Rolex Explorer Vs Hamilton Khaki Field - $500 Vs $5000 Wristwatch Review

[@Hyytekk]

I've had my Rolex Explorer II for 24 years and frankly never take it off, including sleeping and showering! I paid under $3k at the time and it's still worth double that now so proved to be a great investment. I love the weight, the look the durability and get frequently compliments. The down side? Periodically each cleaning is over $500! At the time, I wanted to reward myself and feel important. As much as this watch is an heirloom now and part of my identity, I would never spend so much on a watch now that I'm older and much less ego centric. All that being noted, I plan on buying either this Hamilton 38mm or the Murph 42mm which is 2mm larger than the Explorer II and to my eye has the look of a Panerai, which is also insanely priced for a watch with hardly any water resistance! I applaud your tight rope walk about quality and refinement. But I'll say flat out, most cheap quartz watches keep the same or superior time and what justifies anyone paying over $500 for any watch other than ego or trying to impress strangers. I see some Rolex and other brands costing 25 to 50,000 dollars and say, congratulations that you're so financially fluid. Precision and craftsmanship are appreciated by many of us. But folks, it just tells the time. Even the Hamilton's are perhaps overpriced for what they are but still much more justify-able. Value is relative as are our incomes. But thanks for being honest and walking the fine line of relative value if we are all perfectly honest with ourselves. Will the Hamilton last 24 years of daily wear and be worth double? It likely will still be functional then. But even if it isn't, it can be replaced for less than the cost of one Rolex cleaning.

[@Matt-sn2ub]

I think watches (along with things like clothes) are items that "anyone" can buy an expensive piece of no matter the income which is why so many people flock to them. Most professional class people could finance a $25k rolex - which so many do. Same thing with people buying designer shoes and clothes @ $1000 a pop. You don't have to be wealthy to buy the items. You just have to be willing to spend the cash on something frivolous that makes you seem to have money (even if you don't!). Idc how cool a watch is. Anything over a couple grand is insane!

[@stefanogoldoni5059]

And add the fact that 99.9% of the people that look at your wrist can't tell the difference between the two

[@KBD-ONE]

Hamilton is overpriced

[@anthonypipia6990]

Most Panerai have a water resistance of 300m, only the sports watches have 100m, and dress watches 30m

[@ADcrackerjack]

@@stefanogoldoni5059 doubt the percentage is that high. Many people know about watches.

[@HarryFlashmanVC]

I have a family. $4500 is a major family holiday which we can all enjoy. Its a no brainer for me.

[@fishmeister2625]

No major family holiday for you last year, so spend the money saved on a Rolex. (I'm sure the wife will understand).

[@Patrick-hc1nm]

@@fishmeister2625 memory’s last forever and make a life worth living - watches don’t do that.

[@jroobz]

The watch then?

[@bensmithkent22]

@@jroobz no brainer. Appreciates too.

[@NaviNavi-1uu8tg]

@@Patrick-hc1nmIf money is issue, I don’t understand people who pay expensive vacations to see random boring buildings and eat food there which is different or similar doesn’t matter. Visiting things like Pyramids is fine I can understand that. Anyway you come home, no money and what do you have from it except few photos lol. When you buy Rolex or a car you have this thing and use it, enjoy in it every day. I know people who don’t have money and take loans from bank so they can go travel 🤣🤣

[@MrJosev27]

I’ll just start by saying Both watches are excellent , and you won’t make a bad choice buying either one. I personally own Omega, have owned Rolex, and currently own this Hamilton and a brietling colt. Some of the higher end brands are over hyped, and offer little value over a Watch like the khaki field. That’s is what I stopped buying luxury watches and I’m only sticking with the ones I already own. The Hamilton Khaki field is a great timeless piece that doesn’t break the bank, but gives you tremendous bank for your buck.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching I appreciate it. I hope you enjoyed the video.

[@jaimeclifton9078]

I own both..... Quite honestly I get more enjoyment from the Hamilton...

[@evannussbaum1863]

Jaime Clifton That’s my algorithm for buying a watch. If I don’t think I’m going to enjoy it, then I don’t buy it. The fact that the Rolex doesn’t even have a date to me is mind-boggling and personally, if I had the choice, I would get the Hamilton and enjoy it more than a Rolex too

[@Zzzzalazar]

@@evannussbaum1863 lol do you know what a algorithm is? What you do is just a logical thinking, not algorithm LOL kids

[@GeraldTighe]

Have the Rolex, after seeing this will get the Hamilton too. Lovely watch, and actually prefer the 38mm to 39mm.

[@FlyingPancreas]

Very good vid. I own two identical Khaki Kings (silver dial) because I like the model so much & am too lazy to change out straps. Hamilton’s bang for buck is just insane. At the same time, the Explorer 1 is among my favorite Rolex models - love the simplicity of it. Interesting comparison.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching I appreciate it. Enjoy those Hamilton watches.

