Explorer Long Term Review

Finally a bit after one year and seven months I have been able to finish my long term review of the Explorer. This one is not a technical one but a analysis of the experience of having my grail watch for way over a year.

[@ihopetowin]

As far as I'm concerned the Explorer is the best watch Rolex make. I've owned a number of Rolexes and even though I do miss a couple I've sold on, the Explorer comforts me because it is the keeper. It is a watch for exploring and adventuring, it is a dress watch, a piece for all seasons and occasions. It is a watch which makes a great statement through engineering, quality, design, history and says these things quietly but most assuredly.

[@Explorer40mm]

The OP36 is a solid contender too

[@torqueofthedevil8145]

James Cameron would disagree with You

[@timepiece_enthusiast]

Which is exactly why i got myself a 124270, it’s the ultimate "go anywhere, do anything" watch.

[@ihopetowin]

I agree.@@Explorer40mm

[@victordizon9536]

The most thoughtful, well produced video I’ve seen about this particular timepiece. You are a very talented story teller with a great perspective of why these timepieces are so important to many. Outstanding!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot Victor. Your words really encourage me :)

[@martinkaplan1805]

Beautiful, poetic story telling. Thank you!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks! :)

[@eddymagic1]

A wonderful and insightful review. I own a 114270 and you have captured and expressed exactly why I love it. Really enjoyed hearing your perspective on the explorer and life! 🙂

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot. This review has taken me a lot of time to make, but it's worth the time when I read a comment like yours. The 114270 was my initial option but got the 12 as the AD offered it to me. Nevertheless I have had some limited experience with the 11 and is 90% the same sensation. Enjoy!

[@Will67267]

The only watch I will keep and give it to my son . Perfect in every situation.

[@WatchGeek]

This has been a joy to both watch, and listen! You sir, are a poet of the watch world!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Wow, thanks a lot for your words. I feel humbled!

[@jonparker1712]

I have watched a staggering amount of videos. This one was spectacular.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Wow, thanks a lot!

[@moncherias]

What an enjoyable, objective, honest, classy and relaxing video. I hope you continue to enjoying your beautiful Explorer and all your watches in good health! Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Mario!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot :)

[@yonah3696]

I daily my 36mm explorer, & usually sleep with it on. so comfortable!

[@TheWatchFrame]

It's really the most comfortable watch of all I own.

[@cookingwithwatches]

I am wearing my Explorer 36mm on the nato strap inside my wrist, and always sleep with it. Can’t think of a better watch for a purpose other then go anywhere and do anything. Oh and my wrist size is 18cm.

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@cookingwithwatches it's truly a do it all watch indeed.

[@cookingwithwatches]

@@TheWatchFrame Agreed. And try to get Explorer at AD right now. You most likely will get Submariner Date before they offer you Explorer 36mm.

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@cookingwithwatches yes, I see a lot of people is still waiting for the call. I guess I was extremely lucky to get the first unit that arrived to my city, which is rather small, so that is also important to consider. And I wear it a lot. As a matter of fact, between the Explorer and the Squale Corso Italiano I almost don't wear anything else, except the Traska Summiteer for really tough situations and only not to damage the Explorer :D

[@RobMatthews21]

Has to be one of the best watch reviews I have had the good fortune to enjoy. Thank you Mario 🙏⭐️🙏 and keep on Exploring!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks Rob!

[@michaeltallsman2740]

I've owned my 114270 since 2020. I recently had it repaired with the new AR crystal and it's amazing. I feel similarly about my Explorer. I wear mine almost everywhere since it's so subdued and comfortable. I also started with a more affordable Seiko that I thought at the time was overkill. I don't think I can afford another Rolex -- even though I have long lusted after the Batman -- but that is okay. I have the Explorer. It's a small watch by today's standards, but it appears very masculine to me in terms of its design. I have a Casio GW-5000 if I need to wear a watch for the gym. Thank you for sharing your long term Explorer experience and keep us updated.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for your comment. Yes, it's a very rounded (not pun intended) watch all by itself in terms of design, purpose and true utility. Understated but solid and reliable :) If only able to get one Rolex, like my case, this was going to be my pick no matter what.

[@user-yy9lg6gs4h]

They probably made the lugs 19mm for 2 reasons. 1.) A 20mm strap (the most common) fits better over time and keeps dirt out, preventing scratches. It also help to stop accidentally disengaging spring bars (where applicable). 2.) 18mm was the classic and elegant bracelet size, hence I therefore see the new 36mm Explorers proportions as a good compromise. I agree. I respect you have brought a watch for yourself and not others. For virtue and not vanity. I therefore think this Explorer 36mm suits you well. Thanks for the review.

