Still The Best Rolex Watch EVER & Worth Upgrading? My Explorer 7 Years Later: New vs Old

After 7 years, it's time to revisit my favorite Rolex of all time. But is it still the best Rolex in 2022? In this video I review the latest Rolex Explorer 36mm (ref. 124270) and compare it to my own now vintage Explorer 36mm (ref. 11270). I take a look at their similarities, differences, positives and negatives, how they fit into the history and evolution of the Explorer, and what makes them so utterly compelling. Is this still an underrated sweet spot in the market, or has the hype caught up with it? And is it worth upgrading to the latest offering from 2021? Join me for a revisit and review on a sunny day around Philadelphia to find out if the latest version of this do-it-all historic icon and beloved Urban Gentry classic has dethroned my own.
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[@michaeledwardlenzi]

That watch, and 36mm Rolexs in general, are very unassuming. They attract little attention yet are so satisfying to look at on the wrist. No bluster just a simple, well-built and elegant yet sporty charmer.

[@TheSavagederek]

That's what I like about it. It's unassuming and understated. It's not the typical glitzy models Rolex are famous for.

[@diavalus]

Not sure if it’s that attractive to look at in comparison to others. I mean, this watch doesn’t even have antireflective coating, which even many cheap Chinese do nowadays.

[@gameroftheyear1000]

The best type of watches to me honestly, because when someone does notice it, you’ll know they know what it is and you can have a great chat about it. I’m also a person who hates attracting attention so that’s also very welcome 😂

[@paulferreira8342]

@@diavalusAntireflective coating on the outside sucks. It’s softer than sapphire and scratches.

[@dhunter1133]

IF...IF...IF your wrist size is such that a 36mm - or in actuality, a 34.9mm case - is within the golden ratio for your wrist size. Not all wrists are built the same: some are round, some are flat, some are 6", 7", 8", or more. A 36mm watch looks wonderful on a 6" wrist, but clownish on an 8" wrist, because the former is in the golden ratio and the latter isn't. The watch cognoscenti needs to embrace the fact that one size does NOT fit all, any more than one size a shoe is "the right size."

[@privateaccount6827]

2 weeks ago I was at a family wedding & noticed one of my cousin wearing an Explorer. He recevied it for his 25th birthday, he's now 70. A one owner pristine 1975 Explorer. And he even purchased an additional bracelet back in 75' & kept it... just in case. Highlight of the wedding :)

[@triniboy05]

That’s awesome, thanks for sharing.

[@THEOne-zx3fe]

Kudos to your cousin. That is one committed, dedicated and loyal man.

[@DarkMuj]

Bro what about the married couple

[@gisellesbikeseat]

All I had to show for my 25th b-day was a hangover. Would've preferred an Explorer!

[@privateaccount6827]

@@gisellesbikeseat 🤣

[@therajitusa]

Bought my Rolex explorer I two tone watch in January 2023.! What an amazing beauty.! Sold all my other watches and now keeping this watch for life. I'm 69 years young and hopefully this watch will be my dear companion for life. No other watch even comes close. Just mesmerizing. Cheers. ❤️ 💯👍

[@TheShane209]

Personally my dream Rolex and jealous of the people that own this beautiful piece. The only thing is when you got it it was that sleeper piece, now it seems to have caught fire and lost a little bit of the hidden Rolex charm but it’s still a a grail piece for me. Great video and keep on pumping out this amazing content

[@rebeccawarren2976]

Rolex Explorer is still my favourite everyday watch - such a clean and simple design, no bells and whistles. However - I gave up with this Rolex drama while buying the new one from an AD (Mission Impossible) and I'm not going to pay these idiotic prices from watch flippers. I went for Omega Aqua Terra 38!

[@gameroftheyear1000]

I agree. My grandfather left me a 116610LN Sub and I wanted to get a Datejust as a treat of sorts and just all the AD hoops you have to jump through and with the whole discontinuing gimmick upping the prices I instead opted for a Brosnan era 2551.80 Omega seamaster professional which in the end I’m more satisfied with!

