"Wear the watch rather than let the watch wear you" was the straw that broke the camels back for me. I was on the fence about which one to pick and this review drove it home for me! Excited for my 114270 to come in this week! Thanks man!
The Columbia Watch Society it did, came in a few days ago! Absolutely in love with it. The feeling you get from wearing this watch is actually kind of hard to put to words. I’m incredibly happy with the 114270 and feel very fortunate that I get to wear it every day. It wouldn’t have happened without you guys! Thank you again!
Both are great watches but to me the 36 just looks more natural and still has the character of the early "original" Explorer models. Whereas the 39 definitely has the much better bracelet but it kind of has that "slab" look to it, kind of like the current submariner models compared to the older ones
Great video. I find myself defending the 39mm size to people who say that the 36 is better. When I ask them which 36 did they get, they admit they don't own one, or they're holding out for a 1016 - so in other words, they've never tried either of them, and they'll never get one. I saw you comment on my video and thought I'd take a look here. Great job. I much prefer the 39. It looks good on you too - and I do think the case shape is better than the 114270. And of course, the bracelet. One of the best bracelets ever made... on the 39.
Watches And Stuff thanks for the comment. It is funny how folks that are wearing a 6 digit sub will defend the 36mm when they have never even had one on! Lol. Yes, bracelet is so damn good. Thanks again and I just subscribed to your channel!!
@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836 You're welcome, but don't expect anymore vids. I'm done. I've lost interest in getting anymore watches. I'm down to just 3 now. Explorer, SKX and a vostok, although I did just get a really cool waffle strap on the SKX.
@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836 It's this one: ruclips.net/video/fxA_kLnvGc8/видео.html I always have a Vostok. Strong, robust, waterproof, plexiglass crystal. I wear when I'm doing something that could bust a watch.
That 36 is literally perfect for size and wearability, especially on the average wrist. having the lume, movement and bracelet upgrades would be nice, but how it wears actually supersedes those aspects in my opinion. No competition between these models for you IMO
I'm just curious how as to the surface scratches you have on these. You're really banging these around on on each other. Both cool pieces. I think I would prefer the 36mm, but have yet to try one on.
Yeah, both have been word fairly hard - so I'm not too concerned with surface scratches. I do think the 39mm shows them a lot more though due to the thickness of the bezel.
Yea, hard to understand how he could sit there and just beat the hell out of these things. I mean I don’t baby my watches, but damn, be a little careful.
I’m a little surprised although the 36 is near prefect. The two tone threw me off as I haven’t heard of anyone that was hoping for a 2T. Rolex doesn’t ask what people want, they just tell them what they want! 😂if you enjoy the content, please subscribe!
I agree with you that a 37.5mm would hit the sweet spot. That being said, I tried on the 214270 and compared it to a DJ36 at an AD, both sizes look great up close like in your video. But when looking in a full body mirror, I felt that the DJ36 is just a tad bit too small for my personal preference. I have similar sized wrists at about 6.5" and am 6´1" tall. Then again, it's two completely different watches, and both sizes wear great!
aauMatti the 36 seems to look a little small from a personal vantage point but looks perfect when i see others wearing it! Buy and wear would you like is the best way to go though! Thanks for the comment!
Thanks my man. Lot of haters for "banging" them around. I think I said it in the video, both watches are pre-owned and worn fairly heavy. The 36mm was worn by a guy who owned and operated a landscape company....I'm pretty sure my wear isn't making much impact.
Yes 👍 ty for that comment I'm so sick of people complaining about surface scratches. I guess they never seen how scratch up Sean Connery s Submariner was in Goldfinger🤣
What do you think of the 124270? I have a 7.5-inch wrist and was on a waitlist for the 214270. When it came in, it did not 'click' with me. I'm hoping the 124270 will do the trick.
I haven’t seen the new E1 yet but the upgrades are nice. I’d most def choose it over the 214270 if 36mm is your jam! It’s so hard to get anything right now though so if you have an AD that’s got you on the too of the list, go for it!!
