A horological classic yet you wear it on the wrong wrist? It looks weird with the crown pointing to your elbow..!

This is prob the best video on the explorer that I've come across

My interest in watches started when I was quite young. After countless hours of reading about watches and engaging with other enthusiasts, I’ve come to love this little niche. Years ago, for the same reasons you’re pointing out, my heart fell for the Explorer (in all its iterations). Finally, after years of dreaming and to commemorate a personal milestone, I was able to acquire my lovely 124270. To my eye it’s utter perfection and it’ll be my lifelong companion, a reminder of my blessings and that hard work pays off.

"For all you nerds"... yes! @3:08 interesting point. I work in the airlines industry as a frontliner and for the time being, with how much I make annually I still couldn't justify buying even a pre-owned Air King. When those people with their Rolexes or Omegas come to the business class counter, I will always point out their models like "beautiful Deepsea Sea-Dweller" or "nice GMT you have there, sir!" or "that's a great looking Sub" or "I love your Datejust!" or even "that's a great Speedmaster you have there", instead of "wow sir! Nice Rolex you have there". Most of the time, besides being flattered by my praises towards the luxuries strapped on their wrists, they were surprised by the fact of me knowing the model they're using (of course I don't memorise the model numbers 😅, just the name of the models - Daytonas, Subs, OPs etc). The fact that you mentioned that made me feel relieved that I don't see Rolex (or any kinds of luxury watches) as a status symbol but do appreciate and love them purely for the great watches they are.

Hey man, this is the first time I've watched one of your videos (thanks to the KZfaq algorithm) and it's the best description of the Explorer I've ever come across. Your journey through the world of watches (and your rejection of the "typical rolex wearer") is exactly the same as mine. I swore I wouldn't buy a Rolex because of this (instead, I went for Omega, which I love). But I changed my mind two weeks ago when I put this exact reference 114270 (from 2006 for mine) on my wrist. I felt like I'd always had this watch and that it was made for me. It's been on my wrist ever since. And that's exactly what you're describing: nobody knows it's a Rolex. I'm not even afraid to wear it on the subway because nobody notices it. And that's precisely what's great, it's a relationship between you and the watch alone. And finally...it could be a one watch collection. If you know, you know is the best description possible. Thank you for sharing your experience, which I totally understand! Cheers from France

I recently bought the new Explorer #124270 and I have to admit: Now I get it! The Explorer is the greatest Rolex of all time.

I got my 114270 a month ago and I love it. Your video encapsulates exactly how i feel. It just goes with everything and it’s so understated. No one really knows it’s a Rolex yet I know and that’s all that matters. And yes ….that glossy dial Love the passion in your video , great work.

I decided to condense my collection to a one watch collection. I sold every watch I owned and then set out to find an every day watch. I eventually decided on the 39mm Explorer in 2018. I went to my local AD and ordered it. Two weeks later, I owned it and it hasn’t left my wrist since. I get some compliments from watch enthusiasts but like you said, for the most part it remains under the radar. I love that about it. I did not buy a Rolex just to own a Rolex as a status symbol. I bought a watch I want to wear every day for years and years to come with a rich history. I share your admiration for this watch! Wonderful video!!!

Definitely the best video of the Explorer I've come across! After trying the 124270 on my wrist today, I can resonate with everything you said. Patiently waiting for my AD's call.

7:41 I'm an Omega Man myself, but I appreciate and admire Rolex watches. Like you, the fact that the brand is worn for status rather than appreciation really irks me, and, along with the other Rolex bs, has kept me from exploring (no pun intended) their offerings. I've decided to pursue an Explorer (124720), and I came across your video. As stated by a few viewers already, yours us one of the best Explorer videos on KZfaq. No boring specs, which everyone who knows the watch already knows by heart, just what it's like to wear an Explorer, and what it means to you. This really resonated with me. I plan on subscribing, but thought I'd ask before I went searching...have you tried the 124270 by any chance? And if so, have you done a comparison video comparing the two? Thanks, and I hope continue to enjoy your Explorer.