[@Crazy_Joe_Davola]

I own 4 Rolexes and I have to say this one is probablymy favorite ... I love how it looks from an angle, the curve of the case on the sides, the way those lugs drop down, etc and it is just so easy to throw on and wear everyday.

[@tonygiles1841]

I was on a list here in the UK for 13 months having no previous purchase history and finally got the call last week! Not all ADs are filtering watches away to grey market dealers. As my first Rolex, I have nothing to compare it with but it's going to have to compete with my little Hamilton Khaki Field on a Hirsch leather strap and an Oris Big Crown Pointer Date, both watches I love!

[@watchreviews4k]

Excellent pieces. Wear yours in good health. Keep up the good work on your channel. Regards, WR4K.

[@geekanoids]

This is a great timepiece. Old and new. Timeless.

[@theurbangentry]

Dave, do my eye deceive me?!?? How the devil are you old friend. Great to hear from you. I hope this finds you and your family well. The very best regards, TGV

[@geekanoids]

@@theurbangentry I have been here watching in the sidelines whilst recovering. Great to see this latest video.

[@markikn3183]

Hugo Boss? Surely you mean Hugo Mountbatten, darling? Toodle pip, TGV.

[@theurbangentry]

🤣🤣🤣 Indeed. Thank you Otto. Best regards, TGV

[@fasteddy60]

I WAS really keen on the 124270 but, I'll stick with my 2007 114270. It's my daily driver, I absolutely love it! Great video, thx for sharing! :)

[@apeekintime]

When I bought my first Rolex two years back I was deciding between the OP and the Explorer. Ultimately, I decided to go with a white dial 36mm Rolex OP since it was a perfect every day watch and the OP just goes under the radar of non watch collectors. Of course Rolex discontinued the white OP right after I bought it so I'm double glad I picked one up when I did.

[@alexm2113]

I absolutely love the Explorer and I'd say it's my favorite Rolex by far. It's just such a shame (and a bit of a turn off for me) that the prices are so outrageous and that it's so hard to find at retail. It's just not a $10k watch for me, at all. Fortunately my 39mm Aqua Terra scratches the itch for me, and then some.

[@theurbangentry]

A cracking watch to scratch the itch, absolute class. I totally agree about the prices Thank you my friend, enjoy it. Best regards, TGV

[@WatchUnwind]

You will find one ☝️ one day of you look hard enough. I found a older explorer I for around 3k at a hole in the wall place almost 2 years ago and regret not picking it up

[@lonewolfemcquade8133]

Go for a older ref the 114270 can be found for about 7k. It's not going to get to much better then that orless you score one brand new. That's definitely not a easy task 😕 Unfortunately

[@alexlilano1931]

My aquaterra is my daily driver. It works every where to work, to dinner, shopping, and get togethers. My wife is scared of me scratching it, but I spent a lot of money on it and it should be enjoyed.

[@lonewolfemcquade8133]

@@alexlilano1931 The AT is a excellent choice 👌 enjoy it

[@younusimam-thesalamproject6340]

Would love to hear your thoughts on the Christopher Ward C65 Aquitaine! Feels like a more attainable piece and everything I want in a watch

[@lonewolfemcquade8133]

It's definitely my favorite Rolex extremely comfortable on the wrist. To the point you don't even have it on and love the fact it was Ian Fleming''s Timepiece of choice I have the 114270 Z series from 2007 with SEL Second favorite Rolex would be the no date sub ref 14060m which will be my last Rolex just love the more original proportions opposed to the Super case sizes. Great video brotha 👌

[@Podcastage]

Outstanding video. Thanks for sharing your experience with the upgraded model and pointing out the upgrades. It’s safe to say that the explorer really is a phenomenal watch. I too had considered the new model but I don’t care about paying an arm and a leg on the 2nd hand market, or playing the AD games to get one. So I’ll stick with what I got. Thanks again for the great video.

