What is your favorite Explorer?

[logo]

So what is your favorite explorer? Kept it as 5 and 6 digits only to keep with the same dial numerals.

[mgsooner]

Still content with my 39. I personally like the Explorer text on the low side and the matte dial is a nice nod to the 1016.

[logo]

One thing’s for sure, nothing like the SS explorer to hold the line on Rolex design language. Basically the same over 30+ years.

[aboutadog]

36

[RyanJ]

I enjoy my 39mm. The 36mm is a fantastic watch but it is too small for me. The 39mm is borderline too small but it is the biggest I can choose for the Explorer up until now.

If the 40mm model does have 21mm lug width then that will give me pause as I change straps more than I change watches and I would hate to have to buy new straps... again...

No, I don't wear bracelets. Just a personal choice.

[tifosi]

114270 is amazing.

I have yet to handle the modern 36mm version, so I can't compare.

[pa1113]

214270. 36mm just too small for me.


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[cdmorenot]

214270 Lume Dial is the one for me ...

[MichelleP]

I love my 36mm 124270.

[Jack T]

For me, it’s not close. And there are two versions at 39mm, this is the MkI, short hands (never noticed until everyone made a fuss) and white gold numerals.
A great all around watch.

[logo]

Originally Posted by Jack T

For me, it’s not close. And there are two versions at 39mm, this is the MkI, short hands (never noticed until everyone made a fuss) and white gold numerals.
A great all around watch.

Yes there are also more than one dial variation of the 14270 and 114270, I kept it as overarching reference number only. Good looking 39

[logo]

My own opinion:

- I like 36mm
- I like the tritium dial of the 14270, bonus points for blackout
- I like a simple folding clasp like the 14270
- I like 20mm lugs of the 14270 and 114270 but like the taper of the 124270
- I like the solid end links and standard links of the 124270
- I like the AR of the 124270
- I’m ok with any of the movements

Which one to choose depends on the day. I’ve tried on the 124270 and 114270 and both are great. I think all things considered, can’t beat a brand new 124270. If forced to the larger size, I do like the 39 better than the 40, hidden gem there for those who want the bigger size IMO.

[logo]

Originally Posted by logo

My own opinion:

- I like 36mm
- I like the tritium dial of the 14270, bonus points for blackout
- I like a simple folding clasp like the 14270
- I like 20mm lugs of the 14270 and 114270 but like the taper of the 124270
- I like the solid end links and standard links of the 124270
- I like the AR of the 124270
- I’m ok with any of the movements

Which one to choose depends on the day. I’ve tried on the 124270 and 114270 and both are great. I think all things considered, can’t beat a brand new 124270. If forced to the larger size, I do like the 39 better than the 40, hidden gem there for those who want the bigger size IMO.

Well I guess I sort of fulfilled my own prophecy. Purchased this 14270 blackout, had it serviced and the crystal needed a change so I opted for a new AR crystal.

[WatchGuy1966]

Originally Posted by Jack T

For me, it’s not close. And there are two versions at 39mm, this is the MkI, short hands (never noticed until everyone made a fuss) and white gold numerals.
A great all around watch.

The best one

[Mick006]

Either 114270 or most recent 36.

[Brich436]

124270 - Glossy dial, AR coating and more discreet size of the 36mm fit the model better.

The new 124270 was about the same price as a used 114270 so made it a no brainier with the upgraded bracelet and movement inside. Mine is -1s per day accurate.

[Mountain]

Any 36mm steel explorer. They’re all absolutely gorgeous from a design perspective.

[dannyp]

Toss up between current 36 and 114270. Like the feel of the current as well as the proportions but also appreciate the charm of the old stamped clasps and hollow center links plus the venerable 31xx.

[S.Explorer]

Has to be a 36mm Explorer for me, suits my slim wrists. Probably 124270 edges it design wise, but I favour the proven 3130 movement in the 114270.

[juve]

214270 for me.

[Cwillis0001]

39mm with the updated hands and lume.

[SAP7]

The 39 was ruined by really odd proportions. The size may work for you but the whole thing was a mess of ratios and the dial was wasted space.
Hopefully that’s why they ditched it and added the 40. If the 40 has the same golden ratio design of the 36 it might work as a better scaled up alternative.
The 36 was perfection in design terms: everything in balance.

[diracpoint]

214270 mk II checks all the boxes for me --

✅Modern size
✅Matte black dial
✅Full lume
✅"Explorer" text at the bottom

[RolexPete]

Originally Posted by diracpoint

214270 mk II checks all the boxes for me --

Modern size
Matte black dial
Full lume
"Explorer" text at the bottom

Agree 100%.


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[zengineer]

Originally Posted by SAP7

The 39 was ruined by really odd proportions. The size may work for you but the whole thing was a mess of ratios and the dial was wasted space.
Hopefully that’s why they ditched it and added the 40. If the 40 has the same golden ratio design of the 36 it might work as a better scaled up alternative.
The 36 was perfection in design terms: everything in balance.

I honestly never understood this criticism and I know a thing orctwo about design. 36 is the right size for many people but is simply too small but modern standards for many buyers.

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[Santiago32]

I like how the 39 has 'Explorer' close to 6 o clock. Balances out the dial IMO

[Old Expat Beast]

The 124273 for me (not listed above)

[logo]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

The 124273 for me (not listed above)

A nice one for sure. Wonder if they’ll offer the 40 in two tone next year.

[Andad]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

The 124273 for me (not listed above)

X2.

In a 40mm case.

[kopi-c]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

The 124273 for me (not listed above)

^This.

124273 starting to grow on me right now.