The 36mm was always my dream watch. I got on a waiting list towards the end of 2020 because I was scared the 39mm was going to 41mm. When it was announced, I called my AD immediately, who told me that the person ahead of me declined the 36mm because they deemed it too small. I am soooo glad he did that because I now have the perfect watch for me.
I just picked mine up a month ago. I’ve always been a Sub guy. It took about a week to get used to the size. Now I absolutely love it. I put my Sub on a week ago and took it off after 4 hours. It feels like a tank. The Explorer is so comfortable and beautiful. Under the radar. To me perfection!
Exactly! On my 18 cm wrist, it looked… girly. The extremely tapering bracelet even emphasised that feeling. My silver dial Tudor BB 36 however looks pretty masculin on that same wrist. Dimensions don’t tell the whole story.
Personally, I am with Ernest Hemingway. Smaller watches are for real adventurers. You can‘t drag a dinner plate on your wrist around, when you conquer the last fronteer.
Owned both sizes, sold the 39mm… now I am passionate about the 36mm. Such an extremely beautiful watch with all boxes ticked! One problem, I cannot wear my 40mm GMT, 41mm Sub and 43mm SD anymore. Just getting so much used to this size 😟 ( 7” wrist and it fits perfectly…)
I literally have the 41mm 126613LB Sub, the 214270 39mm Explorer, and a 40mm Day-Date and I hardly wear them these days 😢 but it’s because I also got used to my 36mm Explorer and black bay 36. Now my watches feel too large. I’ve really only been using my 36mm, 38mm and my Daytona…
Interesting. I also had the 39mm Explorer and sold it shortly after I got the call from my AD and bought the new reference. Now I am the proud owner of the new 36mm Explorer. What a great watch. The Explorer is not only a GADA watch but is also supremely comfortable so you can wear it all day, every day.
The explorer 1 in 36mm is a perfect watch. I know, I have the hottest of takes that no one has ever thought before. On a serious note, an outstanding video as always Teddy.
@@TeddyBaldassarre any chance you could make a video on watches made to be worn on the inside of the wrist with rotated/angled/slanted face and crowns on top of the watch (e.g. driving/racing watches)... like VC American 1921 etc.
After a lifetime of wearing watches, once You'll get beyond 60 years young & still going strong, most people realise they just need a simple classic time only wristwatch! “Simplicity & Subtlety are the ultimate sophistication”
That Explorer 36mm looks perfect on you Teddy. I have a 7.5in wrist, and own a Speedmaster but I'm selling it. I've just realised that despite my wrist, I definitely prefer small watches. My Casio F91W is perfect and I think it's around 34mm! It's all personal preference and I have no idea why people get so thorny about this issue.... calling it a girls watch or whatever. Wear what you like! It really doesn't matter...I can't wait to get this watch one day. It is almost perfect (apart from lack of micro adjust and not as versatile with straps due to the 19mm lugs, but more importantly due to the design of the case with grooves where the bracelet meets the case)
The 2021 explorer is probably my first and last explorer. I love this watch and I feel no need to get any other Rolex. Especially not at the prices they’re trading
I was fortunate enough to purchase the 39mm and for me and my sleek wrists, dimensionally it strikes the perfect balance between appearance and function. Just the right size to appreciate the beautiful dial and luminescence!
Sir Edmund Hillary was 6ft 3in tall. If a 36mm watch can go up Everest, it’s good for me. Put your insecurities aside, 36mm is a great size for many many people.
now folks with smaller and larger wrists have options! both are great, really surprised how values on these aren't greater given some OPs are pushing 15K... the bezel on the explorer's always been more sleek than the domed bubbly shape on an OP or DJ. the double lock clasp is also "better' than the OP and DJ. the most versatile piece in the rolex collection hands down...
@@pasquale78 I have both the 36 and 39 now. The 36 mm fits me better and is a home run, but the 39mm is also a home run. ⚾️ Best watch of all time IMO (if only they’d toy with a cream colored linen dial of some sort, that might be cool).
The explorer is the best rolex. The size and proportions are perfect. I often wonder how the modern version would look with the traditional chestnut colour to the nrs and battons....for sentimental reasons I think that would be a winner
I had a Submariner Date 126610 and swapped it (w/some money received) for an Explorer 124270. The Explorer is infinitely more comfortable, just my personal experience though.
I prefer the 39mm, although I appreciate the 36mm. The 36mm is SMALL. I think people think 36mm Datejust or DAY-DATE but the new Explorer is more of a 35mm and does clearly wear smaller than all the other 36mm offerings from Rolex. The smaller bracelet adds on top of that. If you want a very conservative old school aesthetic, then the 36mm will cover that but its the anti-thesis of modern from a size standpoint. The 39mm isn't big by any means, which needs to be factored in as well. It's not like we are talking about a small vs large watch, more of a really small vs moderately sized watch. Another thing to point out, the modern 36mm is not going to look exactly like the 5 digit references. The markers and handset have all been beefed up, so it's going to have even less empty space.
I'm a big guy and always loved the explorer, but the 36mm just didnt look right on me hence all my Christmases arrived when the 39mm was launched- hallelujah. . To me it's a perfectly proportioned watch. Either way they are both beautiful watches and the explorer is THE Rolex tool watch.
Having had an Explorer 1016, I welcome the reduction to 36mm. Rolex is affirming the classic dimensions. Let the others play size games; Rolex is affirming the standard. Good vid. Keep at it!
@@markbyrum4743 - don't know if it's slipshod to have sports offering that would be more appealing to a huge consumer base (I am making an assumption though that the smaller watch would be more appealing in these countries).
The only mistake they made on the new 36mm is the word “Explorer” moving to 12 instead of 6 o’clock. Symmetrically the 39mm looked better but the actual case size of the 36mm is way better than the old oversize case.
I had an itch. I already owned the MK2 but always had an itch on owning the 36mm and was “fortunate” when the AD called to let me know the new 36mm was mine I couldn’t pass on it. So I boxed away my 39mm and started wearing the 36mm for 4 months or so. As I write this message I caught up with the 39mm and there is one big issue with the 36mm that I can’t ignore and it is the aggressive narrowing of the bracelet.. the 36mm face is perfect but the lugs and bracelet let it down :(
Was lucky enough to pick up the 124270 Explorer a month or so ago from the local AD here in Aberdeen, Scotland. I have a 6.75" wrist and absolutely love it; very understated and can be worn on any occasion. I work in subsea engineering and frequently work on board saturation diving vessels here in the UK North Sea. The people that work on these vessels tend to be huge watch enthusiasts, due to their profession, and it's not unusual to see various submariners, sea-dwellers, seamasters etc. whilst on board (many of which do get used by the divers at the bottom of the North sea!) and so it was nice to share a non-dive watch with my peers for a change. Next time I'll maybe take my Tudor BB58 (black) to blend in better. Absolutely love both!