[@theurbangentry]

Always a pleasure my friend, a wise decision. Thank you for the support too, it never goes unnoticed. Best regards, TGV

[@alecc4006]

I had it, but found it too boring

[@dannyg6592]

I tried on a 124270 exhibition model at my AD. It wears so incredibly well. I've been on the wait list for a while and hope to get one. I recently purchased a Smiths PRS-25 Everest to scratch my Explorer itch and the Smiths is a fantastic watch. And as close as I'll ever get to buying a brand new 1016.

[@ahappyimago]

Did you ever get it?

[@dannyg6592]

@@ahappyimago I did! I got the call from my Rolex AD three months ago and it has not left my wrist since. The 124270 is, for me, the perfect watch. It is even better than I thought it would be. My favorite watch of all time.

[@ahappyimago]

@@dannyg6592 cool man. I’ve been on the list for a month now. Enjoy it I’m good health

[@DrDan-ue9de]

Even with the price not being an issue, I think you’d still have an issue with the 19mm lug width since I know you love swapping on different straps.

[@davidconnelly]

It just hit me. It IS the best Rolex ever. It's the best because it has nothing to prove. It just hit me as I was watching. Wow. I get it! My mind is blown.

[@bignz721]

I am convinced the Sinn 556A is the new quasi-Explorer. Fantastic black matting, great H-link bracelet & classy as heck. Also affordable!! I modded an old NH35 to mimic a 556A in order to test drive & that is definitely my next mini-grail purchase

[@davidb9531]

That’s a good shout, as an owner I can definitely concur to its tool sensibilities, it’s much more of a tool watch than the Explorer is now

[@triniboy05]

I owned one, the bracelet is very disappointing, as with all Sinn models.

[@davidb9531]

@@triniboy05 if you discount the clasp which isn’t great, the look and feel of the h link bracelet is perfect, it matches the tool nature of the watch like no other watch bracelet combo I’ve seen

[@benoite4470]

Longines Conquest is a nice alternative to the Explorer 😀😀😀

[@WatchUnwind]

Can’t go wrong with longines they are a great brand on their own. Lots of history and brand name behind them just like Rolex. At one time being the more prostegious brand

[@GuyVanderAa]

My second favourite Rolex (I have a thing for the GMT Rootbeer) but prices are ridiculous for the explorer imo. Nevertheless a true sporty toolwatch with fantastic design. 👍

[@ianandrew7010]

The narrow Bracelet is a let down on the 36mm Explorer(for me), late last year i managed get a 40mm Explorer from my AD,i much prefer it on my 7.5" wrist 💕

[@theogdangus9427]

I have been waiting for your take on this new model for a while now. Thanks for another great video! I feel fortunate that this 124270 model was the first I had access to, and I got it right before they raised the price! You are so right about this watches slow release charm. I absolutely love it. Thanks again and keep up the great work!

[@TheWatchFrame]

Great video. I've been with this watch for over a year now. Was lucky enough to get the first one that arrived at my AD and got it without prior purchase history. I strongly agree with you about your decision not to upgrade. The memories attached to your 114270 are more important than the improvements in the newer model. That's a big factor when considering replacing a watch for a the "new" one. I was asked for the similar advice and told to keep the legacy of the watch that lived with you for so long.

[@Valera_Scotland]

The new 124270.... it will be my only watch... Time to save and wait

[@timepiece_enthusiast]

My AD knows I'm interested in a 124270...let's hope it doesn't take too long for me to get one...

[@jamesaddison665]

Rolex is like the old guy at the bar, harping on about how he was captain of the high school football team, even though he now gets stuck in the turnstiles at subway stations. Everest was nearly 70 years ago.

[@whereRbearsTeeth]

214270 mark ll is the best Explorer that Rolex has ever made.

[@Ktc99999-b]

the 114270 is close to the perfect rolex

[@lv293]

Great content! Keep up all the great work. If you could only have 1 explorer would you still choose a 1016 over the new 36mm?

