Interesting to hear as I have the same size wrist and changed my mind to the OP41 , albeit it saddens me.. haven't pulled the trigger yet . The chances of trying them on in store are slim to none 😂
I love that Rolex didn't follow the big watch trend here and respected the heritage of the watch. I like the 39 very much but was never a fan of the dull matte finish on such a simple dial
@@nathanf3230 you’re joking right! People say I an watch collector, but I would say more of a watch nerd, not into vintage. Own a few explorers in the past, that’s includes a 36mm but this 39mm is a keeper! Thank you
This review was quite good at providing perspective. It really depends on your wrist size. It’s always a matter of proportions. I have the 39mm MK1. I love the watch. The big controversy at the time was the hands. For my wrist it works. There’s white gold numbers instead of lume which is not preferred but maybe it’s not such a big deal. I do agree that Rolex discontinuing the 39 was likely a mistake. 38 might be the sweet spot. The Yacht Master is 40. I don’t know why they consider this the big watch trend..
Yesssss. You do what most don’t. Style them. Wear an outfit and show us what it looks like to others and ourself. Not just closeups of your wrist or some background to showcase the watch. Thank you, been looking for you
In my opinion it absolutely depends on the size of the owners' wrists. There is room for both 36 and 39 mil to be able to choose from, each with his wrist size (and taste if you like).
Agree they should offer both sizes. IMO the 39mm size and thickness hits the sweet spot of not being too large or too small. This size with the updates, especially the deep black dial, would be stellar.
Having the 36mm and loving it: it fits my 6.5” wrist and is incredibly versatile and comfortable. Impossible to say if both 36 and 39 were available which one would I choose, but my number came up on the 36 and I, along with most of the community, would be hard pressed to pass on it in this market. I do still prefer the proportions of the dial/lugs/bezel on the 36, and seeing the 39 I’m just not a fan. But if an AD had a 39 you better believe I’d buy it also.
Loved the comparison shots, let’s one see how the watch actually looks on the wrist. With a wrist size of 7,25” the 36 looks dainty, I’ll have to stick with my 39mm. Great video…
A wrist bigger than 7 inches (also if you have big forearms and big hands) this will look small. My 7 inch wrist is pushing the limits with this GADA watch. However, I'm 5'4 and have a normal forearm so it looks proportional on me. I notice this 36mm looks bigger on wrists smaller than 6 1/2 inches. The design is proportions limit wrist sizes, unlike the old 36mm which doesn't look small on wrists bigger than 7 inches.
@@Damo-gq6wl I guess that 57 year run at 36mm was all wrong haha. Odd, now Rolex have chosen a 36mm case again. One would think the watch is meant to be 36mm.
@@nathanf3230 I'm commenting on 1 persons wrist in the video, I'm sure it looks great on a huge amount of people's wrists and loads will love it. Vintage watches in the past used to be smaller and I'm sure the new 36mm will sell well (if you can get your hands on it)
Yeah they never scaled it properly up to 39mm. IMO Rolex has a spotty record when scaling sizes up (Datejust 2, Day-Date 2, Explorer 39mm). The proportions just never felt right.
@@maitrehg You sound very insecure, judging from your messages throughout. Trying too hard to convince yourself that you know deep down what you are saying is false.
I got a call from my local AD and saw this watch in person luckily yesterday. IMHO, it might take time to get used to this 36mm size. It looked way small even smaller than my wife’s DJ36. My AD said they sold 2 pieces of this watch, all to women users… if you have other Rolex watches 40, 41, or 42, you might be frustrated when you see this 124270 at first.
What a video!! Amazing job! 👏 👏 I feel like this answers any and all questions one could have about the old and new explorer! Thank you for doing what you do!
Beautiful video Hafiz! I personally love 36mm watches however in the case of the new Explorer I really don't understand why they didn't give it the same "big 36" case the OP 36 has, with thicker lugs. That would have been perfect. I don't understand the logic behind significantly reducing the size of the watch and making it wear EVEN SMALLER.
I own the current datejust and the new Explorer. On the wrist they literally wear the same. Explorer maybe looks a little bigger because of the larger indices. Stop over thinking it.
@@maitrehg Try telling Tony Soprano his 36mm Day Date is a girls watch LOL jk. The actor was 6'2 300lbs and a 36mm Rolex looked and fit perfect on the character/actor. It's not the width that matters. It's the lug to lug, dial, color, metal polish/finish, and design that makes a watch pop, look too small, or too big. Big hands, long forearms, big forearms also make or break a watch.
I think 36mm is the golden ratio in watches, but of course 38mm is fine too. 38mm or above is not something I usually wear unless it is a diving watch or a watch with special functions, I was a big fan of 42-44mm watches, but then I wore a 36mm size watch and I found that 36mm is good, it doesn't make me feel weighty and I found that It doesn't weigh me down and I find that a 36mm watch allows me to keep track of time as quickly as possible. I suggest you put aside your prejudices and wear a 36mm watch for 1 month, you will change your opinion.
Hafiz you really don't disappoint do you. Best watch channel on RUclips. There I said it many will say watchfinder but they're always taking about the money aspect and random BS. While you always do it from the experience of wearing the watch.
Great comparison. I think Both look great on your wrist. Size shouldn’t be dependant on gender it should be the preference of the wearer. I think the nee Explorer is a fantastic piece which doesn’t scream “I’m a Rolex” it’s more refined, subdued and well fitting.
Thanks a lot. Very detailed and useful. The 39mm would fit my wrist best but the greyish dial color + the proportions sadly make it a total non-starter for me.
