Still The Best Rolex In 2024? What Makes The Explorer Classy - Ft. Seiko Alpinist & Omega Seamasters

Today I share part 1 of 2 videos all about the Rolex Explorer. In this episode 1, I analyze what makes the Explorer the classiest and best Rolex of all time, what made it such a compelling design, and how it inspired so many other great watches, including the most important Omega Seamasters and Seiko Alpinist watches. Even to this very day, new models from both brands still reference the foundations laid by Rolex. Case in point, the new for 2023 Seiko Alpinist (ref. SPB409) and the Omega Planet Ocean 75th Anniversary (ref. 215.30.40.20.03.002) watches. But beyond the Rolex brand's ongoing influence in terms of watch design, I delve a little deeper with a look at some of my own personal heroes, and why this particular Rolex embodies a far deeper connection to British culture of the 20th century, Hollywood stars of the Golden Age like Robert Mitchum, and pop and style icons like Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music fame. It's also the real James Bond watch and choice of 007's creator Ian Fleming himself, and was famously worn by fictional TV ad exec, the dapper Don Draper. But more importantly, what do you think? Is the Explorer still the classiest and best Rolex in 2024? Please share in the comments.
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[@creato938]

Nothing better than an Urban Gnetry episode on a Friday, an insightful episode full of history one of of my favorite Rolex models, also the edit is top notch as always.

[@MattSeesGray]

I stopped watching a Nico Leonard video because TGV uploaded and I’m part of the notification gang. This channel always has class quality content. 🤝

[@ijrm37]

100%, Nico Leonard is a shouty pretentious idiot….TGV all the way

[@patrik3450]

Two very different styles and personalities

[@basvleeskruyer]

Nico who? 😂

[@hellper198]

I used to watch Nico's videos, when he was mainly "fake watch spotting". Nico's shtick of attaching a price tag to everything is quite tiresome, now.

[@MattSeesGray]

I watch a stupid amount of watch content. I watch Nico purely for entertainment. I watch TGV’s channel for history and education and non-biased watch opinions (which is pretty rare on YT)

[@christianfoster2433]

As a fellow Englishman I tip the rim of my top hat to you Sir and congratulate you once again on a refined, seemingly simplistic and elegant presentation. I'm new to the appreciation of your channel and to the watch collecting community although I've had a few beauty's (watches that is well and the other sort of aesthetic magnificence) in my time without having genuinely appreciated their value or historical importance. Top hole old chap and thank you for creating such splendidly captivating content.

[@PeterHitchens-d6x]

"Top hole?!" How do you know that?

[@gazz501]

Have both a 2010 114270 and a 2023 124270 and though the 124 is slightly more legible the 114 is far more comfortable with the low profile clasp. The 114's proportion of the bracelet to the case is also more visually pleasing to my eye. This watch is pure class, form and function. And one of the few prestige watches that looks good showing its age with scuffs and scratches. The one caveat is the less than great legibilty in low light, but then my eyes aren't what they used to be.

[@tonythomas2510]

This was incredible T. Incredible. As a fellow brit, the way you tell the history of what it means to be British through the explorer is incredible. It's, undoubtedly, one of the most significant watches ever made. As for me, my general idea of a four watch collection is junghans max bill as daily beater, navi as chrono, santos as GADA, and gold reverso as haute horology dress watch. No better statement of being British than the reverso.

[@adk7962]

It’s bonkers that you coined all those phrases. Well done. Wait those mugs are for sale?! Never thought I would enjoy a history lesson on Rolex so much… looking forward to Part 2.

[@jameshoward9700]

Oh My Days... a 2 part-er on the Explorer! Immense! Such a classy watch. Quietly brilliant.