I have relatively slim wrists, but still think my 39mm Explorer looks perfectly balanced. It's still a sporty watch, so it should have some wrist presence. Currently on 'the list' for a Datejust and there I went for the 36mm version because it's more dressy and I feel like it looks less refined in the larger sizes.
I haven’t seen one IRL yet, but I’m surprised that I prefer the 39mm because normally I like smaller watches. I like the older 36mm models but not this one.
Thanks for the video, Teddy, another great one. It seemed like the reviews had died down implying that people had chosen their “corner” and made up their minds. I was fortunate enough to get a 124270 immediately after it’s release and have seldom taken it off. It was an adjustment from my 41.5mm but the weight, balance, and comfort make this a watch that I don’t forget I’m wearing and yet it instantly felt like a part of me. I agree with most that they’d be happy with either, but I’m glad Rolex brought back a classic.
I feel the Explorer 39mm was the perfect size and the only reason i decided to purchase this watch. I have a feeling this discontinued version will only continue to go up in price and more specifically the MK II version.
36mm way too dainty for me, personally, on 7.2 inch wrist. It wears very small. Love my 39mm 214270. Will stick with that! :-) 39mm wears great in person, and is less ‘bloated’ than photos suggest. Also, the new 36mm is too text-heavy in top half of dial imho: Word ‘Explorer’ better at bottom. Both great watches though, no doubt!
@@Milofchg I’m looking down at my 39mm and it looks pretty refined to me :-) The Speedy wears much larger in my experience, granted mainly due to its thickness.
Great comparison. Love the 36mm!!! I just got one from my AD and it is STUNNING! I believe the hour markers are slightly larger than the previous 36mm models, as well.
About a week ago, a local AD had both the steel and two-tone Explorer in his window, so I ventured inside, ready for disappointment. And while I was indeed disappointed when we came to the matter of waiting periods ("definitely not in '21 and I couldn't even tell you when/if you'd get it in 22"), the watch itself was outstanding. Never had a 36mm Rolex on my wrist, or come to think of it, any 36mm sports-watch, so I, sort of, tried out both sizes (using a Daydate 40 as a stand-in for the larger size). On my 17cm/6.75in wrist, the 36mm simply looked perfect, size-wise. Judging by the 40, I'd say the old 39 Explorer wouldn't be too large for me, but now that I've tried it, I think I'd always go with the 36 for this type of watch. There's just something so old school and, yes, understated about the Explorer in the smaller size.
Although Rolex supplied watches to many of the Everest summit expeditions, including the one Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay went on, both Hillary and Norgay were carrying Smiths when they summited. Something Rolex would rather you not know.
@@Jay-xr3sb That's another myth, neither men had a Rolex on them when they summited Everest. Hillary said he carried a Smiths to the summit, which was just the vernacular at the time.
I adore the Rolex Explorer, but 36mm is just too small for my wrist - I am 6'3" and can only JUST get away with a 39mm watch! 40 or 41 mm is pretty much the perfect size for me, but I would snap a 39mm Explorer up in a flash - if they weren't commending such high prices at the moment.
I own both the 124270 and 214270 Mk2 and adore them both. They are my only Rolex watches and although I always planned on moving one on once I identified my favourite, it ain’t happening! Just to add, the new 124270 has AR coating on the underside - something the 214270 and other Rolex don’t have.
I purchased the Two-Tone 124273, I guessed right that the higher price turned the waiting list rush away. I waited 3 months! It is a stunning watch, the best all around watch one could imagine. Teddy, as a matter of fact, this watch would be ideal for you. You would not take it off!
Nice one, I am considering the two tone Explorer too. Do you thinks it’s appropriate for daily wear (office and casual wear)? Also does the yellow gold element scratch and get dings much easier than the steel elements given its a softer metal? Cheers
@@rezar6894 Gold can be buffed out easily. Yes, it can be worn every day, and I do so on a more that regular basis. Around the home, wear a baseball cloth wrist band over the watch to protect it while I do chores.
There are so many other watches that are like that lol Orient Bambino in 36 Vs 41, Oris 65 in 40 instead of 42, Tudor BB58 in 39 instead of the regular BB, etc. Could be here all day
@@tiagodvt thank you lol this was my thought exactly, when it comes to modern watches, when is the last time any brand made something deemed "too small"
I got the call from my AD last month my 36mm Rolex Explorer was in store and ready for collection. I'm delighted with the watch which wears very well on my 7 inch wrist. Well worth the 4 month wait. One downside is that I've fallen out of love with my 41mm Omega Sea Master... it's just too big out of the water for my wrist size.
Finally watchmakers start making watches in the correct size again. If they now make 36 mm Submariner, like it was in the old Bond movies, I might even pull the trigger and would buy my first luxury watch ever.
There is a romance tied to the 36mm version that is undeniable. But for some of us 36mm is just too small… Mores the pity… But I absolutely love my 39mm version. As close to perfect as you can get.
There are guys with bigger wrists who enjoy watches. 38mm looks a bit small on me. 36mm would look like a kids watch. I really hate the larger watch bashing. 39mm is a great size. It's not like it's a 46mm Invicta or something.
Really? Real divers are way bigger than 40mm. And so they should be~ it's a tool watch and main requirement has to be legibility in murky water. 40mm is a fail
@@rage8kage As a pure tool watch I agree with you. They do need to be legible underwater. As a matter of aesthetics, 39mm sort of just works for nearly everyone like they said in the video. There's a reason the Black Bay 58 has been one of the best selling watches of thr last few years.
@@JupiterTarts 39mm isn't the perfect diver size it is too small for them they dont care about aesthetic Black bay doing well in sales isnt becuz its has the perfect size diver It is selling well becuz it is the perfect sized tool watch
@@MonicaHolly143 the BB58 is neither a tool watch or a diver. It's a very nice homage to old school divers and a fashion piece. A modern dive watch that doesn't have an on-the-fly micro-adjustment system, crownguards, or an aggressively gnarled bezel? Tudor makes a proper diver and tool watch, it's called the Pelagos (auto adjustment system, titanium, over-engineered WR/HEV, easier to grip bezel, crownguards, and increased legibility).
