9 Rolex Explorer Affordable Watch Alternatives Worth Owning From $100+

[@Andromahlius]

You should do the videos in reverse, such as, "expensive alternatives to the seiko SKX".

[@theurbangentry]

GENIUS!!!!!! Thank you my friend, very clever indeed. Best regards, TGV

[@bjdenil]

🤣

[@mountainmanwatchreviews8081]

Even though I cant afford anything beyond an skx id totally watch that.

[@ElijsDima]

This could legit be a whole series of videos. Brilliant idea.

[@ΠαῦλοςΠαυλίδης-χ7θ]

LOL😂

[@HouseofJello]

I was in a car accident with my alpinist on my wrist. The car rolled onto its side and my arm ended up dragging on the pavement, ripping the watch off of my wrist. I ended up walking away from the crash with only minimal road rash. I went back a couple days later to find the watch. When I found it on the side of the road, it was still running, despite an enormous chip and crack in the crystal. The alpinist is TOUGH. AS. NAILS.

[@BandrewScott]

I 100% second the Sinn 556a. I have been going through so many watches over the last 6 months, and then I found the Sinn. I try to wear other watches and have to force myself to wear them because the Sinn is just perfect for me, and I got it because it has a little bit of the explorer vibes with the 3,6,9,12 Arabic numerals. The anti-magnetism is also amazing because I record stuff, meaning I’m around speakers a lot with massive magnets on the back. All in all, it’s pretty much the perfect watch for me. 10/10 recommend it.

[@tmfrs2]

Im so happy knowing that this list, without watching yet, won't include any MVMT or equivalent in it

[@someguy3856]

I can’t get over how great the Smiths Everest 36mm is for the price. It is stunning.

[@foamige]

I purchased the Tudor Black Bay 36 after watching your review. I couldnt be happier with it. I use it for everything, work, casual, swimming and black tie. Its an amazing piece for the price and built like a tank!

[@007Chancellor]

Steinhart! I've become a huge fan. Thanks for including one. I actually sold my four Rolexes when the prices got just plain ridiculous - not to mention the games a dealer requires to get one. I've replaced them all with Steinys - and have taken my Ocean One GMT OLKO Special Edition on two dive vacations to Jamaica with the Rolex proceeds.

[@teunaydin]

Excellent job Steinhart will be price of omega in 10 years you can keep this comment and see 10 years later mate

[@danielchadney1666]

Just got my Dan henry 1970, Absolutely chuffed to bits with it. I haven't taken it off in a week. Me my father and brother all have A different Dan Henry watch, just happy to be able to have to own them together!

[@theurbangentry]

That is one stylish and classy family! Thank you Daniel, so happy to hear that, I adore the 1970, here's to many more years of enjoyment :D Best regards, TGV

[@sicemdawgs47]

Very excited about the new Rolex Blahblah

[@chiliprepper7678]

Still rocking the new Batman.😉🍺

[@I-Libertine]

Too late, they're sold out.

[@shonkeymoulder6972]

Wonder how long the waitlist is now for that model

[@ExtraLeben]

Or you build your explorer homage yourself . Take a seiko snkk87 and add the explorer style dial from raffles time :) .. did it and would do it again ^^

[@Atombender]

Let the posers buy a premium for it and get a Grand Seiko Spring Drive instead.

[@stephenjameson7377]

TGV, loved the section on Smiths watches and the in depth info, as always. You go above and beyond. You're a massively positive person, which I really admire. Your positivity, is infectious. I think you're doing more good than you realise....particularly in the current climate.....

[@jlg395]

Because of you getting me into watches during this pandemic, I now own #10 and #1 on this list. Thanks for giving me an fun, unexpected, and worrisomely expensive hobby!

[@Jsong1]

My favorite from the list is Sinn. I personally think it is the one of the best value for money watch brands.

[@Barbourardour]

TGV every time I watch one of your videos, old or new, I’m reminded just how great you are at creating interesting, inclusive and engaging watch content. You are and have always been head and shoulders above the typical watch industry pundits. You’re a pleasure to watch and should feel rightly proud of what you’ve achieved.