The 39mm you think is too big for a 6,5cm wrist ? I am tall 6,1 so that might help or not or the 36mm you think will look better. The 39mm wear like a 41 or so it look huge.
It sounds like the 39 is more flashy, kind of more of a flex watch? I want a Rolex that doesn’t scream, “I’m wearing a Rolex.” If that even makes sense
The E1 in 36 or 39 definitely flies under the radar as it’s not near as identifiable as the Sub or GMT. 36 maybe a little more. Thanks for the comment!
Nice video and l agree with all your points. I have the same size wrist and have owned both versions My opinion is... Firstly the 36mm is actually 35mm and the 39mm is almost 40mm if you physically measure them. The face diameter of the 36 is the same as the 40mm sub and the 39 is the same as the 42 Explorer 2. That's why they look so different next to each other. I chose to keep the 36. Its better proportioned and more comfortable. It fit my wrist better and although the clasp is not perfect, its light and functional like a tool watch should be. The 39 clasp is over engineered and complicated and the extra 5mm link is too much to be practical. The Rolex name on the dial is also too large on the 39 although it has a more balanced writing above and below. The 36 maybe a little top heavy. As for price they are selling used for around the same price. A 36 from 2008 with the rehault for maybe a little more than the 39. Basically you can't buy a new 36 anymore unlike a 39 so l would expect the 36 to be worth more than the 39 in the future
Good point, Stephen. Yes, compared to my brother's sub - the dial on my 36 is basically the same size. A dive watch at 36mm would be small because the bezels are so thick - with a small bezel, 36 works for me!
I ask myself the same question ; I have the MK 2 and also the new 36mm. So the only difference is the new movement (power reserve) and of course dimensions…. i have a love / hate relationship with both. One thing I have to say, MK 2 Matt black dial is so cool
Great review! I'm in the same boat as you. From a watch standpoint the 214270 is the superior watch. But the caveat is the size. I also have a 6.5" wrist and I have a Seamaster 300, 42mm Planet Ocean and 43mm Breitling. Those are big watches but the rotating sport-bezels on them make the watches look smaller. I also have a 40mm Jazzmaster with NO bezel and the watch just looks huge. The Seamaster 300 at 41mm looks fairly small next to the 40mm Jazzmaster with no bezel. It's just got a bigger dial taking up the whole watch face. The fact that this is a Rolex and my preference to fly under-the-radar, the 114270 would be my choice.
You compare them well....Would love to be able to try both on before I spring for one...but no one has any....How can one do an on the wrist comparison and make an educated decision?
Sam Straughan you should be able to try on a Rolex OP and a Tudor BB 36 at many AD’s that carry both and get an idea. Let me know what you decide! Also, would appreciate it if you subscribe to our channel!
They both have the same 904L steel, saphire crystal, solid end links. The 36mm has hollowed center links and a stamped clasp. That’s the largest difference. The movements are slightly different, but not by much.
Had the 214270, got the 114270 and sold the 39 mm. The 39 mm seemed too bloated too big, out of proportion. Like a watch that should be smaller, pumped up to a divers size. Almost like a caricature of the classic basic design...despite its perfection in build quality. The 114270 isnt bad in that regard but surely isnt on the level of latest Rolex. Immediately after strapping on the 36 mm it felt like coming home, never regret selling the 214270. Personally I never felt a 36 mm or even 35 mm watch is too small for a man.
How have I not come across your channel sooner. On paper I would think the 36mm wouldn't be an option due to its size but it looks great on your wrist so maybe it wouldn't be as bad a fit as I would think. I do think I prefer the 39mm's bezel just based on the fact it has more surface area to play with the light.
It's crazy! Before I picked it up, I would have never thought a 36mm would work for me - but I have worn it almost daily and it never feels small or dainty.
