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MJ EXPLORER · 21 July 2023, 03:25 AM

Late last year I sold my 5 watch collection (3 Rolex and 2 Omegas). I then reaquired my all-time favorite watch, the Explorer II. As much as I love the floating hands of the 216570, I went 226570 and I’m absolutely loving it. Foundation piece of my collection and my daily.

I tried a few inexpensive watches as the foil to the Explorer II but they all fell a little short. Tudor Black Bay Pro, Omega Railmaster and Seiko SLA043 (62 MAS re-issue).

I finally made a run at one that I’ve loved since it was introduced, but it was pricey (even gently used). I picked up an IWC Big Pilot 43 and couldn’t be happier. Massive wrist presence, but not too big.

Explorer II and Big Pilot…very happy. I’m going to take my time on adding a third. Just for fun, what’s a good 3rd watch in your opinion? My max budget is about $10,000.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

CarlOver · 21 July 2023, 03:26 AM

Something without a black dial?

WatchGuy1966 · 21 July 2023, 03:42 AM

Speedmaster
Santos
DateJust
Panerai if you love chunky watches
Seamaster SMP 300

Or just sit where you are and take a break from the search. Let it find you.

Guppydriver · 21 July 2023, 03:46 AM

GO SeaQ in reed green or blue? You like big watches, and it's impressive.

brandrea · 21 July 2023, 05:15 AM

I’d add a diver

Submariner is the obvious choice, but consider a Panerai Submersible or an Omega

MJ EXPLORER · 21 July 2023, 06:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WatchGuy1966

Speedmaster
Santos
DateJust
Panerai if you love chunky watches
Seamaster SMP 300

Or just sit where you are and take a break from the search. Let it find you.

Quote:

Originally Posted by brandrea

I’d add a diver

Submariner is the obvious choice, but consider a Panerai Submersible or an Omega

I didn't want to sway the conversation, but my shortlist is a Date-Just 41 (smooth bezel and jubilee bracelet) and a Panerai Submersible!

You guys are thinking what I'm thinking. Thanks for the input!

MJ EXPLORER · 21 July 2023, 06:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WatchGuy1966

Or just sit where you are and take a break from the search. Let it find you.

Really great advice! That's definitely in line with taking my time to find one I really want that also fits within my small gathering.

MJ EXPLORER · 21 July 2023, 06:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guppydriver

GO SeaQ in reed green or blue? You like big watches, and it's impressive.

I'll check them out A-Aron. Great Key & Peele reference. Ba-lak-ay.

zi464 · 21 July 2023, 06:23 AM

If I were you , diver will be next.
Omega or Pam , maybe go for Pam since you owned Omega before.

Wcdhtwn · 21 July 2023, 06:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guppydriver

GO SeaQ in reed green or blue? You like big watches, and it's impressive.

I second this. The GO SeaQ, and GO in general, are underrated.

MrMercedes · 21 July 2023, 06:29 AM

Sub Date!

doublevanose82 · 21 July 2023, 06:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CarlOver

Something without a black dial?

Agreed.

How about some gold? TT Datejust?

sski · 21 July 2023, 06:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MJ EXPLORER

I didn't want to sway the conversation, but my shortlist is a Date-Just 41 (smooth bezel and jubilee bracelet) and a Panerai Submersible!

You guys are thinking what I'm thinking. Thanks for the input!

Datejust smooth bezel, Jubilee bracelet is PERFECTION; I have a blue dial with this config- albeit at 36mm. Datejust is dressy, sporty and everything in between. Can be a one and done sort of watch- it's my favorite Rolex bar none.

Calatrava r · 21 July 2023, 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sski

Datejust smooth bezel, Jubilee bracelet is PERFECTION; I have a blue dial with this config- albeit at 36mm. Datejust is dressy, sporty and everything in between. Can be a one and done sort of watch- it's my favorite Rolex bar none.

I have to agree.

TimeAZ · 21 July 2023, 08:38 AM

How about a Datejust on jubilee? A staple and timeless look.

