Revisiting the Rolex Explorer 36mm: Downsizing Done Right!

[@ID-Guy]

What's your take on this new Explorer? The more I look at this watch, the more I want to experience it. What's worse is I'm more drawn to the Two-tone (breaking the usual trend)... maybe I'm crazy ;)

[@jellebos6589]

The watch we all would like and should own! It has a real place of its own in the watch-heaven

[@ID-Guy]

@@jellebos6589 It does feel like one of those essentials that we at least have to experience in our lives, right? Crazy but true! 🍻

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

I believe Rolex made an OP 36 with a blue Explorer dial in the recent past.

[@teeKeri]

It is fine, nice watch for sure. However, i am very much more drawn to your Omega -57. I feel happy and curious whenever i see it, coz its an interesting design. ♥

[@matthewhelm3035]

I felt the same. So I picked up an Explorer 124273 TT and love it! It’s as practical as a TT Submariner but is more special IMO. It harkens back to the iconic gilt dial which I believe was the intent of Rolex. Would like to know what you decide. 🥂

[@SinnMaster]

Hey man, really sorry to hear that you’ve been going through some tough times. Appreciate your recent content even more knowing this now, you ARE very talented and I’ll continue to be a supporter. Hope 2023 is a better year for you and things start looking up!

[@AlexG-ey7md]

Hi ID guy, 36mm Explorer owner here with a tool watch focused collection. I have always appreciated your content. The focus design insights and the watches are superb. Please know your channel has helped us get through some tough times and provided an escape into our shared passion. When I lost my best friend 10 years ago, I found a little solace in the quote: "To live in the hearts of those we leave behind is not to die" I hope it brings you a little solace too. All the best and looking forward to what's next.

[@ID-Guy]

Really means a lot to read this and thank you so much Alex 🥃

[@joker14n]

You are such a welcomed voice in this community. I’ve come to appreciate your videos as they make me feel as if I’m having a conversation with an old trusted friend. Thank you for all you do, it doesn’t go unnoticed.

[@ID-Guy]

So heartwarming to read this Cary and thank you 🥃

[@joker14n]

Thanks!

[@ID-Guy]

Can't thank you enough Cary...

[@stewartlogan9894]

Sorry to hear about the family issues. It’s been a tumultuous year for me and many others, so I get how realizing watches are a hobby and distraction hits. Keep your head up, remember the good memories, and enjoy a new chapter in your life.

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you Stewart. This channel has been such a blessing and escape from it all and the big move will be great to start over again. Much appreciated brother 🥃

[@starkid20]

Even amidst everything that you are going through, I appreciate your time, quality and energy in doing this for all of us. Thanks and I wish you well.

[@divjan3990]

We will be in next chapter too 👍

[@ID-Guy]

Thanks a million Divjan. Big, big steps but life is about those stepping stones. Thank you brother 🥃

[@TheBadGuy1974]

Best of luck young man been here since the start. Whatever you are going through 5 years from now you will look back on and it will have made you stronger.

[@armanpartamian997]

The explorer 36 is still the watch in my collection I wear the most. Two watches will probably never leave my collection - the 36 explorer and the omega speedmaster moonwatch. Thank you, good luck with your new chapter in life and God bless!

[@rickfanning5647]

Hang in there. We really value what you do. Since I’m an American, I can only give advice by quoting Country music. So, when you’re going through hell, just keep on going! We’ll see you in the new place and better times.

[@robertschmidt9584]

I’ll still be here for the next chapter. Be well and family is always more important than watches. Wherever you are in the tough times, we’re still supporting you!

[@ID-Guy]

Thanks a million Robert 🥃

[@skzion2]

Thanks for this video. I hope to see you again soon. I have downsized my watch KZbin channels, and yours is one of the few that remain.

[@reedgrabowski8314]

Very smart. Less channels, more dedication.

[@atlanticrocktimes]

Thank you for giving us your stories and voice. You are a very valuable addition to our crazy watch family.

