New Rolex Explorer 124270 (2021 year model) Full Review

Sooner than expected I'm making this review to make you aware of some of the issues with the new 36mm release of the Rolex Explorer as it might be a deal breaker for some.
Some rights reserved:
www.safecreative.org/work/210...
Credits:
Images Rolex 1016 and 14270 by Mervyn Tan:
/ trachinotus
Images Rolex 124270:
www.flickr.com/photos/oneras/... (cc by-sa)
Music:
pixabay.com/music/ambient-ade...
likeicare.bandcamp.com/track/... CC by
Straps (to put at your own risk): None of these are affiliated links. I don't get anything for recommending them:
www.watchgecko.com/classic-ha... (check 19mm ones)
www.watchgecko.com/zuludiver-... (19mm)
www.watchgecko.com/zuludiver-... (20 or 18mm)
www.watchgecko.com/zuludiver-... (20 or 18mm)www.watchgecko.com/zuludiver-... (19mm)
www.amazon.es/WOCCI-vintage-h...

[@Sehnull]

Again a great review. Your voice is calm, clear and you speak with the right velocity. Together with the nice pictures and the good music... well done.

[@colerileystudios]

Thank you for the best review of the 124270 on KZbin yet!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot for this comment. I really appreciate it!

[@TheDanishSpaceman]

Well said!

[@jcg5280]

Great review! I appreciate how detailed you were with the dimensions of the watch. One of the better reviews out there on the new 124270.

[@Kompyutershchik]

finally a review that thoroughly explains the watch. Thank you! Great piece!

[@finnk9360]

Thank you for this awesome review! Finally someone giving all the specs, not a single review from the big sites had all the specs in it but luckly you gave all the important ones!

[@user-yy9lg6gs4h]

I hear you...while I like Tim Mosso's reviews, his measurements on the same pieces constantly changes. Makes one wonder.

[@ljsanchez12]

Done very well, by far the best review. Thank you for putting in the effort 👌

[@n.h187]

Thanks Mario this review had everything, from history, detailed specifications to real life perspective wrist shots. Enjoy it, can't wait for mine.

[@TheWatchFrame]

It's a great watch even considering some of its issues. You will enjoy yours!

[@n.h187]

@@TheWatchFrame thanks I planned on keeping this watch as bracelet for life so the strap issue isn't that significant, although I would have liked the ability to change it more easily.

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@n.h187 yes. Truth be told is that this is designed to be with the bracelet, but after a few days making tests, and with the right tools of course, change straps is becoming easier every time, so I'm quite happy now and also feeling that with the bracelet on is quite strong and durable.

[@gride5153]

Thank-you for such a wonderful review. I completely agree with your view on the 19mm lug width and spacing issue for other straps. One question if I may, where did you get that Japanese inspired mouse mat from?

[@beverlyyeo909]

appreciate the detail you went into about the semi-integrated bracelet and the compatibility with third party straps. its really evident that you're a watch-fan!

[@mxvera1]

Fantastic review!!! The best review yet on this new instant classic.

[@loltanios]

Quality review, thanks for sharing. While I’m not one to play with straps, it is nice to see how it looks on a variety of straps. The numerous shots of wearing the watch with different types of clothing is very helpful. Subbed and looking forward to more videos.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks! It was fun trying some clothing and straps. This thing works with everything.

[@heathwoodruff6975]

Thanks for this. Also, thanks for showing that a slightly above average wrist can absolutely rock this.

[@garycasteel4961]

Great video. Not long ago I thought 36 mm would be too small but since purchasing a Smith Everest (1016 homage) I have totally changed my mind. I admit that initially I thought it looked small but after wearing for a while It has really grown on me. I have since acquired several additional watches in this size range and am on the list with my local AD for this one. FYI, my wrist size is 18.5 cm.

[@TheWatchFrame]

You have a very similar story as mine. Same thing with the Smiths Everest 1016 copy. I was very hesitant with the size until I had it on wrist. Now it's my sweet spot for me, for field watches at least, divers I tend more towards 39mm and so. I have very similar wrist. Hope you get your Explorer soon. Is a game changer.

