jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)
[Moderator]
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Question on Rolex Explorer 39mm version
Dear Friends
I only have 1 Rolex and that actually is handed down to me by my late dad. It is a vintage Rolex precision date manual wind.
Till today, I don't have my own Rolex yet ie a modern Rolex. I like the robustness of the ceramic bezels on the GMT (esp the Batman) and also the Submariners. But somehow I find their cases too wide esp at the lugs area (maxi case)?
The Milgauss does not have these wide cases but I am not a fan of the electric bolt seconds hand.
The explorer 2 somehow does not attract me (I know many of you like this so sorry! 
)
I also like the solid oyster bracelets of the modern Rolex sports models a lot.
Recently my Purist bro Ianny got the Rolex Explorer pictured here (pic from Ianny).
At first I don't like the large Arabic numerals !but over time the dark charcoal grey dial is growing on me. Perfect size for my small wrist at 39mm and also having the case shape (not the wide case) and solid bracelet that I like.
If I want to add 1 modern Rolex to my collection, will you recommend the Explorer 39mm? Or any other model?
Let me know your thoughts thank you!
Btw this is my only Rolex watch (changed bracelet to a calf strap)
Cheers
Robin
This message has been edited by jrwong23 on 2015-11-18 06:57:54
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Question on Rolex Explorer 39mm version
Dear Friends I only have 1 Rolex and that actually is handed down to me by my late dad. It is a vintage Rolex precision date manual wind. Till today, I don't have my own Rolex yet ie a modern Rolex. I like the robustness of the ceramic bezels on the GMT (...
The former reference is smaller. Very recommendable, too.
If you love the GMT why not finding a 16700 / 16710 which is the previous reference. You can find one from 2006, almost NOS. And it won't have this large case you don't like. Best, Nicolas
I have a modern Explorer 1.....i bought from new about 5-6 years ago....
.....and i still have it and use it regularly. It is a watch that is all-purpose and extremely reliable. I dont think you could go far wrong with this watch. If you wanted alternatives from the modern era, I would suggest taking a look at the Tudor offeri...
You may like the 36mm Explorer.
Or as suggested by Nicolas, modern 16710 or 16700 Pepsi or Coke or all black bezel in acceptable condition would be nice IMO. What about a modern Datejust 116234 either black or white dial with Oyster bracelet a blend of classicism and sportiness.. Or may...
Daytona! I forgot
Will look at it too. I quite like the black dial version. Although with a Dato and Montblanc Villeret Chrono , I feel happy with my Chronos already Cheers Robin
I really like the new explorer.
It is so clean looking with the 3 6 9. It is also a very classy watch that imho keeps to its original looks with all the add benefits of the modern technology. Like the updated movement and the new clasp with easy link extension which is very nice. Can\'t...
Yes for me! Sweet size, timeless look, reasonable price, robust, versatile and discrete.
And telling from the photo, it looks fantastic on your wrist. This will be your perfect beater watch!
Well, I DID mean to poison. (*^_^*)
Encouragement is a modest word. Poison is more straightforward. Haha!
Aside from the Milgauss..
This is the best current Rolex and if you\'re choosing one today that will be discreet and reliable, this is the one. There are little things some will pick on with this slightly larger size, but it\'s the perfect GADA watch, IMO. It already looks good on...
Thanks Richard!
Lol that is not my wrist but Ian\'s It\'s his watch on his wrist - he shared that pic with me purely with the intent to poison me lol Cheers Robin
hey bro.....
.....there are only so many modern Rolex Sports models available. Given the elimination mentioned, seems you are left with Explorer1. Just go for it bro!
Bro... Christmas is coming
You buy for me la? :p Thanks for the feedback. Cheers Robin
Do you still want a date? How uncommon of a piece would you like?
If shopping for a new Rolex, I would strongly suggest a 115210. These recently went out of production, but they were the only modern (6-digit reference, new style case & bracelet) man's size date model with the engine turned bezel. To my knowledge, al...
Thanks for your suggestion :)
I will check that model out. I am slightly more inclined to a sports model but am open to other references too cheers Robin
I like the watch you have with great provenance.Irreplaceable.
So as many have suggested go for a slightly older GMT just on the border on vintage and modern. The Rolex GMT 16760 or 16750 both fit the bill. Good luck hunting. Bill
date function
It really depends if over time you will decide you need a date function, sort of standard fare on a Rolex.
I am neutral to a date function
For a Rolex, I am ok with the date and cyclops. Although one with no date at all like the Explorer is a perfect GADA (Go Anywhere Do Anything) watch too (no need to set date just wind, set time and go) Cheers Robin
What more to say or even suggest ?.. I definitely would go for the Explo1 black dial.. Then you also have a Black Knight & a White Lady !.. Happy Hunting !.. ;)) [nt]
PS: of course with a GMT 16750/60, transition time, you will not go wrong, either.. (+1 to Bill & Nico) ..The sweet pain of choice, is all yours !
Thank you hs
For edging me on the Exp 1 lol! :p Yes I do want a black dial Rolex Cheers Robin
The oyster perpetual 34mm olive green dial.
Good looking piece Robin. Even at 34mm still robust enough for us asians. Good luck on your choice. Cheers Geross
What about a Day Date?
36 or 40 mm? In a white metal? But if it has to be more sporty I would also go for a (near) NOS GMT II. or Explorer (small arrow). You know what? It doesn\'t really matter that much. Most Rolex models have a good resale value anyhow so if you make the \'w...
All good ideas Arie
I think the Day Date is something I want to try. Preferably in WG and 36mm Cheers Robin
Day Date
You will love it. And you can still jump in the water with it. And the President Bracelet. It\'s beautiful. Downside: no Rolex Easy Link. Plus side: thinner because of that.
Yes I will try to find those older GMTs
I prefer those but will also try the current one (Batman maybe) Cheers Robin
Don´t forget to check out the new Oyster Perpetuals in 39mm...
Hi, Robin, There´s a lot of directions you could take, and suggestions we could make, as there are plenty of options in your field. If you are willing to buy modern but from a previous generation, you might find the cases of both the 36mm 114270 Explorer,...
The new 39mm Oyster Perpetuals
Are a great idea! Thank you I will try them out Cheers Robin