Ontime · 21 July 2023, 09:07 AM

Great start of choices for a rebuild.

MJ EXPLORER · 21 July 2023, 03:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by doublevanose82

Agreed.

How about some gold? TT Datejust?

A bit more than I'd like to spend, but a two tone Date-Just or Submariner would be amazing. You guys nailed pretty much the exact watches I had in mind!

In-budget short list: Panerai Submersible, Date-Just (steel)

Stretch, but doable budget (would have to save up a bit more): Date-Just (two tone), Submariner (two tone)

MJ EXPLORER · 21 July 2023, 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ontime

Great start of choices for a rebuild.

Thanks! I'm really happy with these two, so not in a huge hurry for number 3. Two different non-watch friends really came strong for their love of the Big Pilot. They both said it was the most interesting watch I've owned and very different than my typical steel sports watches.

1William · 21 July 2023, 09:57 PM

Since you have an Explorer II I would go with a classic Date Just 41 with a fluted bezel and jubilee bracelet. I prefer the Silver/White Dial as they are color neutral and work with everything and you have two dark dial watches already. But the blue or green also work. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

mikea · 21 July 2023, 10:12 PM

Congrats! Love the approach

Harry-57 · 21 July 2023, 10:39 PM

If you can handle a 43mm watch, this would be a diverse and interesting addition.

In reality an impossible question to answer if I'm not you.

AJMarcus · 21 July 2023, 11:32 PM

I’d add a Speedmaster Moonwatch.

travisb · 21 July 2023, 11:34 PM

Two great watches there.

yesnaya · 22 July 2023, 12:00 AM

You have a ton of options: You dont have a diver, or a choronograph. You dont have any colored or light dials (both your watches have black dials).

To be honest I dont think I would add a 3rd in your situation... I think you may just have the perfect 2-watch collection. I might just get an apple watch and call it a day.

You have 2 great "all purpose" pieces... Let's say you add a diver like a sub or seamaster. When will you wear it? What occasions will it be a better fit vs the exp2 or the big pilot? How many occasions is the diver going to be the outright best choice vs how many occasions would the exp2 and pilot have been just as good?

Some people like to switch it up and want variety. And for them that's the fun part. If that's what you are looking for, you have a ton of options. But if you are not necessarily looking for variety, and thinking that maybe 2 watches is not enough, I say get an apple watch.

watchwatcher · 22 July 2023, 12:05 AM

Well...because of your user name, I'm going to suggest the new 40mm Exp.

Although as I think of it, it's actually pretty spot on.

Kenny G · 22 July 2023, 12:09 AM

I’m sure it’s been posted in previous posts but which specific references did you have and sell OP?

Without knowing that, my first pick (if sticking with Rolex) would be a DJ of your favourite configuration followed by a sub of your favourite configuration. I lean toward the DJ only because the Ex2 is a larger case and would pair excellent with a DJ for more formal occasions…and the DJ can easily be dressed down even if it’s the fluted/jube combo.

It’s funny that you mentioned that you like the floating hands of the 216570…I feel the same for some reason…it’s just kind of neat, but most others in general prefer the updates of the 226570 and point out the “flaw” in that the black on the floating hands doesn’t match the black of the dial.

fredos_rolex · 22 July 2023, 12:23 AM

JLC would get you something that leans more to the dress watch side without completely abandoning a sports watch vibe. Or GP. Both should be available lightly used at your $10K price point. Or if you want to stick with Rolex, obviously DJ gets it done.

Carguy87 · 22 July 2023, 12:53 AM

I too vote for a DJ on jubilee (dresses it up a bit) with any color dial but black for variety. Congrats on the two you have so far in the rebuild!

ltmgeller · 22 July 2023, 01:06 AM

Blue dialed DJ with the smooth bezel and jubilee is incredible.

MJ EXPLORER · 23 July 2023, 05:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by yesnaya

You have a ton of options: You dont have a diver, or a choronograph. You dont have any colored or light dials (both your watches have black dials).