[@VIVsVeiws]

As an average American, I can appreciate fine craftsmanship like the Rolex Explorer even if high-end watches are out of my budget. My grandfather won and later lost a Rolex on a dice roll which accurately sums up a lot of his life. For that reason the brand reminds me of him. The Explorer has a dial matching my hometown area code, represents enduring family memories that no price tag can match. We all splurge on some luxuries, whether a nice car or the latest tech gadget, but a $10,000 watch is hard to justify when many still struggle to afford necessities. I hope to one day be able to afford an Explorer to honor my grandfather's memory. However, even as I find career success, I don't want to lose perspective or compassion for those less fortunate. Owning luxuries doesn't preclude giving back. If possible, I will consider donating to charity alongside such a meaningful, if extravagant, purchase. More than projecting status, I want my grandfather's watch to represent values like family bonds and community caring.

[@HydrogenAlpha]

As an average Brit, I’m reminded of a quote by Clement Attlee: “Charity is a cold grey loveless thing. If a rich man wants to help the poor, he should pay his taxes gladly, not dole out money at a whim.” We have a fairly high tax rate here, and a welfare state, which I think is in contrast with the American system. Once I’m done paying my taxes, what’s left is mine. I’ll definitely be getting myself one of these little beauties one day. It demonstrates a lot of community spirit on your part that you still feel the need to contribute after you’ve paid your due, but I get that we have slightly different cultures.

[@HydrogenAlpha]

@derdummeasi You missed the last part of what I wrote, chief, or you just enjoy taking things out of context so you can virtue signal on the internet? He's not some Southern Belle and you need to jump in and defend his honour. Christ. Respectfully.

[@VIVsVeiws]

I comprehend both viewpoints. The majority of my tax money is spent on funding proxy wars, while the general public is left to deal with the consequences of widespread pharmaceutical abuse on the streets. There undoubtedly comes a time when one must acknowledge that, despite the overall tragedy of life, there is no justification for denying oneself the things one desires and is capable of obtaining. I reside in a university town where everyone would recognize a Rolex, but if I wore a JLC Reverso, they would be unaware of its value. The Explorer's understated elegance appeals to me, but the crown will inevitably attract the attention of those who are desperate or envious.

[@HydrogenAlpha]

@@VIVsVeiws yup - of all the Rolexes, this has to be one of the stealthiest. Plus it’s just so classy. I’m glad secondary market prices have collapsed - it’s becoming much safer to wear these again. I wouldn’t give a second thought to wearing an explorer out and about anymore.

[@VIVsVeiws]

If I find a 39mm for 6000k out the door I'll snag that right away. I've been looking at this 1 watch for 4 years now and have far more than enough to pull the trigger

[@wescobts]

As always another great video. There is not a Rolex AD near me, a few hours drive. I have taken a lesser path and I chose the Seiko 241 with the cream dial as my Explorer alternative. I did put it on a brown leather strap and it has served me very well. I did have to have it regulated after 6 months of wear and now it really keeps good time. 38 mm case size, 200 meters of water resistance, approx. 70 hours of power reserve, sapphire crystal, this simple and elegant watch fits me. I do have a few divers, but less is more.

[@jipke]

That"s great. For me, my 37mm Longines Spirit fulfils that role. Not as a 'second best' or alternative, but simply as a solid, everyday explorer-type watch that stands on its own.

[@AmritKumar-hp1rv]

I was drawn in to the watch hobby/ addiction/ madness after watching tgv many years ago. Always detailed, consistent, unbiased content and not cash grabbing. I would never have gotten into watches otherwise. Thank you for everything. Fyi, no such thing as a final grail!

[@markrobertparker]

THREE PEOPLE JUST DIED THEIR HAIRSTYLIST AT WHITESPOT

[@lickerishtuna6449]

My first and only Rolex to date is an explorer. I bought the new 40mm for my 40th, and took my son with me for the AD experience. All of those elements combined means the explorer will always have a place in my heart and my collection. Pure class 👌🏼

[@ventascleanman4785]

friday night, raining outside a nice german beer and a tgv video what more can I ask for!