Great video, really well put together and you just “get to the core’ of why the Explorer is the best everyday, every occasion watch without being in your face.

This video is a masterclass. Another Explorer owner here!

Well said! I wear my 2007 114270 daily. Every day starts with absolute joy when I slip it on my wrist. I quote," I get that ahhhhh feeling", everytime. Good job! :)

Perfectly summarised, I have the 214270 (2020 39mm) and I honestly can say it’s perfection on the wrist. Having a 8inch wrist the 39 just fits right. It’s does raise the question why do I need my other watches. 👍

This is the first time I watched a video about explorer without fucking everest history and technical specifications. JUST FEELINGS. Congratulations. Great video. Kind Regards Levent

Yup. Whilst others chase the hype, this little beauty is quietly becoming an all time classic. People who have gone through their own watch journey will ultimately appreciate this watch for the true gem it is.

It's funny, but you expressed exactly how my watch searching journey has been. I was adamant not to get a Rolex as everyone knows Rolex. I looked at everything, and somehow this watch is the only one that drew me in.

I also own a 114270 and love it for the exact same reasons you mentioned. It's such an understated and beautiful piece. While I am glad Rolex brought out a new version recently, a part of me hopes this classic will never follow the path of its hyped brothers and sisters. I completed my two watch collection with a Casio F-91W for going truly light and incognito. It's a rare Asia import with green border accents for vintage feel -- you might like it too! Funny you brought up the reference to the E46, I drive an E92 as somewhat of a compromise and it's such a pleasure to drive and look at. I just watched all of your other videos and subscribed to the channel and newsletter. Keep up the amazing work!

Bought a 114270 3 years ago before I turned 25. It's rarely left my wrist and is my most prized possession. Great watch. I also wear mine on my right wrist. Cheers!

I recently acquired the new Rolex Explorer this past May from my AD and then a GMT Master Batman on oyster in June. As much as I love my GMT Batman, I wear my Explorer a lot more. Its simplicity and those bold Arabic numerals really makes it great. I’m glad they brought it back to 36mm My Explorer is my go to watch and I’ve already taken it in a few hiking trips. Back in 2019, I got to climb Mt. Whitney while it was still snowing. We almost summited, but turned back due to the growing dangerous terrain. I would like to attempt it again albeit without the snow haha and carry my Explorer with me

Just picked up a 124270 after owning a 116610 and 116710 for years now….. game changing. I’m probably going to end up selling both pieces and going with the 36 exp as the ride or die. Video is spot on 👍

Wholeheartedly agreed with everything you said Dominic. Excellent execution. I've been lucky enough to have the 124270 last few mo ths and I must say, it is absolutely perfect in every sense of the word. I'd love to know your thoughts about this version. Thanks.

I’ve had my Explorer (ref. 114270) for over two years and I can safely say she’s not going anywhere. Hands down the best watch I’ve ever worn or seen in person. I recently have added an 1803 to the flock, yet it doesn’t quite do it for me the way the Explorer does it. Superb video and refreshing to hear someone’s opinion about a watch verses just marketing hype we’re so used to hearing on the larger channels.

Best vid on the expy on the tube!

First time ever I’ve been intrigued by the explorer. Well done and great to see a watch being properly used and banged up.

I love my explorer . I got it pre owned and had to really save for it. You are so right . I can wear it everywhere. I play my guitar . I get on the subway . I do love my Tudor BB58. I have my dad's gold rolex in the bank . I never wear it . Good video.

That was the perfect car-watch analogy!

Just got my 124270 explorer a week ago, and I can already tell that this watch is the perfect under the radar everyday watch!

Love my 39mm version… I have a 7.25 in wrist so I think both sizes are great, but wanted something with a bit more presence… best part is it literally can be worn in about 99.9% of situations…

I like my Explorer the most. Couldn't wear my Sub for a while after purchasing the Explorer :) Great video! Same feeling, low profile, perfect, 'candy' in my collection.