36 Explorer will always and forever be my dream watch. It’s a watch that is attempted to be emulated in many sport models. And although there are significantly better value options at a lower price point, something about the explorer always calls to me. It just strikes me as the closest thing to a perfect time piece.
This 36 mm and tapered bracelet is one of big step for innovation, I think. It appears more sophisticated looks than before. And, absoultely its users' band has been increased. Women's market, too.
Options are welcome. To each their own. I'm a small guy with small wrists and the 36mm sits perfectly and it's not too heavy. I've always loved the explorer design and even the simple OP. Sometimes simple is beautiful.
With 7.75" wrists, the size actually becomes more of a conversation starter than a larger watch. I have a vintage military watch that is 36mm, which looks like a bottle cap on my wrist. Despite its dimensions, I wear it at least once a week and to the office. The two other collectors in the office have talked about it regularly with me. The reason I mention this is to say the dimensions of the new Explorer aren't a show stopper for me. What is a show stopper is the lack of a glide-lock bracelet. That's just a sin on the part of Rolex. I wear the bracelet on my Hulk at least once a month (mostly on a RubberB or nato) and it's one of the best bracelets out there. It's too bad a cost cutting measure rears its head on a sports watch that is meant to have versatility to conditions that lend your wrist to swelling/shrinking to the environment. Thanks for the great review.
It has the micro extension which should be fine to cover shrinking and swelling. The glidelock was designed for more radical adjustments in combination with diving suits.
I think one need to differentiate between "true to heritage", or "true to demand = sales". If there is no demand in 36, would you think Rolex would go 36?
@@izzythomas848 for me personally when I see people with small wrist wear a 39 mm watch it looks a bit weird sure it fits but it doesn't look as good as it would with the 36 mm even with me and the 39 I'm sure it would look nice but I just wouldn't like the symmetry of how it looks on my wrist.
@@derosa1989 I've seen guys with wrist the same as mine or slightly bigger wear 33-36 mm watches and they still look good. Just depends on how you wear it really.
I have a 1016 and wouldn't swap it for anything in the current catalogue. They have missed a trick, undoubtedly the mechanism is better than mine, if they had installed a domed sapphire I think they would have got nearer to capturing the essence of what the 36mm watch was originally. The polished acrylic looks so much better than flat sapphire. I dont have really small wrists but 36mm looks good to me.
i really wish they kept the bracelet width to 20mm. this watch definitely feels/looks smaller than the OP36 and DJ36. I feel like 38mm would've been a perfect compromise
8in wrist gang over here. I wish I could pull off a 39mm watch. I've actually tried this on at a grey market spot and passed on it. Funny how the grey market shops at your local malls and outlets are flooded with Rolex watches while the official AD's have empty display cases. What a shame.
I traded in an OP 36mm from 2009 for an Explorer 1 114270 from 2004 with my trusted watchmaker. He had the 114270 and the 214270 mk1 dial, I actually tried both. The 39mm compared to the previous 36mm definetly has better finishing and the clasp is amazing, but the size of the 36 just works, and the dial at 39mm feels too big. And that's with my 18.5mm / 7.25inch wrist. I think the new 36mm is amazing, but i prefer the slim lugs the previous 114270 has.
The new Explorer is basically a 35mm watch. In person, it is VERY small and dainty. It's basically a ladies watch at this point, unless you are a man with very small wrists. The 214270 is by far the best Explorer Rolex has made.
see but you've actually seen the watch and had practical experience. no one wants your educated opinion on YT, just pick the 36 (35mm as you say - which kudos to you) because it photographs well for social media and a certain demographic of watch snobs want to be purists! ;)
IWC launched the smaller Big Pilot recently, and Breitling has been launching some vintage inspired watches that are much smaller than what they were making the last 20 years. With the Explorer, Rolex went back to the original size, but I can't really think of another model (from any brand) that would need to go back to the original size. Even the Cartier Tank is still offered in its small size.
Everyone has personal taste, but just my opinion one of the glories of wearing a luxury watch is that it stands out, but it does so with class. A Rolex should pop but not do so in a way that is gaudy. An Explorer in my view has no flair, the white bread of luxury watches. Every brand needs a base model and for Rolex, this is it. But walking that line between just right and too much is what Rolex does best in their other offerings.
The new 36mm explorer was the first modern Rolex that I am actually interested. I have been talking with my AD for several months trying to get one, we’ll see if I ever can get one at retail
@@derosa1989 the case is slightly different, but the big thing is I just significantly prefer the dial and hands used on the explorer over the OP36. The OP just seems a little too boring to me, whereas the explorer strikes a nice balance of under the radar while still interesting
@@ajgross67 look for an OP 116000 in blue. It's basically a 36mm blue explorer with a domed bezel. I just picked up one for about half of what a new explorer would cost on the grey market.
@@ajgross67 its interesting how, given all the watch choices from all the different brands in the world, all those choices about sizes, dials, complications, straps, designs, and case materials, customers are still splitting hairs between between two nearly identical but two different black dial stainless bracelet 36mm Rolex's, OP vs Explorer. In psychology it's called "narcissism of small differences", the idea we become hypersensitive to even tiny details of differentiation. it's weird this stuff matters at all, but yes, it seems to.
@@derosa1989 The OP has a domed bezel, whereas the Explorer has a conical one. Therefore the OP is a bit more bubbly, while the Explorer is a bit more sharp.
I own a Explorer 1 ref 114270 Z series I love today just as much as I did when I bought it in 2007. Just walked in my AD and said wrap it up. I know those days are gone sadly. I love the 36mm because that's the original size the Explorer was conceived in but didn't have a issue with it in 39mm
The old 36mm was barely large enough. But the new 36mm with it's more prominent lettering and dial markings and slightly thicker bezel makes 36mm too small. It's now a no-buy for me.
Went to my AD for a Wimbledon but the retail waiting list is big. Said I liked the explorer and 2 months later he called me due to lack of demand for it. Was a bit skeptical about the size at first but after 2 weeks of use couldn’t be happier with it. It just Looks amazing. Still on the list for the Wimbledon which shouldn’t arrive before the end of the year.