[@TheWatchFrame]

I don't know, it is really hard to put a 20mm strap on this watch. The 19mm a very tight fit. Anyways, I got a few nice quality 19mm and they really work :) This is a watch actually mostly nobody notices. Understated luxury but mostly a watch for oneself. Thanks for commenting.

[@The_Igloo]

I enjoyed the perspectives on watches and life that you have expressed in this video. Love the Rolex Explorer and Explorer II for what the represent too. Thank you!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@alb.4089]

What a well produced video. Great story, and inspirational advice that's so well articulated. It was like painting on a canvas. Bravo!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot. I really appreciate your words!

[@sjjenkins08]

This made me love my 124270 (Dec 2021) even more. Well done, very nice narration.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks Steve. To read this really makes my day!

[@04rit]

Watched the full video. Loved all of it. Your voice over is so relaxing and you spoke the important things about the watch, not merely technical information and stuff. Subbed.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot :)

[@NexDim.]

What a great video, have watched it a few times. Totally agree with your take on scratches.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@mattc3929]

Wonderful review. The Explorer is my favourite watch. I have the 39mm as that's my preference. One probably the best watch review out there as you show how it is in the real world.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yes, the 39mm is a great one too. All of them and to each their own. I tried the 39mm that was offered to me for so "little" back in the day at the AD that I kind of regret not having bought it, but well, I'm quite happy with the one I have. Enjoy your exploration Matt!

[@kylecoleman5147]

I really appreciate the effort and passion that you put into this.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks! :)

[@zapaman9845]

Great review and outlook! I empathize the with the concern of accuracy in correlation to the price of the watch... Slowly learned to live with it and even made me appreciate a range of other brands even more.

[@TheWatchFrame]

True. There are great brands that without much fuzz, are very accurate and competent.

[@spinaquanable]

Thank you for the best 2 reviews on the explorer! I've also got this watch and can relate to everything. Cheers

[@TheWatchFrame]

Great to know and thanks for your words.

[@MB-ev3ox]

Thank you, it was pleasure to spend every minute of your movie! 😎👍

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks so much!!! Really happy to read something like this.

[@Kbo513]

Woo! It’s finally here. I’m glad you still enjoy the watch since you got it. It’s definitely lost it’s rugged look and more of a nice memory of what it stood for. As much as I have other watches from VC, JLC, Rolex, etc, this Explorer is still my favorite watch in my collection. I was close to getting the new Tudor Ranger as it has that old Rolex 1016 look, but in certain angles the faux printed markers and the open space made me withhold my purchase. I might end up getting a Sinn 556a as an alternative. I have taken my Rolex Explorer up in mountains and trails before. And I also planned to take it up to my second attempt to the peak of Mt. Whitney during the spring snow conditions, but similar as you I might end up using a more rugged watch during my trip.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yes, the Sinn 556A could be a great option for that kind of use. Let us know about your adventures. Would be great to hear about them!

[@edrader]

i took my steinhart adventure to the top of white mountain lol

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@edrader cool!!

[@wescobts]

What a great find this video was !! You good sir have done a fine service to us all, and allowed us to slow down and really see what's important. Thank You !!

[@Al_Prazolam]

Your videos beautifully transcend the review genre and touch on something greater.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot! I tried my best.

[@theannouncer5538]

I think if you’re in the 6-7in wrist club, the 36mm size is just chef’s kiss. I like some 38mm watches and have worn up to a 42mm. But with my 6.5in wrist, I felt like the 42 was really pushing it.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yes, I'm about 7.25 but I lean towards 36mm as much as possible for this type of watches. For diver's watches I lean towards 39mm but also have 38 and 42mm ones.

[@mikeysanchez4567]

Loved this and your other reviews!! For what it’s worth, I just put my name down for one. First time ever. The AD said they get a lot of them but it would be at least one year.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Wow, thanks a lot for your words. This really is such a honor! Hope you get yours soon :)

[@_sr]

Such a classy watch. I have been enjoying 36mm explorer on my 7inch wrist. And no, it is not small at all.. just spend a day or 2 with it and you will realise..

[@TheWatchFrame]

True. At the end numbers are just numbers, but one need to try and feel all the parts both of the size, design and proportions to have a true idea of how it wears on a personal level.

[@liquidvic]

Some good quality comments mate. I love my explorer 124270. It now shares wrist time with my old Omega Seamaster Professional (Midi Size 36mm). I've had the Omega on my wrist for the last 22 years. Sometimes a watch just indicates that it's gonna be a long term friend. I feel lucky that I've found 2 like this in my life one the Omega has 22 years of memories the other, the Explorer will hopefully be sharing the next 20 plus alongside the Omega. Personally I think a circa 36mm watch works better on most wrists and says more about the wearer than a circa 40mm watch does, IMHO of course. 😊

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for the comment. Yes, the 36mm has something very special for me too. Wonder why that size seems to be so perfect. It's subtle, but still has presence, and it's very elegant.

