I am lucky enough to have this reference. Its practically perfect as a one watch only. Dressy, practical, robust, sporty and way under the radar...never had a comment, never been recognised. I wear it 24/7 shower, swimming everything. Still +1 after two years of ownership. Getting nicely scratched up now and will always be with me until my final day then my daughter will have it. You can only get a 39mm now
@@thesilverphist6483 EX2 doesn't dress up like the explorer 1 because there is more going on and its bulkier/busier, you can rock this in any situation, even with a suit. An Ex2 and EX1 would actually be an amazing two watch collection!
@@thesilverphist6483 it's possible but then when the money is all there what other things would it better be spent on. Family vacation. Kids college. I'll have one one day but life events will take priorities for the near future. I do love your thinking though!
great plan. I saved a bit each week for three years, traded my Tudor and bought a 2 yr old 214270 for my 50th last year. Its a good feeling to plunk down cash that you have slowly put away - it kind of feels like found money!
IMHO the Rolex Explorer 214270 is almost the perfect watch. By far the most under the radar Rolex Professional model. It's a sports watch, it's a dress watch, it does almost everything perfectly. One on the most versatile watches you can buy.
I picked mine up a little over 2 years ago just before they started to get hard to find. I was once a chronic flipper too, but I fall in love with this watch more and more everyday. To me it was a slow burn, and I’m starting to realize that this is truly my one watch. I just don’t really want to wear anything else.
I remember when I use to lust for this watch. Although size for me is perfect, I think the OP36 is the perfect Rolex for me. No matter what people say or feel, Rolex is king imo.
Greetings Random Rob, I feel that the simple esthetic of the Rolex Explorer is what makes it the uncluttered classic timepiece that it is. I agree with you about the white dial you mentioned...👍🏽 I like it very much and want one in 39mm myself...😉👍🏽
I took delivery of my new Explorer today. It’s stunning. I placed an order 3 months ago and got the call yesterday. Mind you, I did ask how many phone calls did they make before they got to me? The sales person said that they have been making a few calls to people who have ordered Rolexes recently have have been told they can’t afford it now due to the pandemic!
Great review, one of my favorite watches, so classic, understated and truly works in any situation. Flies under the radar, which is great! The AD is the way to go for sure, especially when they are just as much or more used and you take on some level or risk, even if it is small.
william Rizzo Hi, my wrists are 7,5" and the OP 36mm blue dial 3/6/9 still looks okay. However it is the only 36mm watch that does not look to small. Hope this helps and I still love the Explorer 39mm
I still prefer the 36mm version and none finer than the ref 1016 but who can afford one which is why I bought the Smiths Everest from TimeFactors which I believe is the best homage to the ref 1016 Explorer. Thanks Rob and keep up the good work. From a fellow Michigander, Brian.
It doesent matter if some other have made a better video, because your reviews are so honest and straight forward I will watch them anyway. Best regards from Denmark and keep them videos comming
I’ve just purchased this but 2016 model, I couldn’t bear the the wait for a 2023/24. It’s perfect condition considering it’s 8 year old. Paid 0ver £1,500 more than retail due to it being a discontinued model.
The explorer is one of those 1 watch fits all choice IMO. Totally agree with your opinion regarding a white dial version. I backed the Traska summiteer Kickstarter which is a homage to the explorer IMO. They give you dial color variations. Good review!
If there was a circular date window between 4 and 5 on the dial with a white numbers on black date disc, this would be a perfect watch IMHO. I always miss not having the date on a watch.
Very nice watch. My only complaint is that the band tapers to 16mm. It’s just too small. I’ve tried one on and if it just went to 18mm that would be ok. Plus for what you pay for one, I wouldn’t get that much pleasure out if it. But that’s a personal thing.
This is a must have Men's Watch who adopt Minimalist way style who can adopt in any style, situation and condition this watch can serve well. Outstanding watch 👍👍👍
I don't really understand the fun in flipping watches. It seems like a lot of listing and mailing nuisance for taking a bath on watches that don't hold value.