How about letting function determine size? A polo shirt rises higher on the neck than a t-shirt because it has a collar, and everyone understands the difference. Yet endless pontificating on watch size raises hardly a peep about differences in watch types. Watches without functioning outer bezels took decades to settle at optimal designs around 36mm. You’ll find the dial diameter on a 36mm Explorer to be about the same as on a 40mm Sub or GMT. But it seems the size of a man’s watch has become grounds for competitive flexing. Watch size now matters more to our egos than to the design of functional and beautiful instruments. Eventually our eyes adapt and anything less than a “dinner plate” looks small. To each his own. I wouldn’t be surprised if Rolex adds back a 39mm or even bigger to give folks a choice. But where does it stop? They seem to play the game reluctantly, marketing some models at 41 when they measure much smaller. My take is that nothing looks dumber than a “dinner plate” on the wrist. For a simple three hander like the Explorer on a man’s wrist of any size, function and elegance are properly served right around 36mm.
Well balanced discussion, Teddy. Very well done. I'll go on record saying the 39mm is a much better sizing and the 36mm (especially in two tone) is too precious for the majority of modern taste. Yes, 36mm might have been a norm 50 to 70 years ago, but so were neckties that reached mid-chest, girdles, sliderules, incandescent car headlights, fedoras, and Wildroot cream. Style and technology advance. "Traditional size" might be nostalgic, but may no longer desired or wanted by the majority of the market. But, I guess the only real way to know is to wait 10 years and see what the popularity of the 36mm has become (and whether there is a return to, or an additional offering of, a 39mm again.)
Long live the 214270! The perfect all around watch for the average size male wrist. If you miss it, get the 41mm oyster perpetual in black dial. Not that different of a watch. 36 is just small. My wife, who is 5'9" wears a 36. Great watch for her!
The Rolex Explorer was designed as mid century luxury sports watch. Rolex put a lot of thought into the design of the the watch as it was made to excel in a vast array of environments. The purpose build original Explorer will always be the purest’s choice when compared to inflated flashier designed of the current 39mm generation.
When talking about any other watch, 39mm is considered perfect. The new 36 is the smallest wearing 36 ever, especially compared to an OP and even in comparison to the old Exp36mm. The new Exp is a charming watch but the dainty dimensions and glossy dial make this the Mrs. Explorer. The dial looks a little crowded in comparison to the 39. The movement is an upgrade for sure but the 3132 is super, proven, and in watches that fetch $20k. The 39 3,6,9 all the way.
The 36mm was always my dream watch. I got on a waiting list towards the end of 2020 because I was scared the 39mm was going to 41mm. When it was announced, I called my AD immediately, who told me that the person ahead of me declined the 36mm because they deemed it too small. I am soooo glad he did that because I now have the perfect watch for me.
How long were you on the waitlist?
1 year wait?
@@silveriver9 I waited 10 months for my 124270. Is that worth a question mark as well?
@@cliffwheeler7357 everyone wait 10 months
I waited a couple of months for my 124270 in 2022 which must’ve been a stroke of luck, now I come to think of it
I just picked mine up a month ago. I’ve always been a Sub guy. It took about a week to get used to the size. Now I absolutely love it. I put my Sub on a week ago and took it off after 4 hours. It feels like a tank. The Explorer is so comfortable and beautiful. Under the radar. To me perfection!
The perfect watch size has everything to do with the size of your wrist. The best size is different for different people.
Nailed it!
I own a 36mm gold Seamaster from 1968 and my relatives think it costs thousands...
A 42mm watch does Not make a good Rolex alternative!
I perfer 39 for my thin wrist
Boom!
Exactly! On my 18 cm wrist, it looked… girly. The extremely tapering bracelet even emphasised that feeling.
My silver dial Tudor BB 36 however looks pretty masculin on that same wrist. Dimensions don’t tell the whole story.
Personally, I am with Ernest Hemingway. Smaller watches are for real adventurers. You can‘t drag a dinner plate on your wrist around, when you conquer the last fronteer.
Nailed it!
Amen
Lol
Correct 👌
Best comment 🙌
I just picked up my new 36 mm Explorer from the AD a week ago. It's watch perfection for a guy with smaller wrists like me. Absolutely love it.
Owned both sizes, sold the 39mm… now I am passionate about the 36mm. Such an extremely beautiful watch with all boxes ticked! One problem, I cannot wear my 40mm GMT, 41mm Sub and 43mm SD anymore. Just getting so much used to this size 😟 ( 7” wrist and it fits perfectly…)
I have the same problem. I can’t wear my gmt anymore after getting the first 36 I bought 2 more..
Same
I literally have the 41mm 126613LB Sub, the 214270 39mm Explorer, and a 40mm Day-Date and I hardly wear them these days 😢 but it’s because I also got used to my 36mm Explorer and black bay 36. Now my watches feel too large. I’ve really only been using my 36mm, 38mm and my Daytona…
Sold my 39 and got the new 36 in may. Fantástic one piece collection. Perfect watch. Congrats Teddy!
He didn’t mention price range - what did u get it for price range wise if you don’t mind ?
What a mistake !
Interesting. I also had the 39mm Explorer and sold it shortly after I got the call from my AD and bought the new reference. Now I am the proud owner of the new 36mm Explorer. What a great watch. The Explorer is not only a GADA watch but is also supremely comfortable so you can wear it all day, every day.
I like the darker black on the dial.
That was a dumb move.
The explorer 1 in 36mm is a perfect watch. I know, I have the hottest of takes that no one has ever thought before. On a serious note, an outstanding video as always Teddy.
Thank you my friend! Appreciate you for tuning in as always.
From the description Teddy does, the 214270 is the perfect one.
@@TeddyBaldassarre any chance you could make a video on watches made to be worn on the inside of the wrist with rotated/angled/slanted face and crowns on top of the watch (e.g. driving/racing watches)... like VC American 1921 etc.
After a lifetime of wearing watches, once You'll get beyond 60 years young & still going strong, most people realise they just need a simple classic time only wristwatch!
“Simplicity & Subtlety are the ultimate sophistication”
You are correct sir.