To be honest I dont think I would add a 3rd in your situation... I think you may just have the perfect 2-watch collection. I might just get an apple watch and call it a day.

You have 2 great "all purpose" pieces... Let's say you add a diver like a sub or seamaster. When will you wear it? What occasions will it be a better fit vs the exp2 or the big pilot? How many occasions is the diver going to be the outright best choice vs how many occasions would the exp2 and pilot have been just as good?

Some people like to switch it up and want variety. And for them that's the fun part. If that's what you are looking for, you have a ton of options. But if you are not necessarily looking for variety, and thinking that maybe 2 watches is not enough, I say get an apple watch.

Great post! I’m going to take my time on watch #3. Likely won’t be until next year.

Ironically I couldn’t even decide on a fitness watch. I was between the Apple Watch and a Garmin and picked the Garmin. I thought it would have better heart rate tracking. It might, but it’s really not intuitive at all.

I’m doing the whole Peter Attia zone 2 workout plan.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

21 July 2023, 03:25 AM	#1
MJ EXPLORER "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2021 Real Name: Mike Location: Arkansas Watch: Explorer II Posts: 1,040	Rebuilding the Collection….slowly Late last year I sold my 5 watch collection (3 Rolex and 2 Omegas). I then reaquired my all-time favorite watch, the Explorer II. As much as I love the floating hands of the 216570, I went 226570 and I’m absolutely loving it. Foundation piece of my collection and my daily. I tried a few inexpensive watches as the foil to the Explorer II but they all fell a little short. Tudor Black Bay Pro, Omega Railmaster and Seiko SLA043 (62 MAS re-issue). I finally made a run at one that I’ve loved since it was introduced, but it was pricey (even gently used). I picked up an IWC Big Pilot 43 and couldn’t be happier. Massive wrist presence, but not too big. Explorer II and Big Pilot…very happy. I’m going to take my time on adding a third. Just for fun, what’s a good 3rd watch in your opinion? My max budget is about $10,000. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

21 July 2023, 08:38 AM	#15
TimeAZ "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2020 Location: USA Watch: Rolex & Tudor Posts: 2,254	How about a Datejust on jubilee? A staple and timeless look. __________________ The perfect blossom is a rare thing. You could spend your life looking for one, and it would not be a wasted life.

21 July 2023, 10:12 PM	#20
mikea "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Real Name: mike Location: Dallas, Tx Watch: Rolex and AP Posts: 1,102	Congrats! Love the approach __________________ DD40 RG, DD40 Platinum, Submariner Bluesy, RG YM 40, YM 40

22 July 2023, 12:00 AM	#24
yesnaya "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: USA Posts: 393	You have a ton of options: You dont have a diver, or a choronograph. You dont have any colored or light dials (both your watches have black dials). To be honest I dont think I would add a 3rd in your situation... I think you may just have the perfect 2-watch collection. I might just get an apple watch and call it a day. You have 2 great "all purpose" pieces... Let's say you add a diver like a sub or seamaster. When will you wear it? What occasions will it be a better fit vs the exp2 or the big pilot? How many occasions is the diver going to be the outright best choice vs how many occasions would the exp2 and pilot have been just as good? Some people like to switch it up and want variety. And for them that's the fun part. If that's what you are looking for, you have a ton of options. But if you are not necessarily looking for variety, and thinking that maybe 2 watches is not enough, I say get an apple watch. __________________ 116710BLNR; 126710BLRO; 116500LN; Speedmaster Pro Moonphase; Navitimer 01 LE, SM300 Heritage.

22 July 2023, 01:06 AM	#29
ltmgeller 2025 TitaniumYM Pledge Member Join Date: Aug 2012 Real Name: Mike Location: New York Watch: Rolex Posts: 23,037	Blue dialed DJ with the smooth bezel and jubilee is incredible. __________________ Oh, look at the time... Official Member: 'WIS-CON' Las Vegas International GTG 2019

21 July 2023, 03:26 AM	#2
CarlOver "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2021 Location: US Posts: 2,329	Something without a black dial?