[@sportster883able]

Hi from Doha. Been watching your channel for a few years and appreciate the perspective you bring to watches from the wider design angle. Sorry to hear of your current troubles but believe me, these times pass and we become stronger for them. As gold is purified by the heat of the crucible, so it is with character. The mark of the man is not the cards he is dealt but how he plays them - I am sure you will play the hand that has been dealt you with grace and clarity of purpose, and come through a better person as a result. Take care; keep the faith.

[@JiTamp]

Hi IDGuy, I feel sorry for the rough time that you've been going through & I wish you well for your next steps. I love your videos & thank you for your contribution to our lovely watch community. All the best, my friend.

[@vaughanatkinson8421]

Your young and you obviously have the resilience to bounce back. I for one, having followed you since nearly the inception of the channel, have no doubt about that! Chin up you've only hit one of lifes bumps, and thats our journey!

[@stonec2166]

I’m so sorry you are going through a hard time, and I hope you find the peace needed to get through it. Thanks for all you do.

[@sshah2545]

I’m probably your newest sub, which doesn’t come easy for me. I’ve watched a few videos, and I’ve found the discourse to have substance in each of them. No hot air, no stupid humour. Intelligence commentary and generally to the point. Thank you for doing what you’re doing. Though life is kicking my ass in its own away, financially things have never been better for me. Less than 2 years ago , they’d never been worse. And I’m incredibly grateful to have come as far as I have. Keep your head up. I’m sorry times are tough, but tough times make tough men. You will emerge the stronger for it. Your father would be proud.

[@Ossory88]

Onward towards the next chapter. Hang in there. On rain follows sunshine

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

Sorry about your father, I lost my mother this year. My thoughts and prayers go to you and your family. My Explorer 39mm mark II is perfect for my 7 1/2” wrist. A simple watch done marvelously well 😎. Best regards

[@ID-Guy]

And I'm sorry about your mother, underachieving... what a year it's been brother. And keep loving your Explorer 39!! 🥃

[@dannyg6592]

I agree 100% and am watching your video while wearing my 124270. I've been a collector for over 50 years and this is my favorite watch of all time. Simple yet sophisticated. Elegant yet robust. Remarkably accurate. Comfortable to wear all day and in any circumstance - from business attire to the beach. It is a marvelous watch and if I had to sell my entire collection but one, the 124270 would be the watch I would keep. It is the perfect watch for me. Sorry to hear of your family issues - keep the faith!

[@ID-Guy]

So great to read this from a seasoned collector. It's quite astounding what that machine has been able to do. Resonates with so many (even those who arent fans of Rolex) And thank you Danny. Truth be told, faith is what has kept me going these last two months. Daily readings and devotions, lots of reflecting. Don't know how anyone would be able to do it otherwise 🥃

[@_sr]

I love 124270 36mm explorer. I am wearing it on my 7inch wrist and it wears perfectly. A timeless classic. A gentleman’s rolex. Fleming’s original bond watch. Just classy.. And that bracelet. So elegant.. I like your videos and views on watches, I have been following you for a long time. I hope everthing works out just fine and even better in your next chapter. I hope this new chapter threats you better. Good luck..🍀

[@ianmarshall3633]

Whatever is happening in your life we are with my friend. Take care and stay safe.

[@temptingfate759]

Hang in there...life will get better. You have a great channel with a unique perspective and a great presentation style. Your channel will grow

[@st0rmr1der7]

Got the two-tone explorer last March - an incredibly good everyday watch, which I had zero problem with waiting lists etc (no one seemed to want it). It’s beautiful and incredibly versatile - the 36mm is the perfect size for me, due to my small wrist. My first two-tone as well, quite a bold step for me that I didn’t regret whatsoever!

[@dr.avinashksajnani7930]

I’ve just got offered this TT explorer by my AD, I’m having second thoughts , I need someone to tell me it’s awesome !

[@st0rmr1der7]

@@dr.avinashksajnani7930 did you get it eventually?