[@fasteddy60]

Well done review! I own a 2007 114270, and Im considering owning this new edition to my Explorer lineup. I absolutely love the 36mm case on my 7.5" wrist. This new 124270 is a "have to get" for sure. Thanks for sharing,

[@TheWatchFrame]

The 114270 was my first choice, but way out of budget. But since I was able to get the 124270, well, had to get it. Lovely sizes indeed.

[@michaeltrampert6414]

Outstanding review! Shows your passion, love and appreciation of this great masterpiece. I have the 214270 and thinking about changing ;-) since my wrists are on the smaller side. All the best!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot for your comment. The 214270 I believe it's a great watch too. It's all about the attachment you might have to it if you decide to sell. Both are great and yes, the 36 on a smaller classier side.

[@mraymanTube]

Thanks for an awesome review. It helped me make the decision easier for me. Absolutely the best explorer ever. I am not worried about straps and lug width as the factory bracelet is the most beautiful and comfortable ever. So, I will never change it.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Truth be told I lately have been keeping it with the bracelet although the strap issue I have it solved. The watch with the bracelet is a whole package that works just about perfect. I still have a 19mm tropic one to arrive, but most of the time the watch will be with the bracelet :)

[@b.luijkx8511]

No problem for me :)

[@OmarMuttawa]

Amazing review. I just picked mine up from the AD last week and appreciate your strap comments and links!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Congrats! I'm sure you're enjoying it a lot.

[@michaeltallsman2740]

Very nice review. I have the older 114270 and your review makes me want to upgrade. I enjoyed seeing the watch in various attire. Thanks for sharing!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Truth be told, I believe the 114270 has to be great. Actually I had the plan to get it before I went into the AD thinking I would never even make it to the waiting list. I have the feeling that the memories attached to a watch might me worth keeping it. The 114270 is a reliable beast and strap monster too, and probably easier to put straps on with the 20mm lug width.

[@michaelfierman3256]

Fantastic presentation of this watch. I have the 214270 which I got from AD in December, but now I want this one. it just seems the perfect size, at least for me. Just subscribed and looking forward to more episodes.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks. I believe the 214270 is also and awesome watch, really do. I prefer smaller ones, but that one is great. Also growing price in the after market!

[@johncoyle8191]

Well delivered and informative review . Well done , just subscribed . Look forward to seeing more content 👍

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks! I really appreciate it!

[@scottbertelson352]

Thank you, Mario. Great video (photography, music, content) and appreciate the perspective. Good to see the wrist shots and a conservative approach that sees the classic nature of a 36mm offering. Option of straps was not a major consideration for me but I did enjoy seeing the leather straps with the offset color stitching. What spring tool are you using and is there one that you recommend?

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for the comment. The music is awesome, there's link to download in the description. All straps look awesome in this watch and it is a joy to swap them once in a while. To remove the bracelet you need a precision tool as the space to reach the spring bar shoulders are very small. I use the Bergeon 7825 (it is expensive but really worth). To remove the leather straps I use the Bergeon 6767. Great tools both of them.

[@scottbertelson352]

@@TheWatchFrame Thank you, Mario!

[@randybrickson4290]

thoughtful review with good video -- thanks

[@Valera_Scotland]

Those photographs of it on various straps are just amazing. I'm on a waiting list and can't wait to find one in a few years hopefully (no rush!)...

[@Valera_Scotland]

@User 2389 cool... Good tip .. I'll try that thanks

[@Ibowers2]

First, congrats on getting one so soon. Great review and very solid points. One of the main reasons I wanted to buy the explorer was because the design looks so good with any strap combination. Very interesting to see the challenge in changing straps with this new design.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks, it was quite a surprise being able to get it. Yes, putting other straps is kind of a challenge, but rewarding too.

