My Top 10 Best Rolex Explorer Non Homage Affordable Alternatives - From $100 & Under $4000

In today's video I return to an old series of videos and share my top 10 suggestions for affordable non-homage alternatives to my favorite Rolex wrist watch.
If you missed my video on the history of the Rolex Explorer click here:
• The Only Watch You'll ...
To watch my video review of the Fortis Spacematic, click here:
• The Gemini Astronauts'...
To watch my duel between the Hamilton Khaki Field Watch and the Seiko SARB017 Alpinist, click here:
• The Best Iconic Automa...
To watch my video on Ball and other most underrated watch brands, click here:
• The Best 10 Most Under...
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[@SpliefDaGrief]

I’ve never seen a patek with a flashlight complication so obviously victorinox is better than patek

[@pavlocjura1410]

SpliefDaGrief 😂😂😂😂

[@artlogonmx]

Take that PP

[@varanid9]

Well, being a quartz, yes, it IS better.

[@chrishunter9784]

For the purpose of a field watch, yes the Victorinox is better. Miss titles much?

[@randsp3c709]

Victorianox makes decent watches

[@gmshadowtraders]

Pure class! This fellow is on another level. That's some serious editing skill right there.

[@juantamayo99]

Love love love your videos and I actually bought my first watch 5 years ago because of your recommendation, I purchased a orient bambino and my love of watches has only grown since. Thank you!!!

[@sn00ch]

Diggin the new intro TGV! Hello from another enthusiast across the pond! 👋 After watching the video, I’m gobsmacked! Even I didn’t know Hamilton Watch Co. was founded in Lancaster, PA (and I LIVE there)!!!

[@KDL917]

Love this series! Some additional suggestions: SARB033, the Seiko SARG009 (discontinued and hard to find though), Tudor Black Bay 36, Rolex Oyster Perpetual?

[@smaloneytuba85]

Excellent video TGV! I didn’t know Ball had such a unique history! I’m in love with their piece you mentioned, especially the counterbalance on the seconds. I find myself wandering about KZbin fairly regularly, just hoping that you’ll post a new video. 😉

[@airborneSGT]

I am a sartorial nerd and have to admit I enjoy your channel on all things watches above all others. You cover all bases and have such a passion that comes across in your videos.

[@wigmaster7894]

loved this video & have learned a lot about watches in the past year or so mostly from here. thanks man. always watch these vids in 2x speed & they're great

[@jaysmall5586]

The Victorinox Night Vision made me think of my favorite Bond Watch gadget, the Seamaster that lights up in The World is Not Enough. I always thought that seemed like a useful, realistic gadget, especially with modern LEDs. Nice to see someone else had the idea.

[@doublearon9942]

Intro is beast! I don't always have a chance to do my watch homework, so it's nice to pop on your channel and get tons of info and options for timepieces. Thanks!

[@alpal360]

Always great seeing that notification. Brilliant intro!

[@dariusbrown8692]

Nothing like getting off work and seeing a notification for another Urban Gentry video. Best way to end the day.

[@jasgsxr2726]

Great work TGV! some really beautiful and practical watches you chose.

[@shoumikadhikary9193]

That star trek intro. I love this channel.

[@antoniojimenez929]

Must be said. Your videos and analysis are simply great, with accurate info and quality comments.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Antonio, very much appreciated. Best regards, TGV

[@pranavarya7736]

I bought the Alpinist after watching your review "Alpinist vs Khaki King" about a year ago. Undeniably an explorer's watch. I have taken it for river water sports, hiking, river tracings through forests and recently to snowy peaks of mountain ranges in Taiwan upto a height of 3886 mts. It deserves to be on the top of the list. Please keep making such great videos.

[@shawnchinnery663]

I collect vintage Hamilton mate....I need that model you showcased. Lovely

[@vampolascott36]

The Victorianox photo with the S&W revolver made me so nostalgic for the Highway Patrolman revolver. What a great pistol!

