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carlhaluss · 24 January 2010, 03:56 PM

Today, I had a wonderful experience. Went with my good friend Shandy (of TRF, and fortunately for me also lives in Vancouver) to a local Rolex AD called Brinkhaus. I met the person he deals with, a wonderful chap, and also found out that another friend who sold me my Omega Railmaster at another AD is now there also.
Purpose of visit: to seriously look at an Explorer!
I saw the Explorer when I purchased my Milgauss. However, I was so smitten by the Milgauss ( and still am ) that I did not take the time to try it on. Thanks mainly to Kyle

, his great photos and enthusiasm for the Explorer, plus countless other Explorer lovers on this forum, I do believe that I am ready to take the plunge. Seeing this watch for real and trying it on endless times, and getting the feel for the crown, the winding mechanism etc. really sold me on it. The watch is perfect at 36mm, and I think that is largely due to the rather wide lug width of 20mm for that size of case. To me, the bracelet felt perfect. The watch is certainly fairly light, but it still feels like quality on the wrist. Two years ago, after owning my Breitling Superocean for over 10 years and wearing it exclusively, I set out to look for a replacement when I discovered that Breitling no longer made a steel bracelet that would fit it. Had I venture out into the world of Rolex at that time, I would maybe have discovered the Explorer. However, things happen as they do for a reason, and if now is the time to discover the Explorer, then so be it.
The closest watch I can compare the Explorer to, is my Omega Railmaster. I also have the 36mm model. It even has a beautiful exhibition back, and I got a lovely croco leather dark brown deployment strap for it. However, I have to admit that the Explorer is still the more appealing of the two. Not only is it a gorgeous classic timepiece, it also has the superb inhouse 3130 no date movement, which tops the whole thing off beautifully. I have heard a few minor rants about the bracelet, but from what I could see and feel when I tried it on, it is about perfect.
Hopefully, I will have this beauty on my wrist within the week. My second Rolex! The only other watch I wish for at this point, is another Rolex with a combination steel/Everose gold. Of course, the AD had the very model that I see on the Rolex website, that I am lusting after. That will just have to wait.

Cheers,
Carl

ParisDakarBmw · 24 January 2010, 04:02 PM

You'll love it! Keep us updated, and show some pics of the new addition!

sakuraba · 24 January 2010, 04:18 PM

Kyle should get a commission!

kyle L · 24 January 2010, 04:21 PM

Congratulations Carl! I'm really happy for you, it's really a classic.

Remember to post lots and lots of pics when you get it.

carlhaluss · 24 January 2010, 04:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sakuraba

Kyle should get a commission!

I'll tell that to my AD - after I get my discount!

JBat · 24 January 2010, 04:25 PM

Great story, Carl! Kyle's shots are certainly an inspiration for anyone considering this watch. It's a terrific piece with a long and distinguished history and an understated elegance. Look forward to seeing some photos of it when you get it.

sea-dweller · 24 January 2010, 04:26 PM

The Explorer 1 is a great watch, very understated and I love mine, as you will yours.

carlhaluss · 24 January 2010, 04:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kyle L

Congratulations Carl! I'm really happy for you, it's really a classic.

Remember to post lots and lots of pics when you get it.

I do believe it was this very pic that you just posted here, and on another thread the other day, that caused me to make the trip to the AD today.

Even at that, I really had no idea how beautiful a watch it really is until I looked at it thoroughly today. I was totally blown away by the beautiful sheen on the dial, and also the numbers and markers. The dial really is a lot shinier than I thought. It actually contrasts beautifully to the matte finish on my Milgauss, which is totally different but I love as well.
The Explorer really seems to be that watch I have always looked for. It will likely turn out to be the choice I would make if I could have only one watch. But time will tell.
I can't wait to get the watch, and take all the "stickies" off and really see the finish and shine of the bracelet and case. To me - in spite of the minor rants I have heard - the bracelet seems perfect for the watch. I don't know yet if I will ever change the bracelet for some kind of a strap, the whole thing seems so perfect to me.
My friend Shandy was with me, and commented that he had never seen me so enthusiastic about a watch. And I must have tried it on at least five different times during the hour we were there.
Cheers

,
Carl

Andad · 24 January 2010, 04:38 PM

Nice post Carl.