I really like this video. It is refreshing (minus the specs). Listening to a true owner sharing his experience/journey is what makes this review stands out! Hey, I also like the bookshelf speakers in the video!

Perfect choice. I've been perching the virtues of the explorer years. Especially the versions with the lume on 3-6-9 lume.

So well stated .. you really "get it" why we love our watches

Dude what a well done video. Have to give props where props are due. Keep the videos coming!

Great vid, I agreed 100% with you on the Explorer. I think the phrase that describes it best is “understated elegance “.

Best Explorer review on KZfaq! I just added the new 124270 36mm Explorer to my watch box and it really is a collection killer...I am starting to wonder why I really need anything else!

Nailed it. Many have come and gone, few have stayed. My mk2 214270 will be all i’ll ever need. Feeling the need for a 114270 as well. It’s only right

I have the two tone 36m , although it’s a little more bling and less under the radar , it still just works and gets plenty of wrist time in all conditions. It’s perfect. It’s like raising the middle finger to the mountain you’re about to hike. It’s rebellious, functional, perfectly balanced and looks great.

Great video and gorgeous watch! The 114270 is my grail, I really wanna get one some day... it truly is as perfect as it gets...

I love the Explorer. An understated luxury piece. I am currently an Omega Seamaster Prosessional guy, but this watch is certainly on my short list.

Really like the story of this review! I’m following a very similar path… in the Seiko/Hammy phase and just recently tried on a friend’s Explorer which blew my mind for all the reasons you mentioned!

my own interest in watches started at a very young age as well. I had a non ceramic submariner date when in a club a famous starlet next to me wearing a two tone gmt. That was it, I sold it and got an omega Speedmaster and various tag heuer, tudor seiko, etc. Now I'm wearing a speedmaster apollo 11 35th anniversary with the new speedmaster 3861 bracelet. It's stunning

That was exactly the same reason why I didn’t want a rolex in the beginning, people don’t know what they are wearing. now I am waiting for my 124270 (for nerds 🤓) „Who knows, knows“… Awesome video and awesome story!! Thanks for that!!

Though I’m primarily an enthusiast of independent watchmakers, my daily is my Rolex Sub Date. I get your sentiment.

Awesome video! Getting my 124270 in few days.

I have the 114270 and it goes with me everywhere. I love it to bits! It goes with every outfit and it flies completely under the radar. People think it is an Orient or a Seiko, but true watch people appreciate it for what it is, an all weather classic.

Excellent comparison with the e46 m3 ! Loved the vid man, excellent work !

Great video my friend, may I ask the brand of long sleeve polo you wear at the end of the video ? Thank you

Nailed the explorer. It’s the perfect Rolex…and nobody but true enthusiasts will ever notice it. It’s the kind of watch that will only impress the right people if that makes sense… Everyone talks about how well it works with a suit. It works even better with jeans and a 1/4 zip. I like the matte dial 214270. A bit better for my 7.75 wrist but that’s me. You can’t go wrong with the most distilled sports watch in the world

i bought my first rolex (submariner) in 1993 and i still have it, but now it isnt the only one...nice house, greetings from germany

This model of BMW M3 was pure perfection. Just like your Explorer model. Your video describes the spirit of the Rolex Explorer. The only watch you need.

Great video! I have a 114270, totally agree on what you said. Most people buy Rolex because it's a Rolex. Some dont even set the time or date. We don't have time for them. Haha.

I just recently sold my 38 mm Oyster Perpetual with white dial, and I miss it. It was perfect.

