Rolex Explorer vs Cartier Santos - Which one? Or both?

A look at two of the best modestly sized watches available: The Rolex Explorer 114270 and the Cartier Santos WSSA0029.
Watch roll from Everest Bands: www.everestban...
My video on the Explorer: • I bought a 36mm Rolex ...
My video on the Santos: • The Cartier Santos Med...

[@MinuteMon]

An ELEGANT comparison between these 2 stunning pieces. If I had to choose, I’m still team Santos 😆

[@EVINwithaK]

"christ, I need a cheaper hobby" unbelievable line 😂😂

[@YoureTerrific]

It’s funny because it’s true.

[@Swayndo]

@BM22hilarious 😎

[@watch_hawk]

@BM22 which lord?

[@ProjectWhooDoo]

@BM22 there is only one and that is Lord Voldemort!!!!!!

[@daad8942]

I probably think the same everyday. Doesn’t stop me looking for my next one though😂

[@johnnychin]

Santos. As great as the Explorer is, it has surpassed its own "understated Rolex" status into one of the most loved watch in the community. The history of Santos alone is unbelievably cool.

[@cablah3174]

It’s been amazing to see the evolution of this channel. Genuinely helpful analysis as always. Cheers

[@YoureTerrific]

That’s great to read. Thank you.

[@anthonypipia6990]

@@YoureTerrific where can I find the grey watch pad you have?

[@romyv1077]

I have the Cartier large and its my most used watch this year. Elegant and easy to match with your dress style. The adjustment of metal bracelet and replacement of the leather strap from metal to leather is genius.

[@troynasello2085]

Most modern screw down crowns do add more water resistance. There is a rubber "crush" gasket/grommet inside the crown on the cap, or end. When you screw down the crown firmly, that disc of rubber is squeezed & compressed over the end of the crown tube making it also expand outwards into the walls of the inner crown. This creates a wonderful hermetic seal. There is usually an o-ring gasket on the stem of the crown, usually in Japanese watches, or in most swiss, the o-ring gasket is inside of the crown tube. Of course Rolex added the third gasket at the case-end of the outside of the crown tube to create a third sealing surface when the crown is fully screwed down, creating Rolex's "trip-lock" system of their diver models.

[@YoureTerrific]

This sounds too good to be incorrect. Thanks for writing this.

[@troynasello2085]

@@YoureTerrific lol, you are welcome. It's correct, disassemble and reassemble watches everyday.

[@MrAristaeus]

Hush, child! (Only kidding! This sounds authoritative enough for me).

[@n.b.5241]

Thanks for the comment, Troy. What about the Santos? I was in a Boutique in Monaco two days ago to try out the watch for the first time. This is where I discovered that Santos is 10 ATM but has no screw down function. Now I am wondering how safe is this watch in water / how good is the protection of the movement. The sales agent was not able to explain that. I am talking here swimming in pools & seaside, no jumps etc. 10 ATM without further protection seems somewhat misleading by Cartier. Thanks for your feedback!

[@akwang31]

I love that you said try them on and see which makes you smile more.

[@YoureTerrific]

Of course! That’s what it’s all about.

[@daniellu5517]

In Taiwan ( not Thailand let me clarify a bit The experience buying Cartier santos and Rolex is very different. You go to a Cartier boutique , you get champagne, desserts , and great services , walk out with a beautiful Cartier red bag and iconic red case and beautiful Santos in it. You go to a Rolex boutique, you tell them you want an explorer 1 124270 , you leave your phone number and wait for a year ( I think it happens all over the globe) One random day , you get a phone call with an unfamiliar number , tells you the watch has arrived. Then you think for 10 seconds do I still have the amount of money in bank account however fuck it ,still go pick it up since resell value is high. No champagne, no dessert, hands you a beautiful green box and leave the store with a complicated mood. I like the first experience more but it was fun buying Rolex for sure.

[@CheesyCore]

Explorer is easily my favorite rolex however, there's something more... quintessential about the Santos the first men's wristwatch, a classic design that stood the test of time if Omega has the Speedmaster, JLC has the Reverso, Breitling has the Navitimer and Panerai has the Luminor than Cartier has the Santos. THE watch that deserves to be the face of Cartier Santos all the way for me

[@earthenjadis8199]

They also have the Tank, without a doubt even more famous. Not many watch companies can lay claim to two horology icons, especially when your main business is actually jewelry.