Beauty is subjective. If you appreciate classic dimensions and the symbolism behind a smaller time piece, the new 124270 explorer is perfect. I was lucky enough to obtain this watch a few months back and absolutely love it.
@5:40 you said the size of the dial/crystal is 32.5 mm of the 39 Explorer. However, in your other video titled, “[K] Rolex Explorer 39 vs Explorer 40 Hands-on; Differences Beyond The Obvious”. You quoted the size as 32.2 mm. Am I confusing something?
I was about to purchase a 36mm today and I think your video may have changed my mind. I previously had a 36 DJ. But every time I see one of these 36mm explorers they look so much smaller than the 36 DJ.
Yes, I agree that the 39mm fits you better. I also have a 6.5 inch wrist had thought about the 36mm but after seeing your video I’m totally sure 39mm is the perfect size - Thank you 🙏🏻
If you want 39 just get an OP. I think it was great idea bringing the Exp back down to 36 as it keeps it as its own thing. Every watch doesn't have to be 39, 40mm sheesh. Personally when i wore my 39 Exp I never got the classic vibe I was hoping for. It always felt like another Datejust or something.
I own both the 39mm Explorer and 36mm OP (ref 116034). If one was considering the new 36mm Explorer I would recommend to get the OP instead. It's better value, has slightly bigger bracelet & wider lugs and you get a gold bezel. It's also now discontinued, so a much rarer piece too. Overall, the Explorer is for commercial sales. The smart money is in the OP. The so-called budget model to the novice collector.
36mm is very much welcomed but they have kinda make the new explorer too elegant thus losing that sporty charm, the charm lost got even more obvious when being put together side by side with 39mm. I was considering the upgrade but after studying them closely, i think 39mm is more appealing, practical, well balanced and unique IMO with the vintage matte black dial, 20mm lug width and its hands extending all the way to markers in contrast to new 36mm explorer. Great video for those who are in dilemma.
I have the new 36mm Explorer and I have a 7 inch wrist. This one is perfect, what an Explorer should be. Small visible no nonsense mountaineering watch. The 39mm fits my wrist perfect as well, but it’s not proportional. It’s a swollen 36mm that wears more like a 41mm. Im a 70’s 80’s kid, so a 36mm size watch is nothing new to me. Yes after wearing 40-42mm watches for 20 years will throw you off a bit. After a week, the Explorer 36mm becomes a part of you. It just works.
Good comparison. However I'm confused seeing variations of lug to lug for new 36. for eg per Adrian's channel it's 45.5 and many others have said it's 43.x. How can we explain the big difference assuming all measuring lug to lug from where the bracelet extends from the case end
Tried this on in store yesterday, and on my 7 inch wrist I still thought it looked great, very vintage size……..Definitely the Rolex for people who don’t want to shout out to the world that they are wearing one.
Is your wrist particularly flat? I ask because the watch looks uncannily small for a 6.5 inch wrist vs other RUclips reviews (and my own 6.5 inch wrist as well).
I think Hafiz mentions that his wrist is 6.5in and 55mm wide, while wearing the 39mm about 9 minutes into the video. Wrist width can be a slightly more accurate point of reference when considering how a watch will fit the wearer imo. I have a 7.25” wrist with 55mm width and enjoy watches anywhere from 36-42mm, although the bracelets do not always fit comfortably on the slightly smaller watches! 😊.
Save for the 214270, keep that Dweller. That reference of the Dweller is rising. The most wearable of the Dwellers and often mistaken for a sub. Then you get to say, no, it's a SEA DWELLER!
I own both. They are completely different watches. I love them individually as they both have their own aesthetic and wear differently. Although if I really had to keep only one I would choose the Sea-Dweller. It's technically superior with greater specs & a true professional's watch. The 40mm diver with bezel gives it the perfect proportions. At one time, the Sea-Dweller was more expensive than a Daytona purchased new in the Rolex catalog! Which meant the SD was Rolex' most expensive steel sports watch. It's only that fashion & consumer preference has favoured the Daytona as the poster-boy of the Rolex stable. Although I do like the tri-Arabic numerals of the Explorer, it is probably more a fashion watch than a true sports watch. The Oyster Perpetual is more true to the design of what was actually worn to summit Mt Everest. As for 36mm vs 39mm. I also own a blue Explorer dial variant of the OP in 36mm (ref 116034) & the 39mm Explorer. Again, I love both but they wear differently altogether. The 36mm is dressier with the white gold fluted bezel and the 39mm is sportier being bigger and bolder on the wrist. My wrist size is a fraction smaller than Hafiz and I find the 36mm OP is too small. Bearing in mind the 36mm OP has 20mm lugs compared to the new 36 Explorer which has a 19mm lug and smaller bracelet taper. I think the 37 or 38mm would have been the perfect compromise for the new Explorer. And if you like 36mm then I strongly recommend a discontinued 36mm OP with the Explorer dial (either ref 116034 or 116000). You virtually getting the same watch for less money and slightly bigger bracelet & lug width. Aside from the 70 hour power reserve I wouldn't bother paying the extra premium for the new Explorer. All hype, No bite.
@@oysterman962 Thanks, you have made my decision easier. I will keep the SD4 and save up for a Exp 39mm mk2 as I have identical wrist to Hafiz so the flat top side of wrist is 5.5cm. Thanks for the detailed info.
I definitely like the 39mm a lot more. I went to a rolex AD yesterday and i saw a brand new explorer 1, the price tag of $ 7100 really tempted me, but I didn't buy it. Today I am rethinking going back on Monday to buy it. what do you think of the price? I understand that the 39mm price has risen quite a bit on the gray market after being discontinued.