[@dr.avinashksajnani7930]

@@st0rmr1der7 yes I got it yesterday and I love it ! It is an everyday watch , subtle and smart looking

[@jamesgreig8796]

I am all for smaller watches (36mm) and have acquired a few, with difficulty. In my opinion there are not enough watch manufacturers focusing on smaller watches. I hope this trend will change. Love your videos All the best for the future.

[@keithmackinnon8006]

I’ve followed your channel since the very beginning and your channel is one of my favorites!!! Keep up the great work and hopefully everything works out for you! BTW I miss the wrist shots live streams, maybe once you get settled you will consider doing again once in a while???

[@anthonygordon5270]

I'm sorry to hear about your troubles. I can hear them in your voice. My best wishes go out to you...And thanks for the thoughtful show.

[@jellebos6589]

All the best but I hope we see you very soon again! Really looking forward to it.

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you so much Jelle. Really appreciate it brother 🥃

[@MyVideosWillCalmU]

I never comment on your channel. But have been here since the beginning. And felt compelled to show my gratitude for you and this channel. Iam so sorry that you're going through it fella. Head up. And it will get better 🇬🇧👊🏾

[@Giovan_Nino]

Love both sizes..Take care..see you soon..

[@davidbreckler5327]

Then it's good timing to speak my mind. I subscribe to most of the influencers for watches on You Tube. You are on the top of my list. I love insights and clarity. I took the journey with you when you bought the Seamaster, and you sold me on it. It's truly a special watch and it's even appreciated in value. I feel connected to you. I wish you the best during the changes your life is bringing. These times are challenging in so many ways but being a part of your channel has brought me comfort. Best wishes and thank you!

[@peterfrancis14]

Positive vibes sent your way! You’re one of the best out there and love your presentations and style. See you next chapter sir!

[@ID-Guy]

Thanks a million Peter, y'legend! 🥃

[@davidb5720]

Your loyal fan base will always be here no matter what things transpire in the course of life. Sorry to hear it’s been a rough time and look forward to the next chapter 👍

[@reedgrabowski8314]

Great video regarding the 36mm Explorer. You have my utmost respect regarding the closing two minutes of the video. There is a deep admiration and love for you and your content, as evident in the 200+ comments here. The pages of your life book continue to turn, and the 2022 chapter is coming to a close. Enjoy the coming holidays with your Mom, as best you can. We look forward to seeing you again in 2023 in your new home and studio. And, remember, your father will be with you ALWAYS. It will not be easy, but the passage of time can heal the sorrow.

[@lauriedale6104]

Hi, loved the video as always. Wishing you all the best and love. Take as much time as you need, we'll still be here if you need some time off.

[@natusMCMII]

The 124270 is the best offering in the current Rolex catalogue, just my opinion, obviously.

[@xcellenceJavea]

Very sorry to hear you have been going through a bad time, I hope all goes well in your new chapter of life. Keep up the good work, it’s much appreciated your hard work and fantastic content. Good luck

[@rd_rae]

Well put as usual. All best for the move

[@byergo]

Keep your head high. You have much to be proud of and thankful for.

[@danielt.muller7009]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts about the Explorer and your personal endeavors. Wish you a lot of strength. Cheers from Germany, Dan

[@paultowns9880]

Im sorry to hear that you have had a tough time. Stay srong and may 2023 be a better year for you. You have an incredible channel. Thank you and take care.

[@kurtmarion2799]

I'm assuming I understand the "family reason" and for that I've given a like and subscribed. I got into this hobby immediately after divorce. It gave me something to focus my energy and attention on, I owe a lot to the KZbin watch community. Thank you for your passion and art!

[@AP20009]

way to be discreet.

[@geralddorrington]

Keep the videos coming, always good to hear your take on this hobby. Keep smiling!

[@WatchMeEDC]

Your online watch friends are here to support you Brother. We appreciate your content, support the channel and are here to encourage you to stay positive, even in the tough times. Wishing you peace this season friend!

[@sotos21308]

The honor is ours. Your channel's content has reached so many of us and helped us to keep our thirst for watches fresh. Thank you for your effort. It is appreciated from our community. I hope everything turns out well regarding your family problems. Try to keep faith on what is important and i am sure you know this . Good luck on your future endeavors.