That Explorer 36mm looks perfect on you Teddy. I have a 7.5in wrist, and own a Speedmaster but I'm selling it. I've just realised that despite my wrist, I definitely prefer small watches. My Casio F91W is perfect and I think it's around 34mm! It's all personal preference and I have no idea why people get so thorny about this issue.... calling it a girls watch or whatever. Wear what you like! It really doesn't matter...I can't wait to get this watch one day. It is almost perfect (apart from lack of micro adjust and not as versatile with straps due to the 19mm lugs, but more importantly due to the design of the case with grooves where the bracelet meets the case)
The 2021 explorer is probably my first and last explorer. I love this watch and I feel no need to get any other Rolex. Especially not at the prices they’re trading
This is in some way an antithesis to today’s modern offerings by Rolex. I have a 114270 from the early 2000’s and I grow to love it more with each day
I have one from 2002 and prefer it over the new 36mm model, as in my opinion the 20mm lug width is more proportionate than the 19mm.
@@heiner71 agreed. The proportions are perfect
Idem 😊
I have the same watch...model 2004...
I was fortunate enough to purchase the 39mm and for me and my sleek wrists, dimensionally it strikes the perfect balance between appearance and function. Just the right size to appreciate the beautiful dial and luminescence!
I wouldn’t call it a reduction to 36mm as much as a reinstatement of 36mm.
Sir Edmund Hillary was 6ft 3in tall. If a 36mm watch can go up Everest, it’s good for me. Put your insecurities aside, 36mm is a great size for many many people.
Teddy kindly telling us that the 39mm was the one. A future collector item. Love my 214270 🙏🏻
now folks with smaller and larger wrists have options! both are great, really surprised how values on these aren't greater given some OPs are pushing 15K... the bezel on the explorer's always been more sleek than the domed bubbly shape on an OP or DJ. the double lock clasp is also "better' than the OP and DJ. the most versatile piece in the rolex collection hands down...
I thought the 39mm was discontinued. So there is only one option, or you'd have to buy preowned.
Condom ring bezel on the OP
@@pasquale78 I have both the 36 and 39 now. The 36 mm fits me better and is a home run, but the 39mm is also a home run. ⚾️
Best watch of all time IMO (if only they’d toy with a cream colored linen dial of some sort, that might be cool).
The explorer is the best rolex. The size and proportions are perfect. I often wonder how the modern version would look with the traditional chestnut colour to the nrs and battons....for sentimental reasons I think that would be a winner
I had a Submariner Date 126610 and swapped it (w/some money received) for an Explorer 124270. The Explorer is infinitely more comfortable, just my personal experience though.
This has to be the best thing from Rolex in the last year. Fact.
Agreed
Totally
I prefer the 39mm, although I appreciate the 36mm. The 36mm is SMALL. I think people think 36mm Datejust or DAY-DATE but the new Explorer is more of a 35mm and does clearly wear smaller than all the other 36mm offerings from Rolex. The smaller bracelet adds on top of that. If you want a very conservative old school aesthetic, then the 36mm will cover that but its the anti-thesis of modern from a size standpoint. The 39mm isn't big by any means, which needs to be factored in as well. It's not like we are talking about a small vs large watch, more of a really small vs moderately sized watch.
Another thing to point out, the modern 36mm is not going to look exactly like the 5 digit references. The markers and handset have all been beefed up, so it's going to have even less empty space.
I have 39 Explorer and for mi wrist of 18cm is perfect
I think that 214270 is the number one watch for every day and every situation ❤
I'm a big guy and always loved the explorer, but the 36mm just didnt look right on me hence all my Christmases arrived when the 39mm was launched- hallelujah. . To me it's a perfectly proportioned watch. Either way they are both beautiful watches and the explorer is THE Rolex tool watch.
Having had an Explorer 1016, I welcome the reduction to 36mm. Rolex is affirming the classic dimensions. Let the others play size games; Rolex is affirming the standard. Good vid. Keep at it!
Or they know where the money is and they're catering to the Asian market.
@@mtmatt6111 Rolex has not, in recent years, been accused of slipshod marketing.
@@markbyrum4743 - don't know if it's slipshod to have sports offering that would be more appealing to a huge consumer base (I am making an assumption though that the smaller watch would be more appealing in these countries).
@@mtmatt6111 Your racism is showing. Asian watch companies like Seiko makes 40+mm watches on a consistent basis. Rarely do they make small watches.
Going to a ladies size watch seems crazy.
The only mistake they made on the new 36mm is the word “Explorer” moving to 12 instead of 6 o’clock. Symmetrically the 39mm looked better but the actual case size of the 36mm is way better than the old oversize case.
Omg totally agree
Yes that looks very ugly, so crowded on the upper part of the dial
yes lol why??
def not a mistake, it matches the 1016 and heritage of this watch.
@@deroy08 it contradicts everything that I learnt about Typography in school. Space between text is actually rest for your eyes.
I had an itch. I already owned the MK2 but always had an itch on owning the 36mm and was “fortunate” when the AD called to let me know the new 36mm was mine I couldn’t pass on it.
So I boxed away my 39mm and started wearing the 36mm for 4 months or so.
As I write this message I caught up with the 39mm and there is one big issue with the 36mm that I can’t ignore and it is the aggressive narrowing of the bracelet.. the 36mm face is perfect but the lugs and bracelet let it down :(
Was lucky enough to pick up the 124270 Explorer a month or so ago from the local AD here in Aberdeen, Scotland. I have a 6.75" wrist and absolutely love it; very understated and can be worn on any occasion. I work in subsea engineering and frequently work on board saturation diving vessels here in the UK North Sea. The people that work on these vessels tend to be huge watch enthusiasts, due to their profession, and it's not unusual to see various submariners, sea-dwellers, seamasters etc. whilst on board (many of which do get used by the divers at the bottom of the North sea!) and so it was nice to share a non-dive watch with my peers for a change. Next time I'll maybe take my Tudor BB58 (black) to blend in better. Absolutely love both!
How long did you have to wait and what was your purchase history?
I have relatively slim wrists, but still think my 39mm Explorer looks perfectly balanced. It's still a sporty watch, so it should have some wrist presence. Currently on 'the list' for a Datejust and there I went for the 36mm version because it's more dressy and I feel like it looks less refined in the larger sizes.
I haven’t seen one IRL yet, but I’m surprised that I prefer the 39mm because normally I like smaller watches. I like the older 36mm models but not this one.