[@CheesyCore]

@@earthenjadis8199 I would personally take a dolce vita over a tank, I find the tank design too "in your face" and blingy, something I'd like to avoid in a dressy, elegant watch, I prefer those to be as understated as possible but it's definitely an important watch in their collection also if we talk popularity, I'm pretty sure the ballon bleu de cartier blows both the santos and tank out of the water, the santos is more of a watch nerds watch while the ballon bleu is a very mainstream women jewelry appeal

[@g4ld3r]

Imagine going into a dealer in 2004 and walking out with an Explorer on your wrist. That would be something. That said, I went with the large Santos because a bracelet adjustable by hand and swapped to leather on the fly is where 2021 is at for me. Fantastic video!

[@atl3630]

This video really shows how small the medium size really is. I’ll be getting the large as well

[@Boros777]

You don’t need to go back that far - In 2014 I went in and could choose between a Ex1, Sub and Sub Date all available (Daytonas&GMTs were just getting hyped)

[@g4ld3r]

@@Boros777 that's true. I just picked the year Evans explorer is from :)

[@Boros777]

@@g4ld3r Yeah… I even saw an Patek Aquanaut in that dealer - no one wanted it and now its double retail

[@CYC_JP]

@@Boros777 In 2017, the Patek AD in Sydney had both the Aquanaut and Nautilus 7118 available and on display.

[@thedaveaftertomorrow]

With its leather strap (that’s unbelievably easy to swap out) the Santos is so very close to being the one watch watch collection - it’s not a watch it’s a lifeboat out of this ridiculous hobby 😩

[@itoldunot2fuckwithme]

I´m pretty sure Cartier soon will offer a rubber strap as well..then the Santos truly is the silver bullet.

[@beyoncehadoneofthebest]

that is my hope

[@fifa3]

Can say the exact same about the Explorer, it can be the perfect one watch collection.

[@mr.seyfried1652]

I need that life boat

[@TrendyStone]

@@itoldunot2fuckwithme Rubber strap now available!

[@olib3]

I had to choose between these exact two watches. I went with the explorer. In the end I think that was the "safer" choice - but I am still stalking the santos ;)

[@YoureTerrific]

Another watch stalker!

[@ladaffodilion]

Santos more distinctive

[@loltanios]

I bought the Cartier Santos medium as my 2nd watch after owning the Rolex OP39 white dial. Very redundant watches but I like the Santos more for everyday use primary for its more stylish looks. The OP will stay as being my 1st luxury watch and only Rolex that will ever have my name on the warranty card. I also LOVE my OP for outdoor adventures, which I trust more to get wet (due more to the oyster case / Rolex brand reputation than the screw down crown) and because it has lume for checking the time in a dark tent.

[@davids8099]

Santos all the way... Richer history than the explorer, more sexier on the wrist, cheaper and has two straps which is like two different watches.

[@YoureTerrific]

You make a good case.

[@davids8099]

I love my santos... 😍

[@phantpwr]

Santos is $350 more than the explorer.

[@WickedRichie]

hell naw

[@UserKR13]

Its more expensive than the Exp - i own both

[@XHobbiesPrime]

The Santos is hard to tear your eyes away from. The Explorer is my favorite Rolex but I'd have to pick with the Santos. It is so elegant!

[@frankpetiet4519]

I love the Santos and tried it on multiple times, but when I tried on a Tank I was sold! It just matches me better. Currently still waiting for a new Explorer...

[@Tony16610]

I did what Evan suggested and bought both! The Santos lives on my wrist in the summer time where I can change straps and bands daily while the Explorer comes out when winter rolls around since it goes better with the greens/tans/blacks I wear. Definitely not redundant to own both (at least that is what I keep telling myself).

[@skepticaljesus]

I also have both ✊

[@tylerjohnson2080]

Great advice. Great presentation. Great dry humor and writing. Criminally underrated videos. I have the Cartier myself and I’m on the waitlist for the Explorer. I see a place in my collection for both of these. The sportiness of the Explorer and the elegance of the Cartier. Right now my Medium Santos is my only luxury watch and I literally wear it every day. I think it looks great with jeans and t-shirt. I do feel I need something sportier for what I’m wearing literally workout clothes or stuff like that. But my mini-CasiOak fills that role for now.