[@1000lightyrs]

I feel like I just watched a romantic drama epic documentary and counselling session all at once, well done my fellow Human Being! Wrist watch check - I'm wearing my Grand Seiko 37mm quartz as I watch this.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot. I put a lot of work in this review but was not sure if I accomplished what I wanted. Thanks for your comment. Great watch you have there! Enjoy!

[@kaddmus]

Amazing review. It has the kind of information that is truly important about a watch.

[@TheWatchFrame]

¡Gracias!

[@pepelabbi9887]

Thank you very much for this honest report. For me it was very educative to see what the watch looks like after 19 months of regular use. I think in future ceramic will replace steel in watches because it doesn’t get scratches easily!

[@TheWatchFrame]

I'm not that sure about ceramic but yes, when talking about bezel inserts it makes very much sense. But consider that ceramic is more brittle and that 904L steel is easier to polish. Also the scratches are not that noticeable as in the pictures I show. During normal wear you just don't see the scratches almost never.

[@stephenso3]

Great honest to goodness video. I was pleasantly surprised to see that you also own the Squale Corso Italiano. Guess we have the same taste having the 124270 as well. Love them both.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Awesome! Good to know. Yes, I love the Corso Italiano a lot. I'm actually considering downsizing my whole collection to this two watches and a GMT (considering the CW Sealander GMT in black). Good to know another fellow enthusiast has the Corso :)

[@davidd1016]

Great video. Looks like you have really made an attachment to your Explorer! Its strange how we get attached to them :) I have that with my 1016. I have done almost everything with it on. I think the only worry i would have with the 124270 is the sapphire crystal (wearing an expensive watch, and specifically this one is rarely noticed and will take much abuse so that doesn't bother me) ... I have banged my acrylic many times where i am sure the sapphire would have chipped...and with the Acrylic , polywatch works wonders...So i think the 124270 would be the perfect watch if they offered an Acrylic crystal as an option ? ... then it would surely withstand all we could throw at it....Keep the great videos coming...

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for your comment and words. Yes, the 1016 is, for me, the most beautiful watch ever. Today current trends are towards using sapphire crystal ever. Should they make a Rolex now with acrylic would be kind of unthinkable as the advantages are not even considered. The talk against acrylic is very widespread. I have some watches with acrylic and the charm they have is just awesome, and as you state polywatch is great most of the times. While seeing some Rolex watches being serviced in some older models with sapphire I saw some chips on the borders. Nevertheless it is true they will not scratch but are by no means invulnerable in all possible situations. We have to live with the advantages and disadvantages of each material :)

[@lookyseymour1145]

I really enjoyed this review. It's a nice addition to the more technical ones on KZbin. Thanks for making it. I recently picked up my first Rolex, a 214270 and I hope I feel the same way about it in the years to come. I'm certainly mesmerised right now. You're right about size - it's a personal thing, I think the 36 looks fantastic on other people, but for me, I just prefer it a little bigger. My other watch is a Tudor Pelagos 42 mind you, and that thing sometimes picks up signals from space it's so big! It keeps better time than the Explorer which surprised me, so your comments on timing were reassuring. Thanks.

[@TheWatchFrame]

I love the classic 42mm Pelagos. Such a great watch! What color is it? Yes, size is very personal and something people adjust to. Right now I tend to go toward smaller pieces but some years ago I had the bigger the better concept of watches, and in divers, it uses to be the right move. But as I said, when I tried the 39mm Explorer, I felt it was just perfect for me, and it would have been, but now I feel just as good with the 36mm one. Both great watches but with different sizes. Thanks for you comment. I really appreciate.

[@lookyseymour1145]

@@TheWatchFrame I have the blue 🔵Pelagos. I have mixed feelings about the shade of blue. I once heard someone describe it as the 'lego watch' and since then I can't unsee it. However, I do consider it a summer watch and the boldness is less of an issue when the sun is out. Incidentally, and I don't think many people mention this - in low light the blue is very subdued and looks quite different. Better I would say. I hope to see some new 42s with more sophisticated colour ways soon. It's a superb, solid tool watch. Let's see how much wrist time it gets now the Explorer has arrived though ⌚

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@lookyseymour1145 actually I tried the blue one once. I felt it was more interesting than the black one that would have been my go to option as I tend to try the watches to be as versatile as possible. But in all honesty I liked the blue one more. I felt it was yes bold and mostly for the summer, but that gives the charm to the watch :)

[@keithdickens1395]

I have owned my Rolex explorer 1016 since new in January 89,the perfect one watch to own and enjoy

[@TheWatchFrame]

Awesome! I love the 1016 and wish I had one from that year :D

[@AlienApe.]