[@iscraper6008]

Nice comparison. I’ve just ordered a Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 38mm on brown leather. I found a good deal on it online. I will probably put it on a NATO and keep the strap for if I ever decide to sell it. I am looking forward to getting it although also apprehensive as I can’t really justify the cost. 😂

[@realblackbetty2204]

I think the explorer is one of the most versatile watch out there....can wear on the beach, bushes, desert, mountain, office, evening out or with a suit. It have the size and style for it.

[@JustBlueFish]

It's definitely versatile. Aesthetically one of the best designed watches. It is beautiful.

[@realblackbetty2204]

I was going to get the explorer but got the Tudor bb 36 instead. i have it up on my channel. I love that thing

[@JustBlueFish]

Tudor BB is a nice looking watch as well.

[@robertbulman1034]

Having just bought a Hamilton Kkaki Field I LOVE this review! I also own a Seiko SNZ field watch and I'm happy with that as well. I guess I need to get a Rolex next.

[@JustBlueFish]

There's always a next watch!

[@alexdoherty6810]

Purely as a product, the Hamilton is 80% of the watch the Rolex is for 10% of the price, Hamilton Khaki range is top quality value!

[@TheRazerlg]

Yeah but we don´t buy watches purely as a product, do you? Why don't you buy then a casio for 5$? You dont get 80% of the finishing and precision of the Rolex in the Hamilton.

[@Ferien7]

If you’re buying a Rolex for the watch itself, you’re wasting a lot of money. People know Rolex. People don’t know Hamilton. No one cares how the Hamilton compares.

[@major-Mihailo-Madzarevic]

@@TheRazerlg Yea, Hamilton is better .

[@alese7531]

@@major-Mihailo-Madzarevic not true. Popularity speaks for itself

[@jameswalker4947]

I also baby my watches for two reasons. #1, a scratch-free watch is much more satisfying to wear for me personally than one that is banged up. #2, if you ever decide to sell them you'll get a quicker sale and a much better selling price if they are LNIB. Great vid.

[@JustBlueFish]

Yeah I think it's always a good idea to try and take care of your watches, or anything for that matter.

[@samcleaver3315]

I agree that a Seiko will tell time and that they're decent watches, I have several. The Hamilton is a cut above, the Rolex is a cut above the Hamilton. It's not really about telling time, I have a smart phone and G-shocks that do that quite well. It's about the appreciation of the skill and craftmanship of the higher end watches. I don't own a Rolex, but I wouldn't rule out buying one if I had the money. Right now I have a few Omega's and I'm satisfied with that price point/quality.

[@madanotsob]

The Hamilton accuracy is not an anomaly from my experience. The Powermatic movements are laser regulated and mine is minus half a second a day.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@steven821130]

My Hamilton Jazzmaster also runs more accurate than my Omega Railmaster. Really like Hamilton this brand.

[@jeromepeters6935]

This was my concern about the lower beat rate, whether the accuracy suffered. It is telling that while Hamilton or Swatch doesn't certify these watches, I love the "over dealivering" for a rather modest price.

[@DIYivan04]

An often overlooked feature, the Rolex also comes with the billboard ads I see along the highway.

[@WatchmakerErik]

The rolex does look smoother-running and I love my 28,800 ETA-movement equipped Croton. But the 21,600 of the Hamilton is probably part of why it's power reserve is so high. :)

[@JustBlueFish]

Yeah, the 21.6 definitely helps give it an 80 hour power reserve. The previous generation Hamilton Khaki used a standard ETA 2824-2 which was 28.8 but had the 40'ish hour power reserve.

[@JungleEddie]

The H-10 is a modified ETA 2824 movement. They slowed down the rate, in part for the improved power reserve.

[@HRM.H]

The slowed down beatrate was to decrease deviation in the free sprung balance wheel as well.

[@PMS1950]

You should try the 36, 000 beat, Zenith El Primero movement if you enjoy a smooth sweeping seconds. Not only is it amazingly precise, it's made by a truly legendary watch company.

[@touchingevil2302]

Hamilton is the betrer watch, Hamilton is for people that love watches, Rolex are for people that want to show their watches.

[@jackwakeman148]

Thank you for being honest. You do much service to "ordinary" watch buyers like us,. More power!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks Jack glad you like the videos.

[@ashrafloskor]

Some differences are indeed visible i.e. ss, anti-reflective coating on sc and movement of the seconds etc. but Hammy can't be 10x lower than the Rolex on quality side.. a huge part of the price tag comes with the brand!!!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@JFinns]

The Hamilton desperately needs inner AR coating on the sapphire. Other than that, it's one of my favorite watches.