[@krugmeup2162]

Do you find you get it scratched easily like people say?

[@tylerjohnson2080]

@@krugmeup2162 absolutely! I wear mine every day and I’m like 3 months into ownership and it definitely gets scratched super easily. However, I don’t necessarily see this as a negative. I never plan on selling it and one day it’ll be a charming vintage watch that I can pass down.

[@krugmeup2162]

@@tylerjohnson2080 yeah great it should be for enjoyment

[@alessandro_L]

I had never actually liked the Santos but now, after the videos you've done on your reference, I started to understand what people like about it. Too bad I can only afford entry level swatch group... at least there's entry level japanese watchmaking keeping me entertained. Ps. Great shots! You really do them justice

[@bighands69]

A lot of weird "collector" types seem to have some sort of a hangup on Cartier and do not like then but they can be a fickle bunch in 5 years time they maybe all the rage with them.

[@alessandro_L]

@@bighands69 nono wait, I'm not one of those who say "Cartier is a jeweler, not a watchmaker...."! I deeply love the overall style of the brand. I also love the Tank and the Pasha, it was just the Santos itself that did not connect with me

[@_sr]

I am wearing a 124270 on my 7 inch wrist. I must say 36 mm explorer does not wear "small", but you may say "smaller" (relatively). It is definitely not small. I think it is a great size. Sir Hillary was a big guy around 1.90 meters. Flemming was 1.83.. so.. Contemporary watches getting bigger is an ugly trend where people with classy taste can always choose to refuse :) fun vs elegant.. I can accept that.. I mean, 42mm and above watches look just toy-ish :) "you have an unhealthy definition of what it means to be man.." oh man, you rock ! :) I like you angle, and your reviews..

[@cdaack]

A near perfect two watch collection: Explorer for casual wear and outdoor situations, Santos for formal wear and more tame settings.

[@kevins7380]

the santos is such an amazing piece and its been my almost daily watch for the past 3 years. the explorer should arrive soon. i hope it will be as exciting as the santos. great video! thanks!!

[@YoureTerrific]

Perfect collection!

[@rtbloomfield]

Definitely both! The medium Santos is next on my to buy list once I find a good one pre owned, and I'm on the wait list for the new Explorer!

[@markdegaute2125]

The new Explorer is amazing but why not go on the hunt for a 126200. Smooth bezel DJ36. I spotted one that I persuaded my brother in law to buy about a month ago. The RRP is £5650

[@shaikon5617]

The 2 watches perfectly complement each other - definitely need both🙂

[@aaronbanuelos8445]

Super proud to own both of these.. I find myself wearing the Cartier just a tad more than my explorer. But when I saw this on my recommended I freaked out!

[@nate.or.nodate]

your analogy of putting on larger watches being "fun" and smaller watches being "elegant" puts into words how I've come to view my own collection/watch journey

[@jimlittle5769]

For me it would be neither, it woukd be the Aqua Terra; however between the two I go with Cartier.

[@dafyddap]

Great video. I have both (but the 39mm Explorer 1). Love the 'timelessness and legend of both'. I was particularly surprised trying the Santos on in the AD at how well it sat was on the wrist and couldn't take it off.

[@TheSuaveEntrepreneur]

The most comfortable watch I’ve ever worn

[@hansstevanus]

You read my mind with this video! I have always been wanted to own these two watches! After years of savings I finally got the 39mm Explorer and Cartier Santos will be next on my list!

[@theartstraveler]

“Hush, child.” Precious.

[@YoureTerrific]

😬

[@chubbymonkey6604]

I’ve been in love with the Explorer ever since I got into this hobby. If I ever put one on, there’s a good chance I’ll never take it off.

[@YoureTerrific]

Same same same

[@paulbonaventura4969]

The video, editing, background colors and aesthics make me feel like I'm in an apple store or high end boutique!

[@fasteddy60]

I've owned my Rolex 114270 for a year, I have had the desire for the Santos Medium for quite some time. NOW I want them both. Thx 4 sharing.

[@georgetsang5780]

I like the Explorer. I love the Santos. But my next watch is going to be a Reverso Classic... I think.

[@andyplace1785]

Haha this is exactly my thought too! Love the reverso

[@walkerb1734]

I own both. If I had to pick one to keep and get rid of the other, my choice would be very easy. I’d keep the Santos. It’s just that good!

