individual. I just feel the never ending quest for the next watch can damage appreciation greatly. You're a watch legend TGV!

[@Maxiius]

TGV, Love you, mean it. When are we going to get an update on the Rangemaster 2?

[@mystic48209]

Excellent TGV. Apart from the channel, consulting and developing products. You go, boy!!

[@Dropkick_Monger]

I'm glad you're keeping the explorer. As I (hopefully) grow more mature and wise, I've come to appreciate the things that mean something to me, regardless of what the prevailing opinion may be. I've gotten rid of a lot of things over the years that I now wish I'd kept, but also, I've come close to getting rid of others, and in doing so, come to appreciate them all over again. I've always found Rolex to be too associated with flexing, but over the last year or so, I've come around to the idea that I might actually like to have an Explorer (were I suddenly to find myself with abundant discretionary income). It's subtle, understated, and elegant. I just like the watch, regardless of whether it has that crown on the dial or not. Great video as always!

[@zackbetterton489]

Hey TGV I just wanted to say thank you. Your videos of the hanhart 417es made me finally pull the trigger and I have to say it’s one of the most badass watches I’ve ever owned

[@KillingTimeWithNorman]

Excellent video - as per usual. The history, the conversation, the footage... all top notch. The Explorer and the OP 36mm are the two Rolexes that I would actually consider pursuing... however the 1016 is my favorite variant of the Explorer by far. The Nivada Grenchen F77 is an amazing watch also btw. Cheers.

[@anthonylake7581]

The Nivada Grenchen Antarctic is a gorgeous watch. How I want one, but I already have a Tudor Ranger, which I adore. Any new watch acquisition has to bring something new to my collection, and another field/explorer type watch would not do that, so I can't have one. 😢 I was oddly glad to discover at the end of the video that you have chosen not to sell your Explorer.

[@darrenhojnacki6636]

You are doing 4 videos in this series, you should include the homage watches of the Explorer in them or as a standalone. You are not an Aliexpress guy, but Baltany has 3 different Explorer homages. A 36mm, 39mm, and a 1963. Plus Nivada Grenchen, Lorier, and these two KZbin guys collaborated over the last few years on limited editions - Long Island something and a guy that goes by initials.

[@michaelriera6277]

Great episode! Been watching since the NYC days. Explorer is a very special watch within Rolex offerings. If you still enjoy the look and wear then it’s a keeper.

[@jeffreardon3969]

Always enjoyed my trips to Weinheim, Germany. Heidelburg. Magical.

[@joshuakaplan5726]

I live in Boston and visit SCL now and again, even got my Nomos club campus 36 cream coral from there! I saw the 1016 there and thought of you! Im enjoying my new 124270 i just got last Thursday, after trading in my black bay pro and tank must large to offsets the cost.