My friend nice review ! The 36mm looks better on your wrist ! I always though the 39 is just awkward for an explorer .. if it was to buy a plain watch like this in a bigger dimension would probably go for something like tissot or an omega and save some money ! But explorer is 36
36 all the way. There are tons of options out there from Rolex and others that are on the larger side. There are a lot of us out there in that 6.5 to 6.75 inch wrist range that just cant easily pull off a big watch.
@@maitrehg are you suggesting Harrison Ford, Winston Churchill, sir Edmund Hillary, Muhammed Ali(wore a Cartier tank), etc. Weren’t/aren’t real men then idk what to tell you. If you think a small watch will make you less of a man or will turn you gay then you weren’t that straight to begin with
My wrist size is on the slender side very similar to yours and I find that my 214270 is the perfect fit. I too think Rolex should have kept both sizes of this truly understated and stylish model. Rolex should also offer the Submariner in two sizes to accommodate different wrist sizes, but Rolex doesn't really care what their customers want.....C'est la vie!
There are people in the world with big wrists you know. On my 20cm wrist a 36mm watch, even if its full gold looks like a childs toy. Its simply out of proportion therefore its not a good look.
3:20 that 39mm Explorer looks like a dinner plate with that bezel! I sold mine a while ago, and the 36mm seems to be a much better choice (personally anyway). Can't wait to get one some day. Both watches look great on your wrist by the way. I prefer the updated features, and the subtlety of the 36mm (and I'm used to wearing my casio F91W which is a similar size), but I can see why many people prefer the 39mm... I assume Rolex will release a bigger sized Explorer, but then again - they will do what they do...
@@maitrehg I only said it LOOKS like a dinner plate. And I wear a G Shock sometimes, so I'm not taking sides here. I had the 39mm Explorer and the bezel was a little wide. It's personal opinion. And all this "man's watch" stuff is a little bit sad mate. Wear what you want. There's no such thing as "man's watch" or "woman's watch". It's whatever watch connects with you. And personally I like big watches but small watches too in some cases. And in the case of the Explorer, I prefer it in a smaller size
I really like your reviews, they are tastefully presented and very thorough. Had you thought about adding an accuracy check in different positions? I know that this would just be a snapshot as it were, but Rolex make an impressive claim about the accuracy of their movements, it would be interesting to see whether or not their claims are justified. Excellent video though, thank you. :-)
I happen to have both a 39mm Explorer and the new 36mm Explorer. My experience has been wearing both watches everyday and resting it crown side down at night that the 39mm gained ~1 second /day, and the new 36mm has gained ~1 second in one week. Accuracy on. Both is quite impressive!
I sold my 214270 because it never felt right on my wrist, although I have 7.5 inch. Especially the top heavyness and the lack to slip easily under a cuff bothered me. Beside that the antireflective coating on the new Exp36 makes the watch even look better than the 39. I think Rolex hit the nail with it.
Just picked up the 36mm it fits perfectly on my small wrist. IMO Rolex is ahead of the curve with this style going forward. Thanks for your videos, keep them going.
I also have a 6.5” wrist size and I bought the 39mm Explorer specifically for its perfect size on my wrist. I agree with you, Hafiz, that the 39mm is the better size for a sports watch. What were you thinking, Rolex?
I was waiting for someone doing a proper comparison between this two and you nailed it as always! before seeing it i knew it will be the best. The 39mm looks far better on your wrist. I have the 39mm version and i couldnt agree more with you, having tried the new 36mm i also think it is too small, far smaller than an OP 36 because i have owned one and it is. It feels too small on the wrist, and my wrist size is like yours, 6'5''. EXCELLENT comparison. Regards
I tried both the op36 and ex 36 at Watches of Switzerland and the wear felt exactly the same on both…diminutive. However the EX 36 looked bigger with the dial having more pop. The ex just looked so much nicer than the plain Jane Op36.
@@michaelriera6277 my comparison between the op36 and exp36 was between the old generation of Op, that had more maxi case than now that are much slimmer, there is a big difference so i understand your point of view between the new gen of Op and Exp
@@maitrehg With respect, maitrehg, that is not true at all. The 36mm watch is and has always been a standard and great size for a man's watch. In fact, for decades something closer to 34mm was almost generally a defaulted man's watch size.
@@maitrehg Is 36mm a girl's size watch because it is for the ladies only? My friend, you've committed a logical fallacy where you presume the conclusion you are trying to purport (i.e. circular logic). As Clark above has beautifully stated, it also nicely fits men.
@@Sani-l9s1b You will surely agree with me that the obvious conclusion is : 36mm is acceptable for effeminate men and women but a real men will always prefer 39mm and over.
I think due to demand in India and China they reduced the size to accommodate body size. In Europe 39mm would be a better fit for 'most' people in my opinion. The 36mm looks small even on your 6.5inch wrist so on anything over 7inch it would look wrong in my opinion. One thing to bear in mind is people are a lot larger now than they were in the 50s and 60s. I got the 39mm recently with a 7.1inch wrist. 6foot1 and 90kg and my first impression was that even that was a little small. I've warmed up to the sizing now but I'm thankful I got in before it dropped to 36mm.
I have he 114270 and as much as I like the new lume and mvt, it is not worth the change. Getting one retail is impossible for me and paying close to 20K is ridiculous. The content of these videos is informative and great detail with camera and measurements, thank you keep going. I also have 40mm Air King and a review of that model would be welcome please.
why not sell both and get a submariner? New clasp, ceramic bezel and glidelock will make you happy. The Air King is like the ugly ducking in the Rolex range.