My grail watch. Feb 14 2022, when I turn 40, I will achieve my goal. And what’s bonkers crazy is that I have my wife’s permission! Also I sense a borealis adraga/ Rolex explorer showdown in the near future.
I always love seeing this watch Rob, it is a thing of beauty. I am looking forward to seeing with the Borealis and hearing your opinion of both side by side...my question is not does it compare to the Explorer but if it is good enough? Thank you for another excellent video :)
this is my grail watch don't get me wrong as I've get 3 pateks but this one is just so refined and practical really want to get this one soon as my daily watch great review ~
Great review. I have this watch and love it. ADs don’t display them, but if you are lucky you can walk in and they will pull one out for you (happened to me). Love the case, bracelet (I like it tight, can easy link expand when needed) and clean look. The smaller older 36mm models look too cluttered in dial to my eyes. It’s the only Rolex I will own, perfect from black tie down to jeans.
Rob, I had the 214270 MK1 and swapped it for a GS Snowflake exactly like the one you reviewed recently. My question is would you swap back? The GS is so interesting and beautiful but the Rolex is just so timeless.
I haven't gotten through the entire video yet, but the Explorer having the safety clasp is definitely more sportier and secure vs the OP clasps. Also, notice how all the sport models have the safety clasp and that's what makes it a sports model. If the new OPs came out with the safety clasp vs the faux look of one I would strongly consider the new OPs. Black vs white dial - when I was younger I thought Black dial watches were stupid and ugly, now that I'm older I prefer black dials. Perhaps Rolex should make an Explorer with a white, but I would still prefer the black dials of the Explorer 1and 2.
I've purchased an Omega seamaster 300m this year. I'm planning to get a Rolex somehow but I don't know what to get, maybe Rolex explorer 1 214270 or 114060?
I currently have both 36 and 39! I need to let one go and can’t decide. I recently did a video on my page comparing them and i think it made my decision even harder!
Great video as usual, thanks Rob. Obviously a spectacular piece, Mercedes hands not for me unfortunately. More than satisfied with the Tudor North Flag though :-)
Have the 214270 MK2 but think of getting a Black Bay 36 plus 58 instead...as other people mentioned, sometimes I feel something isnt right with the proportions of the watch, especially the bezel looks odd, also the lugs are a bit too fat, not as ugly as on the actual Submariner but also not particular elegant or classic. Especially on a leather strap it looks strange to me...also I think the watch would look better in 38 or 38.5 mm a little number but it would visually make a lot difference.
I was able to walk into my AD and purchase it. That being said however I was treated very differently they treated me the whole time like I was inconvenience for them and assumed I could not afford the watch and just gave me attitude the whole time....maybe it’s because I was just some random guy who walked in and was able to buy it or just couldn’t believe a young ethic guy in his early 20s could buy one. Regardless it kinda ruined the whole experience for me but I do throughly enjoy the watch itself...
joe kramer Problem is these watches more or less sell themselves so the sales staff often don’t know a great deal about the watches or customers unfortunately.
I am lucky enough to have this reference. Its practically perfect as a one watch only. Dressy, practical, robust, sporty and way under the radar...never had a comment, never been recognised. I wear it 24/7 shower, swimming everything. Still +1 after two years of ownership. Getting nicely scratched up now and will always be with me until my final day then my daughter will have it. You can only get a 39mm now
pheel the same about my EX2 except I have a date and second time zone for less money :-)
@@thesilverphist6483 EX2 doesn't dress up like the explorer 1 because there is more going on and its bulkier/busier, you can rock this in any situation, even with a suit. An Ex2 and EX1 would actually be an amazing two watch collection!
I have a phone for that im covered
Christian Wells That's exactly how I feel about mine! The perfect watch.
@@specialkfouryou I had both the ex 1 and ex 2. Sold the ex 1. Got bored of it somehow.
All time grail for me. If I start now, in 15 years, it can be a 50th birthday gift to myself. Haha. Thanks for sharing!
come on man you can dig deeper , bend the rules do what it takes for 1.5 years :-)
@@thesilverphist6483 it's possible but then when the money is all there what other things would it better be spent on. Family vacation. Kids college. I'll have one one day but life events will take priorities for the near future. I do love your thinking though!