[@Not-a-bot222]

After way too many videos the passed few days I decided on the Hamilton khaki field auto with a brown leather strap. This is my first watch not bought at a PX or gas station. Thanks for the info I am ver y pleased with history of Hamilton and the quality to price ratio.

[@vicarious1028]

I have a Hamilton with the H30 movement. Its incredibly accurate. I might lose about a second in 24 hours. My buddy has 3 Rolexes. He said I just got lucky.

[@jakegwen2393]

Is the H30 movement an in house movement or is it like a modified ETA or something?

[@vicarious1028]

@@jakegwen2393 from what I understand its is an inhouse movement based on the ETA but modified a bit.

[@Archer335]

Hejxjcjdjdjcj Hdjfjfirjfjfjdjdjf, Both Hamilton and ETA are owned by the Swatch group.

[@formationit5039]

Great job on this comparison, really. I own 3 Hamilton watches and I love them for the rich historical connection to the American military, which is the genesis of wrist watches. They were created to be a military tool. I personally don't see the point of luxury watches. Seems to be a contradiction to me.

[@jharris947]

The 36mm Explorer is the perfect watch for me. Looks lovely, superb bracelet, great build quality and I find the bracelet is very comfortable. The 39mm Explorer looks too big and loses the style and balance of the 36mm. WTF is a Field Watch and how many people want or need one??? The Explorer is a lovely watch that you can wear anytime, with smart or casual clothes, and is one of the best designed watches ever. I have vintage and modern Omega and Rolex and my 36mm Explorer is by a long way my favourite of them all. Love it. The truth is...The Rolex is a Rolex. The Hamilton is a watch.

[@JustBlueFish]

They did something when they went to 39mm that messed up the style. Or maybe many things. The bezel is too wide, the dial to spread out, the overall proportions are askew.

[@jharris947]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews See what you mean about the large bezel, it looks like a submarine hatch😜 Also the hands look like they were taken straight from the 36mm and are too short for a 39mm dial. How the hell did they manage to f**k up the style and design of the classic 36mm? Looks like Rolex hadn't heard the old saying "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!"

[@randybrickson4290]

obviously the $5,000 Rolex isn't 10 times better than the $500 Hamilton. Just as a $5,000 guitar isn't 10 times better than a $500 guitar, or a $5,000 stereo isn't 10 times better than a stereo. That's because the marginal value is decreasing with dollars spent. That's an immutable law of value. The next unit of value becomes more costly to obtain.

[@JustBlueFish]

randy brickson well said, thanks for watching.

[@mikehendrix5473]

i like both watches im getting the hamilton which is a field watch the rolex is an understated dress watch if i could afford a rolex this is the model i would get as it doesnt have the date. most rolex watches are too blingy for me

[@yobolion]

I wouldn’t say it as value! It’s quality that becomes harder and more expensive but whether that adds any further value?

[@jasondismuke4837]

@@mikehendrix5473 selling a Rolex president for that reason.

[@scottknapp8984]

Economics major?

[@robcorrente6065]

The comparison will be even better between this super nice Hamilton and the Longines Spirit! ! Hope to see that match in your channel

[@coffeeboyclips1973]

I have both, the Longines is a much better watch, is cosc certified, screw down crown, better movement and build is up there with high end watches. The Hamilton is a watch I'll never sell, it has so much character and is fantastic for the money.

[@qrqrqr]

Rolex has the trait of instant recognition from a distance on top of the quality and classic timeless style. When I look at other lesser brands the first word that pops into mind is "cheap", though that may not be the case. Rolex has a look that's like a brand that has professionalism, luxury, strength, and perfection behind it.

[@JustBlueFish]

It's def a high quality product, without a doubt.

[@dougp.6108]

Totally agree. If money didn’t matter the Rolex is definitely a better made watch. However, for most people money does matter and the Rolex is not anywhere close to 10 times better than the Hamilton. Maybe 2-3 times. I bought a Seiko SARX055 and later the Grand Seiko snowflake that I really love and will probably never sell. But for value the SARX055 is a way better deal - by far. The finish and bracelet are only slightly lower quality than the snowflake. But the dial and smooth sweeping seconds hand are really beautiful to watch and look at. So, I paid an extra $4000 based on emotion, a better movement and dial. Crazy!

[@johnrideout7124]

How does one go about buying a Hamilton Field watch, and how much are they?.

[@chicodominicano]

I am thinking about buying my son this watch for his fist watch, he graduates from H.S. next year.. The Hamilton that is lol.. but the 42mm version. If he decides to join the service, then I will definitely get him this watch once he completes boot camp.