[@BLR653]

Great review Mario! You hit all the highs and lows right in the head. I just got a leather strap for my 124270 (Hodinkee has a lot of options) and yes the weird bracelet integration made it tough to install but it does look amazing! Remember Rolex doesn’t want you changing the bracelet out! Yes the design of the bracelet results in a much more sturdy integration with the case. It eliminates up and down pressure on the spring bars.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for the advice. Didn't know Hodinkee had so many 19mm straps. That is awesome. Will check them out. I thought so about Rolex making the new Explorer one single joint experience with the bracelet but I think that in the spirit of exploration, the need to sometimes change the straps, for instance, for a NATO, should be a must, but well. At the end I'm now constantly changing straps with a 19mm Zuludiver black nato on while I write. I thought so about the up and down pressure but after seeing so many old Rolex Explorer with their more conventional bracelet just fine, I don't really think that had to be a concern. I have had zero issue with all my other watches during way too many years but well, this is part of the experience and fun of watch collecting. Sometimes we need to hack them somehow! This Explorer looks totally awesome with some straps. The dial design makes it outstanding when putting almost anything on.

[@BLR653]

That sail cloth strap looks amazing!

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@BLR653 and I got it basically by mistake. I didn't want a quick release one, but I worked out being great. Thanks!

[@joshuadarrington.]

Great shots mario. Keep it up

[@mrgregpappas]

Very helpful video. Thanks for making it.

[@ahund562]

Great video! I have this watch, and still learned a ton. It has also inspired me to try out different straps (if I can get them to fit).

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks! Trick is to use quality leather strap in 19mm. Watchgecko has some great ones. Putting curved spring bars will help with the gap and the watch will look awesome. Believe me.

[@watchmunch3240]

Great review, exactly what I was looking for. Thank you!

[@TheWatchFrame]

You most welcome!

[@stephens2r338]

Great video. Very intresting point about the case. I own a 114270 and i love the vertical ridges on the sides when you use a strap . They really catch the light. I think that groove makes the bezel look odd and and not fitting the case properly. Plus on a strap that hole will be a dirt magnet.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yes, it is true the hole will need to be cleaned. Also while with straps the side is almost invisible as it is so tight. Thanks for your input!

[@paulhuynh1183]

My Ad said I will void warranty if changing bracelet? Is that right?

[@connorwang3442]

Hi, would you recommend a curve spring bar if the gap is so tight? Great review by the way.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks. Yes, in case you want to use more than 1mm thick natos, that would be a good solution. I got a couple of curved spring bars but mostly will use the Zuludiver 0.9mm ones.

[@WatchWeeb]

Wow, this is first time that I found out about that new bracelet end link and slot between lugs design. They literally don't want anyone to take off the bracelet. Such as shame, as it is a deal breaker for me, good thing there are still older models that are more versatile with straps. Thanks for covering this info, it really is crazy that no one else has really covered this new update to their new models!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yes, that might be a deal breaker. I totally get that. I was quite shocking for me at the beginning, but after being able to put a lot of straps later with not that much of an issue, I felt less annoyed. This said, the watch stays most of the time with the bracelet which is the most comfortable combination ever. However, if you really want to change straps a lot, yes, the older models will do it much better. About the covering, I saw a rather recent video, can't remember which, that covered this issue too.

[@jimmyrobertson99]

Fantastic video, thanks so much for sharing.

[@JasonMilner]

Good detailed review. One suggestion for future ones though, the audo on your voice was very low, making it hard to hear you without turning it up loud. if you could boost the voice levels that woiuld be a real help. Thanks.

[@ivankerr3570]

I think that is what the volume control is for.

[@VMIyanks04]

Very thorough review and I love your accent! What a pleasant video! Thank you! Love this watch! My grail too!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks!

[@nathanf1934]

Hi Mario. Curved spring bars will fix that problem you’re having with your straps that are to tight. I use them on my 114270. Works great.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for the suggestion. I was considering that too. Didn't know the 114270 was tight too. I've been checking curved spring bars but do you have recommendation of curved ones of good quality?

[@Touyoujin]

Curved spring bars may solve the issue but still many high quality straps don't come with curved strap end. Finding 19mm straps is tough, getting curved straps is even tougher, not to mention that all those money spent on straps that could only fit one watch. It's definitely a deal breaker for me as someone who appreciate explorer's practicality and versatility. Definitely a big design fail imo.

