A Day In London With A Rolex Explorer: 3 Years With My Favourite Watch

In this special end of 2019 video, I return to where it all began - that’s right, London! Not only do I get exclusive behind the scenes access to some of the city’s most prestigious and illustrious institutions, but I also celebrate 3 years of owning the Rolex Explorer (Ref. 114270).
What better city than London to explore my love of a watch that is deeply linked to British culture, history, and achievement? In this episode I discuss why it’s my favorite watch, one of the best Rolex watches of all time, and what makes it such a compelling must have for any watch enthusiast.
My analysis and re-review includes my predictions for the future of the Rolex Explorer and what I would love to see released from Rolex at Basel World 2020. I then revisit London’s legendary Floris perfumery and talk to Edward Bodenham who is the 9th generation of the illustrious Floris family and current company director. We discuss the Ian Fleming/James Bond connection, as well as Winston Churchill and the celebrity and royal clientele of this world renowned brand.
Afterwards I make a quick dash around the iconic shops of Jermyn Street, Burlington Arcade, Bond Street, and of course, the iconic landmarks that make London one of the greatest cites in the world. Join me for a cup of tea and a walk down some lovely rainy streets that are just like my Rolex watch - timeless and so close to my heart! Speaking of my heart, a special thank you to my lovely wife for filming many of the scenes in this video.
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[@AlfredMeylan]

It’s truly incredible to see the respect he still has for his grandfather truly heartwarming

[@Eramsay121]

“If I were Duck Tales rich” You have a way with words TGV

[@marcusgrandon3640]

I've loved my 114270 Explorer beyond words since finding it brand new at an Athens AD in 2001. I guess that I've got one of the first ones ever produced. Back then, I had never heard of an Explorer, but when I put it on my wrist in the shop, it was love at first sight. I knew right then that I'd buy it. The Explorer was my 'one' watch everyday for 12 years, and I wore it with everything. Though my wife got me a Grand Seiko GMT that is now my daily wearer, I will never sell my Explorer, which still serves me well as my weekend warrior. To this day, I'm still enamored with it and and filled with joy whenever I look at it. For me, nothing compares. I'm so happy that others feel the same way.

[@berntanders]

So sad to see the 36mm discontinued. The new 39mm just seems so «regular» and somehow the proportions are off. Great timepiece, and loved to see your visit to Floris. Never heard of it, but what a place! Nearly 300 years and still going. That is just brilliant

[@android61242]

The perfect one watch collection. Thanks for another video during the holidays. I hope you and your family have a very merry Christmas and happy New Year.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Bob, I could not agree more, a one watch collection indeed. Have merry Christmas, all the best to you and your family. Best regards, TGV

[@brendanfisher]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video. As another viewer stated, it was a "special" one. It reminded me of why I started following The Urban Gentry all those years ago.

[@MrRoyck10]

Epic content in my favourite city, the city of London, full of rich history and monumental buildings. Absolutely lovely.

[@adceal]

Dear TGV, your videos are the best! I'm a fan of your channel since the early days, and your videos have evolved to be the better ones among others (other watch channels). Congratulations and keep the good work! Buon Natale and season's greetings!🥂

[@TartanJack]

I must thank you for the Floris segment. Definitely exploring any online presence they may have. Merry Christmas. And thank you for such entertaining videos.

[@krosses7156]

I was on the verge of asking for a vincero watch for christmas before stumbling across your channel and getting some sense knocked in for me. I saw your "10 best watch brands for starting your collection" video and instead opted for a bulova watch. Thank you for helping me make a much better choice. Merry Christmas and kind regards, Culainn.

[@theurbangentry]

You are very welcome, you can not go wrong with your choice! Enjoy and welcome aboard! Thank you Culainn, have a wonderful festive season. Best regards, TGV

[@forallthingsblack]

Merry Christmas Tristano! As always, THANK YOU for the brilliant content, there is no better professional in this game than yourself my friend. My family and I wish you and your family the happiest of Christmas’s. All the best, Matt

[@alexd5807]

TGV, could not be more happy for you with your new partnership with Watchbox. Big congrats! But I personally would not be comfortable buying from them because the watch pictures on their site are not actual pictures of that particular watch. All of the pictures of, for example, the Explorer are the same picture! No matter what they tell you. You don't know what you are actually buying. Great fan of yours, brother. Happy Holidays!

[@ianwalker4803]

Excellent vid from a year of excellent vids, loved the visit to Floris and the interview with Edward. favorite watch still my SKX 011 !

