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Old 29 February 2024, 07:57 AM   #31
Ensign
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It’s a classic if there ever was one. Many other sports Rolexes have changed getting bigger and chunkier; but not the Explorer I 36. It’s the perfect one watch collection, or even just a watch to keep forever and bond with.
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Old 29 February 2024, 08:06 AM   #32
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I've had two (36 and 39). Really liked them but finally bought an Explorer II as I travelled in different time zones for work.
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Old 29 February 2024, 09:06 AM   #33
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Honestly, one of the very few current Rolex models I like and would buy. Mostly everything else has veered off too far from the classic designs and has become big and blingy. The 36 Explorer is still very close to the original while making it more study without adding bulk.
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Old 29 February 2024, 10:02 AM   #34
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I think it’s an absolute classic.

Understand that, despite the name, and despite a degree of evolution, the Explorer is essentially a military watch. (British not American). At one time I believe the Explorer was the suggested “private purchase” watch for new Royal Navy officers, and Rolex would supply it on an “Admiralty Pattern” strap for that purpose.

Once you understand that, you understand the size, the dial, the lume, the need for the rugged movement, and the advantage of the oyster case.

Once you own one you realise that although unassuming and understated, the Explorer really does represent everything a Rolex should be. Compact enough to wear every day, light enough to wear on a long march, rugged enough to undertake an expedition with, yet smart enough to wear with a dinner jacket.

There is sometimes much talk about “if you only had one watch, what would it be?” Well, for me, it would probably be the Explorer.
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Old 29 February 2024, 10:31 AM   #35
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…your thoughts on the Explorer 36?

I love it. Cool reference, and perfect size, for me.




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Old 29 February 2024, 10:58 AM   #36
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I’ve had mine for a little over a year. I really think it is the perfect Rolex sport model. The Submariner does nothing for me and each time I think I want to add a GMT or Explorer II to the collection I just look at my Explorer and think “ nah I’m good”
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Old 29 February 2024, 10:58 AM   #37
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Really appreciate everyone’s input. Can’t wait…only a couple of night shifts to go!
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Old 29 February 2024, 11:06 AM   #38
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My personal experience is that the "Explorer 36" is a watch I've thought about and contemplated buying, but any time I ever saw it in person I immediately thought "wow that is way too small", and rightfully so. Were it actually 36 mm and had a less tapering and less dainty bracelet/clasp, then I would go for it.

Meanwhile, the explorer 39 is just about perfect in case, bracelet, and clasp, and explorer 40 is a close 2nd choice.
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Old 29 February 2024, 11:17 AM   #39
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I could have had any of the iterations of the 36mm Explorer and chose the 114270. 20>16 bracelet, no lug holes, super Luminova and a time tested movement. Such a perfect watch.
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Old 29 February 2024, 11:19 AM   #40
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Quote:
Originally Posted by TimeAZ View Post
My personal experience is that the "Explorer 36" is a watch I've thought about and contemplated buying, but any time I ever saw it in person I immediately thought "wow that is way too small", and rightfully so. Were it actually 36 mm and had a less tapering and less dainty bracelet/clasp, then I would go for it.

Meanwhile, the explorer 39 is just about perfect in case, bracelet, and clasp, and explorer 40 is a close 2nd choice.

Very valid point. Everything you mentioned is why it’s perfect, for me. I have heard other guys say the same, but some say the proportions are perfect on the 36. I certainly agree with that.

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Old 29 February 2024, 01:28 PM   #41
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I love mine and wear it more than my Pepsi and Sub. It is legible has great lume, rugged, stylish, simple, versatile and elegant.
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Old 29 February 2024, 02:01 PM   #42
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its perfect
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Old 29 February 2024, 02:08 PM   #43
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…your thoughts on the Explorer 36?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dave455 View Post
I think it’s an absolute classic.

Understand that, despite the name, and despite a degree of evolution, the Explorer is essentially a military watch. (British not American). At one time I believe the Explorer was the suggested “private purchase” watch for new Royal Navy officers, and Rolex would supply it on an “Admiralty Pattern” strap for that purpose.

Once you understand that, you understand the size, the dial, the lume, the need for the rugged movement, and the advantage of the oyster case.