@@ryanstafford8544 I have one of these, and I work at McDonald's and as a dj, so you can do it too ;)
great plan. I saved a bit each week for three years, traded my Tudor and bought a 2 yr old 214270 for my 50th last year. Its a good feeling to plunk down cash that you have slowly put away - it kind of feels like found money!
You read my mind bro
Truly one of the Rolex greats.
IMHO the Rolex Explorer 214270 is almost the perfect watch. By far the most under the radar Rolex Professional model. It's a sports watch, it's a dress watch, it does almost everything perfectly. One on the most versatile watches you can buy.
Not at all a dress watch. The DJ 36 fits that category better.
@@SLSAMG you can wear it as a dress watch, it doesn't look bad under the cuff mate.
You're too literal Miguel, no no.
I purchased my Rolex explorer 1016 in January 89 brand new from a Rolex AD,a beautiful watch and so versatile,the perfect one watch
That blue lume is gorgeous!
I think it’s a perfect size, absolutely love it! Wish I could afford it.
I picked mine up a little over 2 years ago just before they started to get hard to find. I was once a chronic flipper too, but I fall in love with this watch more and more everyday. To me it was a slow burn, and I’m starting to realize that this is truly my one watch. I just don’t really want to wear anything else.
same here
That lume shot makes the Explorer even more beautiful!
I remember when I use to lust for this watch. Although size for me is perfect, I think the OP36 is the perfect Rolex for me. No matter what people say or feel, Rolex is king imo.
I now have one of these, along with a Submariner date and an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra. Love them all!
Greetings Random Rob, I feel that the simple esthetic of the Rolex Explorer is what makes it the uncluttered classic timepiece that it is. I agree with you about the white dial you mentioned...👍🏽 I like it very much and want one in 39mm myself...😉👍🏽
I took delivery of my new Explorer today. It’s stunning. I placed an order 3 months ago and got the call yesterday. Mind you, I did ask how many phone calls did they make before they got to me? The sales person said that they have been making a few calls to people who have ordered Rolexes recently have have been told they can’t afford it now due to the pandemic!
Great review, one of my favorite watches, so classic, understated and truly works in any situation. Flies under the radar, which is great! The AD is the way to go for sure, especially when they are just as much or more used and you take on some level or risk, even if it is small.
This watch is so well balanced. I understand why so many want one.
Normally, I would never consider buying a 39 mm. Watch. I see that this does wear bigger than 39 mm, looks more like 41 to me. Thank you, Rob.
william Rizzo -Get the OP 36mm blue dial that has the 3/6/9. It wears like a 38mm because of the numerals
@@felgercarb3803 Thank you. But I have fat wrists. Normally 40 is the lowest. I can wear. Usually 42 to 43 is my sweet spot.
william Rizzo Hi, my wrists are 7,5" and the OP 36mm blue dial 3/6/9 still looks okay. However it is the only 36mm watch that does not look to small. Hope this helps and I still love the Explorer 39mm
It actually wear like a 40
I still prefer the 36mm version and none finer than the ref 1016 but who can afford one which is why I bought the Smiths Everest from TimeFactors which I believe is the best homage to the ref 1016 Explorer. Thanks Rob and keep up the good work. From a fellow Michigander, Brian.
It doesent matter if some other have made a better video, because your reviews are so honest and straight forward I will watch them anyway. Best regards from Denmark and keep them videos comming
Thanks
I’ve just purchased this but 2016 model, I couldn’t bear the the wait for a 2023/24. It’s perfect condition considering it’s 8 year old. Paid 0ver £1,500 more than retail due to it being a discontinued model.
The explorer is one of those 1 watch fits all choice IMO. Totally agree with your opinion regarding a white dial version. I backed the Traska summiteer Kickstarter which is a homage to the explorer IMO. They give you dial color variations. Good review!
If there was a circular date window between 4 and 5 on the dial with a white numbers on black date disc, this would be a perfect watch IMHO.
I always miss not having the date on a watch.