[@ivanmilosevic4100]

I always start watching your videos, without even reading the title. Keep up the good work. Greetings, Ivan

[@theurbangentry]

I like your style Ivan, thank you my friend. I am honored by your trust, you are true Gentry! Best regards, TGV

[@cirian75]

Its "hide you wallet time" courtesy of TGV

[@bunmeng007]

cirian75 lol true

[@arrafzaman8867]

Too expensive for me :(

[@reggiedunlop2222]

Seems like every episode of The Urban Gentry is “hide my wallet” time. Lol

[@richardbulloch2395]

As always TGV, I enjoy the content, and your passionate insight into the world of Horology and the hobby of watch collecting. Great Video

[@patrickfulmer9596]

Learning about these watches from you and others along with my own research has been a wonderful new experience. I've been studying the Hamilton Khaki Field and I think the Khaki King with the crown guards is for me. I'm really rough on watches.

[@franqueee]

Almost 200k subscribers. You have come a long way. Much love

[@ZapPy91]

So happy that I managed to get my alpinist just in time ! Now waiting for a proper strap and it’s going to get A LOT of wrist time.

[@ZapPy91]

I will try to wear it then, still, new strap is on the way :)

[@POVZ]

Wearing my hammy khaki for the first time today!

[@theurbangentry]

Niiiiiice!!!! Enjoy it my friend :D Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@krishna2133]

Wanted to buy a watch, came to your channel, obsessed with watches ever since!. Great videos!

[@MrAhuraMazda]

The intro today was spot on. I got that Timex Navi Harbor you reviewed and while its an inexpensive quartz, I really do love it. I'd say it's a must own, I keep wearing it

[@racingsssnake]

You kept me waiting for the seiko till the end. Nice.

[@oscargustavoarcosruiz8793]

The Sinn 556 gets all my love, in a bracelet is perfect for a day to day watch.

[@motorradmike]

Your intro is “over the moon” fantastic!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Michael :D Best regards, TGV

[@nicholasheggerud5750]

Aayyyyyy👉👉

[@MTYi]

❤️Love my Rolex Explorer. Thank you Tristano I made the leap when one came into my AD in June and love this watch oh so dearly❤️

[@tjarsun]

That intro was epic and hilarious! 😂 Keep them creative Tristano!!!

[@mascaltzone7]

I really loved your video. Perhaps the Longines Conquest could have been included, specially with it's 30bar WR. Waiting for the next one! Best regards from Romania.

[@royalfinest]

Love your channel, man. Keep it up.

[@toemas8]

Great list as usual... I think the Longines Conquest would deserve a spot. It has the understated dressy look of the explorer. I also think the seiko SARG line, like the Sinn 556a, is a more modern interpretation of the explorer.

[@johnnapier3128]

Hello TGV, I’ve been watching your videos since the Opinel video that you made around at leased 3 years ago and the professional output that you put on your channel really has put a outcome onto my own life, I have to say your a great role model keep up the good work, always love watches. P.S. Enjoyed the video, great affordable watches you have put in here they are stunning. Also probably my favorite budget watch is the Seiko 5

[@theurbangentry]

I am deeply deeply honored and I wish to thank you for the years of loyal viewership. It is precisely for Gentry like you I make videos for. Onwards and upwards my friend, Best regards, TGV P.s You can NEVER go wrong with a Seiko 5 ;-)

[@salty_terminal_civilian5374]

2 years later and I bought an Aplinist today. It's my new favorite.

[@ryanz76]

Another great video TGV... I am really thankful for finding your channel... I've bought two watches this year thanks to your advise. and both are excellent watches. Seiko SKX and Sinn104. :)

[@theurbangentry]

OUTSTANDING choices sir, well I would say that right ;-) What a powerful duo. Enjoy and wear them with pride. Thank you Ryan, it is comments like yours that deeply motivate me. Best regards, TGV

[@Beta117]

Love my Alpinist! Grabbed one because of your review - thanks for the recommendation!

[@trevor79led]

That intro... The best EVER!!! I love it.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Trevor :D Best regards, TGV

[@Hofmeister_Kink]

Omega Aqua Terra! Looking forward to this review some day!