[@tommytee8387]

Happy Christmas TGV..as ever your Content is just about as good as its gets and Yes the Explorer remains The Classic Rolex..

[@chaseiv58]

Your videos are the only videos I truly get excited to see pop up in my feed. I appreciate your work. Thank you Tristano

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Chase, So happy to hear that, you are most welcome sir! Best regards, TGV

[@DaveMGmovies]

Even though I'm not a huge Rolex fan -- I love both the Explorer I and II. Yours looks superb on the Nato. Great setting too. Hope you're enjoying being back home here in Blighty TGV. Happy holidays and all the best for 2020.

[@codergt7205]

Welcome back . Indeed there is beauty in the expression of vanity of any Rolex . Ultimately like any thing in life it is how much it is worth to us - along with experiences we live possessing it - as opposed to its actual cost .

[@gabrielmendez1235]

Just got my First Rolex yesterday, a datejust and absolutely love it. Started seeing the channel a year ago and it ignited an unknown watch freak in me

[@edteach3r]

I really enjoyed the holiday-flavour of this video. Thank you! The a Rolex Explorer is my favourite watch also, albeit still on my bucket list. At this point in time, I would say that my Hamilton Field Mechanical (still with the ETA 2804-2) garners most of my attention. It never fails to bring a smile to my face whenever I slip it on. I wish you and yours a blessed Christmas, TGV. Here’s to many more great videos in 2020!

[@Hotte1071]

Outstanding. Please keep on doing this kind of videos. What an inspiration. Thank you so much, happy holidays and all the best for 2020!

[@Grayson_Maugham-Talbot]

Great show, TGV! As for my favorite: Cartier Santos, either the medium model or the large one - still debating with myself about that. Cheers and Happy Holidays!

[@marcfavero1255]

Joyeux noel Tristano surrounded by all your family :) it’s always a pleasure to have this kind of videos from you, and don’t change in anyway ! Marc

[@farshidrahmani6262]

Great little family history and tour of London. Very charming indeed. My one watch choice would be my Omega Seamaster - Brosnan- model. Every time I wear it, makes me think why I have any other watch. Happy new year, cheers 🍷

[@samuelball8775]

Appreciated the look at Floris - thanks TGV. Enjoy your new year 🎊🎉

[@duncani3095]

Love the channel. Recently I really got into watches. And I bought my first watch, it's a Pulsar accelerator chronograph. I love motorsports, and the racing heritage is there. In sponsorship, and in the watch itself. TGV thank you for educating watch enthousiasts, and I think you are well on your way. It's in your blood, Brittish class and Italian style. Good luck in 2020 and please extend greetings to Hugo, always looking foreward to his honest opinions.

[@conned]

Merry Christmas and Happy 2020!! Keep the videos coming!!

[@nalt0id862]

The first “real watch” I purchased, only last year after watching so many of your review videos and what to look for, was a Ball Engineer M Marvelight. It’s a genuinely wonderful watch and it’s a joy to wear. So thank you for bringing us together! :) In terms of favourites, I’m still new to the watch scene but I love the Rolex Explorer and the Air King. I enjoy simple watches the most; classic clean dials are just really nice.

[@rr40v8]

Merry Christmas Sir (and also to Hugo of course) and a Happy New Year! Thanks for the excellent videos and hope to see more in 2020 👍

[@Simonr501]

If you're tired of London, you're tired of life!!! TGV, I always enjoy your videos, there is a layed-back professionalism that shines through. You have opened my mind to 'other' brands to the mainstream collectors pieces too. Yes! I bought the Squale no date! I have recently bought the Grand Seiko Blue Snowflake SBGA 407. What a thing of beauty that is! As an engineer the spring drive technology fascinates me. Merry Christmas to you and your family.

[@Neehalmahfuz]

Love you channel! i am 18 and finally got my first watches a seiko snk809 and a casio mdv106 and am loving them!Thanks to you. Keep up the good work!

[@ChateauJuice]

Your video about the Explorer is one of the reasons I got this watch and I absolutely love it to bits. Suits every occasion, never overstated. Just plain 100% Rolex goodness

[@charlesflint9048]

Happy Christmas TGV. Like you, I am wearing my Rolex Explorer, which is now my favourite watch. I also used to think them a bit plain, but the more I wear this, the more I appreciate just how cool and understated it are. Mine is a 114270, and I bought it 6 months ago. It just grows and grows on me, indeed I think it is one of the best purchases I’ve ever done ( and my fiancée Sarah agrees !!). As they say “Less is More”, and this watch represents a fine example of this axiom. And a happy New Year to you!.

