AirKing vs Explorer

[av8r51]

Purchased the new AirKing last year and now have an opportunity to purchase the 40 Explorer. Both are similar enough and different enough and would like any thoughts regarding having both…
Thanks

[travisb]

They're definitely different enough to justify both.
The AK has a busy dial and pays homage to the early pilot watches of WWII, while the Exp has a very clean, balanced dial built to stand the test of any adventure you throw at it.
I could see those making a great pair.

[av8r51]

Thanks. Good points

[BogdanS]

Had both and kept the 2022 AK. Although it has a busy dial, that soft touch of colour and crown guards made the AK better.

But only the actual experience of wearing both long enough is the way to choose, I cannot see a way of deciding through reading or debating.


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[AF_Rob]

I'd add the Explorer and sell the one that wins out on wrist time over the next year. To me, they are too similar to keep both.

If I had an AK and it left me wanting enough to consider adding the Explorer, I'd likely sell it.

[996marty]

The Explorer would work having it alongside the Airking

[Mr. Superlative]

I personally prefer the Explorer to the Airking, in fact the Explorer is the preferred choice for a lot of models. As others have said, buy it, and if the AK starts to spend a lot of it’s time in the safe, you know what to do.

[Ukkanhifi]

I would not keep both. Keep the Explorer and get something different like a DJ or a Sub.

[jb335]

I think they are different enough to have both in the collection. If I had to choose, I’d keep the Explorer. Rather easy choice for me, but I do like the AK.


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[brandrea]

Originally Posted by travisb

They're definitely different enough to justify both.
The AK has a busy dial and pays homage to the early pilot watches of WWII, while the Exp has a very clean, balanced dial built to stand the test of any adventure you throw at it.
I could see those making a great pair.

100% agree

[dmhines]

Get Explorer 40mm then sell the AK.

[Ny325]

I personally have the new AK. I prefer it more than the Explorer because it’s not your run of the mill model.

[aboutime]

I think they are similar pieces. The explorer 3, 6 and 9 numerals are on the air king, not to mention that at the size the OP mentioned there is even less between them. Both come with brushed oyster bracelet, black dials, same movement? and are time only watches. Of course there are differences but I would prefer a more differentiated watch.

[RAS888]

Explorer all day against the AK. Dial too colorful and busy for me. Explorer 36 was my first Rolex so I am biased.

[matthew P]

I prefer the explorer but if I was going to own both I’d also lean toward the smaller explorer which creates more variation with its more classically sized case / wrist feel.




..Explorer, Spring Diver & APRO..

[SudiYunus]

Explorer, iMO

[Hulkhunter]

Depends on what else you have. If those are your only 2 watches then I’d say they are too similar. If they are part of a wider collection then a bit different.

Although, this is coming from a guy with 3, modern, steel GMTs so what do I know!

[Edwardfry3]

Explorer.

[Kenny G]

Originally Posted by AF_Rob

I'd add the Explorer and sell the one that wins out on wrist time over the next year. To me, they are too similar to keep both.

If I had an AK and it left me wanting enough to consider adding the Explorer, I'd likely sell it.

Perfect advice.

[FelixCC]

I'd go Explorer. Cleaner dial. In this case I think the versatility and simplicity of the Explorer wins me over.

[Gearjockey]

I like the AK a LOT.

BUT, if you’re an Av8R, you’re gonna need a GMT.

No exceptions 😎

[Kevin of Larchmont]

I think the Air King with the crown guards and the 36mm Explorer will make a perfect pair.

[trailblazer68]

I have the exp 39 mk2 and the 126900, both are very different in looks and wearability, its a great complementary pair imo.

[watchwatcher]

They would be too similar to me, although some great points made above. I think the best approach is to add the EXP and see what you think.

[jacowestt]

Congrats on the Air-King! It’s a great piece with its unique design and dial. Adding the 40mm Explorer could be an excellent complement—it has that classic, minimalist look with serious versatility. While both are sporty and share some similarities, they have distinct personalities: the Air-King’s bold dial makes a statement, while the Explorer’s understated design offers a more traditional aesthetic.

If you’re drawn to the Explorer’s clean, iconic look, it could be worth having both, especially if you enjoy alternating styles. Plus, these are both standout models in Rolex’s lineup, so they’ll each hold their own in your collection.