[@justinstallings7844]

Excellent work as always TGV. Just wanted to say I finally created a KZbin account (little late on the uptick) so I could like your videos. I LOVE the Explorer and have it as my long term goal. Currently have a SKX007 and a Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic. Thanks for getting me into Horology!

[@robski907]

I'm new to watches at the grand old age of 44 , this channel is simply fantastic so full of imformation and expertise thank you TGV ;)

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Rob, Never to young too start my friend ;-) Enjoy the new journey. Best regards, TGV

[@robski907]

I have bought a Steinhart Ocean one 39 mm blue as my first mid range entry level watch , and a couple of Vostok Amphibia I can mess around with.

[@gregbarra3276]

Best intros on KZbin. Awesome depth to the information presented. Sebscribed! Well done...

[@michaelruggles3131]

TGV, Got to be the Sinn 556 A! Hamilton close second though! Own both but my limited 556 with the red seconds had always has me chopped to bits

[@davidmcginn]

Always great videos, really enjoy your format. Of course the Alpinist, bought one 2 weeks ago, still waiting for it to arrive, the anticipation is killing me.

[@theurbangentry]

Congrats David and thank you for the kind words. You are going to LOVE it, enjoy. Out of all the watches I have reviewed, the Alpinist was one of the most difficult to give back after the review, I so nearly bought it and green really is not my color at all. Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@TheSpritz0]

Another AWESOME video & learning experience!

[@petershallis2294]

I can't think of anything you've left out... especially nice to see the Railmaster which was one of my favourite releases of 2017, and Ball getting some love, I agree that they are very under appreciated.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Peter, so glad you agree. Totally about Ball!!!! Best regards, TGV

[@mice16B]

great video! I would suggest the Longines Conquest, it would be nice to review this guy ;)

[@AdrianMendoza23]

Heard about you from Oliver Harpers Retrospectives review, specifically the Manhunter commentary where they give you a shout out about a certain watch in the film.

[@eusupporter8438]

Not easy to find, an alternative to the Rolex Explorer but as always you hit the point. Thank you to put Oris into this list. I really like it. And by the way I love this intro 😊 ....where no watch channel has gone before...this will become a classic, I bet it will. 👍

[@theurbangentry]

Haha, very true indeed. Thank you my friend, I made that intro just for the review of my Fortis, but then I thought, hell why spend 3 days working on it and only use it once! Best regards, TGV

[@eusupporter8438]

Yes I know. You made it for the Fortis. I always will remember when it pop up while I was watching Star Trek on Netflix. That was a real memorable star moment .👍

[@lukethorp2153]

Once again what a great video. I really would like to get my hands on the alpanist but prices are going up and not lots on the uk market. But my little seiko SNXS79K is doing the job for now 🖒🖒

[@Station2podHost]

Love that #9 is getting some love. I feel it's often looked over in terms of Hamilton. It's on my list to pick up

[@FatSamEIE]

Have been considering the explorer as my next watch and also wondering whether to get the bb heritage 36 instead and save a couple of grand for a Grand Seiko (or a holiday!) Have only started the video so can’t wait to see what you recommend 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@SebastianElgarCocks]

The intro of all intros! The TGV god-like voiceover - brilliant

[@cityhunter2501]

The SARB017 Alpinist is really nice and glad that I have it on my collection, its only downfall IMO are the hour indexes, they are quite a challenge to see in low light. On the other hand the dial is just so mesmerizing to look during the day. It’s 38mm size is what made me realize how big the SARG011 is though

[@dzsin0]

Thanks for the great video TGV. I would suggest the Archimede Outdoor Project. No 3-6-9 dial configuration here, but a real tough watch with a hardened steel case.

[@mikekamler]

Another classic video! Awesome as usual sir and I'm personally chuffed to see the alpinist top the list (for a moment I thought you wouldn't mention it ;) ) cheers!

[@Spinal2111]

Have the automatic version of this watch with the lumed numerals, red accented seconds hand and i love it. My first mechanical and "expensive" watch, glad i was able to pick one up for a very reasonable price. I wear it daily to work, my only complaint is I wish the steel was a little harder, this seems to scratch easily, especially around the bezel. At least the crystal is sapphire and looks like new!