[@Veesaki]

My first great wrist watch and Rolex. Bought mine in 1970 new and it was with me thru my college days and grad. School and beyond ! The folded riveted bracelet is long gone now. The heart of a thoroughbred in the body of a mule. 1st service in 1981 it started taking on water sent it to Rolex New York and what a job they did on it ! I even got a green Rolex wallet when it was returned to me. Made me a lifelong customer ! Terrific video !!! A gentleman someone who puts more back into the world than what they take out! Happy Hoildays !

[@jaredcoffin3907]

That was a lovely and relaxing outing. Thanks for that. My favorite watch is the Datejust 16200 Ivory Anniversary Dial with Arabics, on the Oyster bracelet.

[@MrBrianc1975]

Great video Tristano. Really enjoyed seeing the sights of London. Have a great Christmas.

[@christopherjensen5007]

The watch which gets the most wrist time out of my 'modest' collection is my Steinhart Ocean One. It's been off the bracelet for over 3 years now and is a well-travelled watch. I'm a NATO, leather and rubber strap guy myself. It still turns heads and I do enjoy informing people about the 'Ocean One'. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year TGV.

[@watchbrocephus]

Great show! Wish I was home for Christmas too 🇬🇧 All the best! Stuart

[@bubbab7792]

Thank you for taking us on your journey, always a learning experience. Buone Vacanze to you and your family Good Sir! 🍷

[@richards3108]

Hi TGV just loved the video and the history of the explorer and London . As someone from the south (Uk) the watch community is huge here across the country.Keep your good work up. Thanks 👍

[@victorriga348]

It took me year to appreciate the perfectly balanced Explorer, now it’s also my preferred watch. I got mine early this year, you helped me in that process by the way. Than you, I’m looking forward to 2020’s Urban Gentry. Merry Christmas to all.

[@Funtasticao]

Grazie tanto TGV per il tuo continous effort in making these fantastic Videos. Enjoying and allways keep learning from you. Buon Natale

[@VadersRage]

Yes.....fantastic video. Loved the interview at Floris. I absolutely LOVE your photography skills. I couldn't tell you how many screenshots I've grabbed from your videos. That last photo of your grandfather in his military uniform (@2:32) looks just like you! Wild! Enjoy your holidays back home!

[@astrogen1960]

Fantastic images, TGV! That camera of yours is flawless in it's sharpness and color and was a real treat to see The Smoke along with you. Your Grandfather must have been an interesting gentleman. Thanks for sharing those images.

[@asheyconnect17]

Thanks for another year of great content TGV. Merry Christmas 😊

[@rcm4u2]

Merry Christmas, TGV! I love your videos, and this one sings to me. I am lucky enough to have a birth year 6610 Explorer, and love it for its heritage, toughness, classy looks, and ability to be worn with anything. And, I love London, too!

[@mellypro]

Merry Christmas! I am a proud owner of Explorer 114270, it`s going to be 3 years together very soon, about two weeks, bought it for my 30th birthday. Although I wear many other watches, I must say that if it would come down to it and you`d had to have only one piece for the rest of the life, Explorer is it. The ultimate watch you can wear with sweat pant or suit and never be wrong. Keep up the good work. I`m looking forward to what have you prepared for us in 2020.

[@AscanioOrlandini]

I love to see your London Christmas videos! I miss London very much. I'm currently after a Glycine Airman No 1 white, trying to decide between 36 and 40 mm. I'll probably go with a 40mm - a bit more modern as it's a replica - maybe in future I'll find the right 36mm vintage to pair it with. Thanks for your inspiring videos, TGV!!! Have a sweet Holiday Season with your beloved ones.

[@josephmaldonado8099]

Enjoyed the video. Loved getting to know London a little better. And I appreciated learning more about the Explorer. I own my two favorites, the 2019 Rolex GMT Master II, “Batman,” and the Rolex Air King. Both have aesthetics that keep my eyes caressing and marveling at their beauty. Thank you for what you do. Happy Christmas.

[@botezsorinconstantin]

Sir, you're an inspiration for me!!! I love your video's. Very relaxing and motivating! I salute you from Romania!

[@astro0125]

A welcomed video! Right now, I am trying to decide between the Stowa Marine Klassik and Junghans Max Bill Automatic, but hopefully one day, when I can afford it, I can come back and watch this video with an Explorer on my wrist. The happiest of holidays to you and your family.