Great choice.

dalip · 24 January 2010, 04:45 PM

good one Carl...!

GBJIV · 24 January 2010, 05:29 PM

I really love the Explorer I. Very classic and clean looking. Hope you get it soon.

CPTL · 25 January 2010, 12:29 AM

Agreed...Kyle's pics have made me start looking hard at the Explorer as well. Congrats on your purchase!!

buz-lh · 25 January 2010, 12:55 AM

Go for it, you will love it.

aaronr · 25 January 2010, 01:05 AM

Kyle's shots got me all ready to rock too, but I decided to pass b/c it was too close to my DJ when I tried it on.

Indeed he should get a commission.

Rambam · 25 January 2010, 01:11 AM

I first had the railmaster only to sell it to get an Explorer. Ended up selling the Explorer later down the road too, but I find myself really missing it now. I`m seriously thinking about getting one again, its such a great no nonsense watch and the size is just perfect for small wrists like mine.

And a shot of my old railmaster for good measure

I had the 39,2mm

kyle L · 25 January 2010, 01:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rambam

I first had the railmaster only to sell it to get an Explorer. Ended up selling the Explorer later down the road too, but I find myself really missing it now. I`m seriously thinking about getting one again, its such a great no nonsense watch and the size is just perfect for small wrists like mine.

Rambam, that's one of my favorite pictures that you have taken. I was inspired by you to try recreating it, but I still think your's is better.

You take some of the best Explorer pictures, all the way up there with Jocke.

Rambam · 25 January 2010, 01:31 AM

Thank you, Kyle! I really like your pictures aswell, and I love seeing how you advance. You seem to be quite the Explorer enabler around here

I was actually at my AD`s yesterday looking for one, right now I`m on the edge of ordering a new one

carlhaluss · 25 January 2010, 01:33 AM

[QUOTE=Rambam;1596859]I first had the railmaster only to sell it to get an Explorer. Ended up selling the Explorer later down the road too, but I find myself really missing it now. I`m seriously thinking about getting one again, its such a great no nonsense watch and the size is just perfect for small wrists like mine.

And a shot of my old railmaster for good measure

I had the 39,2mm

The Explorer looks great on your wrist! When I saw it yesterday, I was gaping at the beautiful dial. I had forgotten how beautiful and shiny it is.
My thoughts at the time were that the watch can really be worn very comfortably with anything. Even to the gym, or with a suit, to give two extremes.
The Railmaster looks great on the mesh. Mine was on the steel bracelet, now I have a brown leather croco with deployment for it. This little guy - at 36mm - is still a favourite of mine. The lug size is 19mm, so I don't think there is a mesh that size. I believe 20mm is the smallest mesh. However, the way the links are set up where the strap attaches to the spring bars, I bet it could be done.

Still one of
my favourite watches. It used to be my "If I could only have one watch...." until I really discovered the Explorer.
A few of you guys on here could win awards for your photography!

Cheers,
Carl

snow_rocks · 25 January 2010, 01:58 AM

Explore the possibilities!

Notice the scratches.

everose · 25 January 2010, 02:36 AM

I also prefer the clean simplicity of original Expy...but my only problem is 36mm......i really hope they announce a 40mm option in March(my wrist is 7.25 inches)I know alot of you guys love that its 36mm.

Kyles photos should come with a warning;COULD BE HARMFUL TO YOUR BANK BALANCE!!!

Inspirational stories like Carls also does not help

Jolu · 25 January 2010, 03:49 AM

Great, yet another chance to post Explorer shots (no pun intended)...

Slow in the ICU today.

You scratch that itch Carl - and you too, Rambam, looking forward to new pics of the Explorer!

G.J · 25 January 2010, 04:36 AM

Love your Railmaster Carl..

I know that you will love the Explorer as well.

I sure do love mine...

Super clean dial and the size is very comfy..

Rambam · 25 January 2010, 07:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jolu

Great, yet another chance to post Explorer shots (no pun intended)...

Slow in the ICU today.

You scratch that itch Carl - and you too, Rambam, looking forward to new pics of the Explorer!