Thanks for the video, Teddy, another great one. It seemed like the reviews had died down implying that people had chosen their “corner” and made up their minds. I was fortunate enough to get a 124270 immediately after it’s release and have seldom taken it off. It was an adjustment from my 41.5mm but the weight, balance, and comfort make this a watch that I don’t forget I’m wearing and yet it instantly felt like a part of me. I agree with most that they’d be happy with either, but I’m glad Rolex brought back a classic.
I feel the Explorer 39mm was the perfect size and the only reason i decided to purchase this watch. I have a feeling this discontinued version will only continue to go up in price and more specifically the MK II version.
Was only in production for like 4 yrs
39mm. Looks like many watches on the market.
When I look at 36 mm Rolex Explorer every time I feel it's very special watch
Brilliant move by Rolex to return this iconic watch to its original size. I had my AD place me on the list for one yesterday.
36mm way too dainty for me, personally, on 7.2 inch wrist. It wears very small. Love my 39mm 214270. Will stick with that! :-) 39mm wears great in person, and is less ‘bloated’ than photos suggest. Also, the new 36mm is too text-heavy in top half of dial imho: Word ‘Explorer’ better at bottom. Both great watches though, no doubt!
This. If I wanted a 36mm explorer, I would've bought a vintage one. Like the 39mm way more. 36mm oyster perpetual in white is great though
36 is the king
6.5 inch wrist here, and 39mm is still the right choice for me. 36mm just feels too small for modern times.
@@Milofchg I’m looking down at my 39mm and it looks pretty refined to me :-) The Speedy wears much larger in my experience, granted mainly due to its thickness.
Great comparison. Love the 36mm!!! I just got one from my AD and it is STUNNING! I believe the hour markers are slightly larger than the previous 36mm models, as well.
About a week ago, a local AD had both the steel and two-tone Explorer in his window, so I ventured inside, ready for disappointment. And while I was indeed disappointed when we came to the matter of waiting periods ("definitely not in '21 and I couldn't even tell you when/if you'd get it in 22"), the watch itself was outstanding. Never had a 36mm Rolex on my wrist, or come to think of it, any 36mm sports-watch, so I, sort of, tried out both sizes (using a Daydate 40 as a stand-in for the larger size). On my 17cm/6.75in wrist, the 36mm simply looked perfect, size-wise. Judging by the 40, I'd say the old 39 Explorer wouldn't be too large for me, but now that I've tried it, I think I'd always go with the 36 for this type of watch. There's just something so old school and, yes, understated about the Explorer in the smaller size.
I’ve always like the 36mm more and had planned on getting the 114270 but when I saw that they return to the 36mm I was ecstatic
This watch for me is my favourite rolex because of the simplicity
Picking up my Explorer 36mm tomorrow & looking forward to it. My Sub sometimes feels too flashy on casual days.
Although Rolex supplied watches to many of the Everest summit expeditions, including the one Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay went on, both Hillary and Norgay were carrying Smiths when they summited. Something Rolex would rather you not know.
I hear is was in a pocket, a test to make it back ok. There was no explorer back then, more like an op
@@Jay-xr3sb That's another myth, neither men had a Rolex on them when they summited Everest. Hillary said he carried a Smiths to the summit, which was just the vernacular at the time.
I adore the Rolex Explorer, but 36mm is just too small for my wrist - I am 6'3" and can only JUST get away with a 39mm watch! 40 or 41 mm is pretty much the perfect size for me, but I would snap a 39mm Explorer up in a flash - if they weren't commending such high prices at the moment.
36mm literally would look fine on your wrist
Watches should look proportional to your wrist and body. Just like watches that are too big, too small looks silly also.
I'm literally the same size. 36-38 bezeless looks fine. 41-42 with bezel I find also looks proportional
I’m a 36mm person myself, but 39mm is great for larger wrists.
39mm discontinued is the one, will be the most collectible as they will never go back again to 39
I bought the DJ 36mm wimbledon for my first rolex, love it so much, which really good
I own both the 124270 and 214270 Mk2 and adore them both. They are my only Rolex watches and although I always planned on moving one on once I identified my favourite, it ain’t happening! Just to add, the new 124270 has AR coating on the underside - something the 214270 and other Rolex don’t have.
Teddy, The 36mm looks better on your wrist than the 39mm. I’ve always liked the smaller cases. Thanks
I purchased the Two-Tone 124273, I guessed right that the higher price turned the waiting list rush away. I waited 3 months! It is a stunning watch, the best all around watch one could imagine. Teddy, as a matter of fact, this watch would be ideal for you. You would not take it off!
Nice one, I am considering the two tone Explorer too. Do you thinks it’s appropriate for daily wear (office and casual wear)? Also does the yellow gold element scratch and get dings much easier than the steel elements given its a softer metal? Cheers
@@rezar6894 Gold can be buffed out easily. Yes, it can be worn every day, and I do so on a more that regular basis. Around the home, wear a baseball cloth wrist band over the watch to protect it while I do chores.
The Rolex Explorer is the only item associated with "smaller is better."
There are so many other watches that are like that lol Orient Bambino in 36 Vs 41, Oris 65 in 40 instead of 42, Tudor BB58 in 39 instead of the regular BB, etc. Could be here all day
@@tiagodvt thank you lol this was my thought exactly, when it comes to modern watches, when is the last time any brand made something deemed "too small"
So... larger genital warts are better than small ones? :P
02 likes Rolex? Legit
@@1SaG brutal
I got the call from my AD last month my 36mm Rolex Explorer was in store and ready for collection. I'm delighted with the watch which wears very well on my 7 inch wrist. Well worth the 4 month wait. One downside is that I've fallen out of love with my 41mm Omega Sea Master... it's just too big out of the water for my wrist size.
I’m disappointed that all Rolex 39mm watches are discontinued before I can grab one. Mostly The 39 OP white and 39 explorer
I've the 114270 and it always seems like the best size of this watch. Not sure why.
Love my 2017 Explorer, got it for 40th birthday and daughter born within a few weeks of each event.
Finally watchmakers start making watches in the correct size again. If they now make 36 mm Submariner, like it was in the old Bond movies, I might even pull the trigger and would buy my first luxury watch ever.
I don’t like the cluttered text of the 36mm. 39mm is more aesthetically soothing on the eyes with the “Explorer” on the bottom.
There is a romance tied to the 36mm version that is undeniable.
But for some of us 36mm is just too small… Mores the pity…
But I absolutely love my 39mm version. As close to perfect as you can get.