A wonderfully thoughtful review. Thank you for sharing.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@jongkim9634]

Love your videos! Very well thought out and meaningful. Thank you!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot. I really appreciate your words :)

[@Dronetothetop]

Really loved the video. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@Sehnull]

A video that warms my heart. Thank you for the video!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks Senol!

[@thepickyreviewer]

Loved the review

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@onifrakimarq7663]

Thank you for sharing this awesome video with us!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for commenting! It's been hard and long to make the video, but I'm very happy it's finally here.

[@eg4059]

Very nice Video. Thank you!!! It motivated me to wait for „the call“. There are so many „alternatives“ but I will wait.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks. It's truly a nice watch but I see some alternatives like very much explorers of their very own right too.

[@michaelriera6277]

About time :) and beautifully done.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks Michael!

[@julianscoffield4477]

Fantastic review that was well worth the wait!!!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@johnprosser5035]

I like many was on ‘the list’ for the 39mm and they discontinued it. I then tried the 36mm….. I’ve not got big wrists but it looked like I’d borrowed my wife’s watch. At the same time it looked dainty and delicate and not the tool watch I wanted…… so disappointed. Brilliant review by the way, great to see someone enjoy a watch so much…. Wear it in good health

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks. Yes, of course it's all mainly about personal preference. I while in the mountains do prefer smaller sizes, but when used to larger sizes it might look too small to some. Sorry you didn't get the 39 but hope you'll find a reasonable priced one in the future!

[@scottturner3762]

Love the honest video! Were you able to secure this from an A.D. or have to go on the secondary market?

[@TheWatchFrame]

I got this one being the first to arrive at the AD back in 2021 after a long watch nerd talk with the owner of the AD. I also didn't have prior purchase history. It was kind of a surprise he offered it to me.

[@jackMcRyder]

Nice pic of the watch at 2:29 🎉

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@the_shadow_realm5110]

The Explorer is a watch for hunks. Wear in good health.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Hehe, thanks

[@johnprosser5035]

Brilliant review by the way

[@jzurcher345]

Love this video! Really appreciate the heart and passion that was put into it. Do have a question of your thoughts on changing straps. I bought the 124270 and can’t seem to find other straps than the bracelet to put on it.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks John. Well, it's not easy task but you can find 19mm straps from several places, like WatchGecko , ColaReb or Bulang and Sons amongst others. You need to find those who are more on the thin side, so the sides don't easy scratch against the case of the watch. What I did was also to buy a few heavy duty 19mm spring bars from eBay and cuved them to put on the leather straps without quick releas spring bars and work quite nice. I also got a sailcloth 19mm and a 19mm tropical from Yema. After a while I have a little nice high quality collection of straps to exchange.

[@timehack7485]

Well done Sir!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@davidcrandall4958]

Beautifull Reveiw of a beautifulll,yBeautifull watch,just Beautifully!Done!

[@UCZ15]

Still trying to get this watch. Apparently, I've been told I have to wait 1.5 years :(

[@TheWatchFrame]

Wow. I've been hearing of people getting the call sooner than later. Hope you get good news soon.

[@UCZ15]

@@TheWatchFrame Thanks dude, me too!

[@rohitbansal7230]

Very nice review. Lovely!!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thank you very much. I have poured a lot of hear in this review.

[@nick-just]

Great long term review, thank you. Have you worn it much on leather straps? I recall you were experimenting with these in earlier videos.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks Nick. Yes, I have worn it quite a lot on leather, specially a couple of Watchgecko simple Italian leather strap and a gorgeous Bulang and Sons in olive green. Right now it's on a grey ColaReb leather strap too, but the best combination, I have to admit, is with the bracelet :)

[@frankv7068]

Keep the Rolex get rid of everything else, this one watch carries that weight.

[@TheWatchFrame]

I could but I love my other watches a lot too. I might have to sell a few and will probable keep a three or four watch collection at the end.

[@praktikalpinoytechgsm8496]

nice!

[@zanichrvoje]

This could easely be a commercial for Explorer :)

[@TheWatchFrame]

hehe, thanks a lot!

[@peterwoodaman5936]

Awesome video. New sub here!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for the sub! I really appreciate it!

[@rodneykinnaird7613]

i would never call a rolex humble...

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yeah, you are right. Even when writing this this sounded weird. True. However I mean humble from a functional and design point of view. In the Rolex lineup this one certainly goes under the radar. Given that it will last a few lifetimes it's a rather good quality watch considering the price so that was my consideration. But yes, very expensive comparing with others.

[@ads-porewealth96]

That was a beautiful, thoughtful video. Thank you

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for your comment :)

[@rogerdracks1880]

This is an ideal size Bracelet is fine Clasp protrudes too much