I love your pics, Jolu

By the way, is that my old Explorer?

cornerstore · 25 January 2010, 07:06 AM

Hopefully, I will have this beauty on my wrist within the week.
What is the retail price on that watch in Vancouver ?

shandy · 25 January 2010, 09:00 AM

HI Carl.

It was so much fun yesterday and I am so happy you are getting the Explorer. It really sang to you and I know you will not have one moment of regret in getting it.

I really like Brinkhaus and Wayne is a real gentleman. Perfect place to purchase a luxury item from..And I was amazed at the discount

I must admit I am still thinking of the two I tried on, the YG Daydate II looked really good on my wrist as did the platinum and diamond masterpiece

I am still in awe of the weight of that masterpiece!

carlhaluss · 25 January 2010, 09:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by patrick09

Hopefully, I will have this beauty on my wrist within the week.
What is the retail price on that watch in Vancouver ?

I think the price was $5810. I am not sure about the change, but for sure the $5800.(Canadian funds, of course). I love the watch so much, I did not even flinch at the price. I actually thought it would be less. The MSRP on my Milgauss was $7200. I thought there would be more of a difference. Still, I always believe that something is always worth it if it really is what one has a passion for.
Realizing that I could possibly do better on that price, I am totally confident that the after sales service will be outstanding. I just don't believe you can pay for confidence like that. I fully intend to stay with this AD.
Cheers,
Carl

carlhaluss · 25 January 2010, 09:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by snow_rocks

Explore the possibilities!

Notice the scratches.

I do prefer to call them love marks, too! After all a watch has to be worn to be loved.

Cheers,
Carl

425ranger · 25 January 2010, 09:32 AM

RAMBAM pics are sooo good, they make all watches.... well... desirable.

Kyle and that Expl are so well known it could turn into an internet meme.

Lucy Diamond · 25 January 2010, 09:41 AM

Looking forward to pics once you get that baby on your wrist!Did you have to do much haggling to get the discount?

BTW, greetings from a fellow Vancouverite!

Subexplorer · 25 January 2010, 09:45 AM

Nice story and great pictures!
Enjoy your new watch in good health Carlhaluss!!
You´ll find you made a very good choice!
Kind regards, Abel

24 January 2010, 03:56 PM	#1
carlhaluss "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Carl Location: Vancouver, Canada Watch: Rolex Explorer 1 Posts: 1,780	The Explorer "Itch" Today, I had a wonderful experience. Went with my good friend Shandy (of TRF, and fortunately for me also lives in Vancouver) to a local Rolex AD called Brinkhaus. I met the person he deals with, a wonderful chap, and also found out that another friend who sold me my Omega Railmaster at another AD is now there also. Purpose of visit: to seriously look at an Explorer! I saw the Explorer when I purchased my Milgauss. However, I was so smitten by the Milgauss ( and still am ) that I did not take the time to try it on. Thanks mainly to Kyle , his great photos and enthusiasm for the Explorer, plus countless other Explorer lovers on this forum, I do believe that I am ready to take the plunge. Seeing this watch for real and trying it on endless times, and getting the feel for the crown, the winding mechanism etc. really sold me on it. The watch is perfect at 36mm, and I think that is largely due to the rather wide lug width of 20mm for that size of case. To me, the bracelet felt perfect. The watch is certainly fairly light, but it still feels like quality on the wrist. Two years ago, after owning my Breitling Superocean for over 10 years and wearing it exclusively, I set out to look for a replacement when I discovered that Breitling no longer made a steel bracelet that would fit it. Had I venture out into the world of Rolex at that time, I would maybe have discovered the Explorer. However, things happen as they do for a reason, and if now is the time to discover the Explorer, then so be it. The closest watch I can compare the Explorer to, is my Omega Railmaster. I also have the 36mm model. It even has a beautiful exhibition back, and I got a lovely croco leather dark brown deployment strap for it. However, I have to admit that the Explorer is still the more appealing of the two. Not only is it a gorgeous classic timepiece, it also has the superb inhouse 3130 no date movement, which tops the whole thing off beautifully. I have heard a few minor rants about the bracelet, but from what I could see and feel when I tried it on, it is about perfect. Hopefully, I will have this beauty on my wrist within the week. My second Rolex! The only other watch I wish for at this point, is another Rolex with a combination steel/Everose gold. Of course, the AD had the very model that I see on the Rolex website, that I am lusting after. That will just have to wait. Cheers, Carl __________________ Those who possess a sense of entitlement are seldom satisfied.