Well... 3mm away from perfect ;-)
I like they are going smaller dimensions. I always liked the smaller watches in general
There are guys with bigger wrists who enjoy watches. 38mm looks a bit small on me. 36mm would look like a kids watch. I really hate the larger watch bashing. 39mm is a great size. It's not like it's a 46mm Invicta or something.
For me with 7 & half inch wrist my 39 is perfect! Had it 10 years now.
If 39mm is the perfect diver size, a 36-37mm no bezel should wear roughly the same. 36mm is perfect.
But it doesn't though...
Really? Real divers are way bigger than 40mm. And so they should be~ it's a tool watch and main requirement has to be legibility in murky water. 40mm is a fail
@@rage8kage As a pure tool watch I agree with you. They do need to be legible underwater. As a matter of aesthetics, 39mm sort of just works for nearly everyone like they said in the video.
There's a reason the Black Bay 58 has been one of the best selling watches of thr last few years.
@@JupiterTarts 39mm isn't the perfect diver size it is too small for them they dont care about aesthetic
Black bay doing well in sales isnt becuz its has the perfect size diver
It is selling well becuz it is the perfect sized tool watch
@@MonicaHolly143 the BB58 is neither a tool watch or a diver. It's a very nice homage to old school divers and a fashion piece. A modern dive watch that doesn't have an on-the-fly micro-adjustment system, crownguards, or an aggressively gnarled bezel?
Tudor makes a proper diver and tool watch, it's called the Pelagos (auto adjustment system, titanium, over-engineered WR/HEV, easier to grip bezel, crownguards, and increased legibility).
Ahh. The Explorer. The only Rolex I ever truly want to own. Great video and information.
Think again a date just is iconic bro
I agree with everything you said, the new 124270 is the perfect one for me . Fit , size , looks and movement are stunning!
36 Explorer will always and forever be my dream watch. It’s a watch that is attempted to be emulated in many sport models. And although there are significantly better value options at a lower price point, something about the explorer always calls to me. It just strikes me as the closest thing to a perfect time piece.
It is perfect. In my opinion, the greatest watch of all time.
This 36 mm and tapered bracelet is one of big step for innovation, I think. It appears more sophisticated looks than before. And, absoultely its users' band has been increased. Women's market, too.
Options are welcome. To each their own. I'm a small guy with small wrists and the 36mm sits perfectly and it's not too heavy. I've always loved the explorer design and even the simple OP. Sometimes simple is beautiful.
With 7.75" wrists, the size actually becomes more of a conversation starter than a larger watch. I have a vintage military watch that is 36mm, which looks like a bottle cap on my wrist. Despite its dimensions, I wear it at least once a week and to the office. The two other collectors in the office have talked about it regularly with me. The reason I mention this is to say the dimensions of the new Explorer aren't a show stopper for me. What is a show stopper is the lack of a glide-lock bracelet. That's just a sin on the part of Rolex. I wear the bracelet on my Hulk at least once a month (mostly on a RubberB or nato) and it's one of the best bracelets out there. It's too bad a cost cutting measure rears its head on a sports watch that is meant to have versatility to conditions that lend your wrist to swelling/shrinking to the environment. Thanks for the great review.
It has the micro extension which should be fine to cover shrinking and swelling. The glidelock was designed for more radical adjustments in combination with diving suits.
Between the 36mm Explorer and the 39mm Explorer, the MOST versatile GADA watch is the Tudor Black Bay Heritage (36 or 41).
Ive been considering an explorer lately so this video came at a perfect time!
Good luck at getting one at retail..
Go for it man
I have the 39mm explorer and I love it it’s been my favourite watch along with my Tudor pelagos...
I think one need to differentiate between "true to heritage", or "true to demand = sales". If there is no demand in 36, would you think Rolex would go 36?
I have 7.25 inch wrist and I'd still go for the 36 mm explorer that size will go with just about anything.
And 39 doesn't "go" with anything?
@@izzythomas848 for me personally when I see people with small wrist wear a 39 mm watch it looks a bit weird sure it fits but it doesn't look as good as it would with the 36 mm even with me and the 39 I'm sure it would look nice but I just wouldn't like the symmetry of how it looks on my wrist.
@@estebanquinones5918 7.25 isn't a small wrist. i'd think the 39mm was a better proportion.
@@derosa1989 I know it's not a small wrist and even then a 36 mm would look way better than a 39 thanks to the diameter and compact lug to lug.
@@derosa1989 I've seen guys with wrist the same as mine or slightly bigger wear 33-36 mm watches and they still look good. Just depends on how you wear it really.
I want buy the 36 mm Explorer. Its the original!
The 39 is the ideal size for the most men. No doubt the 36 will appeal to more women and perhaps that was Rolex intention
I have a 1016 and wouldn't swap it for anything in the current catalogue. They have missed a trick, undoubtedly the mechanism is better than mine, if they had installed a domed sapphire I think they would have got nearer to capturing the essence of what the 36mm watch was originally. The polished acrylic looks so much better than flat sapphire. I dont have really small wrists but 36mm looks good to me.
For those of us who can’t spend what’s necessary to get a Rolex, San Martin have produced the best homage to date in 2022
Teddy, you are really working hard to deliver a lot of videos and consistently with a such quality of content.👏👏👏
No dinner plates or walk clock in the wrist,but to each is own,I have a date just 36 and a Rolex air king 34 love them both
i really wish they kept the bracelet width to 20mm. this watch definitely feels/looks smaller than the OP36 and DJ36. I feel like 38mm would've been a perfect compromise
8in wrist gang over here. I wish I could pull off a 39mm watch. I've actually tried this on at a grey market spot and passed on it. Funny how the grey market shops at your local malls and outlets are flooded with Rolex watches while the official AD's have empty display cases. What a shame.
Teddy, your brand image is so strong that I found the thumbnail of this on google images and instantly knew it was a video you made.
The 124270 is my Rolex grail! Only thing I wish was different was if the "Explorer" text was on the bottom.
I traded in an OP 36mm from 2009 for an Explorer 1 114270 from 2004 with my trusted watchmaker. He had the 114270 and the 214270 mk1 dial, I actually tried both. The 39mm compared to the previous 36mm definetly has better finishing and the clasp is amazing, but the size of the 36 just works, and the dial at 39mm feels too big. And that's with my 18.5mm / 7.25inch wrist. I think the new 36mm is amazing, but i prefer the slim lugs the previous 114270 has.