Amazing what 3mm does to a dial size!! I have the 214270 MK2 and absolutely love it. I would only buy a luxury watch like this new and through an AD to give me too protection!! Now if they make a new 36 mm model I would be tempted to swap it!!! I get the feeling that a lot of watch brands are thinking more on the lines of traditional size wAtches which is good for me and my skinny wrist!!!!!;) great show!!
It really is incredible, seems like a small change - but it's pretty significant. I lean to the 36mm for size, but its hard to argue that the modern version isn't a better made watch.
Thanks my man. To date, I haven't gotten rid of either. I'm wearing the 36 and my dad is wearing the 39. He is a bit bigger than me, so it fits him well.
39 is a great size, but with the design Rolex took. The Explorer 39mm looks and wears like a 41mm. The 39 looks bigger than a Speedmaster. I would go for the 36mm.
@@whereRbearsTeeth I respectfully disagree. The Explorer 39mm size from the sides of the oyster case measures 40.5mm. The oyster case bulges/curves out. Rolex takes the flat bezel edge measurement at 39mm right on the dot (2-7 o'clock on digital calipers). With a thick flat bezel, and bulging case sides. That's where the Explorer gets it wrist presence along with negative space on the dial on the Mark I. The Explorer is not a true 39mm and the design makes it look larger than it already is. If you put a Speedy pro on a NATO or strap next to the Explorer 39 Mark I. The Explorer looks at a glance slightly larger. BTW the Speedy pro is really a 40mm excluding the asymmetrical side of the crown/pusher guards. Wear the 1861 Speedy on it's bracelet, then it looks and wears large, and slightly larger than the 39mm Explorer. When you put a pre-ceramic Sub next to the 39 Explorer. The Explorer will wear just as large to the 40mm Sub, which is really a 39mm flat side oyster case. Rolex tends to list it's watch sizes at the bezel. The new 36mm is really a 35.5 at the case. Take the measurement at the bezel edge 2-7 o'clock, you will get a 36mm on the money.
6 3/4 or so. Height plays into the equation as well. I’m 6’. When you get into the 7.5 range the 36 proportionally looks a little small. It always amazes me how perspective while wearing a watch differs so much from what other people see. My perspective tells me things look smaller than they actually are! Maybe I’m just weird! The 39 is great though!
I like the 36. it is so comfortable and just the right weight. The more time i spend with watches, the more I appreciate modest size watches.
Totally feel you on this!
Agree
Totally relate
"Wear the watch rather than let the watch wear you" was the straw that broke the camels back for me. I was on the fence about which one to pick and this review drove it home for me! Excited for my 114270 to come in this week! Thanks man!
Outstanding! Let us know when it arrives!! Are you on Instagram?
@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836 will do! and yes sir, just dropped you guys a follow.
@@Andrew-kv3wu Did the watch come in, initial thoughts?
The Columbia Watch Society
it did, came in a few days ago!
Absolutely in love with it. The feeling you get from wearing this watch is actually kind of hard to put to words. I’m incredibly happy with the 114270 and feel very fortunate that I get to wear it every day. It wouldn’t have happened without you guys! Thank you again!
Andrew awesome!!
Both are great watches but to me the 36 just looks more natural and still has the character of the early "original" Explorer models. Whereas the 39 definitely has the much better bracelet but it kind of has that "slab" look to it, kind of like the current submariner models compared to the older ones
palmyeiland yes, the 36 is perfect! Thanks for the comment, if you enjoy the content, i would appreciate it if you would subscribe to the channel.
Great video. I find myself defending the 39mm size to people who say that the 36 is better. When I ask them which 36 did they get, they admit they don't own one, or they're holding out for a 1016 - so in other words, they've never tried either of them, and they'll never get one. I saw you comment on my video and thought I'd take a look here. Great job. I much prefer the 39. It looks good on you too - and I do think the case shape is better than the 114270. And of course, the bracelet. One of the best bracelets ever made... on the 39.