[@brucebush5744]

Thanks for the great review. I do love the Hamilton khakis as true field watches. Have just got one of the 2018 mechanicals and am very impressed with its accuracy. It’s all down to opinions, of course - but I feel that field watches should be designed with the expectation that they’re going to get bashed about. I’m not going to care if my Hamilton gets some scratches, it’s not a super valuable object and they won’t hurt the “look” of the watch. But I’d hate to bash up a 5K watch - which would make me very unwilling to use a Rolex as a field watch. The explorer is a lovely design, much more elegant than most Rolexes imo - but still wouldn’t be my first choice if I were ever to spend that much money on a truly special statement watch.

[@jimmason8502]

A Seamaster is the same price and is 5 X the watch (I'm referring to the Explorer). Mind you an Explorer is more my style but they're up to about $10-15,000 now if you can find someone to part with one

[@martinmaschine6492]

I received my Hamilton today and it is - from the first impression - very good. Nonetheless, they should have put more money on the bracelet. It's good, yeah, but it is not even Seiko Sarb 033/035 standard. I would have prefered to pay more to receive this great watch with a heavier, better polished bracelet.

[@josecunha2139]

Great video, but in my mind I compair the Explorer better to the Longines Conquest ref. L36764586, both 39mm. Great Bang per buck in my opinion.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching Jose. I haven't had a chance to check out any Longines closely. Hopefully one day I'll get one in to test and review.

[@formationit5039]

Also, my Hamilton Field mechanical is consistently 1 second fast per day and my X Wind automatic is 1-2 seconds fast per day. I think that is pretty good.

[@PMS1950]

My Hamilton khaki is an exceptional timekeeper and by far the best mechanical watch I've ever owned since I bought my first quality timepiece - a Cyma navystar - in 1967.

[@monkeyman8265]

I wish the Hamilton had more micro adjustments on the clasp though. I just can’t get a good fit either too big or too small but I like the bracelet even though I don’t wear it on the bracelet much because of the awkward fit.

[@JustBlueFish]

Take it to a jeweler and have them drill an extra hole or two, that's what I did. Cost me $30 bucks.

[@stefanogoldoni5059]

Same problem here. And making 3 or 4 more adjustments holes in the clasp would't have certainly made the watch more costly to produce. In the end I chose too big.

[@jroobz]

I tried on a khaki field automatic today. I can’t stop thinking about it

[@desjon6012]

I have this Hamilton on leather and will be soon purchasing a second one with the bracelet. I wanted an Explorer until I owned the Hamilton.

[@M82RKY]

Why not just buy a bracelet🤔

[@desjon6012]

@@M82RKY I purchased a bracelet after all, it was not cheap

[@chriscon8463]

@@desjon6012what bracelet did you get? Are you happy with it? I noticed Strapcode makes a bracelet for the Hamilton.

[@HarryFlashmanVC]

2 other options -Tudor Heritage Ranger - about $2000 or a Smith's Everest, about $350

[@JustBlueFish]

Very true, would be cool to get my hands on those.

[@deanwaller8283]

The ranger is a tad large though,but it is excellent

[@jdkimple]

As I understand it, the Explorer was a type of tool/field watch that was classy enough to be worn anywhere. To me, a field or tool watch should be able to take some abuse. The Explorer, as you mention, cannot do that without drawing a lot of scratches. Maybe a brushed finish to the case would help hide the scratches?

[@JustBlueFish]

Any watch can be a "tool watch", assuming it is tough enough to take the abuse the operator puts it through. That said almost no one is putting their Rolex watches through hard use and abuse. In my opinion Rolex aren't tool watches anymore - with the caveat that again anyone can beat up any watch if they want to.

[@jdkimple]

@@JustBlueFish I think that is a very accurate statement. Rolex has moved over the years from the tough, reliable tool watch to a Luxury brand.

[@zalsentzer]

Maybe the new Rolex OP (2018 black dial) fits that purpose? Brushed case and bracelet, clear dial w/ some lume, robust, no frills movement.

[@Para.Bellum]

Hi, You should absolutly vissit Your AD and get the Explorer regulated. I got the same watch and I get constant +1,5 sec/day wearing it on the wrist all time. The fact that You got a constant +3 indicates that You could get it regulated for a cnstant +1 -+2 witch is the sweetspot in my opinion.

[@JustBlueFish]

I ended up selling this Explorer and getting a Submariner 116610 recently. The Sub is keeping impeccable time, gaining about 1 second per week over the last month. These watches are capable of being VERY accurate.

[@julzmax956]

I think the Rolex is the more versatile watch of the two. If you put a croc leather strap on it, it can pass for a dress watch the the Hamilton can't and it can do also casual with a nato or calf leather strap. The Hamilton can only do casual but it has the field watch aesthetics on point. I love both of these. Which one is better, well that's for the user to decide. If I could afford it I would get both.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching and good points.

[@jersievers]

Also, the Explorer...doesn't need a category, it is it's own category. Just like the Rolex Sub, completely defines a diver.