The new Explorer is basically a 35mm watch. In person, it is VERY small and dainty. It's basically a ladies watch at this point, unless you are a man with very small wrists. The 214270 is by far the best Explorer Rolex has made.
Great analyis here. You almost have to have a baby's wrist to pull it off.
see but you've actually seen the watch and had practical experience. no one wants your educated opinion on YT, just pick the 36 (35mm as you say - which kudos to you) because it photographs well for social media and a certain demographic of watch snobs want to be purists! ;)
It's a perfect watch and above all it's iconic.
IWC launched the smaller Big Pilot recently, and Breitling has been launching some vintage inspired watches that are much smaller than what they were making the last 20 years. With the Explorer, Rolex went back to the original size, but I can't really think of another model (from any brand) that would need to go back to the original size. Even the Cartier Tank is still offered in its small size.
Everyone has personal taste, but just my opinion one of the glories of wearing a luxury watch is that it stands out, but it does so with class. A Rolex should pop but not do so in a way that is gaudy. An Explorer in my view has no flair, the white bread of luxury watches. Every brand needs a base model and for Rolex, this is it. But walking that line between just right and too much is what Rolex does best in their other offerings.
The new 36mm explorer was the first modern Rolex that I am actually interested. I have been talking with my AD for several months trying to get one, we’ll see if I ever can get one at retail
what's the difference now between an OP 36mm with a black dial? it's practically identical to the Explorer.
@@derosa1989 the case is slightly different, but the big thing is I just significantly prefer the dial and hands used on the explorer over the OP36. The OP just seems a little too boring to me, whereas the explorer strikes a nice balance of under the radar while still interesting
@@ajgross67 look for an OP 116000 in blue. It's basically a 36mm blue explorer with a domed bezel. I just picked up one for about half of what a new explorer would cost on the grey market.
@@ajgross67 its interesting how, given all the watch choices from all the different brands in the world, all those choices about sizes, dials, complications, straps, designs, and case materials, customers are still splitting hairs between between two nearly identical but two different black dial stainless bracelet 36mm Rolex's, OP vs Explorer. In psychology it's called "narcissism of small differences", the idea we become hypersensitive to even tiny details of differentiation. it's weird this stuff matters at all, but yes, it seems to.
@@derosa1989 The OP has a domed bezel, whereas the Explorer has a conical one. Therefore the OP is a bit more bubbly, while the Explorer is a bit more sharp.
39mm mk2 all day
The comparison the world (and me) didn't know it needed. Great work!
I own a Explorer 1 ref 114270 Z series I love today just as much as I did when I bought it in 2007. Just walked in my AD and said wrap it up. I know those days are gone sadly. I love the 36mm because that's the original size the Explorer was conceived in but didn't have a issue with it in 39mm
The old 36mm was barely large enough. But the new 36mm with it's more prominent lettering and dial markings and slightly thicker bezel makes 36mm too small. It's now a no-buy for me.
Simply elegant, elegantly simple.
There is definitely beauty in its simplicity.
Went to my AD for a Wimbledon but the retail waiting list is big. Said I liked the explorer and 2 months later he called me due to lack of demand for it. Was a bit skeptical about the size at first but after 2 weeks of use couldn’t be happier with it. It just Looks amazing. Still on the list for the Wimbledon which shouldn’t arrive before the end of the year.
How about letting function determine size? A polo shirt rises higher on the neck than a t-shirt because it has a collar, and everyone understands the difference. Yet endless pontificating on watch size raises hardly a peep about differences in watch types.
Watches without functioning outer bezels took decades to settle at optimal designs around 36mm. You’ll find the dial diameter on a 36mm Explorer to be about the same as on a 40mm Sub or GMT.
But it seems the size of a man’s watch has become grounds for competitive flexing. Watch size now matters more to our egos than to the design of functional and beautiful instruments. Eventually our eyes adapt and anything less than a “dinner plate” looks small.
To each his own. I wouldn’t be surprised if Rolex adds back a 39mm or even bigger to give folks a choice. But where does it stop? They seem to play the game reluctantly, marketing some models at 41 when they measure much smaller. My take is that nothing looks dumber than a “dinner plate” on the wrist. For a simple three hander like the Explorer on a man’s wrist of any size, function and elegance are properly served right around 36mm.
Well balanced discussion, Teddy. Very well done.
I'll go on record saying the 39mm is a much better sizing and the 36mm (especially in two tone) is too precious for the majority of modern taste.
Yes, 36mm might have been a norm 50 to 70 years ago, but so were neckties that reached mid-chest, girdles, sliderules, incandescent car headlights, fedoras, and Wildroot cream.
Style and technology advance. "Traditional size" might be nostalgic, but may no longer desired or wanted by the majority of the market.
But, I guess the only real way to know is to wait 10 years and see what the popularity of the 36mm has become (and whether there is a return to, or an additional offering of, a 39mm again.)
I’d have to disagree. Oversized watches are starting to wind down in popularity. I prefer 36mm for sure
Wait……..Your saying the new watch is smaller?
I just got the 40mm which has the bigger lug and its absolutely perfect! I'd say the 36 and the 40 are the two best explorers!
The problem is that 39er has 3132, the perfect mix between 3130 and 3230. So if you want the „better“ movement you have unfortunately to take 39er :(
Long live the 214270! The perfect all around watch for the average size male wrist. If you miss it, get the 41mm oyster perpetual in black dial. Not that different of a watch. 36 is just small. My wife, who is 5'9" wears a 36. Great watch for her!
The Rolex Explorer was designed as mid century luxury sports watch. Rolex put a lot of thought into the design of the the watch as it was made to excel in a vast array of environments. The purpose build original Explorer will always be the purest’s choice when compared to inflated flashier designed of the current 39mm generation.
How about 34mm any thoughts?
When talking about any other watch, 39mm is considered perfect. The new 36 is the smallest wearing 36 ever, especially compared to an OP and even in comparison to the old Exp36mm. The new Exp is a charming watch but the dainty dimensions and glossy dial make this the Mrs. Explorer. The dial looks a little crowded in comparison to the 39. The movement is an upgrade for sure but the 3132 is super, proven, and in watches that fetch $20k. The 39 3,6,9 all the way.
@@nathanf1934 😅
Jeremy you've said it all !!
@Andúril that said it is the coolest lil Rollie out
39mm was a perfect size for the Explorer !
I feel 38mm would have been best, for me anyway.