Watches And Stuff thanks for the comment. It is funny how folks that are wearing a 6 digit sub will defend the 36mm when they have never even had one on! Lol. Yes, bracelet is so damn good. Thanks again and I just subscribed to your channel!!
@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836 You're welcome, but don't expect anymore vids. I'm done. I've lost interest in getting anymore watches. I'm down to just 3 now. Explorer, SKX and a vostok, although I did just get a really cool waffle strap on the SKX.
Watches And Stuff 3 watches....i envy you. The SKX, E1 combo is great but I’m curious how you landed on the Vostok as your 3rd??
@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836 It's this one: ruclips.net/video/fxA_kLnvGc8/видео.html
I always have a Vostok. Strong, robust, waterproof, plexiglass crystal. I wear when I'm doing something that could bust a watch.
What are the lug to lugs for both?
Don’t hold me to it but i think 44/47mm. Thanks for the comment. Please subscribe!!
@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836 thanks!
That 36 is literally perfect for size and wearability, especially on the average wrist. having the lume, movement and bracelet upgrades would be nice, but how it wears actually supersedes those aspects in my opinion. No competition between these models for you IMO
I'm just curious how as to the surface scratches you have on these. You're really banging these around on on each other. Both cool pieces. I think I would prefer the 36mm, but have yet to try one on.
Yeah, both have been word fairly hard - so I'm not too concerned with surface scratches. I do think the 39mm shows them a lot more though due to the thickness of the bezel.
Yea, hard to understand how he could sit there and just beat the hell out of these things. I mean I don’t baby my watches, but damn, be a little careful.
And now the 36 is back.
I’m a little surprised although the 36 is near prefect. The two tone threw me off as I haven’t heard of anyone that was hoping for a 2T. Rolex doesn’t ask what people want, they just tell them what they want! 😂if you enjoy the content, please subscribe!
I agree with you that a 37.5mm would hit the sweet spot. That being said, I tried on the 214270 and compared it to a DJ36 at an AD, both sizes look great up close like in your video. But when looking in a full body mirror, I felt that the DJ36 is just a tad bit too small for my personal preference. I have similar sized wrists at about 6.5" and am 6´1" tall. Then again, it's two completely different watches, and both sizes wear great!
aauMatti the 36 seems to look a little small from a personal vantage point but looks perfect when i see others wearing it! Buy and wear would you like is the best way to go though! Thanks for the comment!
Good to see that your treating these watches for what they are meant for ......every day use.
Thanks my man. Lot of haters for "banging" them around. I think I said it in the video, both watches are pre-owned and worn fairly heavy. The 36mm was worn by a guy who owned and operated a landscape company....I'm pretty sure my wear isn't making much impact.
Yes 👍 ty for that comment I'm so sick of people complaining about surface scratches. I guess they never seen how scratch up Sean Connery s Submariner was in Goldfinger🤣
Great video! I absolutely love the 36mm. I want one !
They both look great on you . I have small wrists and find that 38 mm is best for me but I can wear a 36 mm .
What do you think of the 124270? I have a 7.5-inch wrist and was on a waitlist for the 214270. When it came in, it did not 'click' with me. I'm hoping the 124270 will do the trick.
I haven’t seen the new E1 yet but the upgrades are nice. I’d most def choose it over the 214270 if 36mm is your jam! It’s so hard to get anything right now though so if you have an AD that’s got you on the too of the list, go for it!!
124270 is a little over 35mm with a dainty bracelet that has too much taper. It will look ridiculous on a 7.5 inch wrist.
The 39mm you think is too big for a 6,5cm wrist ? I am tall 6,1 so that might help or not or the 36mm you think will look better. The 39mm wear like a 41 or so it look huge.
How big is your wrist again?
6,3 and when is hot 6,5cm
It sounds like the 39 is more flashy, kind of more of a flex watch? I want a Rolex that doesn’t scream, “I’m wearing a Rolex.” If that even makes sense
The E1 in 36 or 39 definitely flies under the radar as it’s not near as identifiable as the Sub or GMT. 36 maybe a little more. Thanks for the comment!