I think the 36mm version *was the best size. But, by modern standards, the 36mm is clearly undersized. People can say whatever they want, but you need a baby's wrist to make it look good. Hafiz has a 6.5 wrist and couldn't pull it off. So imagine a 7-inch wrist. Explorer would sit up there like a little nickel. 39mm will be back at some point (with a new movement) because Rolex will realize that the 36mm alienates too many potential customers. Trust and believe, that they didn't bring the 36mm back for the watch nerds who think 39 is too big.
The 39mm was far too large for an Explorer. The 36mm is classic, elegant, and perfect. The only problem is the placement of the dial text. "Explorer" should be written above the 6 o'clock position. Also, the minute hand should touch the minute markers, because duh. Are either worth the price tag? Absolutely not. Buy the 36mm Smiths Everest PRS-25 instead.
![[4K] Rolex Explorer 39 vs Explorer 40 Hands-on; Differences Beyond The Obvious | Hafiz J Mehmood](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Nf7Zfi8nuMQ/mqdefault.jpg)
![[4K] The All New 2021 Rolex Explorer 36mm (Two-Tone) Review & Wrist Shots | Hafiz J Mehmood](/img/1.gif)
Thank you for the love. Follow my watch journey at instagram.com/hafizjmehmood/
Loving the classic proportions and comfort of the new 36 on my 7.5 in wrist
Interesting to hear as I have the same size wrist and changed my mind to the OP41 , albeit it saddens me.. haven't pulled the trigger yet . The chances of trying them on in store are slim to none 😂
🤣
Watching this while wearing my Explorer 39, loving the watch on my 8inch wrist
I love that Rolex didn't follow the big watch trend here and respected the heritage of the watch. I like the 39 very much but was never a fan of the dull matte finish on such a simple dial
thank god the big watch trend is starting to die again
I own a 39mm I didn’t realised it was matt finish black. Now that I do, I think it’s even more special - Thank you 🙏
@@TL-ph5wg are you joking? Do you know if its auto or quartz??
@@nathanf3230 you’re joking right! People say I an watch collector, but I would say more of a watch nerd, not into vintage. Own a few explorers in the past, that’s includes a 36mm but this 39mm is a keeper! Thank you
This review was quite good at providing perspective. It really depends on your wrist size. It’s always a matter of proportions. I have the 39mm MK1. I love the watch. The big controversy at the time was the hands. For my wrist it works. There’s white gold numbers instead of lume which is not preferred but maybe it’s not such a big deal. I do agree that Rolex discontinuing the 39 was likely a mistake. 38 might be the sweet spot. The Yacht Master is 40. I don’t know why they consider this the big watch trend..
Yesssss. You do what most don’t. Style them. Wear an outfit and show us what it looks like to others and ourself. Not just closeups of your wrist or some background to showcase the watch. Thank you, been looking for you
In my opinion it absolutely depends on the size of the owners' wrists. There is room for both 36 and 39 mil to be able to choose from, each with his wrist size (and taste if you like).
Agree they should offer both sizes. IMO the 39mm size and thickness hits the sweet spot of not being too large or too small. This size with the updates, especially the deep black dial, would be stellar.
The 39mm looks much better. The 36mm looks like a child's toy. I also have a huge wrist. 🍻
I've tried on the 36mm at my AD and oh my goodness I hate that they don't provide a 39mm or hell even a 41mm size.
Having the 36mm and loving it: it fits my 6.5” wrist and is incredibly versatile and comfortable. Impossible to say if both 36 and 39 were available which one would I choose, but my number came up on the 36 and I, along with most of the community, would be hard pressed to pass on it in this market. I do still prefer the proportions of the dial/lugs/bezel on the 36, and seeing the 39 I’m just not a fan. But if an AD had a 39 you better believe I’d buy it also.
Loved the comparison shots, let’s one see how the watch actually looks on the wrist. With a wrist size of 7,25” the 36 looks dainty, I’ll have to stick with my 39mm. Great video…
A wrist bigger than 7 inches (also if you have big forearms and big hands) this will look small. My 7 inch wrist is pushing the limits with this GADA watch. However, I'm 5'4 and have a normal forearm so it looks proportional on me. I notice this 36mm looks bigger on wrists smaller than 6 1/2 inches. The design is proportions limit wrist sizes, unlike the old 36mm which doesn't look small on wrists bigger than 7 inches.
Waited 34 years for this watch...absolute perfection, IMO. That's what I'm, "thinking about".
I’ve always wanted the explorer 39mm, idk if a 36mm will suit my 7.5 inch wrist
I’m a huge fan of 36mm watches however I do admit the 39 looks far better on your wrist.
They should have kept 39 as an option.
Far better.....hardly. Not unless you love a bloated case with a lot of empty space on the dial.
I'd agree, the 36 looks too small on his wrist
@@Damo-gq6wl I guess that 57 year run at 36mm was all wrong haha. Odd, now Rolex have chosen a 36mm case again. One would think the watch is meant to be 36mm.
@@nathanf3230 I'm commenting on 1 persons wrist in the video, I'm sure it looks great on a huge amount of people's wrists and loads will love it. Vintage watches in the past used to be smaller and I'm sure the new 36mm will sell well (if you can get your hands on it)
It's a professional sports model watch. I don't think 36mm is the right size at this point in the history of the Explorer.
I prefer the 39mm too on my wrist but the layout of the 36mm dial seems better proportioned.
Yeah they never scaled it properly up to 39mm. IMO Rolex has a spotty record when scaling sizes up (Datejust 2, Day-Date 2, Explorer 39mm). The proportions just never felt right.
The moving of the word Explorer on top is a disaster. Looks butt ugly. 39mm all the way for real men.