21 July 2023, 03:42 AM	#3
WatchGuy1966 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2018 Location: Location Location Posts: 1,837	Speedmaster Santos DateJust Panerai if you love chunky watches Seamaster SMP 300 Or just sit where you are and take a break from the search. Let it find you.

21 July 2023, 03:46 AM	#4
Guppydriver 2025 Pledge Member Join Date: Mar 2020 Real Name: A-Aron Location: Utah Watch: 126710BLNR 226570 Posts: 2,410	GO SeaQ in reed green or blue? You like big watches, and it's impressive.

21 July 2023, 05:15 AM	#5
brandrea 2025 TitaniumYM Pledge Member Join Date: Jul 2013 Real Name: Brian (TBone) Location: canada Watch: es make me smile Posts: 80,010	I’d add a diver Submariner is the obvious choice, but consider a Panerai Submersible or an Omega

21 July 2023, 06:23 AM	#9
zi464 "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: us Posts: 218	If I were you , diver will be next. Omega or Pam , maybe go for Pam since you owned Omega before.

21 July 2023, 06:29 AM	#11
MrMercedes "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2019 Real Name: David Location: here and there Watch: too many! Posts: 3,615	Sub Date!

21 July 2023, 09:07 AM	#16
Ontime Banned Join Date: Nov 2021 Location: USA Posts: 249	Great start of choices for a rebuild.

21 July 2023, 09:57 PM	#19
1William 2025 TitaniumYM Pledge Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: North Carolina Watch: Rolex/Others Posts: 48,955	Since you have an Explorer II I would go with a classic Date Just 41 with a fluted bezel and jubilee bracelet. I prefer the Silver/White Dial as they are color neutral and work with everything and you have two dark dial watches already. But the blue or green also work. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

21 July 2023, 10:39 PM	#21
Harry-57 2025 Pledge Member Join Date: Apr 2018 Real Name: Harry Location: England Posts: 10,990	If you can handle a 43mm watch, this would be a diverse and interesting addition. In reality an impossible question to answer if I'm not you.

21 July 2023, 11:32 PM	#22
AJMarcus "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Real Name: AJ Location: USA Watch: Swiss Posts: 5,253	I’d add a Speedmaster Moonwatch.

21 July 2023, 11:34 PM	#23
travisb 2025 Pledge Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Real Name: Travis Location: FL / NYC Watch: Yes.. Posts: 33,950	Two great watches there.

22 July 2023, 12:05 AM	#25
watchwatcher "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Larry Location: Kentucky Watch: Yes Posts: 35,243	Well...because of your user name, I'm going to suggest the new 40mm Exp. Although as I think of it, it's actually pretty spot on.

22 July 2023, 12:09 AM	#26
Kenny G "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2021 Location: Canada Posts: 1,118	I’m sure it’s been posted in previous posts but which specific references did you have and sell OP? Without knowing that, my first pick (if sticking with Rolex) would be a DJ of your favourite configuration followed by a sub of your favourite configuration. I lean toward the DJ only because the Ex2 is a larger case and would pair excellent with a DJ for more formal occasions…and the DJ can easily be dressed down even if it’s the fluted/jube combo. It’s funny that you mentioned that you like the floating hands of the 216570…I feel the same for some reason…it’s just kind of neat, but most others in general prefer the updates of the 226570 and point out the “flaw” in that the black on the floating hands doesn’t match the black of the dial.

22 July 2023, 12:23 AM	#27
fredos_rolex "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2023 Location: Missouri Posts: 70	JLC would get you something that leans more to the dress watch side without completely abandoning a sports watch vibe. Or GP. Both should be available lightly used at your $10K price point. Or if you want to stick with Rolex, obviously DJ gets it done.

22 July 2023, 12:53 AM	#28
Carguy87 2025 TitaniumYM Pledge Member Join Date: Feb 2022 Real Name: Steve Location: Nevada Watch: JC 126660 Posts: 4,715	I too vote for a DJ on jubilee (dresses it up a bit) with any color dial but black for variety. Congrats on the two you have so far in the rebuild!

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