[@brianingresham79]

i couldn't agree more about the dial being the best ever. the explorer is my favorite watch of all time

[@heikowallauer]

Good evening TGV, great to see you're back with one of those OG Gentry topics. On my opinion the Explorer is the foundation where so many other designs drew inspiration from, like my Sinn 556a for example. That said, we are lucky to choose if we go with the original or if we go with a, let's say, with an alternative, for example the Tudor Ranger. Have a great evening! Best regards!

[@theurbangentry]

Very good point and observation. Love the Tudor suggestion too. Have a great evening too my friend, chin chin and thank you as always, 😎🥂 Best regards right back at you! TGV

[@KeepingWatchUK]

One of my favourites from the crown, too. Recently picked up the 40mm. All the best TGV.

[@dgdave2673]

Awesome, just came from the other popular channel that peddles watches, this one is so refreshing! Wow 😊

[@robvale7692]

Can't wait for more future TGV colabs with Squale and Islander. I'm loveing the designs ❤️‍🔥

[@kenpoultonjr]

Friday night in Manhattan + TGV + Vino = a great start to the weekend. I am between an OP 41 and the new AirKing right now. Explorer is a close second - cheers!

[@PeterHitchens-d6x]

AirKing? You're joking, right?

[@tomroeder7348]

Another good video, cheers. I think you should keep that Explorer. As you know, the ebbs and flows of watch collecting and the "what I like" are an impossibly moving target. Also, cheers to Moyer for supporting your channel. As a native Hoosier, I love that they are giving something back to the watch community.

[@bennyboy0077]

Always a joy to watch your videos. Your intros are pure class! From a fellow Brit in NYC still enjoying his 10th year honeymoon period !

[@Czeron01]

This channel is pure class

[@dannyg6592]

A brilliant, informative & entertaining episode. And the 36mm Explorer is a brilliant, iconic watch. I've always wanted one and am proud to own and wear a 124270. It is timeless, sporty and classy. And the easiest analog watch to quickly and accurately tell the time with. Cheers!

[@The_whit3_rav3n]

This felt like a OG episode.

[@markbolton7561]

The Explorer is nice, but I don’t know how anyone can put on a Daytona of almost any configuration and think the Explorer is better!

[@briantimberlake3114]

Bought my Explorer 1 new in 1979 for approximately $700. In 1997 I sent it to Rolex NY for servicing $300. Shortly after that, still in 1997, I was strapped and sold my Explorer for $1200. Damn. Still miss that watch!

[@mandalorefrancais]

Dear Tristano, Thanks a lot for this master class video. A pleasure to watch for me, and a lot of work for you. Loved your editing, it is getting even better with time. Pure class ! Best regards, Alexandre

[@Bhethar]

Dear Tristano, the one thing I envy more than your exquisite watch collection, is your editing style.

[@HawaiianHorology]

Classy as always! The Explorer will always be one of the most versatile watches that can be worn on any type of strap my personal favorite is on a bond style nato or a yellow and black parachute type strap.

[@markgilbertson1564]

I find it too plain. Almost dull. I don't see many Rolex owners wearing these. Explorer 2 is far more popular.

[@HawaiianHorology]

@@markgilbertson1564 I think the 3 6 9 numerals give it that little extra it needs to standout if you look at it next to the OP or datejust. When compared to the explorer II it does seem a little dull but these watch are completely different and I'm not exactly sure why and how these two watches are given the same name?

[@johnviano4584]

Hi TGV, always enjoy your videos about the Explorer. Your early videos inspired me to buy my 39mm version. It flies under the radar as you say and fits my personality so well. I will always keep mine but good luck with your decision to keep yours or not. Thank you for leading me to mine. Best regards, John

[@Crazy_Joe_Davola]

I bought my 39 Explorer (mk2 version with the properly sized hands) as soon as it was released and I still love it. So versatile and wears well with anything.