[@josefernandez6226]

Hugo Boss or Hugo Mountbatten?

[@AmishNinjaMaster]

I appreciate the movement upgrade, underside AR coating, but believe Rolex should’ve used the OP 36mm case and kept the 214270 20mm bracelet. I’m just glad Rolex did not size up to 41mm - Since my wrist is 7.25 on cold days, I’ll keep my 214270 and continue to wear it daily.

[@lukew.9110]

should stop playing it for that Offensive ass beeping during the obnoxious plea to subscribe. Bad idea please stop it.

[@theurbangentry]

Sorry Luke, I will certainly consider it. Thank you for watching, Best regards, TGV

[@maciekb8554]

@17:50 totally agree, but why mention 2016? Any time travelers here? Ever heard of the inflation?? Love the channel but not this time I disagree, sorry

[@keithdickens1395]

I purchased my Rolex explorer 1016 brand new in january 89,it’s a beautiful watch and worn daily, amazed at the prices now being asked for this watch

[@edhammond6911]

We’re headed into an economic crisis. I would focus your channel on watch is $350 and below. That’s where we’re going bro. And that may include a Rolex.

[@_sr]

I am rocking this 36mm explorer on my 7inch wrist and loving it. Classy..

[@josefsbeach]

Don't forget about the new AR coating with that new lacquered dial combo. This one made the new explorer really POP. A bit more bling than the previous tool vibe from before

[@cookingwithwatches]

I am tired of people staring at my watch, so I decide to wear it inside my wrist. Explorer 1 on NATO strap is perfect for this. I wouldn’t trade it for anything else.

[@durexjim]

in my opinion the 39mm is the perfect size will always be i my collection perfection and quality.

[@alfonsoaguado3453]

Thanks for the review of an excellent watch, I'm also happy that you will keep posting videos from your Italian villa once you have Ducktails incomes, keep it up!

[@ahmedhishamdr8485]

I agree with your point of view that this 124270 version of the explorer is the best yet…however the hefty price is defying the value for money for most of us.

[@cali_stroke]

Watching this while wearing my 114270 explorer with the engraved rehaut. Definitely have my thoughts about upgrading, but I think it’s a decision I’ll regret. Anyways, you had much influence in my choice of buying an Explorer!

[@johnlacroix1639]

WOW 1st class very kool great info.,, AAAAAAAAAAA++++++++++++ again great video I liked it a lot ,keep up the great work.

[@mtkoslowski]

Sir, have you ever been mugged for your timepiece? If so, would you disclose the circumstances?

[@NecKClippA]

Forearms lookin' swole TGV ! :)

[@qchang09]

I have a 36mm OP with the 3-6-9 dial, along with a 40mm Submariner. I would say the 20mm Oyster bracelet on the 36mm case is the perfect proportions, weight and balance-- add the tool watch lore of the Explorer and you have the quintessential Rolex.

[@robertdukes4420]

My journey of loving watches began with Brosnan sporting the 300m in Goldeneye. I then discovered Rolex and like so many were told about the submariner. Once I did my own research though I stumbled across the Explorer and fell in love. I always assumed it would be too small for my wrist but on a whim in London the other day I popped into WoS and tried on the new 36mm version. I got goosebumps. 😂 needless to say it is now on my list and maybe one day I’ll be able to own one. As always a fun, informative and passionate video! Thank you

[@67NewEngland]

When Rolex made the controversial decision to only offer the Explorer in the original 36mm I don’t understand why they made it actually less than the 36mm at approximately 35.4mm, knowing the change was already going to be too small in many opinions. Why not actually 36 or if you’re going to vary in any direction make it towards the larger size in say 36.4 ?