[@jasonbenton7962]

I have both of these watches along with 10 others in all price ranges. The explorer is my favorite watch I’ve ever worn and the Hamilton is tied for third in my collection. These are both great and you can’t go wrong with either. And ironically, my bracelet opinion is the opposite to yours, the oyster is the only metal bracelet I’ll wear. Although at this point none of my watches are on bracelets due to really needing to wear rubber bands at work.

[@resolver388]

I agree with you that the Explorer scratches very easily. No idea how they get there....

[@JustBlueFish]

They pop up out of nowhere.

[@MTYi]

I have to agree that the Rolex is not 10 times better than the Hamilton. I have a Sub and I just bought the Hamilton khaki field and I gotta say they are both excellent watches 👍😃✨😋

[@JustBlueFish]

Congrats on the Hammy, it's still one of my favorites. I've since sold this Explorer and replaced it with a Submariner, but my opinion still stands. The Rolex is outstanding but the difference in quality between it and a Hamilton probably doesn't justify the price. Sure it's better, but the Hamilton watches I've had are great in their own right.

[@kingbmgable]

Got the Hamilton because of the price and the fact it is Automatic. Only at £430 with a Date and Day option.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching enjoy the Hamilton.

[@Tim0909]

Great choice, I'm saving for one too. Although if you're after a mechanical date and day operation there are still much cheaper watches

[@petervu9773]

how do you keep your clasp so clean ? any tips ? I try to be more mindful but still get annoying desk diving marks

[@aleone5685]

Very nice comparison. I don't think I've seen anything this thorough. I still REALLY want the Explorer.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching, if you haven't seen my independent Explorer review check that out. It's a beautiful watch, still one of my favorite designs of all time.

[@aleone5685]

JustBlueFish - I did watch it, initial impression and full review. Excellent videos. I think I can live with the little bits that bothered you. But I get your point, for that money (and it would be my most expensive watch) you want it to be perfect.

[@JustBlueFish]

Do you already have a Hamilton by the way? It's become my primary watch, I love it.

[@aleone5685]

JustBlueFish - I considered the Hamilton to scratch the field/explorer watch itch until I get the Explorer. But I ended up with the Alpinist, which I'm really happy with. Since I wear a sport coat or suit for work, my Nomos Tangente is my main daytime watch. But I believe the Explorer will dress up or down, that's one of the most appealing aspects.

[@aleone5685]

I should also mention that your Alpinist review helped me make that decision. So thanks.

[@vincewhite5087]

Don't forget with rolex you are helping pay for celeb endorsements, luxury minded people past times & get togethers. Plus execs & AD's. This has to come out of watch price.

[@JustBlueFish]

Someone has to do it!

[@davemckenzie7421]

You are right in saying it is not 10 x better but they never are. There are to many factors to take into consideration when choosing luxury watches. We all end up buying what we love in the end. I have a Hamilton and now I want this Rolex. Thanks for a great video

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching and commenting I appreciate it. Enjoy the Hammy!

[@stefanogoldoni5059]

Best review on this topic on youtube, the reason being your honesty and you fantastic taste. Happy to be a subscriber.

[@AmishNinjaMaster]

3:33 - 5:12 - - The Explorer was categorically designed by Rolex with specifications/tolerances for adventure/expeditions (in all altitudes/temperatures on land, as well as, underwater to 100M) - - and - - The Explorer summited Mount Everest (strapped to the wrist of Sir Edmund Hillary) ... Regardless, of whether The Explorer has a 'full array of indices' or not, there is no debate ... The Explorer is a FIELD WATCH ... The only debate is whether to pay $500 or $5,000 for a field watch, and that can only be answered by each person considering the purchase of a field watch.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching I appreciate it.

[@resjon7981]

Longines has more history than Rolex.

[@ronpower7790]

Like for other luxury goods you pay a lot for the brand and prestige. It should be seen as such...I think it just makes no sense in that case to look for things like materials, craftmanship etc. which could justifie a 5k or even 14k (2017 sky dweller) price tag on a comparatively simple watch like these. No one would try to argue that the quality, craftmanship, materialy of a 350 $ t - shirt of some fancy brand is the reason for that price tag.

[@JustBlueFish]

Ron I think you're correct, you're paying for the brand and the prestige, at least in part. That said I didn't buy a Rolex to be a status symbol, or to impress anyone. I wanted an extremely high quality timepiece. I think I got that, but I think it should have been half the price, if I had my way.

[@chr1s60]

Very nice comparison video. Both watches are nice in their own respect. When it comes to the difference in price with watches like these it boils down to a few main things, the movement, the materials, craftsmanship and the brand. The Rolex obviously wins all of those categories. The Rolex will always have a much better resale value, it has a much nicer and more reliable movement (even if less accurate, over decades it will hold up much better than the Hamilton), and the craftsmanship is much nicer. Plus, it says Rolex on the dial. It really just comes down to what you want in a watch. Neither watch is a bad choice for a watch , but either could the wrong choice based off what you want in a watch.