[@TheWayofGrace89]

Seiko SARB017 is 15 time less expensive than a 214270 Explorer - and is just as if not more gorgeous. My .02.

[@mariog7213]

I’m not a fan of the sarb017 tbh. Also, it’s not as straightforward so I’m not sure it’s a great replacement. Anyways, that’s my opinion. Cheers mate

[@LongFinger021]

you obviously have never owned one with that comment

[@ThomasLaang]

That Seiko looks just terrible to me.

[@PutYourArtyAwayWalter]

I just purchased the Steinhart Gnomon exclusive Explorer dial 5513 homage and every single aspect of the watch has absolutely blown me away. The bang per buck ratio is off the charts.. Steinhart fan for life! Fantastic video as always now to choose between the Fortis or the Sinn...

[@fawkesandhound]

I have the OVM39, the 5517 homage...it’s sooo nice I haven’t worn anything else for 6 months.

[@PutYourArtyAwayWalter]

I’m thinking about getting the OVM39 it looks so good! But the Fortis Spacematic has caught my attention big time.

[@Mixali88]

I would say the ball fireman comes to mind first as an alternative. Another option in my opinion would be the Longines Conquest VHP. Great content as always TGV!

[@MrJamel300]

I would like to see you talk about citizen watches a little bit more.

[@nebod1556]

Orient as well

[@TheRunningManZ]

How is there no Hamilton field watch in this line up? I’m shocked!!! ;) Was still a great list none the less!

[@cakraparindra4659]

I think TGV's requirement for today's watches are 3, 6, 9 Arabic on the dial.. As far as I know, Hamilton do not have any watch with that sort of dial layout cmiiw I do agree still a great list of watches nonetheless 👍🏼

[@kickbillcom]

Hamilton Khaki Field Auto 38mm fits perfectly

[@Bill.C.49]

@@kickbillcom I agree.

[@moosabman]

Although they are both field watches, I think the sub-category of "explorer" field watch is it's own thing. Something Hamilton doesn't really have. The khaki field is much more tool-watch and much more complicated (arabic numerals for each hour, 24 hr markers etc). Explorer style watches are born from what were somewhat simple dressy sport watches for their time. That's why the alpinist is a perfect alternative. Tough field watch credentials with dressy applied numerals and cathedral hands.

[@Reqnr]

I love how much you turn up on watch channels! Big fan of the stream/channel ;)

[@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR]

Fantastic video! Love all these tbh ! All give a little something extra to just having been influenced by the one and only Explorer! Love my 214270! The most understated most iconic watch in the Rolly fleet!!!!

[@BobMarley-pm1xb]

I was recently attacked in the comment section for having the temerity to mention how much I adored my STEINHART Ocean 39 Vintage GMT. TGV, you Sir exude class. I so admire your penchant for taking down the watch snobs. My watch has no cyclops. My watch has no crown guards. The case shape is distinctly not Rolex (but SO WHAT, if it did? The name says STEINHART. Homage?…..whatever, but fake? A cyclops is something like a wart on the face of a pretty girl. You will not miss the day she has it removed. They are WATCHES, for gosh sakes. No one has EVER even asked me about my watch. No one cares except all us watch nerds. Keep it positive Tristano and your channel will continue to prosper. And CONGRATULATIONS! to all who own a Rolex. I hope to join your ranks one day!

[@danielclemmer3329]

My pick would be the Traska Summiteer. The stepped dial, hard coated 316l stainless steel tapered bracelet from 20mm to 16mm, 28,800 BPH myota 9039 and BGW9 lume. All for $500. Can't go wrong.

[@moddaeng]

I have one. Very awesome watch. Love it.

[@graytime5828]

Completey agree with the Alpinist being number 1 on this list!

[@wltrlg]

Glad you mention the Steinwatch. Have the Ocean One Vintage Military. Such a great value for money watch!

[@147mastery9]

I saw the Tudor North Flag in person and I must say I was impressed with it. Can't believe it's not so popular.