[@Paul_F_C]

Fantastic video as usual , I’m a Brit who is a direct descendent of Sir George Everest so i have always had a fascination with Everest so I have a birth year Rolex Explorer from 1970 and also I bought the new Explorer 36mm in 2022 so the Explorer is by far the most versatile and legible watch and to add stunning at the same time , I would like to know what the posh dinosaur thinks of the watch lol

[@markjonz]

I hope you decide to keep the Explorer as it seems to be very significant to you as part of your watch collecting journey. Myself I have the 114270 and the 124270, but it’s hard to part with the older reference as it was my first.

[@financeguy4859]

Very nice bit of Rolex history and extremely well produced. I have to say I feel the Explorer II is all the same qualities of the Explorer as noted in this video, only done slightly differently and with more of the functions I need. I’ve always found the Explorer II to be the ultimate all around Rolex if I could only have just one.

[@macotignola1]

Great video and spot on why I love this watch. I finally pulled the trigger in 2022 and it was the best decision I ever made from a watch perspective. I have several watches but this one gets the most wrist time no doubt. Can’t wait for part #2!

[@m.e.p.r]

Very surprised to hear that you’re letting this classic go. When I think of the Explorer, I think of this channel. But as we say in the UK, onwards and upwards

[@theurbangentry]

I still have not decided to be fair, I will decide in part 2 😉 Thank you, I am honored to be associated with such a watch. O&U indeed my friend. Best regards as always, TGV P.s. KZbin tells me you hit like, so extra thanks my friend.

[@TheShane209]

Perfect blend of elegance and utility imo. Youre videos over the years have made it my true grail watch. Seiko needs learn some watches don’t need a date window, it ruins the dial symmetry in my opinion. Those are just my opinions on things. Thanks again for the videos TGV!

[@cookielemons]

I have the Seiko 5 SNK393 version and love it. My inspiration for buying it was Tom Selleck in the first few seasons of Magnum, p.i., who wore the Momentum Sea Quartz 30, but it's too big for my wrist and less formal.

[@markusk6169]

"Hans Wilsdorf turning in his grave like a watch winder." No, we don't want that to happen! Thanks for making me chuckle on numerous occasions during this outstanding video. Greetings from a happy Explorer wearer, current version 36mm.

[@Mr.CellophaneHart]

The Hugo show my favorite!

[@P9o1]

You can see the effort that goes in to these videos. Always look forward to the next one, thank you 👍

[@BAF605]

Watched an interview with Roger Smith yesterday. He was wearing his Explorer. My favourite is the Polar GMT 42mm.

[@DavidClarke-kj5ky]

he was wearing a black dial Explorer II 42mm?

[@BAF605]

It was an Explorer 1.@@DavidClarke-kj5ky

[@armadillodreamin]

Your enthusiasm for the Explorer rubbed off on me to the extent that I bought my own. Of course, we don't all have Rolex money, so my own personal Explorer is the Zeno Super Precision. Wonderful watch at a price point more friendly to us on the lower end of the market.

[@Deadhansome]

I've never been into the whole Rolex vibe but I do like the Explorer and lately I've been eyeing up the air king. I love the clean dial and beautiful lines of the case

[@hatteras33]

It's been on my list for a while. I think it will stay there. It's a goal of mine to be able to get an explorer for my 30th. Been enjoying your content for years.

[@HORIZONTIMEPASSIONEOROLOGI]

I saw William Shatner wearing more than one watch on the same wrist, in an interview he even wore 3 on the same wrist... it would be nice to give him an interview about his watch collection, I know he has some really wonderful ones

[@Jordandagostino]

The Rolex explorer is TGV if you were a wristwatch. I really hope you don’t get rid of it! Great video nevertheless

[@j_mitch_85]

Great video, thank you. Been saving diligently for an explorer but recently got side-tracked by a BB 58 and I'm in love. Very much enjoy the journey regardless. Also been rocking that mug for a couple of months now 👊

[@jeffreyc5963]

Another engaging video from the man who inspired my interest in watches! Art, culture, design, history and technology. Loving Japan, I got the Alpinist reissue -only 1959 made and…”pure class” at that. Thanks TGV!