[@coffeeboyclips1973]

Agree, it wears tiny, they should have made it closer to 37mm, I've got a small wrist and when I tried it on it felt like a ladies watch

[@ΕΜΜΑΝΟΥΗΛΧΑΤΖΗΔΑΚΗΣ-ρ5σ]

Ian Fleming discussed with director Terence Young and the producers on which Rolex should Bond wear. And he agreed that it must be the Submariner. The reason for the choise of the Submariner was because James Bond is supposed to be a Royal Navy Officer (Commander) and an SAS/SBS member before becoming a 00 agent. And at that time the official watch for the Royal Navy, the SBS, SAS and the SEALS was the Submariner. So according to the novels Bond's type of Rolex is not mentioned, but together Fleming, director and producers decided that it could only be the Sub, according to Bond's resume and operational needs as an agent

[@Unknown-fl7dj]

You are correct in that the books never mention the model, but "On her Majesty's Secret Service" does state that he wore a Rolex with glowing numerals. This could've been referring to a Sub with explorer dial, but this watch is very rare. While Ian Fleming himself wore an Explorer, it's more likely that this was the watch he referred to in the novel.

[@lapelcelery42]

@@Unknown-fl7dj Depends on Fleming's familiarity with (and use of) the terminology. "Glowing numerals" may just mean "glowing indices", after all if a numeral is merely a symbol denoting a number, that definition technically applies to the indices as well.

[@Unknown-fl7dj]

@@lapelcelery42 True, but numerals typically refers to symbols that differ in appearance to indicate a specific number, such as arabics or roman numerals, whereas the markers on a sub are indices that don't indicate or represent a specific number on their own since the indices are made up of circles and bars. Of course it is entirely possible that he is describing a sub, but much more likely that he was describing his own personal watch that he was probably wearing at the precise moment of writing that portion of his novel.

[@lapelcelery42]

@@Unknown-fl7dj I basically agree with all of that.

[@triniboy05]

The Submariner was not the official watch of The U.S. Navy SEALs. I appreciate all of the other information though.

[@drunkenbelafontemaine6826]

I’ve got a 1999 caliber 3000 Swiss only on the dial and I love this watch, I like the chingy chang clingy clang rattle from the metal strap also just love everything about it. I don’t know if it’s just me or my spidy senses but i like to sleep with my watch on my wrist and for some reason the explorer 3000 caliber I can hear the caliber pinging away magnified through my pillow ? It goes on a constant perpetual low ping to loud back to low constantly fluctuation like a living heart ?? Has anybody experienced this I would love to know. I just bought a bluesy 2007 pre ceramic and the famous caliber 3135 but not as loud it’s a soft more consistent ping with no fluctuations. It’s even I’m drinking to much whisky or I’m loosing my mind but I definitely definitely hear it. Anyways love the show as always 🙏

[@hawkeye454]

I don't own an Explorer however I own a Mathey-Tissot that I feel pays strong homage to the Explorer and it is worn with great pride by me. Thanks as always TGV for sharing your deep watch enthusiasm with us all. Cheers.

[@calaveritajp7127]

An incredible watch, my favorite in the collection right now. I was lucky to purchase it at retail on 12/30/21, right before the price went up from 6,450 to 7,200. I had bought two OMEGA Seamasters (Aquaterra and SMP 300) before from the same jewelry so that helped me secure this stunningly simple Explorer within a month of telling the AD that I was ready. Great video, and I completely agree with the sentimental value. If I were to keep only one watch it would undoubtedly be this understated Rolex.

[@genehammond7239]

Oyster Perpetual is the Grandfather of all Rolex watches !!!

[@theurbangentry]

You have a great point there. Thank you Gene, Best regards, TGV

[@jeffreardon3969]

Rolex has the undeniable mark of excellence and luxury in the watch industry. I would like to ask that with all the technology advances in manufacturing and tooling bringing us to the present day, if the watches are really worth that much more than a $1,000 or $2,000 watch? Is it mostly an image honed and developed brilliantly over the years? It certainly was the case that they were worth thousands more than a less expensive watch. But what about today and the current quality standards for entry-level, high-end watches? I think that is a fascinating question to ask, I would love to hear what the industry experts have to say about it.