24 January 2010, 04:26 PM	#7
sea-dweller "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Dennis Location: Bay Area - 925 Posts: 40,018	The Explorer 1 is a great watch, very understated and I love mine, as you will yours. __________________ TRF Member #6699 (since September 2007)

24 January 2010, 04:38 PM	#9
Andad 2024 ROLEX DATEJUST41 Pledge Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Real Name: Eddie Location: Australia Watch: A few. Posts: 37,231	Nice post Carl. Great choice. __________________ E

24 January 2010, 04:45 PM	#10
dalip "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Real Name: Dalip Location: Mumbai and Perth Watch: Rolex PAM Omega Posts: 18,656	good one Carl...! __________________ ------------------------------------------------------------ *"The liar's punishment is not in the least that he is not believed, but that he cannot believe anyone else." George Bernard Shaw*

24 January 2010, 05:29 PM	#11
GBJIV "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Real Name: Jackson Location: So. California Posts: 2,893	I really love the Explorer I. Very classic and clean looking. Hope you get it soon. __________________ Jackson

24 January 2010, 04:02 PM	#2
ParisDakarBmw Banned Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Paul Location: New Haven, CT Watch: 116610 Sub-C Posts: 6,552	You'll love it! Keep us updated, and show some pics of the new addition!

24 January 2010, 04:18 PM	#3
sakuraba "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2009 Real Name: Jib Location: SJ, California Watch: sun dial Posts: 8,189	Kyle should get a commission!

24 January 2010, 04:21 PM	#4
kyle L "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: USA Watch: Rolex Explorer I Posts: 10,278	Congratulations Carl! I'm really happy for you, it's really a classic. Remember to post lots and lots of pics when you get it.

24 January 2010, 04:25 PM	#6
JBat "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: John Location: Washington Watch: 16710, 16610, DJ Posts: 7,329	Great story, Carl! Kyle's shots are certainly an inspiration for anyone considering this watch. It's a terrific piece with a long and distinguished history and an understated elegance. Look forward to seeing some photos of it when you get it.

25 January 2010, 12:29 AM	#12
CPTL "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Real Name: Kevin Location: Texas on my mind Watch: Sub Date; SS/WG DJ Posts: 2,445	Agreed...Kyle's pics have made me start looking hard at the Explorer as well. Congrats on your purchase!! __________________ 16610 Submariner Date; D Serial 16234 DateJust SS with WG Fluted Bezel & Jubillee, White Roman Dial; F Serial 16570 Explorer II White Dial; M Serial And Hers: 78240 Mid-Size DateJust SS with Domed Bezel & Oyster, White Roman; D Serial

25 January 2010, 12:55 AM	#13
buz-lh "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Buz Location: Atlanta Watch: Rolex Tudor Pam Posts: 5,108	Go for it, you will love it. __________________ Buz The faster you move, the slower time passes, the longer you live. Peter Diamandis

25 January 2010, 01:05 AM	#14
aaronr "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Real Name: Aaron Location: Indiana Watch: 16200 DJ & 116710 Posts: 127	Kyle's shots got me all ready to rock too, but I decided to pass b/c it was too close to my DJ when I tried it on. Indeed he should get a commission.

25 January 2010, 01:11 AM	#15
Rambam Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Norway Posts: 408	I first had the railmaster only to sell it to get an Explorer. Ended up selling the Explorer later down the road too, but I find myself really missing it now. I`m seriously thinking about getting one again, its such a great no nonsense watch and the size is just perfect for small wrists like mine. And a shot of my old railmaster for good measure I had the 39,2mm

25 January 2010, 01:31 AM	#17
Rambam Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Norway Posts: 408	Thank you, Kyle! I really like your pictures aswell, and I love seeing how you advance. You seem to be quite the Explorer enabler around here I was actually at my AD`s yesterday looking for one, right now I`m on the edge of ordering a new one