[@triniboy05]

Great video, as always. Really appreciate the fun you always interject. I had a 114270 a couple years ago and just recently purchased the 124270 on the grey market because I’m an impatient individual. Definitely a noticeable upgrade.

[@svicad4477]

What‘s the difference between these two?

[@triniboy05]

@@svicad4477 most notably is the lug width, bracelet clasp, bracelet, indices sizing, slightly more bulbous case. It’s subtle but really a whole new feel.

[@seattlegrrlie]

I have the Explorer and it's truly beautiful, but I might need that Santos to compliment it. You know, so it doesn't get lonely

[@mnt5349]

I feel I ‘need’ to have a Santos in the collection. Don’t feel it is the same for the Explorer. So, it would be the 39mm Santos for me - and when comparing that to the now discontinued 39mm Explorer there’s also a huge price difference between them (in Santos favour).

[@bighands69]

If you are into watersports then the explorer is the best choice. Too many people are not into sports and as such do not need an explorer or submariner and would be better off with something else.

[@richielevy3821]

I would pick the medium santos over the explorer without any major debates with myself. Where it would get tricky is the large santos vs the Rolex date just…. Those two I would really struggle

[@Lagspike99]

Just found this channel. Excellent production quality! Thanks - what a joy.

[@seatsniffer91]

Bought the medium Santos in July. I’m so happy I made that choice because I’ve been wearing it every day and it makes me smile every time I open the Cartier box to put it on:)

[@YoureTerrific]

👏👏👏

[@kypekka]

Nice and entertaining video. Santos for me. Btw. you can measure a rectangular watch with it's diagonal. This will give you the equivalent of diameter with a round watch.

[@BobLorrimer]

I put on the Santos de Cartier at my local high end dealer and the watch chose me - it sits on my wrist like a warm hug. I would like to try the Rolex Explorer too...but you know the rest.

[@TwentyOne_Five]

4:05. That doesn’t look small. Looks like a perfect fit.

[@citizenpmd565]

I have just p/x'd my 39mm explorer for a Santos. Initially wanted the medium but eventually went for the large ADLC bezel version for two reasons - the slate grey dial is stunning, even better than the blue version. Secondly the bezel will be more scratch resistant than the polished steel versions. Both are great watches, the resale on my Rolex has proved superb but the Cartier pulls harder on my heart strings. No regrets.

[@thegraciefighter102]

Also thinking about this watch and my only reservation is how poor the movement is (inc. PR) for the money

[@gabewong6171]

I love how real, poetic and down to earth the script is worded

[@SZ-ZS-]

santos is absolutely stunning, yet so simple.

[@nicolasbrunet8243]

Man I show these videos to my friends not only to educate them about watches but to make them laugh. Great content!

[@YoureTerrific]

That’s awesome! Thanks.

[@nukie404]

Personally if I were getting my first watch, I would go for the Santos. However since I already own a Cartier, I do want to see what all the fuss about Rolex is about. -Han

[@tsmutylo]

“Just because you think a watch is cool doesn’t mean you should buy it.” So true!

[@MrPleers]

Personally, I'm going for the Santos. I love the classic look and the long (120 year !) history attached to it. Besides, it looks unique. You can spot a Santos from a distance.

[@ilzephyrli]

The Explorer I is my favorite Rolex model so it wins this head to head for me. I love Cartier though but I would prefer a Tank or even better yet a Basculante.

[@chuckandary7115]

I own the 39mm Rolex explorer and love it as for the Santos I’m not a big fan of it just don’t like to look but that’s just personal preference, but I do like the Cartier tank, I just never been into square watches...I feel the explorer looks more versatile

[@nicktor9028]

I have and exp and a santos and I love them both. You can wear either one in any situation pretty much. I don’t think there’s a wrong choice with these 2 tbh.

[@mistermikeyjay]

By getting the Santos on bracelet and buying Delugs aftermarket quick-change straps, AND getting the Explorer and with Oysterflex Bracelet using smartyendlinks to attach then, it is my dream duo and perfect two-watch combo.

[@TheTownWatch]

Great video!!! These are both great watches as you aptly stated! I've had good hands on time with the current reference explorer and enjoyed it. I've loved the Medium Santos from afar but actually just picked one up the other day and so happy I did! The Santos is definitely for me!