Very nice watch. My only complaint is that the band tapers to 16mm. It’s just too small. I’ve tried one on and if it just went to 18mm that would be ok. Plus for what you pay for one, I wouldn’t get that much pleasure out if it. But that’s a personal thing.
A white dial explorer with black polished markers and hands would make me do whatever it takes to own one LOL! :)
Beautiful watch, very classy. Well played.
Gorgeous watch.
This is a must have Men's Watch who adopt Minimalist way style who can adopt in any style, situation and condition this watch can serve well. Outstanding watch 👍👍👍
Was just thinking about this watch! Thanks for the review
I agree. The Polar Dial Explorer 2 is great looking, but lacks the Arabic numbers which I love.
The best current Rolex and the only one I’d want out of the current collection.
This is definitely my favorite Rolex. If I ever get one this will be it, especially the newest model with lume.
I've come to really like the Explorer, so much so that I may get Tisell's homage!
I don't really understand the fun in flipping watches. It seems like a lot of listing and mailing nuisance for taking a bath on watches that don't hold value.
@Qwerty 370 They more often track the boom bust cycles of the world economy instead of always depreciating.
@Qwerty 370 Well sure, but who cares from the unemployment line, and when the 401k drops 30%
I don’t know, its this or the Casio Duro. Decisions, decisions.
Go for a Daniel Wellington. Absolute classic design that brands like JLC and Patek are trying to copy.
Last summer I bought an Air King from my local AD. Keeping everything I got in the bag in my safe.
Wanna sell it?
My grail watch. Feb 14 2022, when I turn 40, I will achieve my goal. And what’s bonkers crazy is that I have my wife’s permission!
Also I sense a borealis adraga/ Rolex explorer showdown in the near future.
I love the blue lume
I always love seeing this watch Rob, it is a thing of beauty. I am looking forward to seeing with the Borealis and hearing your opinion of both side by side...my question is not does it compare to the Explorer but if it is good enough? Thank you for another excellent video :)
Great watch & Video RR !
this is my grail watch
don't get me wrong as I've get 3 pateks
but this one is just so refined and practical
really want to get this one soon as my daily watch
great review ~
Very nice watch a white would be awesome, it wore brilliantly on your wrist 👍
Outstanding thanks for sharing.
Great review. I have this watch and love it. ADs don’t display them, but if you are lucky you can walk in and they will pull one out for you (happened to me). Love the case, bracelet (I like it tight, can easy link expand when needed) and clean look. The smaller older 36mm models look too cluttered in dial to my eyes. It’s the only Rolex I will own, perfect from black tie down to jeans.
Beautiful case!
Great and straightforward video
Clean dial. I like your idea of a white version Rob. Would be pretty cool.
My grail. On my 🎁 list for this year 🙏
If I was a one watch guy this would be it. Would probably save money long term lol
Rob, I had the 214270 MK1 and swapped it for a GS Snowflake exactly like the one you reviewed recently. My question is would you swap back? The GS is so interesting and beautiful but the Rolex is just so timeless.
I haven't gotten through the entire video yet, but the Explorer having the safety clasp is definitely more sportier and secure vs the OP clasps. Also, notice how all the sport models have the safety clasp and that's what makes it a sports model. If the new OPs came out with the safety clasp vs the faux look of one I would strongly consider the new OPs.
Black vs white dial - when I was younger I thought Black dial watches were stupid and ugly, now that I'm older I prefer black dials. Perhaps Rolex should make an Explorer with a white, but I would still prefer the black dials of the Explorer 1and 2.
I really like my 36mm 114270 but I really wish the 3 6 9 are lumed.
Beautiful watch!!!
I've purchased an Omega seamaster 300m this year. I'm planning to get a Rolex somehow but I don't know what to get, maybe Rolex explorer 1 214270 or 114060?
I can't afford this, but I'm more than happy with my Ball Fireman Enterprise as a genuine value alternative.
The Ball is an excellent watch as well.
Hi, Rob. Another great vid. Quick question do You think. It would be OK. On a 7.75 inch wrist? Thanks
That’s up to you really. I am leaning toward larger even know and I have 7.25 (shrinking again)
I think ima go get one, maybe Monday.