[@karabiner159]

Lorier Falcon - captures the Explorer vibe with a real identity of its own.

[@machinistmikethetinkerer4827]

Have you seen a GMT is coming soon?

[@karabiner159]

@@machinistmikethetinkerer4827 yeah, excited for the reveal. Although it'll be a while til I can justify another purchase...

[@machinistmikethetinkerer4827]

@@karabiner159 I'm with you. 800 bucks-whoa!

[@karabiner159]

@@machinistmikethetinkerer4827 damn, didn't know it was that much. If that's the case it'll definitely be more than a while 😂

[@barrettwbenton]

Watching #9 through 5: Yep, can't argue there. Watching #4 through 2: Solid, no disagreement with anything. Watching #1: YES! (Only one on the list I own. Love it to pieces. Would love it even if it didn't make the list, but confirmation is always nice.)

[@szabolcsreznak4313]

Thank you for this video TGV. I am in love with the latest version of the Alpinist (especially with the grey dial) and see it almost not (just) as a simplification of an Alpinists, but as a new line of watches. It seems for me this line is aimed/designed to draw in a newer generation of "gentlemen" (with need for a simple/ mature layout, extra though built (200m WR) but still staying classical/ elegant und a bit understated, with a price range that was kind of a Seiko 5 in the past for the young students, workers). Many call this watch as baby alpinist, for me they are more of a Seiko Explorer or a Seiko Railmaster... lets see what the future brings for this models, I am more than to keen to put my hands on one of this grey beauties in 2021

[@henkvandebeek7921]

“Come at me in the comments!” Brilliant. I have to tell you that you have fully converted me to Seiko, especially with your Flighty review. Your passion here is fantastic and I am so happy to see there is no snobbery with having to have expensive brand names with a watch you enjoy.

[@willardhooton920]

Honorable mention to Armida A-6. Good looks of the 1016 Explorer, almost as antimagnetic as Milgauss, and the water resistance of the Subbie👌

[@kylesalisbury6789]

I love going back through your back catalog of videos!

[@acefire6422]

I have the Sinn (the 556i) and it’s a truly outstanding watch, killer proportions, hard as nails, classic understated design. Used to have the Heritage Ranger too - beautiful but a bit oversized for the type of watch it is. Tudor would hit a home run by making a 38mm version.

[@playboypaul1]

Tgv, I come for the watches but I stay for the history. Another great video

[@GuyVanderAa]

I saw this with a little delay but the intro made me laugh so hard 😁 Excellent line up. My personal favourite would have to be the Seiko Alpinist. It’s just an original stylish Seiko watch designed as an explorer and at an affordable price. Second would be the Steinhart though. Classic styling. Regarding the Omega Railmaster, it is the most underrated in my opinion. I wore one not long ago for a short while and it’s an excellent everyday tool watch. It has a simple design but the 8900 Calibre is simply superb if not the best. Thanks for again an excellent and beautiful edited video. I also very much like how you always incorporate pictures of old ads/magazines to support your narrative. Bravo!

[@tiagopereira5260]

Hello TGV! Thank you for another amazing video! Really loved the entry with the bloopers :D

[@seaddh1]

Awesome content TGV. Your reviews have influenced my collection. There is an added bonus. When I watch the videos with my 1 month old she tends to fall asleep. Guess u have a soothing voice

[@FerFonsek]

Is there a seamaster 300, royal oak or rolex Day date alternatives video?

[@veeare6880]

Anybody else know the reference for the Fortis watch showed on 12:12? I love the serifs on that type and it seems like all the modern ones don't use that font.

[@muzza1967]

Just bought the SARB017 love the look and quality, just wish the straps were better and longer. I seem to say that about all Seiko's I have bought.

[@klausm5460]

Yes, a great occasion to revisit my beloved Sinn 556 (indices version for my taste), but also refreshing to hear about some brands not being talked about that much. As always the video was over too soon!

[@tatihamzah2134]

Gosh, I love this guy! Keep it coming TGV! I'm new to watches and learning a lot from your channel.