[@thediton]

All best wishes for your life and we look forward to see you in the next chapter!

[@OneManReviews]

Sorry to hear about the rough times you are going through. My thoughts and prayers with you and your family. Looking forward to new videos from your new place.

[@sonnysy9637]

Looking forward to the next chapter... thanks always!

[@edwardblack7133]

Thank you for the maxing content. I'm sorry to hear that you are going through rough times. Wish you a great healthy happy successful future

[@nw9592]

Got my EX1 yesterday 😍 such a unique piece! Great Video, keep your head up!

[@ID-Guy]

HUGE Congratulations brother! There are few good feelings better than New Watch Day. What an achievement 🥃

[@solanpepper5762]

Really sorry to hear the news. Im sure your Dad was very proud of you. All the best to you and your family.

[@jlg395]

Sorry to hear about your dad, mate. Never forget the advice he gave you.

[@robertdukes4420]

Hope you’re doing ok man. I can’t imagine what you and your family have been through - I hope you have found peace and have had the space to grieve over the last year. Thank you for your thoughtful, engaging, stylish content. You have quickly become my first thought when I want to see a video about a specific watch. I’m between the bb54 and explorer1 myself. I think both could be a one and done - I just don’t know if I could justify double the price for one over the other.

[@antonygraham2963]

I’m so sorry to hear that you are going through some difficult times. I hope you get through them. I just want to say thank you for the great thought provoking content you keep putting out, you really are a very talented communicator. Hopefully the videos are a salve for these times. Remember as one chapter closes a new starts and it will be a great one.

[@Bellatore8]

When you see the Explorer 36 in a display case alongside Air Kings, Submariners, and Sea Dwellers, yes it looks small. But when you have it on the wrist you realise it’s the perfect size for it.

[@jaysmall5673]

I very much enjoy your channel and your design perspective. I’m eagerly awaiting the next chapter.

[@Burundanga94]

God speed, ID Guy! I have a 114270 and almost never take it off. I've connected with this watch like none other, and would not be surprised if down the road I sold all of my other watches. Keep the great content coming. I love your channel!

[@MA89.]

Sorry to hear about family issues my friend. Really enjoying your videos, a unique take on the watch debate, more of the same.

[@franciscofonseca6328]

Mr IDGuy. Totally relate to your struggles, Im taking huge risks too in my personal life. Downsizing, keeping it real, back to my home town, but please what ever you do, Never look back, keep pushing in hartimes and in the end everything Will make sense. Congrats on your amazing channel, my favourite, Simple, straight to the point and yet super tastefull.

[@WestCoastAce27]

Condolences for your issues. Always tough; this time of the year more so. Onward to 2023. 👍 (Clichéd but) Keep grinding.

[@jmhxxivkt5331]

Hi, new subscriber here and happy that I found You. Your delivery is clean, insightful, humorous and entertaining. Thank you. Sorry to hear that life has been turned upside down for you, I know you will survive handily. Please don't hesitate to share more of You with Us. We're here because of You and want to hear what you have to say. We are more than watch enthusiast, we're regular people that understand turmoil and Life. All best wishes in your new location. Looking forward to new content of all kinds.

[@danielkatz7516]

Great to see you , I’ve met you in live chat marathon of yours some years ago Daniel from Toronto

[@jameshoward9700]

Mate, I wish you all the best in dealing with your news. If I'm reading it right, I had similar a few years back and trivial though it may sound, watches helped me through. And reminded me of the importance of time. As did your videos and the education and inspiration they provided. Good luck bru. But, we're here for the watches and the Explorer!? Well, what more can be said - you nailed it. It's my daily wear, so I am biased, but it accompanies me in whatever life throws my way, always performing, never shouting. It slips under motorcycle leathers, saw gloves, climbing mitts or a suit. It works on the hill, in the forest and in the field; then goes to the opera. I'm lucky enough to have a few watches, but the Explorer 36 will never be sold. I'm happy wearing watches of 40, 42, 45mm, but that little 36 plain rocks. I couldn't recommend it enough. Now, as a fellow Trilogy man, dude - that Milanese!!! Where, what, how??? It looks fantastic!