[@dialontrial]

Oh great. Now I want a Santos. Its never been a watch I have liked but seeing it in this video has kind of made me want one now

[@bighands69]

The real purpose of a screw down crown is to deal with pressure in regards to movement and when you are diving you most certain are going to be bumping the watch. So while a watch maybe in theory be able to go to that depth using it at that depth when diving is an entirely different proposition. If you are regularly diving at 30m you want to be using a screw down crown.

[@clintonshiells3095]

What a great video. “Consider that if you can’t decide…maybe neither watch is for you.”

[@richardman28]

I love both of these watches. Very iconic and couldn't choose as they both make me smile, so brought both. Unfortunately, all watches (from budget to luxury) make me smile so I might need a cheaper hobby.

[@shepardman993]

I have a Date Just and a new Cartier Santos large and I never thought I’d love a watch more than my Date Just..... but I have since buying the Santos I’ve not worn my Date the way it fits my wrist it’s incredibly comfortable and is absolutely stunning especially with it’s beautiful blue face super happy best watch I’ve ever owned

[@mraymanTube]

Absolutely love your reviews! Thanks for being honest and upfront about your opinions. Very easy to absorb and crystal clear. Keep up the great work!!

[@YoureTerrific]

Too kind. I hope I don't make you go broke.

[@mihajlopesic1628]

This obsession is going to leave as all broke 😄

[@ajgross67]

I had never really considered the Santos until you and Bruce Williams’s videos. I have been trying to get the new explorer from my AD for months now, and I am really starting to think I might like the Santos better. I am going to try and find an AD this weekend that has the medium in stock to try it on in person

[@BobLorrimer]

The additional deployant strap (mine is navy blue) was the clincher for me. It changes the look in an instant ... and is lighter for evening wear. The watch is quietly discreet - but it has great presence and cuff appeal. My pal has the larger model which is big, but he has the wrist to rock the watch. The curved glass on both is a joy.

[@wescobts]

What a great video, I really like your style, very fun but informative as well.Both watches are awesome, and i really like both of them. I lean towards the Santos but if i opened the box and found the Explorer, i would not be sad.

[@psalms23four]

i regret not buying the santos when it was widely available for less than 4k a couple years ago

[@YoureTerrific]

4k new? They do seem to be increasing prices at least once per year. Twice this year, I think.

[@UnburdenedByWhatHasBeen]

Yes, the main point of a screw down crown is to prevent the crown from popping from pressure on a deep dive BUT some crown designs have gaskets inside the crown that add an extra seal when completely screwed down.

[@wataki_watcheswatakiwatche3160]

…and the PAM, whilst not screw down, has that hunking great lever as part of the design, to prevent the same.

[@UnburdenedByWhatHasBeen]

@@wataki_watcheswatakiwatche3160 yes, same concept different design

[@davyboyo]

2 of my favourites! Cartier, however, would be my one watch (or even better, one brand) collection.

[@abhid7507]

This is the most perfect and apt comparison for one watch guys... Awesome job.

[@CollinB_EDC]

Dang man I want a medium santos. I’m a huge watch nerd and it’s what I derive quite a lot of joy from in my life right now, so I really want to save up for my first luxury watch. I don’t make “luxury watch” money though, really. But I suppose it ultimately comes down to perseverance and time as a deciding factor 🙏 I strangely also want a Tudor P01 lmao

[@kirkhammett231]

You want a P01? I don't want to make you panic, but please go see your doctor as soon as possible. I think there might be something terribly wrong.

[@CollinB_EDC]

@@kirkhammett231 😂😂😂😂😂

[@080Silva080]

I am saving for a medium santos too, but instead of Tudor i want a Omega Constellation

[@justinyancey9571]

Have the explorer and it’s truly a one watch collector kinda watch. But that Santos tho… wow looks so good.

[@YoureTerrific]

Because it is.

[@dameow33]

I got the BB58, then I got the Santos M. But now I also want the Explorer. Or maybe just a new hobby.

[@YoureTerrific]

Try knitting. Much cheaper and more creative.