@@maitrehg You sound very insecure, judging from your messages throughout. Trying too hard to convince yourself that you know deep down what you are saying is false.
By far the best video I have seen regarding both versions!
I got a call from my local AD and saw this watch in person luckily yesterday. IMHO, it might take time to get used to this 36mm size. It looked way small even smaller than my wife’s DJ36. My AD said they sold 2 pieces of this watch, all to women users… if you have other Rolex watches 40, 41, or 42, you might be frustrated when you see this 124270 at first.
Best comparison of the 36 vs 39. It’s nice to see how they actually wear on your wrist from a distance.
What a video!! Amazing job! 👏 👏 I feel like this answers any and all questions one could have about the old and new explorer! Thank you for doing what you do!
I really really want that new 36mm, it's gorgeous and I have tiny wrists, so it would be a perfect match
Get on a waiting list and it will happen. I have 6.5 wrist and the watch is perfection.
Weight of both these please with full bracelet please?
Beautiful video Hafiz! I personally love 36mm watches however in the case of the new Explorer I really don't understand why they didn't give it the same "big 36" case the OP 36 has, with thicker lugs. That would have been perfect. I don't understand the logic behind significantly reducing the size of the watch and making it wear EVEN SMALLER.
I own the current datejust and the new Explorer. On the wrist they literally wear the same. Explorer maybe looks a little bigger because of the larger indices. Stop over thinking it.
@@nathanf3230 You gotta really love girls' watches.
@@maitrehg haha you've got that Rolex envy. Enjoy your Tudor little man.
@@maitrehg Try telling Tony Soprano his 36mm Day Date is a girls watch LOL jk. The actor was 6'2 300lbs and a 36mm Rolex looked and fit perfect on the character/actor. It's not the width that matters. It's the lug to lug, dial, color, metal polish/finish, and design that makes a watch pop, look too small, or too big. Big hands, long forearms, big forearms also make or break a watch.
I think 36mm is the golden ratio in watches, but of course 38mm is fine too. 38mm or above is not something I usually wear unless it is a diving watch or a watch with special functions, I was a big fan of 42-44mm watches, but then I wore a 36mm size watch and I found that 36mm is good, it doesn't make me feel weighty and I found that It doesn't weigh me down and I find that a 36mm watch allows me to keep track of time as quickly as possible. I suggest you put aside your prejudices and wear a 36mm watch for 1 month, you will change your opinion.
The 39mm looks much better on your 6.5" wrist, especially the shots at 9:50, the 36mm just looks too small.
Couldn’t agree more
I think the 36 looks better
39mm FTW
36mm is for the ladies only.
@@maitrehg bullshit,my wrist is 7" and 36 looks just fine,how sad are you to define your masculinity by the size of your watch 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂
Fantastic comparison, thank you as a viewer and Explorer owner 👍
Hafiz you really don't disappoint do you. Best watch channel on RUclips. There I said it many will say watchfinder but they're always taking about the money aspect and random BS. While you always do it from the experience of wearing the watch.
Great comparison. I think
Both look great on your wrist. Size shouldn’t be dependant on gender it should be the preference of the wearer. I think the nee Explorer is a fantastic piece which doesn’t scream “I’m a Rolex” it’s more refined, subdued and well fitting.
Well said
Could the dial colour appear darker on the 36 because it has AR coating?
Nope. The 39 is like charcoal in comparison. Sharp.
No. The new 36mm is a deep glossy black, while the 39 changes colors from charcoal grey/black to deep black (matte finish)
What is the wrist size in this video?
Great video Hafiz. 39 for me. 36 for my wife. Love these explorers! Best rolex model. period
Thanks a lot. Very detailed and useful. The 39mm would fit my wrist best but the greyish dial color + the proportions sadly make it a total non-starter for me.
Nice review, thank you, Hafiz. I'd prefer 39mm, also.
Wonderful pictures with fitting background music and very indepth informations. Thank you very much for that video.
Great comparison video. Either model, you can’t go wrong. 👍🏼
Beauty is subjective. If you appreciate classic dimensions and the symbolism behind a smaller time piece, the new 124270 explorer is perfect. I was lucky enough to obtain this watch a few months back and absolutely love it.
It is a classic.
Symbolism??
Hey Hafiz, you you think the explorer 1 going down to a 36 could be Rolex making room for the explorer 2 to come back to its original 40mm case size
Thank you for this wonderful comparative review!
8:58 -- 39mm wrist shot
9:38 -- 36mm wrist shot
great video. All differences nicely explained, thanks.
@5:40 you said the size of the dial/crystal is 32.5 mm of the 39 Explorer. However, in your other video titled, “[K] Rolex Explorer 39 vs Explorer 40 Hands-on; Differences Beyond The Obvious”. You quoted the size as 32.2 mm. Am I confusing something?
A 38mm without the fugly maxicase proportions would make everyone happy
I was about to purchase a 36mm today and I think your video may have changed my mind. I previously had a 36 DJ. But every time I see one of these 36mm explorers they look so much smaller than the 36 DJ.
Big mistake
Another great comparison Hafiz. I always look forward to your vids, thank you.
The yellow gold and that inky black dial is 🔥.
Yes, I agree that the 39mm fits you better. I also have a 6.5 inch wrist had thought about the 36mm but after seeing your video I’m totally sure 39mm is the perfect size - Thank you 🙏🏻
The only choice for men.
@@maitrehg Calm down
@@rf4790 Don't give me orders.
@@maitrehg Grow up.
@@silveriver9 in fact, 39mm is too small. 41mm or nothing for alpha males.
I just love Hafiz’s videos! Such consistent, polished & informative work. Keep it up!