[@TheVic256]

The Longines Conquest 39mm automatic, perfect affordable explorer alternative! Much prettier than pictures gives credit for and great specs! The blue is very elegant and black very explorersq.. :) Love your videos, thanks for the efford and so very enjoyable videos!

[@theurbangentry]

YESSSSSSS!!!! Excellent suggestion, I have yet to try it but anything that brand makes is always good stuff. Thank you for sharing that. Best regards, TGV

[@giusepperocchi2979]

Agreed, criminally underrated watch. Be aware that the black dial one is a different beast, being the only version with lume and non applied indices.

[@santikalex]

Exactly! I have a blue version and love it. The only complain is no lume.

[@mariog7213]

@@giusepperocchi2979 sometimes I think that’s a negative. Other times I think it’s a plus. So much indecision in this hobby 🤣

[@giusepperocchi2979]

@@mariog7213 It's definitely a plus for me, much more in line with It's "tool watch" specifications and rugged build quality.

[@Clumz3g]

Glad to see this come back! I been waiting for years to pull the trigger on a watch and decided to get a Junghans Max Bill based on your favorite watches under $500 video from a few years ago. Keep up the great work!!

[@gzygouris]

“Come at me in the comments...” Impossible! You’re right. There’s a lot of Seikos that fit the profile. At least 7 within the past 2 years lol

[@lndyrd]

like the dress KX too

[@TheGrenadier97]

11:01 - That's one of the best date complication' arrangements i've seen.

[@jasonwho000]

I just subbed! I own 20 Automatic watches... More to come I’m sure. Swiss made from Rolex, Omega, Tissot, Certina, Alexander, Mathy Tissot, to Japan/Chinese made Seiko, San Martin, Orient, Invicta. As far as Chinese made, the San Martin are by far the best bang for buck example in my opinion. I own 3, so far are all been perfect, for the money. I believe if San Martin come up with their own designs, they may become the Rolex of China. I’m very impressed with their workmanship, finishing, just flawless. Great video thanks

[@TartanJack]

You may have pushed me over the edge toward the Timex Waterbury.

[@ratedm90]

Tgv always puts a smile on my face!

[@airportworker_fra]

Great entertaining stuff and very good info again as always. I enjoyed watching this!

[@BlackWipeout]

My father bought a Fortis Official Cosmonauts Chronograph directly from Grenchen a few days ago, I was with him. The welcome was amazing by the people of Fortis. He had seen your review video thanks to me. He fell in love with this watch and the brand. He wore a Rolex GMT for over 40 years. The person at Fortis had noticed that he had a Rolex and was curious about the why of his choice. In short, it was magic.

[@seanao4496]

I just got my alpinest a few weeks ago, but it’s the vintage piece with 4s15 movement green dial and a red alpinest on the dial, it took me a look time to find a really good condition piece. As alpinest has been my next buying watch for a long time and I always got distracted by other watches, and I also prefer the best version of it as I do believe 4s movement are much finer than 6r. Love the video love the alpinest

[@the_CHAR_official]

Hey, would anyone have some advise in finding a good affordable tank style watch. Thanks

[@theurbangentry]

Great idea, there are so many, especially from vintage Hamilton, Bulova, and Seiko too. I will certainly consider it, thank you. Best regards, TGV

[@adewgg6862]

I would also throw in Longines, some of their vintage tanks can be found for around 300$

[@vicvictoras6071]

Tudor North flag is the one ! You don't need nice comments TGV you know who you are, I just hit the like button.

[@adamethancrow]

Hamilton Murph - the same feel and vibe of the explorer to me. - love the channel

[@davidtaysom3592]

Some really great alternatives mentioned thanks for this video

[@MuchKoku]

In a single video, we got not one, not two, but three "Ok, hi guys."

[@mathieut3197]

"Oh! Hi Mark!"

[@keksimus__maximus]

OK ciao

[@ColboyMontana]

Steinhart have since made an actual Explorer homage called Adventure. It look really great.

[@imthefattest]

Which strap is on the Rolex explorer in the thumbnail?