[@dameow33]

@@YoureTerrific I can learn to knit myself a watch.. which will make me want another watch 😂

[@Questionnaireapologetics]

I’m picking the Santos as my first luxury watch because I feel like I like the story of first pilot watch/first sports watch, than Mount Everest. Also looks wise. A Smiths Everest honestly could scratch my itch for an explorer. Nothing could scratch my itch for the Santos. The Santos just looks so elegant but I can wear it with anything. Plus I love the bracelet. Don’t get me wrong I LOVE the Explorer. But won’t be getting my first spot. Not even my second because I want the JLC Reverso after the Santos😂

[@alexwithwatches6534]

I own both and make a great match together. I wouldn't part ways with either, both excel independently in their design and purpose.

[@YoureTerrific]

That's how I feel about it.

[@user-lp7vf4bs6j]

Before I thought this channel is slowly becoming my favourite watch channel, but I was wrong, about the slowly part.

[@YoureTerrific]

😁

[@baoloc1160]

I would go with Santos. Your English pronunciation is an extra plus for me enjoying this video.

[@itoldunot2fuckwithme]

I´m a trained WOSTEP watchmaker. Started in 2001 and got my degree/certification in 2004. The main purpose of a screw down crown is precisely to not have it accidently exposing the movement to 1. Air/dust 2. Vapor/moister 3. Liquid/water. Anyone of those three things will tear on/damage the gaskets and the lube on the crown pinion causing the movement to (over time) being exposed to (mainly) air at all times which dries out all other oils that is applied on the jewels to make the highly polished pivots rotate correctly.

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks so much for writing this.

[@avi8err829]

I worn both 2 weeks ago and the Santos make me smile much more

[@Dazinglry]

Truly the 2 must-have time pieces for collection. I am still waiting to get the 124270, and once it is in my possession, the santos will be next immediately.

[@sengchio1]

My vote goes to Santos. With the swappable leather straps it's so versatile. I feel like if I were to spend money to get a Rolex explorer I would prob spend more money to get a GMT master II or Submariner.

[@Perthling-kh7we]

Both! I have an Explorer 214270 and a Santos 100. I love them both equally like my children. Except maybe more than my children.

[@cardinal-ducderichelieu1362]

How did you not scratch that polished bezel.. That's impressive

[@DW94576]

My local AD had the new 36 Explorer in the case for display and they got it for me within 2 weeks with no purchase history back in August.

[@Valera_Scotland]

The comment about manly watches... BRILLIANT and totally spot on.... those two are perfect, and so is my g shock and a 34mm date just.. it's all good!!

[@TheAntistokes]

Just picked up a Santos. More elegant to me than Explorer or any round watch for that matter. Personally since getting into watches and staring at so many of them, I'm also starting to feel like they all... or mostly... look alike. I've also come to realize the truth of how I use watches. For "luxury watches" I have an Omega Planet Ocean GMT in titanium, a JLC Reverso Duoface Medium in steel, and now the Santos medium in steel. Thank goodness for the (non rolex) second hand market. The planet ocean was first. It beats the aqua terra and diver 300m (and speedmasters) hands down in quality... quality in terms of looks and in terms of "feel." It has the most creamy lacquered blue dial that I just get lost in, and non-flashy matte titanium case and bracelet that are so solid feeling and not rattly. I don't dive, and rarely swim, so its 600m water resistance is a bit of a joke (if the 300m looked and felt as high-quality I'd be fine with 300m of water resistance). Here's the kicker... when I do know I'm going to be swimming, or playing in the rough sand, or scrambling over trees and rocks in the woods... I wear my gshock. It weighs nothing and takes up no space and charges with solar and tells me when the tide is coming in... and I always have it thrown in my suitcase. So I finally "allowed" myself to get a barely water resistant watch on a leather strap... the reverso. When I travel for work, the reverso looks more elegant with a suit so I wear it. When I travel for fun... it depends on my attire, destination, and the weather. but often I bring the planet ocean. I got the santos because (1) I like it, and (2) also to wear as a non-travel watch (only one with no second time zone). I take my watch on and off a lot during the day, so the bracelet is more convenient than the reverso deployant, and without the weight (despite the titanium) and size of the planet ocean. Although I wear the reverso happily with a t-shirt and jeans, the santos is a bit more casual while being lighter and smaller than the planet ocean. If the apocalypse comes while I'm out and about and I can't get back to my gshock, I'll be happier to be wearing the santos rather than the reverso in case I have to battle for gasoline near a beach or swimming pool... but in any other scenario the water resistance simply doesn't matter (especially not the difference between a 100m WR watch with a screw down crown and a 100m WR watch without it). Maybe if I wanted to sit by/in the pool and lure babes with my fancy watch I'd risk smashing it into the concrete side of the pool, but I'm happily taken so I throw on something less precious if I'm going to be swimming or hiking or digging in the sand or in the garden. Or, if I take up scuba diving then I'll maybe worry about the screw down crown or maybe I'll just get a real modern digital dive watch with which to protect my life. Despite my rant I *am* a total sucker for marketing and imagining myself jumping off tall things and swimming in wet things and hiking in high places and fighting terrorists with just my watch, but I'm (clearly) trying to learn to be a bit realistic. Round watches are generally boring to me. My planet ocean gets a nod from me because of its gorgeous dial that I haven't seen in many other watches. Overall, however, I personally find the reverso and santos to be much more interesting-looking than typical round watches.