If you want 39 just get an OP. I think it was great idea bringing the Exp back down to 36 as it keeps it as its own thing. Every watch doesn't have to be 39, 40mm sheesh. Personally when i wore my 39 Exp I never got the classic vibe I was hoping for. It always felt like another Datejust or something.
I own both the 39mm Explorer and 36mm OP (ref 116034). If one was considering the new 36mm Explorer I would recommend to get the OP instead. It's better value, has slightly bigger bracelet & wider lugs and you get a gold bezel. It's also now discontinued, so a much rarer piece too. Overall, the Explorer is for commercial sales. The smart money is in the OP. The so-called budget model to the novice collector.
@@oysterman962 a gold bezel on the OP??
It is reference 116034. Look it up. White gold fluted bezel.
@@oysterman962 thank you. Sadly it is discontinued, but you already mentioned this.
Are you serious ? A real Explorer fan doesn't give a damn about the OP.
36mm is very much welcomed but they have kinda make the new explorer too elegant thus losing that sporty charm, the charm lost got even more obvious when being put together side by side with 39mm. I was considering the upgrade but after studying them closely, i think 39mm is more appealing, practical, well balanced and unique IMO with the vintage matte black dial, 20mm lug width and its hands extending all the way to markers in contrast to new 36mm explorer. Great video for those who are in dilemma.
39mm is the only way for real men.
@@maitrehg Again, calm down
@@rf4790 Again, don't give me orders.
@@maitrehg Quit your weirdness. Do it now.
@@rf4790 I'm not listening to an order from a non-binary freak.
I have the new 36mm Explorer and I have a 7 inch wrist. This one is perfect, what an Explorer should be. Small visible no nonsense mountaineering watch. The 39mm fits my wrist perfect as well, but it’s not proportional. It’s a swollen 36mm that wears more like a 41mm. Im a 70’s 80’s kid, so a 36mm size watch is nothing new to me. Yes after wearing 40-42mm watches for 20 years will throw you off a bit. After a week, the Explorer 36mm becomes a part of you. It just works.
Great review & I’m with you on your conclusion.
I like the 39. But I like the black on the new 36 better, hopefully the 39 comes back with that same black on the 36
Can you compare the explorer 39 with the op 41 please
Good comparison. However I'm confused seeing variations of lug to lug for new 36. for eg per Adrian's channel it's 45.5 and many others have said it's 43.x. How can we explain the big difference assuming all measuring lug to lug from where the bracelet extends from the case end
Adrian measured the endlinks of the bracelet. 43mm is the correct measurement.
Agreed the minute hand is too short. Hopefully the inevitable mk2 will fix that.
You have to like bracelets if you wear the 36mm. All I notice in his 36mm wrist shots is a lot of bracelet vs watch.....
36 is for the ladies.
Interesting. Thank you. You pointed out somethings i had wrong with the two tone. It isnt 50th? Great video.
Great comparisons, bravo!
Tried this on in store yesterday, and on my 7 inch wrist I still thought it looked great, very vintage size……..Definitely the Rolex for people who don’t want to shout out to the world that they are wearing one.
Is your wrist particularly flat? I ask because the watch looks uncannily small for a 6.5 inch wrist vs other RUclips reviews (and my own 6.5 inch wrist as well).
I think Hafiz mentions that his wrist is 6.5in and 55mm wide, while wearing the 39mm about 9 minutes into the video. Wrist width can be a slightly more accurate point of reference when considering how a watch will fit the wearer imo. I have a 7.25” wrist with 55mm width and enjoy watches anywhere from 36-42mm, although the bracelets do not always fit comfortably on the slightly smaller watches! 😊.
Great comparison, I do like how the 39 mm looks on the wrist, but I love the 36 mm classical size.
Thanks for the video
The 36 is clearly a watch for girls.
@@maitrehg clearly you have never tried a Datejust 36 before, cause that is a universal watch.
@@AbdulRWatches I like the DJ 41 a lot. The only choice for men.
Agreed. I have the 39mm and tried on the 36….too small
I am actualy considering selling my Sea Dweller 116600 40mm for a Explorer 214270 39mm. Perhaps a review on a showdown for two discontinued models!!??
Save for the 214270, keep that Dweller. That reference of the Dweller is rising. The most wearable of the Dwellers and often mistaken for a sub. Then you get to say, no, it's a SEA DWELLER!
I own both. They are completely different watches. I love them individually as they both have their own aesthetic and wear differently. Although if I really had to keep only one I would choose the Sea-Dweller. It's technically superior with greater specs & a true professional's watch. The 40mm diver with bezel gives it the perfect proportions. At one time, the Sea-Dweller was more expensive than a Daytona purchased new in the Rolex catalog! Which meant the SD was Rolex' most expensive steel sports watch. It's only that fashion & consumer preference has favoured the Daytona as the poster-boy of the Rolex stable. Although I do like the tri-Arabic numerals of the Explorer, it is probably more a fashion watch than a true sports watch. The Oyster Perpetual is more true to the design of what was actually worn to summit Mt Everest. As for 36mm vs 39mm. I also own a blue Explorer dial variant of the OP in 36mm (ref 116034) & the 39mm Explorer. Again, I love both but they wear differently altogether. The 36mm is dressier with the white gold fluted bezel and the 39mm is sportier being bigger and bolder on the wrist. My wrist size is a fraction smaller than Hafiz and I find the 36mm OP is too small. Bearing in mind the 36mm OP has 20mm lugs compared to the new 36 Explorer which has a 19mm lug and smaller bracelet taper. I think the 37 or 38mm would have been the perfect compromise for the new Explorer. And if you like 36mm then I strongly recommend a discontinued 36mm OP with the Explorer dial (either ref 116034 or 116000). You virtually getting the same watch for less money and slightly bigger bracelet & lug width. Aside from the 70 hour power reserve I wouldn't bother paying the extra premium for the new Explorer. All hype, No bite.