[@gluon8760]

SYNc I have the Max bill , I must say I love it , it Is something very special for me. When I wear it and I look at it makes me happy

[@astro0125]

I love the design of the Max Bill, it is pure class with a great history, BUT, the Stowa has the same, if not greater, history behind it with a beautiful design as well. I probably like the Max Bill design more, but the Stowa is the better overall package, so I am hopelessly stuck and I dont know how to decide haha

[@parmmatiana2076]

Just watched this one today as I’m “looking into “ the Explorer 214270. Have to say this is probably the best watch video I’ve seen on KZbin. Not sure if it was the central London envy from being in Lockdown for so long in London but this was a masterpiece. Great channel.

[@Manbrown1]

This what you call quality content ... once again you've excelled !

[@billg95]

What a fantastic video. Exceptional quality. My interest for watches has just grown! PS Have a merry Christmas and a happy new year! 🎄🥂

[@05Rudey]

Awesome attire choice from the shoes, overcoat, scarf and of course... That beautiful watch.

[@1234Mirin]

Merry Christmas.. Enjoyed the show and thanks for sharing. Blessings to you and your family.

[@qchang09]

Superb job TGV. Appreciate your focus on quality and thought to your videos, especially those that incorporate watches and watch history with travel and sartorial aspects to life. I'll put in my vote for you to have a bespoke suit made on Savile Row....something I'd like for myself someday. Cheers and Happy Christmas!

[@NickSkye]

Beautiful watch and beautiful video as usual!

[@danielfuller1202]

Ah one of your videos close to home. I work in London but live in Berkshire and frequent many of the places mentioned in your video. I always feel like Pip in Great Expectations when walking around Jermyn Street. Great to see the Explorer out exploring the Streets of Londinium

[@reecegordon7073]

Great vid all round, what an amazing piece of architecture the Lloyd's building is. Merry Christmas :)

[@victorconde6329]

Favorite watch and favorite London shop. Always buy there the ‘89’. Congrats for your blog. I am new but faithful! Happy Christmas!

[@LobsterRavioli]

Once again, an amazing video. I love watches and history! Combining the two is always enjoyable. Next time, please visit a few castles if you can! I love the medieval era. I enjoy the videos, keep up the good work and success will continue to follow.

[@MBrunnberg]

Merry Christmas TGV! Keep them coming. 😎👍🏻

[@kaminschornstein7226]

Thanks for this Christmas impressions of London! The Explorer is presently on top of my Rolex wish list. Lets hope your video will not increase the run on this watch beyond the already crazy demand. After all, it is no secret that you like this watch, and you have certainly convinced many followers of this channel to get one. Please keep up the style as well! Enjoyed the visit to the perfum shop, and Fortnum & Masons is also my daily tea brand.

[@rightuppercut1426]

Another great video. Thanks for that, TGV. Very nice and informative tour through a part of London. Was never much of a Rolex fan, but your Explorer is causing a change of heart. My grail watch would be the Panerai Luminor Marina with a black dial and steel bracelet. A Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to you and your family. Looking forward to lots of great reviews in 2020.

[@lesuga96]

Merry Christmas, TGV, thank you for this wonderful video 😊

[@zakatk]

Great video! London has to be my favorite city. We have been blessed to live 45 minutes north for the past two years. I have always been drawn to the Explorer, but can’t imagine setting aside my Sub 16610 for another Rolex. I’ll have to visit Floris on our next trip to the city. I love Penhaligon’s Blenheim Bouquet, which I understood to be Churchill’s fragrance of choice, named after the family estate and all. Thanks for another wonderful video and Happy Holidays!

[@cmnderbob]

Loved the show this week! getting ready for my first lux watch. I really like Omega and was having a hard time deciding between the Speedmasteror & Seamaster 300M, but now I'm considering the Explorer, even though I may have to wait longer. I am open to buying used depending upon the condition. Anyway, love the channel i'll be watching... Bob Thompson, McBride, British Columbia, Canada

[@Halfmoon67]

Brilliant video ! Thanks for sharing your love for the fantastic Explorer ! I’m a big fan myself :) Cheers

[@shogun9450]

I appreciate the production quality, detailed and relaxed

[@JP-ik3hr]

Floris Leather Oud and Honey Oud are both perfumes I'd recommend trying whenever you get the chance.

[@USFOLLOWME]

Merry Christmas GTV. May all you watch dreams come true in 2020.

[@nestopoeta]

One of my grails!! Lovely video merry Christmas TGV!!