Once you own one you realise that although unassuming and understated, the Explorer really does represent everything a Rolex should be. Compact enough to wear every day, light enough to wear on a long march, rugged enough to undertake an expedition with, yet smart enough to wear with a dinner jacket.

There is sometimes much talk about “if you only had one watch, what would it be?” Well, for me, it would probably be the Explorer.

Great post.

I’m blaming you if I post an incoming of a 14270 next week.


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Old 29 February 2024, 03:42 PM   #44
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So two Explorers walk into a bar and …




I love my 124273 because it is such a different wearing experience from my 40mm watches. Definitely a keeper for me. Good luck!


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Old 29 February 2024, 09:41 PM   #45
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One of my favourite Rolex models , I owned 39mm version but sold as I always thought 36mm looks better ( although depends much on wrist size )
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Old 29 February 2024, 10:39 PM   #46
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I like the looks and the history of the Explorer. The 36mm/39mm/40mm all work depending on the size of your wrist and your personal preference. My wrist is 7.5-7.75 inches and I find the 36mm version to be too small for my preferences. Thinking of getting the 40mm version though.
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Old 29 February 2024, 11:26 PM   #47
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Love it, more so than my GMT and older 36mm Explorer.

The aggressive taper, which is often complained about, is fantastic and gives the case a bit more presence. To me it's more comfortable than the older Explorer despite weighing a bit more with the milled clasp and solid centre links. Definitely an outdoor adventurer's watch.
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Old 1 March 2024, 01:59 AM   #48
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Quote:
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its perfect
Yes-I agree. Had mine 6 months and can't take it off-I am a complete convert to the 36mm size, having previously worn Panerais of 44mm. I love the proportions, it doesn't look like a dinner plate, and there is nothing about it that I would change.
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Old 1 March 2024, 02:13 AM   #49
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I'm a big fan of the explorer 1 but the 36 is just way too small.
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Old 1 March 2024, 02:23 AM   #50
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Quote:
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I'm a big fan of the explorer 1 but the 36 is just way too small.
I love the 36mm, but also feel it's too small for me.....



Or maybe I'm just too big.....
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Old 1 March 2024, 03:36 AM   #51
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I' d rather buy an OP 36 (green or black) than an Explorer 36. The latter ist too dainty and 19mm lug width is too small for a modern men's watch.
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Old 1 March 2024, 07:40 AM   #52
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This is my only Rolex and I absolutely love it. I have small wrists and really appreciate the size and especially the bracelet. It feels very robust despite being so narrow and tapered. I second what others have said that it dresses up and down very well. Can be worn in any and every situation. I also like that it is unmistakable yet subtle enough to fly under the radar on an everyday basis compared to something like a 36 DJ.
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Old 1 March 2024, 09:28 AM   #53
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it may be a smaller watch but makes up for it with its "dial forward" presence. If anything, it's a watch that on the surface appears plain, yet you will appreciate new things about it every time you examine it.
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Old 1 March 2024, 11:40 AM   #54
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It’s pretty much the perfect GADA watch and the one and only Rolex you’ll ever need in life if that is what you’re looking for. The 36mm is a perfect size. At first might be a bit jarring if you’re used to bigger watches, but I think the taper of the bracelet is what makes it have that effect on people. After a few days you forget it and it just becomes apart of you.. disappears on your wrist until you need it. . Above all have many life adventures with it and be your own Explorer with it.


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Old 1 March 2024, 12:46 PM   #55
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I would personally go for it, It's a pretty cool watch and I'm sure you would enjoy wearing it when you buy.
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Old 1 March 2024, 01:51 PM   #56
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You can't go wrong with 36, go for it.
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Old 1 March 2024, 06:19 PM   #57
harvey
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…just over 24 hours to go!
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Old 1 March 2024, 09:25 PM   #58
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…just over 24 hours to go!
Enjoy!

I have 7 more days of wait…
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Old 1 March 2024, 09:29 PM   #59
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…just over 24 hours to go!
"It's the final countdowwwwwwwn"

Can't wait to see the incoming!
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Old 1 March 2024, 11:12 PM   #60
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In January I purchased a 36 mm TT version. I really like this watch a lot. I have small wrists. I’m not sure how 36 would be on a large wrist.
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