[@carguy3645]

Hang in there man. Tough times never last long. I always enjoy your vlogs. Keep up with your talents indeed. You belong in this hobby and this community.

[@analogueinterests4161]

Its always a gift to receive such thoughtful content from you. I wish your next chapter is as it should be and as fruitful. Cheers!

[@EP-yi3gy]

Wow... great video. Have always enjoyed the content of your videos and your perspective. Looking forward to future videos. All the best in your next chapter.

[@nicholaschavez6245]

Thank you for providing a welcome distraction over a tumultuous past couple of years for me. I hope that a change brings you the same peace. In the meantime, fantastic video and I look forward to more 🥃

[@danielkatz7516]

A yoga instructor colleague once said to us “ what If everything that happens to us matters?” Yr journey with authenticity shown here will reap benefits Great to have met you in the chats

[@alecjarnagin9041]

As usual, a great video. Sorry you are going through some difficult times. Hopefully, these videos and our enthusiast community offer some relief. I very much enjoy your videos - great onscreen delivery and personality. Take the best of care.

[@bjjrhino]

In the end family is the most important thing. thank you for continuing to make insightful videos

[@kamminsan]

Hi sir, take care and God bless. Have a good break this holiday. Enjoy your content immensely.

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Will be waiting patiently for your next chapter Good Luck 🤞🏻

[@anthonystevens8683]

I with you the very best of luck in the future studio IDGuy. I was pondering a 36mm Explorer for a while but didn't want to take the plunge so to speak so I decided to get the brands cheaper sibling to see how I would get on. I picked up a Backbay 36 black dial over a year ago and I must say it gets more wrist time than I expected. I like it so much the thought of picking up the smaller Explorer never re-entered my mind...... until watching this video. For now I'll be sticking with the Tudor as I don't think I want to sell it but I cannot justify another 36 in the collection right now. We shall see.

[@willsmeg1967]

It’s not easy hearing this, I wish you well and looking forward to seeing you moving forward with everything and seeing your new content in your new home & studio. Best wishes Wills .

[@BC-im5zv]

I have the new ex36 and the sub41 and they both have the same dial size!!

[@ID-Guy]

Mind-blowing how watch sizes lie to you, right? Proportions are everything at the end of the day 🥃 Love it!

[@BC-im5zv]

@@ID-Guy 100%

[@jhcowatchinglifestyle]

Hope you are doing alright man. Sorry to hear you are having a tough go at the moment. I enjoy your content and value your really (and truly) complete way of expressing your thoughts around design in general. All the best, cheers.

[@teeKeri]

Audio and video sure is great on this channel. Topics as well. Good luck on the new studio.

[@thomasgilsfeldt9003]

Sorry to hear about your situation. Keep up the good work. 9 out of 10 days, I'm wearing my Explorer 14270, which I first got back in 2010. Many watches have tried to replace it (Railmaster 1957 LE and Explorer 1016 just to name a few), but (now back with me), the 14270, 114270 or 124270 is the perfect everyday, wear with everything watch. On the subject of downsizing, the only other watch I crave is a JLC Reverso, and to cap it all off, a Speedmaster would make it the perfect 3-watch collection (Everyday: Explorer, Sport: Speedmaster and dress: Reverso). Have a great weekend

[@lukejones8385]

Thanks for all your hard work and we the audience appreciate and enjoy your channel very much. In those immortal words, Everything will be alright in the end and if it isn’t alright, then it isn’t the end. You will find happiness once again, but take this time first to find out who you are and what makes you happy, then you will known what to look for in your future. Have a good Christmas and keep smiling.

[@ang_dominic]

I agree.. i wear an op34 date and its so comfy

[@dang.5387]

Good luck to you. I’m sure things will get better. Thank you for the great content. Your perspective on our hobby is much appreciated.