Nice video and l agree with all your points. I have the same size wrist and have owned both versions My opinion is...
Firstly the 36mm is actually 35mm and the 39mm is almost 40mm if you physically measure them. The face diameter of the 36 is the same as the 40mm sub and the 39 is the same as the 42 Explorer 2. That's why they look so different next to each other.
I chose to keep the 36. Its better proportioned and more comfortable. It fit my wrist better and although the clasp is not perfect, its light and functional like a tool watch should be. The 39 clasp is over engineered and complicated and the extra 5mm link is too much to be practical. The Rolex name on the dial is also too large on the 39 although it has a more balanced writing above and below. The 36 maybe a little top heavy.
As for price they are selling used for around the same price. A 36 from 2008 with the rehault for maybe a little more than the 39. Basically you can't buy a new 36 anymore unlike a 39 so l would expect the 36 to be worth more than the 39 in the future
Good point, Stephen. Yes, compared to my brother's sub - the dial on my 36 is basically the same size. A dive watch at 36mm would be small because the bezels are so thick - with a small bezel, 36 works for me!
The steel is a lot tougher than that wood surface.
Lol, Exactly! Been taking a beating on these comments. These watches are built pretty tough!
Nice vid. But the way you were moving them around on the wood made me cringe 😂. Wear them both in good health. 🍻
Haha! The 36mm was the daily wear of a dude who owned a landscaping business before I took ownership, the 39mm has been worn pretty hard too!
I ask myself the same question ; I have the MK 2 and also the new 36mm. So the only difference is the new movement (power reserve) and of course dimensions…. i have a love / hate relationship with both.
One thing I have to say, MK 2 Matt black dial is so cool
Man this guy is just beating the hell out of these watches doing the review. I can’t imagine the wear and tear they get when he’s wearing them
You should see them! Sir Edmund Hillary would be ashamed if I saw me wear the cutting firewood this weekend.
39mm is perfect. 36 doesn't look great on my wrist.
Great review! I'm in the same boat as you. From a watch standpoint the 214270 is the superior watch. But the caveat is the size. I also have a 6.5" wrist and I have a Seamaster 300, 42mm Planet Ocean and 43mm Breitling. Those are big watches but the rotating sport-bezels on them make the watches look smaller. I also have a 40mm Jazzmaster with NO bezel and the watch just looks huge. The Seamaster 300 at 41mm looks fairly small next to the 40mm Jazzmaster with no bezel. It's just got a bigger dial taking up the whole watch face. The fact that this is a Rolex and my preference to fly under-the-radar, the 114270 would be my choice.
On your wrist size, def the 36!! Would be perfect
You compare them well....Would love to be able to try both on before I spring for one...but no one has any....How can one do an on the wrist comparison and make an educated decision?
Sam Straughan you should be able to try on a Rolex OP and a Tudor BB 36 at many AD’s that carry both and get an idea. Let me know what you decide! Also, would appreciate it if you subscribe to our channel!
@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836 OP & Explorer 1 Mk II are essentially the same case & diameter? great idea
Sam Straughan www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/watch-101/rolex-explorer-vs-oyster-perpetual.html see this article
114270 best one imop. One of the best watches ever
They both have the same 904L steel, saphire crystal, solid end links. The 36mm has hollowed center links and a stamped clasp. That’s the largest difference. The movements are slightly different, but not by much.
Had the 214270, got the 114270 and sold the 39 mm. The 39 mm seemed too bloated too big, out of proportion. Like a watch that should be smaller, pumped up to a divers size. Almost like a caricature of the classic basic design...despite its perfection in build quality. The 114270 isnt bad in that regard but surely isnt on the level of latest Rolex. Immediately after strapping on the 36 mm it felt like coming home, never regret selling the 214270. Personally I never felt a 36 mm or even 35 mm watch is too small for a man.
My Fossil blue that I wore from 14-20 years old was probably 34mm hahaha
The thicker bezel really is a negative
Agree 100%. Perhaps the biggest IMO.