[@Shadowwalker1717]

I am done with Rolex, the prices are a joke and you can't get one while some ADs even try to force you to buy shit you don't want for getting you on the list for the watch you really want. Rolex is dead. And what happened with this brand that people "invest" in Rolex? They literally buy one to store it and never wear it to sell it later to get a profit. Brah.... Edit: I tried to correct grammar I am not a english native.

[@theurbangentry]

I totally get it. I doubt I will ever buy a Rolex new myself, good point about people investing in watches, I loath that kind of way of looking at watches. For me watches are about fun, artists on all levels, passion and function, if they gain or loose value that is just a by products of it. Thank you for sharing, a great subject for discussion. Best regards, TGV

[@KeepingWatchUK]

I share your frustration. But I for sure wear mine so not all Rolex owners are in it purely for the investment.

[@WatchUnwind]

I got a Rolex at retail from an AD with no purchase history but it took 1.5 years of being “ on the list “

[@mightbesherwood1313]

The basic problem for me is that Rolex doesn't sell to the general public anymore. And because of that, the sense of achievement is lost. If you bought a Rolex in the past to mark some level of success in your life, how does a year long wait list, plus AD bribing, line-up with that? You haven't achieved anything. You're just a pleb now, begging for a nugget.

[@euanmclapperton2451]

The explorer design just bores me.

[@wristygymnast1384]

Ugh I love Rolex watches - hate Rolex SA

[@edwinthompson159]

Spot on review. I loved my 36mm Explorer. beautiful, simle, under the radar, zero comments from peopIe - finally had AD call with a new Air King last month, had to take it, but had to sell Explorer. The Air King grows on me, but now, everytime I wear it it draws ttention, even from 6th graders across a room. I miss the hidden joy of the Explorer that I knew it was there, and wonderful, and no one else noticed.

[@swimmer751]

Thank you! I have been an avid subscriber to your show for years. It's because of this particular episode that I decided to get on a wait list for the new Rolex Explorer (224270) and I finally bought it last week (40mm version.) I'm in love with my watch. I appreciate the history so much more after watching this episode again. Please keep doing what you're doing!

[@europaexplorer1]

I got my 40mm yesterday

[@swimmer751]

@@europaexplorer1 Congrats! I have mine on today, love it. I also got the black rubber strap. Rolex doesn't make one for this model yet, but there are some good ones out there.

[@mohnnadmercedes8246]

People still called it : underrated understated and flying under the radar and other pretentious stuff,, yet its trading way overpriced for what you get and 10k for this or even your own version!? Nope sorry millions of options are available and am not attracted by movie involvement in any form!

[@theurbangentry]

Absolutely, crazy how times change. Now it's anything but underrated. I'm just glad I go into them before everyone hyped them up. Thank you Mohnnad, Best regards, TGV

[@matthewblair4963]

Haven't seen one in person - I was begging a salesperson for months to sell me one - but the numbers look too chunky, more like the 39mm dial. I ended up buying a 2009 model and prefer that dial as well as the longer, thinner lugs. Gives it a much more elegant look.

[@juniorgallo8786]

I was lucky to get mine at retail last year, before the last 2 price hikes, so it was about 6.7k IIRC; one of my favorite Rolex alongside the Danaos 4243 38mm dresser watch. The dial in this new Explorer I is really darker than previous one. Great video as always, man!

[@BLR653]

It’s the new anti reflective coating on the underside of the crystal. Deeeeeeeeep black dial. It’s amazing.

[@Number_006]

Thanks TGV, great content as always. Much appreciated and much enjoyed!

[@HolographicSweater]

Some watches shout for attention, others simply command it. The giant, oversized dial markings on the new reference seem to be a small move away from “look closer” and instead towards “look at me i’m wearing an explorer!”