[@vince5479]

Have a great Christmas TGV. Keep up the excellent work!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Vincent, have wonderful Christmas, Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@alexm2113]

Merry Christmas TGV! Can't wait to watch your content in 2020.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Alex! Merry Christmas, Best regards, TGV

[@monstrok]

Thanks for the recap of this classic watch. The no-frills face is growing on me despite going for more feature-rich time pieces (think Flighty). Merry Christmas!

[@stitchpo]

Great video! Supreme watch! Happy holidays to you and yours, TGV!

[@pacovl46]

Merry Christmas, mate! 🙂 Love the fact that you have it on a vintage Bond strap. One of my SKXs is also on a vintage Bond.

[@frankdux6930]

An all time Marvell. Happy holidays and merry Xmas TGV. Look forward to even more cracking content in 2020!

[@alexlamas6324]

I have a V8 Tissot and a Formula 1 designer watch but the the simple Seiko SKX007 is my favorite go to every day watch and I got it on your recommendation. I also put it on the very same Retro-Bond Nato band you have your explorer on in this video (got it before you made this video, so that was a nice coincidence). I am going through an issue with SKX right now but Marc at Island watches (also your recommendation) is very responsive to my questions in helping me through, so thanks on that count. Happy New Year!

[@anastasevp]

Wonderful show. The link between Explorer, Ian Flaming and Floris was uber cool!!

[@adehall8504]

Merry Xmas TGV... keep doing what you’re doing. I really enjoyed this video... great job.

[@feelgoodconcept]

Another great episode, videos in UK are always specials. Happy Christmas TGV👑🎩🌲🥂

[@dhannylil2191]

Really nice side story of that Florist store, always feel like you giving us a tour on these videos. cudos Sir & Merry Christmas to you!

[@darrensmith6999]

Nice peice really enjoyed it. Have a great time back in Britain. All the best for 2020. Darren, Northumberland.🖖🎄🍾🇬🇧

[@leiflagercrantz8853]

My favorite is the Explorer II 40 mm, polar dial. Love your videos !!

[@adrianlovett3483]

Great views of a wonderful city with some nostalgic chat , oh and a beautiful watch .

[@macaronijones1]

Happy Christmas, TGV!! This video makes the perfect early gift! :) Enjoy your holiday back home.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Troy, I am honored by your words. All the best to you my friend, have a wonderful holiday season. Best regards, TGV

[@FunWithAJ]

Very much enjoyed this one. Happy Holidays TGV!

[@Mraazer69]

Nice Jaeger Atmos in the background love how the bellow makes it operate.

[@Tomatohater64]

Explorer is sublimely perfect. Its simplicity is its majesty. Great stuff TGV. ( Although I'd put it on an oyster bracelet.)

[@Sebastian85]

A perfectly done show about a great watch, hats off! Have a wonderful Christmas TGV! Greetings, Sebastian

[@markmcdonnell]

Fav watch: 36mm Rolex OP with white grape dial. I love the oyster bracelet, and that particular dial colour reminds me of the watch my grandfather used to wear, so it holds a special place in my heart.

[@SteveOSpielberg]

Happy holidays and thank you for the videos

[@adrianhargreaves2854]

Merry Christmas pal, now your back in england, don't forget gremlins is on ITV tonight. Best xmas film ever

[@theurbangentry]

Haha, absolutely! Funnily enough, I just got the blur-ray :D Thank you Adrian, such a classic. Have a great xmas! Best regards, TGV

[@markjonz]

Makes me miss my home country although I can't complain as I'm watching your wonderful video from Thailand with a G&T and the same Explorer ref on my wrist. Merry Christmas!

[@olemanolete1]

TGV feliz navidad y gracias por compartir tus conocimientos y experiencia, cheers.

[@mrg1911]

Ive been wearing the same Date-just for months, but will buckle on my 214270 in a few minutes after watching this. Great stuff as usual and I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you my friend, nothing like that feeling a DJ give you. Enjoy it for me, all the best to you and yours. Merry Christmas! Best regards, TGV

[@bmjengland4966]

Great Video TGV!! Loved the Floris interview!! Merry Christmas to you and your family... Onwards and upwards!! BMJ ENGLAND 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@Pinerocks]

Great video, awesome watch!! I live in London and I cannot wait to get back to Jermyn Street for some shopping once its safe to do so!! 👍🏼😀🇬🇧

[@tbg9563]

You wasn't far from my place when you were in the city awesome to see you back in London. Explorer 😍