[@Ben-yw8be]

I own the two tone. It is my favorite daily wear. Sporty yet classy.

[@wescobts]

BTW, if you trade or sell your Explorer, I would opt for a new one, with all the numerals lumed. A classic is always a classic.

[@summerlinpublic5673]

You are Pure Class old boy! I have been watching for years and it just keeps getting better! On wards and upwards!

[@warrenbrenner4972]

Awesome INTRO man !

[@davehan241]

18:58 "Wristwatch...CHRONOMETAAAAH!" 🧐😂 Always bringing the wry humor on top of the personal passion and historical backdrop. Your old explorer video was why I got my 39mm. It's been beat up pretty good now and is what I wear most of the time. It actually fell onto the cement sidewalk when one of the steel bracelet screws (which consistently loosened) fell out without my noticing. 😱 Gouge on the front case and stopped working. Fortunately it was still under warranty and so I dropped it off at a local AD and got it back in 1-2months. The damage was maddening to look at, especially since it wasn't some interesting scar off on some adventure, but by now it's beaten up enough and I've done enough exploring with it where I don't dwell on it. The understated functional beauty of the watch wins out. I don't feel a need to own another watch, though there are many I'd like to get if I could. It's just part of me now. That's also why I can't imagine you getting rid of yours because it's so tied to your watch journey and channel's growth. If I had the mkI like yours, I think I would feel the pull to upgrade to the newer ones...but the sentimental side of me feels like it's a bad decision to part with it. Regardless, I must thank you TGV for sharing your watch passion and helping me to find my lifelong one-and-done watch. There may be others in the future, but this one is my favorite.

[@WorldandWatches]

Another Great Great Work of Art! Love your work. Just got an Vintage 1990er Datejust White Dial Roman Numbers. You cant get more class than this!

[@theurbangentry]

My day is made, thank you 🙌🙌🙌 Best regards, TGV

[@David_10157]

Pure Class! I have an ‘89 DateJust 16220. It can easily be a one and done if you have both an Oyster and a Jubilee bracelet to swap between.

[@WorldandWatches]

@@David_10157 Yeah! I got the 16234 and a Milgauss 116400GV would be an amazing 2 Watch Collection!

[@NandoFojo]

Not only is the content top notch! (As always). I'm also digging the new video format.

[@BongoManal]

Wonderful video! Reminds me of the two part epics you did in the past. Thank you for the amazing work!

[@spuppy852]

The Explorer dial with the triangular marker at the 12 has roots in Rolex's "Error Proof" dial designed way back in 1942, which used a combination of Roman and Arabic numerals. In 1953, the Explorer combined this 12 marker with Arabic numerals at 3-6-9 and bars for the rest, and the Submariner replaced the numerals with dots. BTW I think the Submariner predates the 50 Fathoms by a few years, but that might be for another video... I think the first watch to use this was the Rolex ref 3646, made for Panerai during WW2, as Panerai could not produce their sandwich dials under occupation. These watches were made for the occupiers by Rolex, a part of their history they very much would like to keep in the dark. They would deliver them to Italy with engravings wiped out.

[@TheWatchFrame]

Great video with a lot of history and facts for all to consider. As you already know I'm kind on the verge of probably selling the 124270 for several reasons some of them having to do with the fact that I believe this reference doesn't really live to the standards of the 1016 and some of the other more modern references, including yours. The 19mm wide lugs and the strange tab on the side of the case where it meets the end link, make it feel like it's not intended to be an adventure or exploring watch by any means. It's a great watch with beautiful proportions but some of the decisions Rolex consciously made really make no sense for the Explorer. Besides that I have other personal concerns about maintenance cost and the inherent price of a watch you don't want to really hit against a rock while climbing a mountain I have been going through in my last video. Looking forward for your next video about this. Thanks!