@@jeremydahm2124 cheers bro, gonna do exactly that!
@@oysterman962 Thanks, you have made my decision easier. I will keep the SD4 and save up for a Exp 39mm mk2 as I have identical wrist to Hafiz so the flat top side of wrist is 5.5cm.
Thanks for the detailed info.
I definitely like the 39mm a lot more. I went to a rolex AD yesterday and i saw a brand new explorer 1, the price tag of $ 7100 really tempted me, but I didn't buy it. Today I am rethinking going back on Monday to buy it. what do you think of the price? I understand that the 39mm price has risen quite a bit on the gray market after being discontinued.
Wait what?! They had a 39mm explorer new?? If you don't get it I will! Lol
@@steelsteez6118 yes, they have it there, ……
My friend nice review ! The 36mm looks better on your wrist ! I always though the 39 is just awkward for an explorer .. if it was to buy a plain watch like this in a bigger dimension would probably go for something like tissot or an omega and save some money ! But explorer is 36
Wonderful presentation as always
Great show great review thanks very much. 🇬🇧
36 all the way. There are tons of options out there from Rolex and others that are on the larger side. There are a lot of us out there in that 6.5 to 6.75 inch wrist range that just cant easily pull off a big watch.
What kind of men wear girls' size watches ?
@@maitrehg 36 is a men’s size and always has been. The trend of larger watches was only from the late ‘90’s early 2000’s
@@maitrehg muhammad ali 👌
@@perudolux In 2021, the Greatest would have worn a men's watch.
@@maitrehg are you suggesting Harrison Ford, Winston Churchill, sir Edmund Hillary, Muhammed Ali(wore a Cartier tank), etc. Weren’t/aren’t real men then idk what to tell you. If you think a small watch will make you less of a man or will turn you gay then you weren’t that straight to begin with
Good work, can’t wait to watch the new explore II compared to the previous model
I was waiting for this one! Great video as always. My favorite watch reviewer right now
Have the 39, it's the updated version with the lumed Arabics. I wouldn't swap it for the new 36. I think the 36 is just too small.
Explorer would have to be my choice of a watch. It is perfect.
My wrist size is on the slender side very similar to yours and I find that my 214270 is the perfect fit.
I too think Rolex should have kept both sizes of this truly understated and stylish model. Rolex should also offer the Submariner in two sizes to accommodate different wrist sizes, but Rolex doesn't really care what their customers want.....C'est la vie!
Are you planning to review the new Explorer 2 models?
Perfect Job mate. Exp39, for those who want a full dial dinner plate. :)
The current compact 36 variant is much better IMHO
@@mahmutbetoncu2785 Cheers to Exp36.
There are people in the world with big wrists you know. On my 20cm wrist a 36mm watch, even if its full gold looks like a childs toy. Its simply out of proportion therefore its not a good look.
@@Vargadumi 20cm wrist size is a game-changer mate. :D
Finally I found a watch RUclipsr with similar wrist size as mine :) Going to drop the coins on the 39mm instead.
Yes what are you thinking about?
In the last two shots of you on this video…. Is that the 36mm?
3:20 that 39mm Explorer looks like a dinner plate with that bezel! I sold mine a while ago, and the 36mm seems to be a much better choice (personally anyway). Can't wait to get one some day. Both watches look great on your wrist by the way. I prefer the updated features, and the subtlety of the 36mm (and I'm used to wearing my casio F91W which is a similar size), but I can see why many people prefer the 39mm... I assume Rolex will release a bigger sized Explorer, but then again - they will do what they do...
Since when has a 39mm watch been considered a dinner plate? Be a man and wear a man's watch.
@@maitrehg I only said it LOOKS like a dinner plate. And I wear a G Shock sometimes, so I'm not taking sides here. I had the 39mm Explorer and the bezel was a little wide. It's personal opinion. And all this "man's watch" stuff is a little bit sad mate. Wear what you want. There's no such thing as "man's watch" or "woman's watch". It's whatever watch connects with you. And personally I like big watches but small watches too in some cases. And in the case of the Explorer, I prefer it in a smaller size
I really like your reviews, they are tastefully presented and very thorough. Had you thought about adding an accuracy check in different positions? I know that this would just be a snapshot as it were, but Rolex make an impressive claim about the accuracy of their movements, it would be interesting to see whether or not their claims are justified. Excellent video though, thank you. :-)
I happen to have both a 39mm Explorer and the new 36mm Explorer. My experience has been wearing both watches everyday and resting it crown side down at night that the 39mm gained ~1 second /day, and the new 36mm has gained ~1 second in one week. Accuracy on. Both is quite impressive!
@@mxvera1 agreed. I don't have a Rolex, hence my original suggestion...
I sold my 214270 because it never felt right on my wrist, although I have 7.5 inch. Especially the top heavyness and the lack to slip easily under a cuff bothered me. Beside that the antireflective coating on the new Exp36 makes the watch even look better than the 39. I think Rolex hit the nail with it.
Same here , I never quite got the Exp vibe from the 39. I felt like i was wearing a date just. Had to let go unfortunately.
Way too small for men.
@@maitrehg sure...
@@Sebastian85 A normal straight man will not wear a woman's watch.
@@maitrehg Of course. You are only a man if you wear a watch larger than 36 mm.