25 January 2010, 01:33 AM	#18
carlhaluss "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Carl Location: Vancouver, Canada Watch: Rolex Explorer 1 Posts: 1,780	[QUOTE=Rambam;1596859]I first had the railmaster only to sell it to get an Explorer. Ended up selling the Explorer later down the road too, but I find myself really missing it now. I`m seriously thinking about getting one again, its such a great no nonsense watch and the size is just perfect for small wrists like mine. And a shot of my old railmaster for good measure I had the 39,2mm The Explorer looks great on your wrist! When I saw it yesterday, I was gaping at the beautiful dial. I had forgotten how beautiful and shiny it is. My thoughts at the time were that the watch can really be worn very comfortably with anything. Even to the gym, or with a suit, to give two extremes. The Railmaster looks great on the mesh. Mine was on the steel bracelet, now I have a brown leather croco with deployment for it. This little guy - at 36mm - is still a favourite of mine. The lug size is 19mm, so I don't think there is a mesh that size. I believe 20mm is the smallest mesh. However, the way the links are set up where the strap attaches to the spring bars, I bet it could be done. Still one of my favourite watches. It used to be my "If I could only have one watch...." until I really discovered the Explorer. A few of you guys on here could win awards for your photography! Cheers, Carl __________________ Those who possess a sense of entitlement are seldom satisfied.

25 January 2010, 02:36 AM	#20
everose Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: World Citizen Posts: 593	I also prefer the clean simplicity of original Expy...but my only problem is 36mm......i really hope they announce a 40mm option in March(my wrist is 7.25 inches)I know alot of you guys love that its 36mm. Kyles photos should come with a warning;COULD BE HARMFUL TO YOUR BANK BALANCE!!! Inspirational stories like Carls also does not help

25 January 2010, 03:49 AM	#21
Jolu "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Real Name: Jo Location: Norway Watch: Explorer I/II Posts: 660	Great, yet another chance to post Explorer shots (no pun intended)... Slow in the ICU today. You scratch that itch Carl - and you too, Rambam, looking forward to new pics of the Explorer! __________________ “I have never been lost, but I will admit to being confused for several weeks” - Daniel Boone -

25 January 2010, 04:36 AM	#22
G.J "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Planet Earth Posts: 2,094	Love your Railmaster Carl.. I know that you will love the Explorer as well. I sure do love mine... Super clean dial and the size is very comfy.. __________________ In Memory of JJ Irani

25 January 2010, 07:06 AM	#24
cornerstore "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Canada Posts: 4,003	Hopefully, I will have this beauty on my wrist within the week. What is the retail price on that watch in Vancouver ?

25 January 2010, 09:00 AM	#25
shandy Banned Join Date: Dec 2008 Real Name: Ian Location: canada Posts: 1,724	HI Carl. It was so much fun yesterday and I am so happy you are getting the Explorer. It really sang to you and I know you will not have one moment of regret in getting it. I really like Brinkhaus and Wayne is a real gentleman. Perfect place to purchase a luxury item from..And I was amazed at the discount I must admit I am still thinking of the two I tried on, the YG Daydate II looked really good on my wrist as did the platinum and diamond masterpiece I am still in awe of the weight of that masterpiece!

25 January 2010, 09:32 AM	#28
425ranger "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Real Name: Bill Location: MI Watch: Marathon SAR Posts: 102	RAMBAM pics are sooo good, they make all watches.... well... desirable. Kyle and that Expl are so well known it could turn into an internet meme.

25 January 2010, 09:41 AM	#29
Lucy Diamond "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Canuckland! Watch: 1966 Pepsi Posts: 268	Looking forward to pics once you get that baby on your wrist!Did you have to do much haggling to get the discount? BTW, greetings from a fellow Vancouverite! __________________ "Everything in moderation,including moderation."-Julia Child

25 January 2010, 09:45 AM	#30
Subexplorer 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Real Name: Abel Location: Down South Watch: Rolex Submariner Posts: 2,234	Nice story and great pictures! Enjoy your new watch in good health Carlhaluss!! You´ll find you made a very good choice! Kind regards, Abel __________________ 50 Years of ROLEX Passion! Grail Rolex: 5508 c. 1959 "Bond" Sub.

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