Great video Dominic. That's what watches are suppose to be about - memories and enjoyment. I've owned my 114270 since 2007, bought new when you could actually purchase a Rolex without the drama, "waitlists" or paying through the teeth. I bought the Explorer because my Grandfather owned one, a 1016 that he bought new in 1988. I remember the watch vividly, it was my first up close experience with Rolex and I just loved the style - the field watch kinda vibe, and it's clean no nonsense tool look. I was only twelve years old at the time but I knew one day I'd own one. So, fast forward to 2007, I had the opportunity financially to purchase my first really nice watch and of course I chose the Explorer. Since then, I bought another Rolex, a white dialed 16570 in 2011 and an IWC 3706 that I purchased preowned in 2017. All are great watches but the 114270 is the watch that has become an extension of me. It's been on my wrist for the birth of my Daughter, it's accompanied me to several weddings (including my own), a few funerals and everything in between. It'll be passed down to my Daughter one day but until that day comes I plan on many more memories with my trusty companion, the 114270, truly (and I hate the phrase!) a go anywhere, do anything watch.

Excellent video! Well thought out, put together, and executed. More just like this please! I don’t have an Explorer, but all the thoughts and sentiments you expressed apply to my Tudor BB58 blue.

My favorite watch with my Omega speedmaster

Hey Dominic, out of curiosity, if you did not already own the 114270 and were given the opportunity to either get that model or the newest 124270, which one would you pick and why?

That’s my story also with the Explorer. Didn’t wanted a Rolex because of the snobbery but then I found this one and I fell in love. Mine is the 39mm

I second Don’s comment as well, best Explorer video in terms of narrative and storytelling. Best advertising for Rolex out of all those Explorer vids that just have cool B-rolls haha. I’m 25, just started collecting from about 2 months ago, acquired few watches here and there and got a 34mm Aqua Terra but with the old black teak wood dial and sharp triangle indices as my daily watch. So far it’s been comfortable and doing exactly the same job as the Explorer would. Hope to experience the Explorer one day when it actually becomes available!

Great video. May I know your wrist size to get a feel for the 36mm

I really like your way of shooting a watch review video. I just want to behold of someone's real life usage with the watch that I'm interested in. Thanks for sharing your watch life with us.

I love this video. Just got my 124270 less than two weeks ago, and I feel the same way you do about your 114270. Just happy to have this with me wherever I go, through thick and thin

still one of the best 114270 videos out there, makes me want to sell down to a one watch collection. is this your only one watch in your collection?

This is exactly why I love my 36mm Explorer, and I'm finding less and less people like us who appreciates the Explorer this way. Everyone else wants a bling bling look at my wrist I got a big dick watch. The same dudes who kept wanting the explorer to become bigger. I'm glad Rolex didn't listen to these boys, and went back to the original 36mm. Don't get me wrong, I love a good Submariner, but that's not what the Explorer is about. "It blends in, it simply completes the look, rather than being a thing that stands out." Well said, and well done, sir. Best Explorer video right now. On an M3 note: It's funny how the same thing is happening to the M3 right now as well. Bigger and badder, "look at me" factor.

Would love to see more watch reviews with your spin on it. Totally unique and fun.

I got mine on my 35th birthday as a goodbye gift for turning my back on a well paid job in a gulf state and beginning a new exploration chapter of my life in Ireland.

Excellent video. My journey took me to the steel and gold Datejust some thirty years ago. Sold it after a few years because it became passe in my opinion. Have collected many many watches over the years from Omega, Cartier, Longines, Tag…this list goes on & on… before arriving at the Explorer two years ago. I absolutely love it! Mine is 39 mm and they have already stopped making it. Now its value has increased almost overnight! I’ll never sell it because, like you said, it flies below the radar and doesn’t call attention to itself. Incidentally, it keeps perfect time if I wear it. Better than any of the quartz watches that I own. Compared to the atomic clock, it takes days before it will deviate even a second. When you know, you know…and when you don’t have to impress anyone, you have truly arrived. Great video!