[@timedwards8171]

So well written and presented, I’m looking for a ghost writer for my life story , are you busy ??

[@chucksneed3339]

Which typewriter do you have? Looks like its time to change that ribbon, I recommend a silk ribbon.

[@shaunmartinohagan]

Great video. Considering pulling the trigger on the Nivada Grenchen Super Antarctic 38mm soon. Thanks, TGV.

[@theurbangentry]

I can't recommend that brand enough. I am sure you will love it. Let me know how it goes. Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@Leo-Crespi]

This is the only way I know I could have digested a video about Rolex.

[@josephgittos3787]

Strange how I didnt like this watch many years ago and now in my 50s I just love its simple smart design. Its a strap monster that reminds me of my Omega speedmaster.

[@ElectricShadowsZone]

A great video essay. Just so you know, I coined the term "watch monster" as in this strap is a real watch monster. 😀

[@luccallemeijn3722]

Dear TGV, I want to give you my thoughts on to whether you want to give up the Explorer in favor of your ultimate (and until now still unknown) grail watch. Maybe I will learn more about your criticisms on the explorer in the part II of this video, and I am almost dreading to hear about it, not because it is a flawless watch, or because of the fact that I am a Rolex fanboy (I am certainly not). My reason is because I think that your Explorer has become more to you than merely a wristwatch. For me, when I started watching your video's and became a subscriber during the Covid pandemic (or as you would say donkey's years ago), the Explorer was always the defining piece in your collection, the one I aspire to own one day. I also know that you are evolving as a person, and that is one of the reasons why you have also passed on your Brosnan Seamasters (Mid-size is and will always remain the best way to go for the small-wristed gentry) in the past. However, I do think that your Explorer is more than merely a watch for one to enjoy. I think your Explorer is the bedrock of your collection, the starting point of this wonderful career on KZbin, and I think it is more akin to a loyal friend, than that it is a wristwatch. I fully understand the want (and need) to pull the trigger on your true grail, and I wish that you can receive it as soon as possible, and I can't wait on the amazing video you will make on this piece. You definetely deserve that. However, even more than with the Brosnan Seamasters or the Speedmaster (and you have expressed this buyers remorse earlier during several of your videos on both watches respectively), this watch has been special. Yes, you can buy the aforementioned grail, and I am sure that you will enjoy the watch for the future, but when you sell this specific Explorer, you will never be able to buy this exact watch back. You will find the same reference for sure, but this watch will forever escape your wrist. I would therefore suggest an alternative. Save up, for a month, a year, a decade more, and get your grail. But don't let this companion go just yet as I am afraid that when you sell this Explorer, you will find that it has been your secret grail all along. The kindest of regards, and best wishes. Luc

[@micheldepaula8733]

Great episode! Got to your channel around 2016, you were a pioneer for sure! Tudor Ranger does it for me. Rocking a blue Glycine Combat Vintage for now.

[@chateaubullion2560]

Back in 2015 I purchased a 214270 and while it's a versatile watch and I do like it, but my favorite Rolex is my 1991, 16610 Sub. I had the Sub for almost 25 years, and I still like it best.

[@_sr]

I am wearing 36 mm explorer (124270) on my 7ish inch wrist. Absolutely classy and elegant. ❤

[@aaronmittnacht6939]

Yet another fantastic video, your editing is on a next level to any other watch channels on the tube. May I ask, do you use gin or vodka in your martini’s? Not that you would or should care, just something I judge people on 😂 In poi e verso l'alto è

[@traviswatts6661]

I only own one Rolex. It’s a time only Submariner and I believe I will own it until the day I die. Thanks for sharing your content TGV.