[@drandresquiceno]

I recommend the Casio MTP-1215, I switched the bracelet for a strap.

[@MichaelAndersen_DK]

That intro is pure class. Just like the featured Fortis B-42 Chronograph.

[@larrybivens1852]

I looked at the ball engineerii and really liked the sinn 556a it was on backorder. Stranding in the store with the tudor ranger in my wrist I couldn't resist. Thanks TGV. For a great review someday the explorer will be mine!

[@alfrepue8740]

Your videos are always amazing!

[@aakrit26]

Hey TGV Greetings! I have found a watch that has not been reviewed by any watch channel. Please review a Longines Conquest 39 Automatic. Great Swiss alternative to Explorer.

[@TheUnsureFox]

I couldn't help getting a smirk on my face when you mentioned the Timex, as I am wearing a 1976 Hand-Wound Mechanical Day-Date right now. I most certainly agree with you about their movements, by the way! Cheers! ~Sir Timothy

[@ajbcruz]

Love this series!

[@pepeaguilarramos6700]

Your perspective about watches is the most valuable of the whole Watch World. As an “aficionado”, I’ve read and seen thousands of reviews and most of journalists and influencers talks always about the same watches of the same brands (Rolex, Omega, Tudor and “the holy trinity… that’s all) leaving apart so many others undoubtly valuable alternatives. You are the only Brave to talk about those options. Congratulatios and many thanks for your work. ❤😉

[@drewtokarsky3917]

Excellent video as always TGV. I recently picked up a 556i, and I believe it’s a top grade 2824 rather than Sellita. I must admit that I was wholly underwhelmed. The back was more interesting than the front. I feel like at that price point, there shouldn’t be a printed dial, and I would have loved a chapter ring of some sort. Just my opinion. Thanks for the work you put into these. They’re always enjoyable.

[@alvaropena9377]

You're the greatest! Love your videos, great work!!

[@resjon7981]

Longines Conquest 39mm or the Longines Conquest Classic 40mm are the best value for money Explorer homages. Also the Smiths Everest 36mm or 39mm are worth a look.

[@Claus-L.Mueller]

Hi TGV, Haha! Very, very nice intro! 👌👍👏 Thanks for the entertaining video. I would probably go with the Tudor. But as you said, the Sinn is hard to beat when it comes to quality for your money. Best regards, Claus

[@theurbangentry]

Claus!!!!!!! Always lovely to hear from you, I hope you are well. Knowing your style, I think the Ranger would suit you will. I can already imagine the fantastic photos you would take on the Instagram and FB with it ;-) Onwards and upwards my friend, thank you. Best regards, TGV

[@koen8844]

Your videos have inspired and motivated me to get into watches once again. After several Urban Gentry videos and some research online, I came across a private vintage watch dealer in my home town! It's a small world with lots of new adventures. Thank you 👍

[@theurbangentry]

You have no idea how much that pleases me to hear! Enjoy the adventure my friend. Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@lohsuankhoon4422]

Great reviews as always. Like the Ball Moon phase, got a nice second hand... Enjoy the rest of your weekend TGV! Cheers!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you LSK! Have a great weekend too :D Best regards, TGV

[@sadaka201]

Very nice video 👏👏👏 My choises are the Omega, Ball and Fortis. (My first Ball will soon arrive...)

[@tomosluke446]

Love the omega rail master! Excellent video, Sending love from the UK Wales

[@mountainmanwatchreviews8081]

Love all the victorinox watches your showing. I got the infantry gmt and now I'm hunting down an inox. Great value if you can get over the non automatic thing.

[@edkline6401]

I have an Alpinist (Sarb017), and a Hamilton Khaki King, and I love both, but if we're looking for less expensive I also have an Orient Defender which goes for about $125-140. It's more of a field watch than some of those you listed, and it has 100m WR with a screw down crown as well.