[@imthefattest]

Nobody knows it? I’m sad now.

[@Aladdin139]

Seriously i was looking at Steinhart ocean one today , i really surprised u review it... but it's one of the best watches and sports ETA2824 movement which is high beat (28800bph) so u can enjoy the smoothness of the seconds hand .. but definitely definitely...SEIKO is the Master of all watches , and GRAND SEIKO SBGA229 is the one and only .... like no other in accuracy,quality and value for money and the only watch sports (36000bph) along with Zeinth El Primero....but definitely GS is the winner in all aspects ✌️✌️✌️

[@billmedic1995]

Come at me bruh!! Hahaha, T, I love it! In my 20+ years of collecting, I never owned my a Seiko until I joined the channel. Now, they have become a favorite of mine as well and I have seven of them. Great choices for your affordable alternatives.

[@deparoo]

I love that you opened with the bloopers, love them. Gave me a well needed laugh, always look forward to your content, thank you TGV Sir.

[@johannguasch754]

Was seriously going to ask this in the facebook group! An updated rolex explorer alternative video. As in just this very minute, amazing!

[@michaelwindham6240]

Really enjoyed this!!! Very comical and informative!!! "coming at you", LOL!!!

[@seanwarren5613]

Fantastic video. For somebody looking for an Explorer "budget" alternative, this was invaluable. Thanks TGV👍

[@Coolbutodd]

I'm so glad you rated Seiko alpinist as a good choice alternative because I had the same mindset but doubted if others would agree so it's reassuring you've mentioned it. I've actually purchased the new Seiko sbdc115 because I just feel in love with how simple but bold it design is. For me the thing that sold me was how unique the luminous effect was compared to others.

[@jeremycorrao]

Great video! I always loved the Ranger and the North Flag! That Fortis is nice as well. Cheers my friend. Hope all is well!

[@librarianrobert7426]

Turtleneck and sports jacket weather! Looking good, Tristano! :)

[@herbmerced7780]

I was waiting for Sinn...love this brand!

[@trailblazer2339]

Orient Mako 2 also has those iconic numerals.

[@paulbasileo3857]

Informative and entertaining. Your insights and knowledge are always so impressive.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Paul, you are a true gent for saying so, onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@nixtr3sharma]

Been a while since you did one of these alternative videos TGV. Great to see this back and amazing picks for alternatives.

[@theurbangentry]

Lloyd!! Great to see you in the comments, I hope this finds you well my friend. O&U! Best regards, TGV

[@nixtr3sharma]

@@theurbangentry I'm really good and just getting ready for summer here in Australia. Take care & hope you are staying safe in Philly.

[@juliuscaesar8801]

Eloquent graceful discussion as always. Thank you. Q: 1:19 is a magazine. Which magazine is being used in the video? Q2: can anyone recommend watch magazines?

[@joseph_Stuart]

Great video! Glad to see the homage genre revisited!

[@lilopasha1509]

You read my mind! I was just looking for a Explorer alternative , thank you! Awesome video as always!

[@heikowallauer]

Good evening TGV, thumbs up for including the Sinn 556a. The 556a is my daily watch along with the 104. But the North Flag is also a great choice when it comes to Explorer alternatives. The only things that bugs me, is the strap. Hard to put it in a Nato. Have a great evening!

[@theurbangentry]

A man of impeccable taste, what more can I say?!? All that high end stuff from Lange & Söhne & the brands from Glashutte are truly amazing, but IMO, the best German watches are always those straight to business tool watches. Theres something so admirable about the purity in form and function. Peter Heinlein would be proud of you my friend! Thank you Heiko. Best regards, TGV

[@alexm2113]

Great list TGV. I love this return to the original Gentry "top xx" lists!

[@alanmentzer8756]

In addition to the Seiko Alpinist, my favorite Explorer alternative is the 43mm Victorinox I.N.O.X. "Autumn Spirit." It is a bombproof adventure watch and has the classic 3-6-9 Arabic numerals. A substantial watch that will take anything thrown at it.