[@klausm5460]

That genre of robust yet elegant easy-to-read 3-hander watch is really one of my favorites. But having covered that niche with the Flieger-ish Sinn 556i I´m not so much yearning for luxury versions like the Omega Aqua Terra or the Explorer itsself. Maybe part of the appeal is also the notion of getting to a status outside of petty classes and pigeonholes by not even trying to compete for decorations and complications.

[@CymInUA]

With the recent 'cost of living crisis', I've had to scale back my watch purchases, but if I'd carried on as I was I'd have worked my way up to my grail Rolex Explorer 39mm by now. I shall just have to make do with my Tudor Heritage Ranger for now...

[@theurbangentry]

A very worthy alternative, maybe the best, wear and enjoy it with pride. Thank you my friend. Best regards, TGV

[@vaclav_fejt]

TGV, your videos made me buy an "ignoble" clomage by Tisell. Not a dash of originality, except the fact that it uses a glide-locky clasp like the "Submariner" bretheren. Don't judge me too harshly. I could have bought a Lorier or a Traska, but I wanted a local dealer, and these mircobrands don't have those. I lost the desire for further clomages, but I'll never stop loving mine. By the way, Tisell are so good they started showing signs of originality with some models, I think they'll become like Phoibos in a few years.

[@theurbangentry]

No judgment here, as long as it is not a fake watch and you enjoy it, that is all that matters! Thank you for the support and keep enjoying your Tisell. Best regards, TGV

[@andersonbowes7065]

Just ordered my Super Antarctic 3,6,9 and can’t wait to scratch my 1016 itch. Hope all is well, TGV.

[@GentlemensWatchServices]

Really enjoyed the lounginess…it’s a word now…of this video. Lovely work.

[@adrivdw7093]

I built my modest collection by getting watches that were either sporty, dressy, colorful, historically relevant and so on. The one I missed until recently was a real go-to daily wear that is robust, reliable and highly legible. A friend and companion when the party is over (i.e. for some reason you do't fancy wearing any of the other "remarkable" watches). My 36mm 124270 is that perfect one. The greatest boring watch of all time.

[@thatguy6111]

My 39mm 214260 is amazing but I do desire a 1016. The Explorer is all watch, no fluff and very charming on wrist, it’s like an old coat that fits snug where it should and allows for movement where it should. In a word, it’s superlative. Just like it says on the dial.

[@andrejensen7837]

Just bought the first watch used to climb mount everst with no oxygen rolex oysterquartz 😮. But would like to own that explorer to 😂.

[@Phil5150Bower]

Apparently Fleming was related to Christopher Lee and Lee May have been some inspiration in regard to Flemings 007 creation. Tried an explorer but sadly it was too small on my wrist and looked odd. Got to admit my favourite Rolex is 16610 Subbie but my other grail is a 16750 Pepsi GMT 2 wish I could grab one at a reasonable price. Great video as usual buddy, best wishes TGV🤙🏻

[@ListenToPowerViolence]

I think the Sub is the best for the glidelock clasp and the rotating bezel which is so helpful for timing slug mating sessions in the lab.

[@LeoVinteler]

The new strap looks like a Rios, I have two of them and just purely love them..I also wear an Explorer 114 as a daily piece and it is the most comfortable, and legible piece I have.

[@allanbergsma3256]

Love the content TGV, thank you. Keep it up!

[@giuseppefarina501]

Grande, hai un italiano perfetto. Saluti da Napoli 😊

[@anthonyjackson31]

In your close up shots u have a green backdrop that casts a green hue into the video. Prob throwing off white balance a bit and also shows on the watch case too. I would consider taking down the green and replacing it with white

[@MrColinbradbury]

TGV , any plans to visit marks shop , have a look around on camera and pick out some watches you see ect . Would make a great video for us that cannot visit easy (england) or review some of the islanders on the channel iam sure mark would lend them into the chanel . Eitherway nice work , iam really enjoying all your content . My personal thing is solar quarts but love watching anything about timekeeping

[@adjutant]

I appreciate the old laurel alpinist, with its mountain indices and dauphin hands, for having its own heritage completely apart from the explorer. But no one can escape the explorer, even the modern Alpinist designs had to become inspired by the explorer.