[@jorgeborbolla3743]

@@TheWatchFrame anything from Delugs is great quality.

[@garycasteel4961]

@@TouyoujinI have the same spring bar to watch case clearance problem with my Milgauss. I have thought about using curved springs bars but worry that that may not be as secure. Thoughts?

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@garycasteel4961 I have put a couple of curved spring bars and do the trick with NATOs, however I also doubt they will be as secure as the original ones, which a sturdier in all aspects. I might not risk it too much and probably will only use them with NATOs.

[@dinamiena6186]

Very well made review my friend ! Informative and to the point . I’ve just traded today my 114270 for a new 124270. First visual observation between the two is that the 124270 looks initially a tiny bit smaller than the 114270 and this imo is because the 114 has slimer and bit longer lugs . I believe the tried to balance this on the 124 by making an aggressive taper on the new bracelet . For me strap change for 1m is not an issue because I like all of my Rolexes only on bracelet . So far as is my first day with it I’m 50-50 between those two . Kinda wish that the bracelet didn’t have this taper … but then you see the new omega Speedmaster which os bracelet is amazing and the size is 20 taper to 15 with a clasp also 15… so this prove that is not correct to call 124 dainty..future will show but for sure explorer is best in 36 . 39-40 has to much of empty space on dial and removes the sportiness imo. 🎉

[@TheWatchFrame]

I can't really compare with the 114 as my experience with that model ir rather limited. At the end of the day, with only true experience with the 124 I only can say it is really comfortable and solid. Maybe a bit less of a toll and bit more elegant. Nevertheless it is very solid and that's the most important thing for me.

[@nick-just]

Excellent and helpful review, thank you! You are also a very talented photographer!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot for the compliment!

[@nick-just]

@@TheWatchFrame Mario, curious to know how you found the process of removing the bracelet from the watch head. Was it easy to do, or a little tricky? I’ve heard it can be tricky on Datejusts due to the tight tolerances, wondering if that also applies to the Explorer? see you have one of those special tools for accessing the springbars on both sides simultaneously.

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@nick-just as a matter of fact, with the normal spring bar removal tool I have, the Bergeon 6767 I was totally unable to remove it. Actually the tip would not fit in the holes of the end links so I didn't even try. Also a thinner tip would not probably make the trick because of the internal shape of the end link at the case (although I didn't know that just at that moment) but fearing the tolerances would be even tighter than the ones on the Hamilton I had, I decided to check in KZbin. There I found you need to have the tool you mention to access both spring bars at the same time. But not any tool: as expensive the watch is, so is the tool, the Bergeon 7825. So I bought it as an investment and removing the bracelet with it is silly easy to do. Believe me. I was so nervous to use the tool in my new Explorer and in 20 seconds the bracelet was off. It was more difficult to put a leather strap in it, but here yes, the 6767 made the trick!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Also the trick with the 7825 is to move it side ways, away from the watch head, nor up or down. That will not work. Will try to make a video of the process. Thanks for commenting!

[@TwentyOne_Five]

Big, manly adventures used to wear watches they could easily read and that weren’t so big as to get in the way. You don’t want your watch to get tangled in gear etc. The original Submariners were 37mm for example. Today your watch needs to be giant enough to be identified by people from a couple of meters away. That is the opposite of being an adventurer and one is not part of that heritage wearing such models. Fantastic video by the way.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks. Totally true. Adventure watches must not get in the way and be reliable in all situations.

[@thelucentcrow9084]

Great review, how long did it take to get ? I’m in the list and have no purchase history just wondering how long it might take

[@TheWatchFrame]

Funny thing is that I got the first unit arriving at the ID without waiting list. I have another video explaining it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZzFoJaBgLKtoKs so not very representative to be honest. I've hear news of people getting calls right now, and some without prior history either, so there might be faster than you expect.

[@randaljacoby1964]

Would you please tell me what watch strap brand/model is shown at 15:04?