36 vintage look, 39 modern look - both are awesome pieces
T L thanks man! Totally agree
imo the 36 looks best on you, proportion on your wrist is perfect....the 39 is too big, too much presence, too much dial...just my opinion
Thanks Marco! The 39 has since moved on and the 36 is my daily wear. Love it! Thanks for the comment, Please subscribe to the page!! 🙏👊
I want one, the 36mm.
whats your wrist size man?
7” or so
Thanks. I thought the 36 looked way better. Helpful video, thanks@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836
@@thecolumbiawatchsociety8836 thanks. i think the 36 looked way better.
I too should buy both of these watches to compare, and for "research". Great comparison!
How have I not come across your channel sooner. On paper I would think the 36mm wouldn't be an option due to its size but it looks great on your wrist so maybe it wouldn't be as bad a fit as I would think. I do think I prefer the 39mm's bezel just based on the fact it has more surface area to play with the light.
It's crazy! Before I picked it up, I would have never thought a 36mm would work for me - but I have worn it almost daily and it never feels small or dainty.
Great comparison . Don’t know how I missed this one .
The Watch Lounge thanks buddy
39 definitely looks better on you
Thanks bro
Amazing what 3mm does to a dial size!! I have the 214270 MK2 and absolutely love it. I would only buy a luxury watch like this new and through an AD to give me too protection!! Now if they make a new 36 mm model I would be tempted to swap it!!! I get the feeling that a lot of watch brands are thinking more on the lines of traditional size wAtches which is good for me and my skinny wrist!!!!!;) great show!!
It really is incredible, seems like a small change - but it's pretty significant. I lean to the 36mm for size, but its hard to argue that the modern version isn't a better made watch.
Man ..that 36mm was made for you.
Thanks my man. To date, I haven't gotten rid of either. I'm wearing the 36 and my dad is wearing the 39. He is a bit bigger than me, so it fits him well.
39 is a great size, but with the design Rolex took. The Explorer 39mm looks and wears like a 41mm. The 39 looks bigger than a Speedmaster. I would go for the 36mm.
thanks for the input!
Complete BS. I own a speedmaster and a 39mm Explorer. The speedy definitely wears significantly larger. 214270 wears like a 39.
@@whereRbearsTeeth I respectfully disagree. The Explorer 39mm size from the sides of the oyster case measures 40.5mm. The oyster case bulges/curves out. Rolex takes the flat bezel edge measurement at 39mm right on the dot (2-7 o'clock on digital calipers). With a thick flat bezel, and bulging case sides. That's where the Explorer gets it wrist presence along with negative space on the dial on the Mark I. The Explorer is not a true 39mm and the design makes it look larger than it already is. If you put a Speedy pro on a NATO or strap next to the Explorer 39 Mark I. The Explorer looks at a glance slightly larger. BTW the Speedy pro is really a 40mm excluding the asymmetrical side of the crown/pusher guards. Wear the 1861 Speedy on it's bracelet, then it looks and wears large, and slightly larger than the 39mm Explorer. When you put a pre-ceramic Sub next to the 39 Explorer. The Explorer will wear just as large to the 40mm Sub, which is really a 39mm flat side oyster case. Rolex tends to list it's watch sizes at the bezel. The new 36mm is really a 35.5 at the case. Take the measurement at the bezel edge 2-7 o'clock, you will get a 36mm on the money.
39 looks way better on you
Mark 2 is too much flashy, I prefer mark1
Inaaya Ahmed such a hard decision but on many days, I’m in your camp!!
You realy have a small wrist, for me even 39 mm is small.
6 3/4 or so. Height plays into the equation as well. I’m 6’. When you get into the 7.5 range the 36 proportionally looks a little small. It always amazes me how perspective while wearing a watch differs so much from what other people see. My perspective tells me things look smaller than they actually are! Maybe I’m just weird! The 39 is great though!