[@JustBlueFish]

chr1s60 thanks for watching and awesome commentary. I couldn't - and didn't - have said it better myself.

[@thekeeper5588]

These are my 2 fav watches lol,if i could only have 2 it would be the hamilton and the Explorer

[@marcdee4427]

The best field watch on the market is the iwc spitfire in my humble opinion, but very expensive

[@Enchiridion1891]

the crown size is the main reason why i like hamilton watches at 40-42mm range. they are far too big for 38-39mm sizes. in my opinion at least.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching and I agree the crown is too big. It’s not a deal breaker for me, obviously - but I would prefer something a bit more refined.

[@yeetiesandwheaties]

The Hamilton is a much better design to me.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching. There’s things I like about both designs, but I sold the Explorer and kept the Hamilton so I guess there is that.

[@andrewholt3849]

I've always liked the Rolex Explorer and you can see it's my Google + cover photo. In 1996 it was £1,300 in UK. I read that Timezone Walt Odetts story on what would've been one of those he took apart. I think Rolex is now one of the best value-for-money Swiss watches now. Got a GMT-Master II 116718 LN in April with money I inherited at the old pre-increase Nov 2016 UK RRP. I have the Rolex 5-year International warranty and give it the Rolex 25 turns each day partial wind and it was totally accurate over a 2 week period until I reset it to check the date change? It's half the retail price of a comparable Audemars Piguet or Patek Philippe and has a certain value being 18 ct but nowhere near the current scrap value. The dials are made of gold and lacquered as your Explorer is. The Chromalight won't work unless you've charged it by wearing it all day exposed to Ultra Violet. If I had the cash I'd get another, because they are half the retail of an AP.

[@JustBlueFish]

Andrew Holt thanks for watching, and enjoy the Rolex.

[@dobl-ys3jg]

I have both of these watches, albeit with a black leather strap on the Hamilton. I am enjoying the Hamilton, and will certainly wear it more than the Rolex, partly because the Rolex shows scratches so much!

[@timothymarchant]

The only thing holding me back with the explorer is the fact that it doesn't have the adjustable glide lock like the submariner. My Hamilton is consistently -5 seconds everyday

[@JustBlueFish]

I think the Explorer would have been just about perfect if it had an adjustable glide lock. The easy link extension is cool, in theory, but honestly it didn't work for me. No matter how I sized it, the fit was always a little off.

[@evolvedape9171]

For one Rolex I can have eleven or twelve Hamiltons at today's prices. I can wear a new Hamilton every three years and it would take me 36 years to go thru all 12 Hamiltons.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@Zain.Basi1]

I loved that calculation lol! You are so right

[@buckm1530]

If I had 12 Hamiltons it would probably take me about ten days to go through them all. lol

[@johnzeppfelix]

You nailed it!! My Hamilton is more accurate than bothe my Rolex and Omega... for the price range, someone is better off with a Hamilton... have it serviced every 5 year, The Hamilton will last the rest of your life. Look at all the 100 year old Hamiltons out there... still running like a gem...

[@carlosdelacadiz6658]

Hamilton is the cooler looking piece but both are nice.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching!

[@sebastiandavies7321]

Yes i dont agree that the rolex is necessarily better looking. Different - Its maybe more clean and versatile in the sense thar it has a dressy look but the tooley look of the hamilton gives it a certain casual appeal- thats my 2 cents. Good video

[@fkurcik]

Nice review. I like the date complication on Hamilton which adds to the functionality. I guess they could improve this model with better water resistance. Can you make a review of Tudor North Flag?

[@JustBlueFish]

Frantisek Kurcik thanks for watching and the comments. I don't have any Tudor watches, but I'd love to review several of their watches. Maybe someday.

[@Not-a-bot222]

New to watches. Is 100m not considered “good”? To me that’s a hell of a swim.

[@robertbackus1196]

I agree man the Rolex awesome! But you can't beat the khaki's good looks with swiss actresses & hamilton true millatary filed back ground besides i just bought one ".

[@f2mel2]

AD's tout 911 steel as harder, more scratch resistant if my memory is correct. The outer markers on the Hamilton along with the 15 30 45 60 markers can go. It's a bit busy. Never lusted after an Explorer. Always end up looking at the Hamilton offerings.

[@BeyondWrittenWords]

Hamilton is right now 427$ = 346EUR = 299£ at ebay with shipping. I never liked the geriatric feel of Rolexes, this one being maybe their least geriatric model, but still.

[@JustBlueFish]

You're calling it geriatric, meaning what exactly, that Rolex is an old person's brand/watch? I'm not sure what you're getting at because other than perhaps some of the more dressy models like the DateJust and DayDate, I don't get that feeling from any of their sports model watches.