[@TheWatchFrame]

That is a Zuludiver Quick Release Sailcloth one at Watchgecko: www.watchgecko.com/zuludiver-quick-release-sailcloth-padded-divers-watch-strap. It's a great one and comes in 19mm too.

[@WatchGeek]

Another beautiful video!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks a lot!

[@davidbreckler5327]

Good review....

[@mickbrown9021]

Overall a very good review from a man with a reasonable amount of watch experience. But why the need for the music !! ? It is almost impossible to hear the commentary at the end. Watch reviews do not need music. Just informed commentary !

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for the advice. I kind of like some background music but still need to take the measure to the volume at the beginning and end. Still learning I guess. Hope to make it better in the future.

[@pietromorosini9851]

Amazing video!

[@Milofchg]

Great Explorer.... It is the perfect Rolex. I bought mine 3 weeks ago. 3/4 month waitlist first time purchase from my AD. Which is located 3 blocks from my home. I just ordered a Hodinkee black distressed leather strap for mine.

[@michaelriera6277]

Congratulations! Just got mine last week perfect Xmas gift. It’s the perfect watch.

[@_sr]

A classy watch with the classic 36mm case size. Love it on my 18cm wrist..

[@rezar6894]

Great review Mario, I have a Daytona but not tone between this new Explorer or the new Submariner as also very iconic. What’s your thoughts on the Submariner watch ? Cheers

[@TheWatchFrame]

Hi Reza. I haven't tried the Submariner so I can only talk from an expectator point of view. I believe the Sub is way more easier to spot from afar. Also very versatile and if now date, she's using the same movement. I like the non date version better, but then again, comes down to personal preference. At the end it all depends on what you want the watch for. The bezel is quite useful and the watch is versatile enough as to be able to use she in most environments. I believe the Explorer flies much more under the radar and could be more comfortable at the end, but if you like the Submariner and have de possibility of getting it, go for it.

[@WrongTimeWatch]

That is a great watch, I hope you enjoy it. I still have my name on a list to get one. I will need to see it in person on my 6.5" wrist before making the purchase however.

[@TheWatchFrame]

I am enjoying it every day more. It's getting more and more difficult to think in other watches to wear and even to buy. This might change in the future I guess...

[@carrera3.262]

We need a month update! Specifically about the size. Great review by the way.

[@TheWatchFrame]

You are so right. I'll try to do something as soon as possible, hopefully in a couple of weeks!

[@philippedelavie5424]

Thank you for this very complete video. I also really liked your choice of bracelets, especially these two: - beige yellow leather (nubuck style) - black fabric (in 2 pieces). In your video, we can see your pliers to change the bracelets. Are you happy with it, and if so could I have the references? I am looking for this kind of pliers. Thank you so much.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for commenting. Yes, those pliers are the Bergeton 7825 I got from Amazon and are of great quality. Removing the bracelet is piece of cake but are quite expensive...

[@philippedelavie5424]

@@TheWatchFrame Thank you very much for your answer. Have a nice day.

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@philippedelavie5424 you too!

[@Jbunag1]

Fantastic review! A solution to fix the tight springbar/case is to use curved spring bars:)

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yes, I got a few curved and solves the issue for NATOs and probably very flexible leather ones, but not that much if leather is very stiff but I've managed to put quite a few straps at the end. I have to be careful, but it is working alright.

[@user-yy9lg6gs4h]

@@TheWatchFrame How admirable...you are a brave man detaching that new Rolex bracelet! 🤣

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@user-yy9lg6gs4h hehe, yes I am :D

[@tuoxie1235]

I rarely take it off of the stainless steel bracelet because the watch head scratches the leather straps. Is that a problem on your 124270 as well?

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yes it does. But I have managed to minimize the effect.

[@ajeet490]

Not having a visible gap between a new strap and the case is a plus, imo.

[@TheWatchFrame]

It's a way of seeing it. However the gap is kind of non existent sometimes depending on the strap. It's quite hard to put some straps because the minimal space that exists. Curved spring bars sure help.

[@mrtee6678]

Truly is a masterpiece however with an 8 inch wrist I’m glad I have the 214270 2020 release. Wear in good health.