[@joshuakaplan5726]

Finally picked up the 12470 new from the AD (after only a 3 week wait!). Traded in my black bay pro and tank must large to cut the cost down by a hefty amount. It's absolute perfection, especially paired with my DJ36 Blue fluted-motif dial, blue SMP300M, and green IWC Pilot's Chronograph 41.

[@rf4790]

Got rid of my new 124270 and it was a good decision. Out of the Rolex game, and into the micro brand game. Also, the prices are way out of line at this point for what you get. Silly.

[@martinharrison4245]

Rolex are nice, but way overpriced. I guess this doesn't really matter too much as their value retention is so strong. I nearly bought a Kermit submariner in a sale for £2500 nearly 20 years ago, but the Mrs at the time flipped out about spending such an absurd amount of money on a watch. Yes a rolex in a sale, and if I remember correctly it was a 50 year anniversary model, to boot !!! Unthinkable now, but you could just go in and buy it then. Well I didn't, and I didn't keep the Mrs either , so it wasn't all bad. Lol.

[@ccooper8785]

My Bliger beats this watch hands down especially since the NH movement was replaced with a VH31 quartz. In addition to being more robust than the roly it is now vastly, VASTLY, more accurate, all at less than 1% of yours. Yeah, I know you roly fan boys will be coughing into your caffeine-free lattes about that not being important but IT IS AN EFFING WATCH. ACCURATE TIME-TELLING IS IT'S SOLE PURPOSE !!!

[@lcourni]

just buy a Smith. they're cool.

[@theurbangentry]

They are indeed and I did buy one a long time ago, sadly too chunky for me and I let it go. Thank you, great history to Smiths, the old one that is. Best regards, TGV

[@WatchUnwind]

Owning an explorer would be awesome because I spend so much time outdoors but my OP 41 is so close. Think I’ll own this watch for life

[@oOoScarecrow31oOo]

I’m more a fan of the old dial with the small numerals... 😏 In fact, this is mostly because my favorite Rolex is the Commando: don’t like the Mercedes hands.

[@enriqueparedespinel1694]

Excellent vid, I'd go for the mark II, small watches don't suit me.

[@michaelriera6277]

Another point is the new Explorer comes with AR

[@Gocho18]

If you paid 70% less for yours then I see why the upgrade is not worth it. I just purchased mine straight from my AD. It's my first 36mm watch being used to 38-40mm watches. Right now I don't know how I'm going to wear anything else!

[@junwoojang2941]

TGV, you've inspired so many of my watch purchases. I've got a Longines Conquest L3.658.4 (with applied markers) for the Rolex Explorer feel, Steinhart Pepsi Gmt for the playful, elegant feel, and my latest purchase, the gold filled Omega vintage with 451 movement. I think I'm close to completing my watch collection. Hopefully and not hopefully, gonna see what you introduce that will tickle my fancy lol

[@denis888red]

Close to completing your collection Junwoo? Take it from the voice of experience... You'll still be saying the same thing in 30 years time ;)

[@junwoojang2941]

@@denis888red.... You're probably right haha XD

[@marklawrence855]

7 years ago I had a choice this or a sub no date, after weeks of decision making I picked the Sub ,love my Rolex sub no Date and will always keep it 💯

[@cookingwithwatches]

It’s nice to have both. Explorer 1 is just like a Sub without bezel.

[@michaelanderson001]

I've had the 39mm version for over five years. It replaced theExplorer II that I owned for 25 years, which I eventually sold because my failing eyesight could no longer focus on the white dial.

[@britannia2129]

This may be a video that helps decide which explorer will become a grail!

[@looplop]

I always aimed at an Explorer, finally i bought a Railmaster 2017 black dial,- call it a strap master as well. And bazillion watches Trilogy Seamaster, RLX vintage datejust etc. Hey i'm a Social Worker, but i love these things ;) Enjoy your videos so much!

[@simon120166]

Hi TGV , what are your thoughts on the two tone explorer? Regards from Manchester UK 🇬🇧...