[@leep_uq]

What do you think about the Tag Heuer Monaco Calibre 11 AKA Steve McQueen watch? Beautiful too, but apparently it doesn’t sit on the wrist as nicely as the Santos, good review though!

[@michellaharrague9498]

I

[@DWilliam1]

Both watches can be a “one watch” collection. I own the 39mm Explorer and the 39mm Santos De Cartier and it’s a battle which one to wear in the morning.

[@bensaigon3589]

i never gave 2 seconds of my time for cartier, then i don't know what caught my eye but i am starting to really like this one. the square dial is amazing and very elegant and different it really stands out. if you look at someone across the room with a nice watch you have to get close to see the brand as watches today are like modern cars....they all look alike, but this one you know right away it's special.. i need a cheaper hobby also....lol right now i have way more watches than wrists.

[@toddkerensky-xe4uz]

Great video. Santos for me but my tastes have shifted as I started by loving the explorer. To me it’s a blonde (santos) v brunette (explorer). If I could I go both but bc I can’t….

[@EverydayWatchGuy]

For your wrist, I'd go with the Cartier Santos. For my 7.5 inch wrist I like the 39mm Explorer (ref. 214270). Thanks for the video!

[@YoureTerrific]

👍

[@saneasmydog7120]

Just collected my Santos M today… simple, sexy, versatile, classic

[@YoureTerrific]

Congrats!

[@Number_006]

Nice vid! I enjoy your content and your commentary. Also, Mike France (of Christoper Ward) once said in a podcast interview that the screw down crown doesn’t matter when it comes to water resistance. So I think you are onto something. In fact, I would love for someone to really address this in a vid because there seems to be some massive econfusion on this point in the watch community.

[@YoureTerrific]

I have a couple watchmaking friends. Maybe I should interview them with the most commonly asked questions.

[@henkrpe3249]

In my experience (experimental scientist, also known as glorified plumber) parts which seal by screw threading alone require the use of thread sealant such as a thread locker or ptfe tape. However, in other types of connections the threading may not be used in a seal but instead be used to provide compression on a perpendicular sealing surface such as an o-ring. I have no idea what system watches use.

[@arimorrison7816]

From pictures I loved both. When I tried them on, the Cartier was the clear winner for me. Please don’t attack me

[@Ratfish09]

Such spot on commentary. More people need to understand what you're saying!

[@YoureTerrific]

👍

[@j.j.h.atemycereal]

They’re both great watches, but they’re both SUPER popular with watch nerds. They’re both, dare I say, a fad right now. Again, not knocking their quality. But for them to be SO popular in watch circles makes me think the whole is greater than the sum of their parts… and that extra “something” is trendiness.

[@jklfafa]

read my mind, this is exactly what I was comparing in my head. Currently on Medium Santos and was considering the 36 explorer

[@thewatchfemme4051]

I think you’ve picked out my two absolutely favorite luxury watches. If I could these would be my two and only, well possibly….. maybe I need three, or four, or……..

[@josephile]

I got lazy, too and got both, except I have the 39mm Explorer and large Santos (in blue dial). Very happy with them.

[@YoureTerrific]

Can’t argue with that combo

[@JulioVillavicencio-ru2sn]

Have a Santos. Gave my daughter my Explorer 2.

[@bowedonut22]

You can definitely make a very easy case for both but I would definitely choose the Santos between the two simply because the Black Bay 36 exists

[@tomtom23run_it]

I'm Rollin with the Explorer if needed to choose one