[@jersievers]

The oyster bracelet on the Rolex has fused links, the hamilton has separated links...more points of flex, like a jubilee (in a sense). The reason it is more comfortable.

[@resjon7981]

Should have included the Longines Conquest Auto in this comparison as it has a screw down crown unlike the Hamilton.

[@JustBlueFish]

Don't know anyone with a Longines I could borrow unfortunately.

[@flyingrocket3879]

Hamilton just look’s better to me.

[@Mrv958]

I just found your channel and I really enjoy your watch reviews. Please keep it up!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks I appreciate the feedback. Glad you like it.

[@billymania11]

Honestly I think the reviewer is stretching things a little. I dont see the Rolex being much better than the Hamilton. Of course if I spent 5000 bux on the Rolex I would invent reasons to justify my purchase as well. The Hamilton is obviously the correct buy.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@louis6720]

Actually I think the Rolex is more than 10 times better than the Hamilton. While I could daily wear the Rolex and properly enjoy it, the Hamilton would make feel pleb. Some of my coworkers would probably laugh behind my back. I'd rather not wear a watch at all, so it's worthless for me.

[@bennydubya1]

Props to Hamilton. Seven years later and the watch has hardly changed. If it ain't broke don't fix it. Looks great, yes they have done some very slight changes but still look the same.

[@CaptainRon956]

I daily wear a 38mm khaki auto & the only “wear” I’ve noticed were very fine scratches on the polished bezel & bracelet. That is normal use & to be expected. If you buy a watch and are so worried about getting a scratch on it then perhaps you made a purchase beyond your financial means just sayin’ 😊

[@planetdee3587]

I am a large fan of the Hamilton field watches and I think having all the numbers for hours, minutes, military time makes telling time so much easier on a glance. You dont realize the insignificant brain power used to calculate indices into numbers until you use a watch that has both hours and minutes displayed in writing.

[@JustBlueFish]

I sold the Rolex and kept the Hamilton if that tells you anything. I miss it sometimes but I do love the Hamilton.

[@ronb4115]

The things that annoy me with brands like Hamilton is the small design changes that wouldn’t take much effort except having designers to notice. The seamless integration between the case and the bracelet for example on the Explorer makes it look perfect, the Hamilton could have done that. The bracelet taper doesn’t need to be extreme but Hamilton could have gone from 20 to 17 or 16.5.

[@desjon6012]

Good review but the perfect Rolex Explorer comparison/homage is the Longines Conquest Classic.

[@JustBlueFish]

It's a shame they only offer a 34mm and a 40mm version. I don't think I'd like either size.

[@resjon7981]

@@JustBlueFish The Longines Conquest is another good Explorer homage and comes in 39mm

[@talister106]

Two nice watches, whatever your budget is you can't go wrong with either.

[@porschephile2k3]

The bracelet on the Hamilton is very comfortable because of more articulation, whereas the Explorer seems to not have any between the center and side links. Anyway, the sizes seem very similar between the 2. Is the Explorer really 39 mm or is the Hamilton really 38? Have you tried measuring using calipers?

[@MattGDesign]

The explorer could just be called a sports watch. The fact that it's more polished wouldn't fit as well with a traditional field watch.

[@HarryFlashmanVC]

Traditional field watches really need to have 12 arabic numerals in a legible font.

[@lowersaxon]

I think your judgement is very balanced and justified. But look at the dial of the Explorer. Its got that Rolex typical deep shine of value and quality. Even people without any knowledge of watches would guess that the Rolex is a top quality time piece.

[@KBD-ONE]

Maybe the Hamilton is actually better. Maybe it is THAT accurate.

[@tomoyukifukushima5588]

Yes, Hamilton is wonderful. Even if Rolex’s price were 1/20, I wouldn’t buy it.

[@achimkohlhage1328]

No doubt its Rolex winning most. Its just the pricelevel, which not many dare to afford. My 1st Rolex was purchased 1973, beating 21.600 n compared to Hamiltons of today, they're at the level of 1973 Rolex and btr... 1973 my Rolex Submariner cost Deutschmark 2.200 or 4 13K in 2019. The true winner is Hamilton!

[@aspiringnormie9499]

Disagree on the black dial being a field watch requirement. Also I would say hands down the explorer 1 is the pinnacle field watch.

[@aspiringnormie9499]

I agree with your conclusion. I own the khaki field,; wearing it now on nu-bond nato.. But that dial truly can not be beat.

[@rockysrider5352]

Im going do disagree with your thought on accuracy... seems to me the Rolex at +3spd without any variance is the clear winner ... a watch that swings +10 one day to - 7 another.... is neither accurate or precise. I dont own a Rolex... but thats why they go through the COSC certification.