[@theurbangentry]

I talk about it in this video in fact. More importantly, what do you make of it? Thank you Simon, enjoy. Best regards, TGV

[@TheoJay615]

I can't upgrade because I don't own one... yet!

[@racebannon2332]

Not a fan of the cyclops…recently sold my 41 sub (no date), 41 Cermit and Yacht Master rhodium But no worries…I’ve retained my favorites. SD 16600 & 116600 and iconic explorer 39 (lume) the first and later on Rubber B straps. These are outstanding timepieces from Rolex that I enjoy most

[@DerrickNinon]

39 has the perfect look 36 look unbalanced due to the thick bezel 40 look huge but suits big wrist just like Daytona and other sports model.

[@inlandwatchreviews5745]

I think I have found my grail watch. I have the 34 mm Rolex air king 114200 with the blue explorer 3-6-9 dial. For a great price too. Love your videos too

[@theurbangentry]

Stunning choice. I can't blame you for making it a grail. Pure class, I hope you go for it so I can see your reaction in a video one day. Thank you my sir, always great to hear from you. Best regards, TGV

[@kjeldpedersen666]

Hi TGV Small but no doubt significant changes but I do understand that they’re not enough to justify an update for you. Think I would have made the same decision. I think that the lume on the numbers is the biggest advantage. When it comes to the printing I like your model more, makes it look more classic. But off cause, I haven’t handled one... Wish I had! The more watches I collect the more it becomes obvious how desirable this classy simplicity really is. Always suitable, never goes out of style. Unfortunately older models have skyrocketed in price too😕 Keep up the good work👍

[@europaexplorer1]

I got a call from a London AD for a 36mm viewing. I went in and viewed both 36mm and 40mm side by side. I then came home with 40mm.

[@drgjs]

As a guy who would rather invest in my kids' education and my own retirement, I'll stay happily content with my Vaer C3. But if I were to spend on a Rolex, this would be the 2009 Explorer. The perfect do most-everything watch.

[@DarrenBates]

The watch I can actually picture Bond wearing.

[@williamray2988]

Loved the level of detail in this video!

[@montanaosprey9840]

Yikes, rust inside the Rolex crystal on a “newer” (‘98 to ‘00) Rolex? Wha? Really not good!

[@petrsomol]

Have you tried it on nato? I have heard there was a problem with this new Explorer - reduced space between the case and pins, making it harder for many straps to fit well, even if you manage to fing a good 19mm one.

[@theurbangentry]

I did a "Dr. No" style and wore it briefly on a smaller 18mm, worked for me like a charm. Thank you Petr, great point. Best regards, TGV

[@peterzwegat5380]

Wow 2016... I do remember you sitting in that house in Britain (?) and telling us what your new favorite watch is (or was). Time flies. You do not live in NYC anymore and I am in a completely other life situation now. It's great to follow you and your work! Keep it up! The music is on point! You really rock those videos! Cheers from spain (but just vacay) normally I greet you from germany.

[@joeplatz7289]

Great video and agree with you completely. Excellent bracelet, love the lume, solid heritage design language, but has lost the value with the current crazy market. I personally will not buy any Rolex preowned in this market; there's just better watches out there for the price.

[@hedocid]

I’ve never gravitated, liked, or found quality in a Rolex. They’re the “Beatles” of the watch world. Overrated and underwhelming. This is my personal opinion and in no way does my opinion matter to anyone else but myself. I’ll drop 2k on a Grand Seiko but I’d buy another motorcycle, even though the wife says 6 is enough, before I’d buy a Rolley……

[@weerobot]

Explorer reeks Coolness..

[@In.New.York.I.Milly.Rock.]

Great video as always, but, in the end, "worth" is always a dodgy term when it comes to Rolex. I love watches, but I love other things too, and a rolex upgrade of the same watch will most likely never be "worthy" for me. Cheers!

[@michaelriera6277]

I’ve been waiting for this review for some time. Loving my 124270.