[@tjanders9863]

I love that Seiko was #1. They are so durable and priced so appropriately. Loved the video so thanks for sharing your opinions and educating on so many Interesting horological facts pertaining to each watch on the list. Really enjoy your stuff.

[@Nickos1b]

My Casio EF-125D-2AV is the most affordable Explorer homage. It is my beater watch and boy can it take a bearing! I love it.

[@thomas_blitz]

I own the Tudor North Flag and couldn't agree more; this is the Explorer of the future. Love it!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Thomas, enjoy it! Best regards, TGV

[@ekahraman7389]

Great video, and absolutely spot on with the Seiko Alpinist!

[@tomroeder7348]

The Steineys get some love, fantastic! I love my Ocean One, I hope someday to replace it with a genuine Sub, but for now it does the job nicely. Great video!

[@gavanmitchell9095]

Brilliant video as always. I'll never get sick of all the background and history you cover. I'd love one of those Sinns. Thanks again TGV.

[@rebeccawarren2976]

Well i was about to go to bed and here is another video from my favourite watch oriented YT channel :)

[@alexthomson7465]

Exactly the same here. 😂

[@Alias_Anybody]

TGV: Look at this sweet Rolex! Viewers: I'm slightly broke thought... TGV: I have a mission!

[@Alias_Anybody]

Edit: I want to see that Top 10 Seiko Explorers now.

[@hogboy5488]

@@Alias_Anybody Me too. TGV - Make it so

[@arbestcrontisb4248]

Three watches I would steal from The Urban Gentry: Bulova Accutron, Rolex Explorer, Fortis cosmonaut chronograph iss limited edition. Hugo, are you down for a shady deal: 55 juicy young sheeps for 3 watches? I'll throw in there a bottle of champagne too...don't tell TGV though 🤫 Anyway, Great video as always TGV...Ciao from Italy 🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹

[@wingi7722]

Excellent stuff! I really loved your comments re: Steinhart and watch snobs. I burst out laughing at this! Poor Hugo! :D

[@markflett5501]

Hi great video keep them coming

[@DaveMGmovies]

Thanks for the selection TGV, especially as it's such a tough brief. The Explorer is a magnificent piece and very hard to choose an alternative.

[@zacharyg2966]

I feel like this is the renaissance of the channel. Great video! Glad to see these back. Thanks TGV!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Zachary, it feel great to be back just doing what I love and to hear your comment has made my day. You are awesome! Best regards, TGV

[@matthewwinters1297]

Love this episode! I bought an Alpinist after your reviews. Beautiful watch and a GREAT timepiece. Stay healthy TGV! Have a Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

[@THEMan-nx5vs]

Wow this vid has been done AT LEAST 60 times over it's so fresh amazing list well done

[@xxxlutzify]

Amazing video, as always! Do you think the Sinn 856 is worth the upgrade over the 556? Considering you get all the Sinn tech, although you pay almost twice as much?

[@phillipedwards420]

Great to see you come back to your roots.

[@CJ-uq7pb]

I love my Rolex 14000 Air-King salmon explorer 3-6-9 dial. For me it is a more affordable alternative and can be worn with anything, like an Explorer. Always look forward to your videos.

[@Killua_Overwatch]

I need a strap recommendation for my Alpinist SPB199j1, already have a stainless steel bracelet. Looking into something that would accommodate my active lifestyle :) thanks!

[@mph0665]

Another fine video TGV. Let's not forget Tenzing Norgay.

[@007jjr]

Just bought the black dial steel bracelet Alpinist. Fantastic. My go to watch. Very reminiscent of the Explorer. Great purchase.

[@petershallis2294]

I absolutely love this style of video...more please!

[@XKCommander]

Hamilton Khaki King....... this is my affordable Explorer . Great video bro, stay safe and healthy.

[@giusepperocchi2979]

With 50mt of water resistance ?

[@LuisMercadoorg]

Dear TGV, what’s the code for the compassless alpinist? Thank you very much.

[@theurbangentry]

I believe it is the SBDC115, it should be out soon! :D Thank you Luis, Best regards, TGV