[@TheWatchFrame]

The 214270 is awesome. Thanks for your words!

[@resjon7981]

Tudor tests the new age market for 36mm watches with the BB36 and Rolex takes the baton from baby brother, they even kept the 19mm lug width like the BB36. This is a very nice Rolex but I prefer the BB36 although both should have drilled lugs.

[@TheWatchFrame]

I really can't know what Rolex might be thinking, but the Explorer has been 36mm for way more than it has been 39. I guess there was a trend a few years ago to make everything bigger, but there's plenty of reasonable bigger watches as their purpose is to be big, like divers. But an exploring watch should be smaller by default. The 19mm lug width is odd but here it is all about proportions which I would really not be able to tell from one to another. I wish they had made this one 36,5mm with a 20mm lug size. Guess we won't see drilled lugs in Rolex ever again :(

[@prisol]

very nice review, what is your wrist diameter?

[@TheWatchFrame]

Around 7,5 inch, maybe a tad less, and 19cm (or 18cm) circumference. Diameter I believe is around 5,5 or so. Not sure.

[@drockkelly]

Do you think worth trading a 114270 and a bb58 blue for a new 124270? Or should I just keep mine and not worry about new upgrades?

[@TheWatchFrame]

To be honest I truly believe that what really ends up making a watch special are the memories attached to it and this is even more so the case as the Explorer. If you have memories attached to the 114270 I believe you should keep and cherish it, let alone if you also feel you'd need to get sell the BB58 (great watch by the way). I don't think the upgrades are that much worth but again, it's all up to what you feel about your current Explorer. The 114270 also allows much easier strap exchange. The 124270 is 19mm and changing straps is a tad more difficult. Other than that the improved movement, accuracy and easy link extension is great, no doubt but don't think worth, unless, of course, you are not that attached to your watches. If I already had the 114270, knowing what I know now, I would not trade it. Like if in the future they come up with another Explorer with some upgrades, that will always happen; the memories and sentimental attachment to the one I own, will win over the new features. Or so I think!

[@edwardo737]

The tight gap between the spring bar and the case is a disappointment. Thanks for calling it out.

[@mickbrown9021]

It is the same with all Rolex watches.

[@StruanRobertson29]

Very special watch.

[@ianferris]

Great video! Subbed! I’m waiting for the call for my Explorer, hopefully sooner than later.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks for subscribing! Yeah, hope you get yours soon. A great watch indeed!

[@scorpianbliz]

I have the 39mm MK2 and prefer the larger case size, but no longer think the 36mm is too small. I recently bought a Vaer A12 36mm and is doable at this size. Your wrist is a quarter size larger than mine and looks appropriate & great on you.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Thanks. If I had had the funds when I tried the 39mm on I would have probably bought it. It's a cracking watch. However that was many years ago and preferences change. Now I'm more into vintage smaller watches. I would love to test drive the 39mm and compare with the 36. Maybe in the future I will.

[@christopherliang6879]

Love it

[@bgandjsco1]

Where can i get one at list.

[@n.h187]

Pester the AD. Call them, email them, visit them in person. Hassle the hell out of them. They'll give in and give it to you as it's not a super popular model.

[@bgandjsco1]

@@n.h187 I just walked into an AD this past Wednesday and the cases are EMPTY

[@mikaxms]

It's kinda hard to hear your voice with the music. Luckily it's only in the intro.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yeah, sorry about that. I'm still learning how to module sound in the videos. Hope in the latest ones this is working now better.

[@davidb9531]

Good review, made my heart sink a bit, such a disappointment to take away the strap monster ethic of the model with this protrusion. It has always been my grail but maybe will have to wait for another iteration as the inability to put most natos on it for me is a deal breaker

[@TheWatchFrame]

Yes, it is a bit of a disappointment but personally and since I've been able to find four NATOs to put easily on I feel satisfied. I also have managed to put a good variety of leather and even a sail cloth one. But truth be told, with the OEM bracelet it is simple awesome. Don't know if Rolex will go back regards this new semi integrated bracelet in the future but I suspect they will not and this will most probable be featured in more models in the future. But that's only a supposition.