Both look amazing on wrist. There's something nice about a 36mm watch though.
if opt to stick to tradition, then 36mm, if going for modern trend, then 39mm. Either one is good choice.
Should be good news for the 39mm prices.
When the art of horology is all about case size and number of text lines on a dial you better call it fashion of horology.
Just picked up the 36mm it fits perfectly on my small wrist. IMO Rolex is ahead of the curve with this style going forward. Thanks for your videos, keep them going.
What size is your wrist?
@@silveriver9 7 1/4
I also have a 6.5” wrist size and I bought the 39mm Explorer specifically for its perfect size on my wrist. I agree with you, Hafiz, that the 39mm is the better size for a sports watch. What were you thinking, Rolex?
36mm is the better one. The original was 36mm. The trend to go larger has passed.
The all steel explorer hides the ring around the dial better than the two tone. All steel is hard to beat. My first love in watches.
Both gorgeous watch..
just depends on your wrist size
I love the new 36
It's for girls.
@@maitrehg Nice, when are you getting yours?
@@KyleJett When Rolex will release the alpha male version : 41mm.
Very happy they came out with 36.
No more model for men ? It's a shame.
So sad the 39mm is gone
The model for men is gone 😥
214270 is Perfect. 😍💯💥
The text on the 36 seems crowded and unbalanced at it's new location, And those shortened hands look terrible.
Yes. Most important : 36mm is for the ladies.
I was waiting for someone doing a proper comparison between this two and you nailed it as always!
before seeing it i knew it will be the best.
The 39mm looks far better on your wrist.
I have the 39mm version and i couldnt agree more with you, having tried the new 36mm i also think it is too small, far smaller than an OP 36 because i have owned one and it is.
It feels too small on the wrist, and my wrist size is like yours, 6'5''.
EXCELLENT comparison.
Regards
I tried both the op36 and ex 36 at Watches of Switzerland and the wear felt exactly the same on both…diminutive. However the EX 36 looked bigger with the dial having more pop. The ex just looked so much nicer than the plain Jane Op36.
@@michaelriera6277 my comparison between the op36 and exp36 was between the old generation of Op, that had more maxi case than now that are much slimmer, there is a big difference so i understand your point of view between the new gen of Op and Exp
Love, LOVE the new 36mm Explorer. Ian Fleming would recognize it as James Bond's watch of choice. And mine.
I prefer the 39.. the size, the Explorer writing position, the dial color.. shame
36 seems way to small, 39 perfect 🤩
36mm is for the ladies only.
@@maitrehg With respect, maitrehg, that is not true at all. The 36mm watch is and has always been a standard and great size for a man's watch. In fact, for decades something closer to 34mm was almost generally a defaulted man's watch size.
@@clarkskinner5586 What kind of men wear girls' size watches ?
@@maitrehg Is 36mm a girl's size watch because it is for the ladies only? My friend, you've committed a logical fallacy where you presume the conclusion you are trying to purport (i.e. circular logic). As Clark above has beautifully stated, it also nicely fits men.
@@Sani-l9s1b You will surely agree with me that the obvious conclusion is : 36mm is acceptable for effeminate men and women but a real men will always prefer 39mm and over.
I think due to demand in India and China they reduced the size to accommodate body size.
In Europe 39mm would be a better fit for 'most' people in my opinion.
The 36mm looks small even on your 6.5inch wrist so on anything over 7inch it would look wrong in my opinion. One thing to bear in mind is people are a lot larger now than they were in the 50s and 60s.
I got the 39mm recently with a 7.1inch wrist. 6foot1 and 90kg and my first impression was that even that was a little small. I've warmed up to the sizing now but I'm thankful I got in before it dropped to 36mm.
39mm is the only choice for men. For alpha males like me, 41mm would be nice.
If you have under 7 in. wrist you can rock both, if >7 in. then should probably only consider the 39mm.
39mm for real men.
I’m guessing if you are a 7 in wrist like me, you can rock both?
Both will be correct. It's a matter of taste. I think 39mm is simply perfect. The fans of the 36mm version are a loud minority.
@@maitrehg I can tell that you really like larger watches from all your comments. Lol. You are a vocal fella. Nothing wrong with that. : ) cheers!
@@heathwoodruff6975 I like 39-40-41mm watches. Great sizes for alpha males 💪💪💪
I have he 114270 and as much as I like the new lume and mvt, it is not worth the change. Getting one retail is impossible for me and paying close to 20K is ridiculous. The content of these videos is informative and great detail with camera and measurements, thank you keep going. I also have 40mm Air King and a review of that model would be welcome please.
why not sell both and get a submariner? New clasp, ceramic bezel and glidelock will make you happy. The Air King is like the ugly ducking in the Rolex range.
No point having a useless 39mm size lump of metal on the wrist if it's not needed to accommodate the size of the internal mechanism.
I think the 36mm version *was the best size. But, by modern standards, the 36mm is clearly undersized. People can say whatever they want, but you need a baby's wrist to make it look good. Hafiz has a 6.5 wrist and couldn't pull it off. So imagine a 7-inch wrist. Explorer would sit up there like a little nickel. 39mm will be back at some point (with a new movement) because Rolex will realize that the 36mm alienates too many potential customers. Trust and believe, that they didn't bring the 36mm back for the watch nerds who think 39 is too big.
The 39mm was far too large for an Explorer. The 36mm is classic, elegant, and perfect. The only problem is the placement of the dial text. "Explorer" should be written above the 6 o'clock position. Also, the minute hand should touch the minute markers, because duh. Are either worth the price tag? Absolutely not. Buy the 36mm Smiths Everest PRS-25 instead.