[@Viejol1966]

Pure class TGV!! Superb video

[@derdummeasi]

Ahh. Your inner voice of two different cultures. I understand completely. As a turk born and raised in germany I too feel like Im full of contradictions. There is also always the itch to return to the motherland, but I always miss the other side wherever I go. I guess this is our curse and blessing. I wish I could find a watch that could somehow represent this. Maybe some otttoman connections to the germans.

[@VVVIP91]

Thanks for.a GREAT video, from a top tier creator, about a spectacular watch, with an informative educational touch!

[@stephenrhodes3916]

It retains a classic, timeless look & yet it can be rocked with practically anything. It's the finest watch they've ever released.

[@lemuscleetudiant1225]

Hello, I've found a 5500 RolexAir-king in pristine condition for sale (no box no paper though...). Only issue is that the watch serial number is from 1978 but the bracelet buckle has an engraved "A" on it, which seems to date back to 1976. Is this considered a frankestein watch? is it a bad thing? thank you :)

[@grenphelps7455]

As usual tgv, top video, can't say I've ever thought about the explorer, you see I'm not really a rolex fan, although I do like and would probably like to own a Milgaus, (green/blue) dial, maybe you could do a video and history on that model.... I have to say that it's taken me until now to watch this video, without sounding ungrateful and all, it just seems to be the same thing these last couple of videos..... they are great quality videos with a lot of thought gone into them, I just wish you'd step out of your comfort zone....

[@intotheLIMELIGHT]

I bought my first "luxury" watch, a 114270, because of your Explorer already 6 years ago now. Grazie ancora, è l'orologio a cui sono più affezionato. It looks boring as hell, but you'll never really get bored of it. Ciao!

[@theurbangentry]

Sono onorato di sentirlo, grazie amico mio! That last quote, stupendo, I may have to steal that! 🤣👏 T.

[@paleriderpublishing451]

Gonna save up and get me a Rolex one of these days TGV. Hard to do so when there are so many watches I want but I feel as if I should have at least one Rolex. Thinking about the blue yacht master in gold and steel. What do you think would Hugo give his stamp of approval 😎

[@mazrashid6549]

I was under the impression that it was Paul Pluta/AC3/Archieluxury that invented the "wrist watch check"!!

[@christ3242]

Hey TGV,good to see about a "not so hyped" rolex,i have a question do you know about the brand favre leuba? I would love to see your opinion about it.Greetings from Greece.

[@williamthompson7656]

I am thinking of treating / rewarding myself with an Explorer 114270 sometime in the near future, but that 5k+ price tag is pretty steep. It's the first watch that I ever "fell in love" with and I have been lusting after one for years, so I may take the plunge anyway. Also, how can you consider selling your muse?! Can you really part with it after this many years and adventures? Whatever your decision, keeping it or using it to fund your grail, I hope it makes you happy!

[@kevingilhooley2064]

I think Bryan Ferry was an actual Rolex ambassador in the same way they use Roger Federer..one thing to mention is that Ferry also did a collaboration with H.Moser for a limited edition piece which actually has his name on the dial....about 25,000$ worth of rose gold beauty...but then again you wouldnt expect anything less from the 'best dressed man' in music.

[@darrenhojnacki6636]

I am looking at the Nivada Grenchen Antarctic. But a homage of the Explorer would be welcome too. I do have the Seiko 1959 Laurel reinterpretation (green) that I thoroughly enjoy

[@JohnBrown-go1ro]

LOVE the Explorer, except for a couple of Submariners variants it’s the only Rolex I would own , unfortunately the closest I will ever get, (these days) is my Tudor Ranger👍