On the fence - Explorer 1 or Explorer II?

[pz93c]

I.

If I could have gotten into one as cheaply as I did my DateJust, I'd be wearing one instead.

[darthmouse]

I'd go with an original Explorer (I)...

[Mendota]

So back in 2002 I came within inches of buying a 14270. I was reading online, loved it, tried it on and decided I wanted it even though I grew up watching Bond films and had always wanted a sub. Anyway, I had made up my mind and then I read a horrible review over on Timezone. It made me cancel my purchase. Worst decision ever. Turns out from posts over here that this review was bogus.

I bought a top of the line Sony XBR flat screen tube TV with a matching stand and DVD player instead of the watch. Today, the TV is worthless and I am still searching for deals on the same watch from the same era. LOL! If I had bought the watch instead, I would be $1500+ ahead and I wouldn't have a huge hunk of glass and plastic in my basement that I cannot get rid of.

I'm very torn. I like them both but they are of course different sizes and styles. My grail is the GMTIIc, hence my avatar, but I'm saving that one for a special occasion.

My gut is telling me to keep searching for the right deal on the polar 16570. It's more substantial, the movement is better, there are more complications, and overall I might be more satisfied with the purchase. It's more money, though, and I want one with SELs. The Explorer 1 fits better within my current budget.

Tough call. If wishes were fishes, I would have the Exp 1, the Exp 2 and the GMTIIc. I will eventually, but it will take some time to justify that.

[Singslinger]

Exp 1. You see far less in the wild and IMO it has one of the best dials Rolex make.

[Matrim604]

Between the two I prefer the II, but your reasoning sounds good to me about the Explorer I, which is also a great watch. Pick that one up now, and get a 3186 II down the road. They'll make a great pair!