Does anyone know what camera Rob uses to film these videos? Awesome autofocus.
iPhone
@@RandomRobReviews no way man :D thanks
two class of wristwatch, gshock and others,,,,,,
Looks great 👍
Can't wait for you list this for Sunday Funday! Haha
Great vid, that lime is super impressive
It looks lovely in the blue but only for a few minutes then it fades dreadfully. I know because I have one.
I meant lume 🤣
Interesting video. Personally I prefer the 39mm case over the 36 mm.
I currently have both 36 and 39! I need to let one go and can’t decide. I recently did a video on my page comparing them and i think it made my decision even harder!
Nice review. It's just a beautiful watch!
I’m trying to decide between this and the Black Bay 41. I gotta be honest, I like the Rolex more. Guess I’ll keep saving lol.
This is my grail
While the Explorer isn't my favorite Rolex, they are nice watches. Nice simple no date three hand watch.
Grail watch! But since I'm not in the position to throw my funds at the real deal a tissell 9015ex may be a realistic alternative.
Perfect fit.
tudor ranger maybe? good contender?
NA Explorer needs to stay black dial & I think it needs to stay in a 36mm. To me its like the bedrock for the Rolex lineup.
Borealis is a nice alternative for the budget collector.
Nice
The white dial has no contrast in the snow.
I would love to see Rolex releasing a white dial Explorer.
Yes! Good call
Want a white dial, get the Explorer II :-). I don’t think Rolex will every make a white dial version.
miss mine.
Very sweet.How's its timekeeping? Cheers a lot.
+4 dial up
@@RandomRobReviews OK,not bad cheers.
The only Rolex Sports Model at 39 mm.
and The unboxing ?
Please review the air king! :-)
🔥🔥🔥
Great video as usual, thanks Rob. Obviously a spectacular piece, Mercedes hands not for me unfortunately. More than satisfied with the Tudor North Flag though :-)
It wears bigger than a 39mm watch. There are many homage watches to this watch, a simple yet nice all-around watch and can slip under the radar too.
If I were inclined to spend 1000's on a watch it would be the 36mm explorer.
Bit big for my taste. As others have said it wears bigger than 39mm. I'm homing in on a 36mm 114270 for my 7.25" wrist. It's just right.
Is there any one watch you will never, ever flip?
Beauty Queens(or king )
Enjoy your reviews, not too long winded like some others.
These are sweet, but I’d much rather have a Grand Seiko Spring Drive.
Anthony Įødīçę Translaton: “ I can’t afford a Rolex...”
36mm in white
The hands need to be beefed up to match the size of the numerals/indices.
Have the 214270 MK2 but think of getting a Black Bay 36 plus 58 instead...as other people mentioned, sometimes I feel something isnt right with the proportions of the watch, especially the bezel looks odd, also the lugs are a bit too fat, not as ugly as on the actual Submariner but also not particular elegant or classic. Especially on a leather strap it looks strange to me...also I think the watch would look better in 38 or 38.5 mm a little number but it would visually make a lot difference.
Good tool watch this is.
Protip: don’t tell your audience they probably know more than you do. #fakeittilyoumakeit
OH My God Rob!! Why?! Why?!!!!!!!!
Mark 2 is too much flashy, I prefer mark1
Dang it! Not first
Too expensive for me. Imma settle w a sinn 556a.
W😍W
1655
I was able to walk into my AD and purchase it. That being said however I was treated very differently they treated me the whole time like I was inconvenience for them and assumed I could not afford the watch and just gave me attitude the whole time....maybe it’s because I was just some random guy who walked in and was able to buy it or just couldn’t believe a young ethic guy in his early 20s could buy one. Regardless it kinda ruined the whole experience for me but I do throughly enjoy the watch itself...
joe kramer Problem is these watches more or less sell themselves so the sales staff often don’t know a great deal about the watches or customers unfortunately.
listened for 1m, YT opinion pieces are a waste of time. U like it buy it, who else cares