[@MsJake199]

I would add the Tudor bb 36/41 to the list, it has its own identity but the similarity to the explorer is undeniable and I would argue it has become quite popular

[@amg231]

The bb 36 is closer to the original ranger than the new ranger

[@marcusawyong2531]

TGV your new "Panther Cub" looks amazing, especially with your outfit in this video. I feel like I owe a great deal of wrist time to my modded SKX! Thank you for the great videos TGV, you continue to amaze me with your content and that Victorinox in this list looks great! Definitely gonna check that out.

[@igorz.3972]

Great video ! Thank you TGV !

[@vanessamercedes7675]

The rolex exp. is my favourite watch!!! It’s my grail. I hope one day.... oneee day... at the moment, I am still a poor uni student 😛

[@pablomorresi7602]

Me too!!!!!

[@OwynDavies]

You'll get one eventually!

[@omiwatari9203]

@@pablomorresi7602 t

[@omiwatari9203]

@@pablomorresi7602 ttttttttttttt5ttttt5tttt5tttttt5t5ttt5t5555555

[@Okido24]

Save up, no prob

[@stoned466]

Good video, I like your Knowledge on watches .

[@FazeFingaz]

Just picked up an SNK803! Up next would probably the Hamilton Khaki; there's something about field watches that i find really appealing :)

[@pierremystique5335]

Many thanks. I'd add the Longines Conquest. Stunning and fits the criteria.

[@marcog5963]

Great insightful video. Glad to see the Alpinist ranked 1.

[@squalliballi1517]

I LOVE your videos. Lurking for a long time now and this is my first comment ever. Stay as awesome as you are. Looking forward for my 1st luxury watch real soon. Greetings from Switzerland!:)

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much sir! Happy hunting on your first luxury watch. Great to hear from more viewers form the horological holy land ;-) Best regards, TGV

[@jimchism6653]

Great video! Picked up a Night Vision last week for $199. Another choice could be a 40 mm Sinn 856.

[@edteach3r]

An awesome video... highly informative and educational, as always. Thank you! My Seiko SARG009 does a very good job of scratching my insatiable Rolex Explorer I itch 👍😊.

[@melusinecentun5847]

Hello! Ithink the Longines Conquest (especially the classic) should be in this list. Take care, Irène.

[@dmntuba]

Another great video...enjoyed very much!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much my friend, so glad to hear. Best regards, TGV

[@jaspreetsinghanand]

Lovely watch selection Timeless design and elegance personified

[@allenmontrasio8962]

Love the star trek intro.

[@flaviohasimi1286]

For a moment i just thought there would be no seiko but uhhhh i feel better now ... great video as always

[@vincewhite5087]

I took a vostok amphibia, with black dial, #420 case, bought a plain bezel to replace dial bezel, put on nato & bingo - have cheap tough, field watch, all for under $100.00. & 200m water rest.

[@kadams842]

The creativity in the opening credits alone are worthy of an upvote

[@emaciatedchef]

Thank you for the video! For another alternative, may I suggest the hamilton khaki mechanical. It is small, just like the explorer, and although the dial is a bit different, it has the same "vibe" as the explorer. The main difference, of course, it has a hand-wound movement (which I prefer). Perhaps I am being too obsessive, but I think hand-wound watches are better than automatic because you would now the full extent of the power reserve. Cheers.

[@arthurscargill8010]

Good choices but I think the closest modern interpretation of the 1016 is a Tudor Black Bay 36. It gets very little love right now but I think it'll be a future classic. Thanks as always for the video TGV, take care.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Arthur, excellent suggestion, surprising to hear it gets no love, I adored it in my review. Having said that, when it came time to buying the Explorer, I never considered the BB36 at all interestingly. Best regards, TGV

[@Jacob-bz6lf]

Love the Victorianox Swiss army night vision, white dial Ball Engineer 2; and of course the Seiko Alpinist SARB017!

[@danieleb588]

The Sinn looks amazing!

[@vanessamercedes7675]

Here’s a challenge for you TGV : AFFORDABLE automatic (!) watches UNDER 38 mm.

[@ashwinramesh1356]

Seiko 5 easy

[@SirPablo2Pablo]

Seiko 5. There are heaps of them from $50 upwards

[@Nome_e_Cognome]

Vostok Classica !!