[@nathanf1934]

I was lucky enough to pick mine up yesterday. This watch is meant to be on a bracelet. No way I’m swapping it out for a $20 nato.

[@davidb9531]

@@nathanf1934 fair play I do think their are times when something more lightweight as a strap just works, and previous explorers have always longed for natos and or rubber straps. I have a lot of respect for people that wear warchss primarily on bracelets, cos it is respectful to the watch, I'm just not very respectful

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@nathanf1934 It sure is designed in close conjunction with the bracelet and I bet most of the people getting it will not remove the bracelet. However I wish Rolex would have left the case with a normal shape so that people could freely choose to keep the bracelet always on or change straps, as even leather ones are hard to put, including high quality ones.

[@anteroceschin6649]

@@nathanf1934 Explorer 1 never looks good on anything but the bracelet to me, and NATO...just looks awkward, the new 19mm lug width may be a blessing in that department though!

[@simonmiles1972]

Agree completely. If they had sized it up from the nominal 36mm closer to 37mm (instead of down closer to 35mm) with a 20/16mm bracelet, it would have more wrist presence and would be more versatile - perfect for the modern era. This is what Rolex used to do with the previous generation OP36. I wish they had used that case and bracelet. Still, a great watch and I prefer the proportions to the discontinued 39mm Explorer.

[@deltanovember1672]

Liked & Subbed. 👍🏼

[@scorpianbliz]

Why do you think people should avoid the current Smith's watch? Which I think are good alternatives to the Explorer, just to small at 36mm for my tastes.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Actually not the watches themselves, but Timefactors as a company of an unique owner and manager. The size, by the way, is perfectly fine. Once you try a 36mm you will usually like it, but again, it's a matter of preferences. Here you can read more about Timefactors and what you can expect from its "customer care": kzbin.info/www/bejne/i5exZYeCn9iLhsk. As an alternative I'd advice Traska or Lorier. The Traska Summiteer in black is 38,5mm and I have one. There's also a review on that one in the channel.

[@scorpianbliz]

@@TheWatchFrame I saw the unfortunate experience you had...that's not how you show customers you value them

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@scorpianbliz Exactly. So finally it is best to move on and support other business where they really know how to decently treat their clients. Thanks for commenting!

[@garycasteel4961]

@@TheWatchFrame I certainly do not discount anyone’s experience with Time Factors as I have heard some of the same customer service issues. I just want to say that I have purchased 5 watches from them and am very satisfied with all of them. I had one small problem with one order it was handled promptly and they even waived the shipping’s cost. I will be ordering the new Transglobal (Universal Geneve Polerouter homage) as soon as it is released.

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@garycasteel4961 Of course, there's a lot of people that have had no problem. What troubles me, and should trouble others too, is the apparent arbitrary behavior of the owner of Timefactors which might indicative of some deeper problems. The watches are good as I stated, not that much the bracelets and straps, but these can be swapped. The black dial Polerouter is one of the most beautiful watches I have ever seen. Hope you enjoy the Smiths version.

[@explorerjlc1743]

bracelet should have stayed at 20mm, watch head looks too big now... A strange look for such a small watch

[@TheWatchFrame]

I guess they tried to make thicker lugs without making the overall experience to large. I do wish the bracelet had been 20mm but after a while you get use to this design and kind of new language of the watch.

[@explorerjlc1743]

@@TheWatchFrame the question is, why make the lugs so thick? It’s lost it’s original oyster case charm. It’s not like the old lugs we’re breaking off…