[@JustBlueFish]

Brad Snyder very true, but I've never experienced a watch that would run +10 one day and -7 the next. Small variations sure but nothing like that, and I keep close tabs on the performance of all my watches while they are in rotation.

[@rockysrider5352]

Ok.... maybe an extreme example... none of my watches run like that either.... point is, if I had a watch that would run like a Rolex with no variance like yours.... that is perfect accuracy.

[@MetalsForBrunch]

Brad Snyder to pay $4500 more for few second accuracy seems ridiculous. this Rolex marketing really drives up the price.

[@madanotsob]

That's not what he said. If you lay it the same way every night the accuracy is better than the Rolex. Mine is that's for sure. Minus 30 seconds in two months.

[@zoki0407]

I own the Hamilton it is a good watch but Rolex quality is excellent.

[@JustBlueFish]

freezi I kept the Hamilton and sold the Rolex. The Rolex is a much higher quality watch, but as I said in the video, it's not really 10x better than the Hamilton.

[@BTandKM111]

Nice,. Always thought black is a forever color.

[@fteambjj]

And here i got me a sarb017, snk809 and the snzg15k1 field watches.

[@victorio681]

Tengo este Hamilton Khaki field pero en su versión de 42mm. Precio en España este Black Friday 558€. Poco más que añadir respecto a su precio, brutal. Elegir entre este Hamilton que con humildad absoluta digo que tiene una precisión de -1seg/day o este Rolex para que mí es más austero y simple por 5000€…..? Es como si me dices que me vendes dos barras de pan, y elija entre una un poquito inflada y otra por la que tendré que pagar como si invitara a 50 comensales a comer. Rolex se ha subido a la parra más alta y lo peor es que la culpa no es de ellos sino de sus flipados compradores. Saludos amigos

[@JinKee]

those prices are so nostalgic

[@ganck1147]

Hamilton should just slap in a double AR coated crystal and the watch would look so much nicer.

[@ROrneli]

Rolex is worth that much because you are paying for the name on the dial and that is it.

[@erikwilliams5684]

Your Hamilton is awesome in many ways, dial, bracelet, etc!!! 👍👍👍

[@JustBlueFish]

the Hammy has become one of my all time favorites. I sold the Rolex and to be honest I do miss it, and have some regrets, but I just wasn't 100% happy with it. While the Hamilton might not be perfect in a vacuum, it's really hard to beat for the price.

[@erikwilliams5684]

JustBlueFish I agree with you! You have excellent taste in Watches! 😉👍

[@Oozywolf]

Wow, that's pretty crazy that out of the two, the Hamilton is the one you kept. That's really awesome. Been looking at a lot of Hamiltons. Definitely going to be the next brand I buy from.

[@JustBlueFish]

Oozywolf, for me it came down for the amount of value you get for the price. The Hamilton isn't perfect, it's not as good as the Rolex in most regards, but when you take into context that it's under $500 it's a great value. On top of that I really like field watches in general so it was a easy decision to keep the Hamilton. Deciding the sell the Rolex wasn't an easy decision, I'm not even sure yet if it was the right one, but I'm sure this Hamilton (perhaps others in the future) will be in my collection for a long time.

[@brianhsin678]

i can relate to what you said about easy scratching on rolex steel. It is especially apparant on the high polished areas. When it finally comes time to polish they can make it look brand spanking new by barely taking any metal while polishing, this i heard from my watchmaker. I would have to give longevity to Rolex steel.

[@JustBlueFish]

You know, it's not just the fine scratches that concern me but the dings and divets that seem to show up out of nowhere and are fairly deep. Without removing a lot of metal I don't see those ever getting polished out. I'm not sure why this steel is so soft?

[@phillyskate16]

whats crazy is my hamilton khaki king is plus almost less than a second a day

[@JustBlueFish]

Yeah the new H series movements seem to be quite accurate.

[@brainix]

I've had my eye on the Rolex Explorer for a while now. But the more videos I see, the happier I am with my one-watch collection: my Swatch SISTEM51. :-) Thanks for the video.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@stevek8829]

Explorer is by definition a "field" watch. It's in the name.

[@iaido01]

And the hamilton khaki is used in WW2 and vietnam so it is proven a solid watch.

[@M82RKY]

The Rolex is twice as good as the Hammy........ That being said it certainly isn't 5x as good. The only reason to go for the Explorer IMO is the fact its a Rolex, the Hamilton is fantastic value.

[@dariot707]

I don’t get it, I don’t see the differences other than aesthetics and a better finished movement in Rolex. I’d buy the Hamilton 99% of the time over the Rolex for the value Swiss made. Now if I was a person of money than yes if $5k is like 500 to me now I would buy the Rolex because I can.

[@jsnyder0512]

No disrespect meant, just wondering. The replicas are really good these days. If not real what is it, a Noob?