[@janihellberg6911]

Sorry to hear you are going trough a rough patch. I lost my mother few weeks ago and as ridiculous to some ot may seem, there is comfort in this hobby, or any other for that matter. I hope it gets easier for you soon. I owned the 39mm explorer and like you, I felt the porpotions being somehow bit off. When they released the new, I flipped my 39 and was able to get the 124273 tt from ad as my fortieth and I love it, it fixed all my gripes with the watch. The tt is exacerbated in the promopictures, it's much more subdued in real life. When ever I don't know what to fear, explorer it is. Hiking, birhdays, holidays, meetings, even with the tt it's rarely out of place.

[@netanelostrov3425]

Love your videos man!!! I read look forward to them:) Thanks for everything you do.

[@robdove8341]

The 36mm Explorer is the most perfect watch ever created, an absolute Icon and yet almost completely anonymous. How is this possible?

[@adamengel4891]

I really look forward to your reviews. You are thoughtful and totaly fair in your opionions. In my opinion, you have the best delivery/attiude making you very easy to leave on and sometimes replay. I believe your eye for design and function is really captivating. It has certainly influenced my thoughts on design and had an influence on my collection. I look forward to more. Well done, keep it up.

[@paulbonaventura4969]

Thank you for the video. Best of luck in your future endeavors!

[@pauligamy]

Thoughts go out to you and your family. All the best and love the videos.

[@Amplitudeproblem]

I very much enjoy your content and style; thank you for everything you do. I'm sorry to hear things are rough and I wish you and your family strength, endurance and recovery. All the best.

[@michaelfierman3256]

I'll admit i'm still torn over 39mm ( which I own ) and the 124.... I'll probably never have a clear "which is better" and I'm OK with that, but MAN that mesh looks absolutely KILLER on your Seamaster. Congrats ! 🥃On a serious note, I'm wishing you all the best, and Hope there is nothing but brightness and light in the coming months.

[@a004]

I have both the 214270 and the 124270. The 36 is better proportioned but after wearing a 39, you just can't go to a 36. Hence I wear the 39 and my girlfriend wears the 36.

[@Hoppetakeyama]

Sorry to hear you’re going thru a rough time. Sincerely hope it would pass soon. Stay strong.

[@micksumo]

It's a classic watch I'm fortunate enough to own it. And like you i genuinely think it is an absolute 1 watch collection. I own it hoping to grow old with it and pass it onto my children for them to enjoy and be inspired by....

[@essexwatchenthusiast9888]

I’ve been enjoying my New ref 36mm Steel Explorer for 10mths now and it is a true one and done….if you want it to be! I can not imagine how the aesthetic design & wearability could be improved upon. Thank you for your content and be kind to yourself.

[@zachschlabach8928]

I tried on the explorer at an AD, and that size wears well. I picked up a 33mm Sturmanskie type 1 a while back and found it plesantly disappears on the wrist. Recently, the vintage Omegas have taken hold. Picked up a seamaster 321 chronograph (105.005) and after the servicing it felt wild (36x13mm) from these 43+ wide by 15+ thick modern ones. Was writing this as I heard your postscript, good luck and god bless.

[@miron9756]

Wishing you the best of everything in these difficult times!

[@ljsanchez12]

Many blessings to you friend.

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you Luis 🥃

[@victortran8540]

Love what you do and looking forward to the next chapter

[@juniorjohnson5961]

Been subscribed since you were putting NATO on Pagani Design , I'm pretty good at judging character your a good man & I hope things work out for you & your family . God Bless My Friend 🙏

[@juniorjohnson5961]

It would be interesting to see a state of the collection .

[@inglebybhoy3293]

And @idguy ‘s Dremel collection? Great times!

[@reedgrabowski8314]

@@juniorjohnson5961 Especially now that he is whittling it down.

[@typebflieger]

I’m sorry to hear about the difficult time you’ve been having. Watches are wonderful companions for major life events, but sometimes they can seem very inconsequential next to these same events. I hope you get through this time and come out even stronger on the other end.