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@explorerjlc1743 that is a truly great question. I'm afraid I can't give a well educated answer since I've had no long term experience with the 114270 for instance. Actually that is a conversation I'm having with a friend of the channel that owns both watches, the 11(4270) and the 12(4270). Of course I have a strong bias towards the only watch of both I have. I tried the 11 of another friend of the channel for a brief time and was great. My biggest complain of this "12" version is too the odd 19mm lug size. I wish it was 20 for the sake of straps changes. Also because the watch is actually half a millimeter smaller than the 11. It is 35.4 and could easy have been 36.4 and thus have a 20mm wide lug with similar proportions to this one. My guess, and I could be very wrong, is that this Explorer parts from the classic design to have it totally newly redesigned from scratch while retaining the easy recognizable general adventure language. Maybe, and just maybe, the thicker lugs are more proportionate with the bolder appearance of the numerals and hour markers; to have a more cohesive design. Like all design like, we have our own subjective preferences and to each their own. When I saw the 11 in person I was so used to the 12 that something felt off. I don't know, it is hard to explain. In short, your brought a great point. Hope to someday be able to make a full comparison between the 11 and the 12 (should I be able to have an 11 for a reasonable amount of time) and maybe, someday, a comparison with the 1016. Thanks a lot for commenting and bringing this point out.

[@maitrehg]

I really hope Rolex will release a men's version of this watch.

[@TheWatchFrame]

I think there is no reason not to consider this size one for a man, or a woman for that matter. It is just a matter of trends, preferences on size and own perception. In short, as long as you feel comfortable with the watch, then the size is ok. I would not care for the opinions of others. I have a 36,5mm Caravelle Sea Hunter that was worn by soldiers during the Vietnam and Korea war. Tough men, big and small, wearing a 36mm diver in the worst of conditions. Sir Edmund Hillary wore a 36 (if not smaller) watch to the Everest and back. And there are plenty of examples. Also in an exploration watch small is better for various reasons, like not interfering with mountain gear, yes I use it while in the mountain, and lowering wrist fatigue (bigger watches tend to be more cumbersome if you wear them for long time in hard conditions, too much metal in constant contact with the skin). Of course if you want a bigger watch, there are plenty of them. Divers are a good example. I have a 43,4mm Seiko for that reason, while diving it is more legible. Same thing with pilots watches like the 42mm Glycine Airman GMT I own. And for dress watches I have a 32mm Caravelle. I would say under 30mm watches tend to be more for women wrist as are usually smaller, but my wife can pull out a 39mm although her sweet spot is 34. And the 36 works for us both :)

[@artblend4278]

36 is all right for small wrists....in the case of Mario I think a 39 explorer would be more appropriate

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@artblend4278 I tried the 39mm back some time ago but ever since I tried a 36mm copy of the 1016 I was sold to this size of watch for exploring and mountaineering. I actually have a 38,5 Traska and while an excellent size I can wear it comfortably, I prefer, myself, the 36 Explorer. It seems a more harmonious design by itself and very versatile. Again, I could wear any, but I prefer this size by far. Actually the "formal" size does not tell the whole story. I guess it is all about the form of the case, the surfaces, the weight, the intention of use and the proportions of dial to bezel. I think the bezel of the 39mm made it quite nice to wear, while the 38,5 Traska's thin bezel make it wear like a 40 to 41 watch. Would love to test drive a 39mm Explorer now to be honest :D

[@TheWatchFrame]

@@maitrehg awesome, thanks!

[@artblend4278]

@@TheWatchFrame thank you Mario, maybe the ideal size of that type of watch is 37, which seiko has understood....

[@alexchris9985]

Not as beautiful as the 39mm mk2 214270

[@TheWatchFrame]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder ;)

[@JerseyLostRingMetalDetecting]

It looks much better than the 39. Better proportions of dial and case + AR coating

[@ivankerr3570]

Far too small for a normal wrist.

[@TheWatchFrame]

I don't think it is too small. It's true we have gotten used to wear larger like flying saucers watches on our wrists, but when hiking and exploring mountains, those huge watches tend to be uncomfortable in the long run. Smaller cases means less metal contact with the skin and, for me at least, way more comfort as the weight is contained and with higher equilibrium. But again, to each their own of course. Our perception is quite subjective regards sizes but be aware that the Explorer was design to be on the smaller side.

[@markjosephbudgieridgard]

Listen guys don't waste your hard earned cash on this.... Go buy yourself an Alpha Explorer with the gorgeous blue dial and bullet proof miyota engine..... Looks and feels the same as this for under £100.... No brainer guys.... Rolex are overpriced, overrated, overhyped,.... 👍