I have several Rolex's , but the Explorer is the one ...36 mm humble watch mine is a 1967 Frog leg

I own a datejust and put some different nato straps on it to make it look less show-off. I feel you attitude and appreciate it. I detest those „It‘s a Rolex“-creeps, too! ✌🏻

Great video, and exactly how I feel. After cycling through a few Rolexes a while back, I also became disenchanted with the brand, but the 114270 brought me back in the understated way you describe. I considered getting the new 36mm, since they were similarly priced, but the new one doesn’t have the classic proportions. With the 19mm bracelet, the 124270 looks more like the 39mm version shrunken down, but I’m glad that Rolex at least went back to a smaller model.

Had a 114270, very nice and understated, then gave it away as I moved on to Overseas, RO, Moser streamliner ... but in the back of my heart , sometimes I do still miss it, and is on a waiting list for the new 36mm Explorer.

I had the same Rolex love then hate then love again.. now I have 2 models: day; SD43, night: GMT Pepsi Oyster. But now I am looking for an OP36.. though I think 39 is the perfect size..

Nice M3, very nice watch, I’ve coveted Rolex watches for years, came across the Explorer a few years ago, fell in love from a distance, well, I bought one yesterday, it’s on its way, and it’s not even Christmas! 58 year old men shouldn’t get this excited about a watch should they? Great video. All the best from the U.K.

I don't own an Explorer, but I do have a GMT Master II (not the model shown in this video; a 16710, for the nerds). What resonated with me in this video is the prodigal son narrative. I submit to you the Rolex Paradox: there exists a subgroup of individuals who wear a Rolex for genuine reasons - a profound love for the watch, the quality and craftsmanship, the candlelight glow (love that) of the steel. These particular owners strive to distance themselves from the 'other' camp. The paradox lies in the fact that one can never truly escape the preconceptions (read: baggage) associated with the brand and the typical wearer profile. The wearer's intent gets overshadowed by the conspicuous luxury of the Rolex name. It's disheartening. For this reason, I recently stopped wearing mine. Sort of a new-years-resolution-maybe-it's-time-to-create-some-stories-with-a-new-watch type of thing, and opted for my Casio G-Shock GW-5000 instead. Watching this video actually made me go and dig my GMT out from the ottoman and put it on my wrist. Because yeah, there's just something about a steel sports Rolex. Wearing one just feels.. good. Beautiful Explorer. This is my new favorite channel

Not too invisible because you still can’t find one at the AD!

love mine, but i want the 39mm after 3 months. have a 7.0in wrist...

I have an explorer.... An Alpha Explorer 36mm... Absolutely gorgeous watch looks exactly the same of the Rolex.... Feels like a Rolex..... And the workhorse seagull movement is performing faultlessly... Close to chronometer spec..... But the best thing is this guy cost below $100..... Wow insane value for money...... Now don't you think ROLEX is eyewateringly overpriced?...

Dom, do you have a HD 1080p version of this video?

I have the 39mm that I got, just before Rolex came it with the two tone (ugh!) Explorer. I love it and have not had one person acknowledge it in public. No one knows what it is, probably the same if I had a Reverso on (my next purchase). It really is a sleeper. Well done video!

Well done video. Subscribed. I went through the same process as you described before discovering the Explorer, hated the stereotype Rolex owners. But the Explorer is just perfect. Although mine is a 39mm. Nice M3 as well. You have great taste in things.

Love the video arrangement! Got the 114270 as well from my brother and was initially hesitant about the 36mm sizing. However, after letting it settle on my wrist for few days, damn what a solid piece! An under-the-radar daily driver that I plan to keep for a lifetime or in your words, a side kick. Cheers!

I completely agree. Told myself coming into watches that my goal was to own one Lux mechanical watch for life. The search began and this..... well the story, the history, the brand.... and then the actual watch. Everything you said makes this the perfect all around every day companion. Had it for 5 months. Havent skipped a day without it being on the wrist 12+ hours. Thanks for taking time to make the video. It was very well done.

Bravo. Great way of showing the brighter side of having a Rolex. I went with a pre-ceramic Sub for many of the same reasons that you stated. Pure bliss.

I’ve had mine for 1 year exactly and I wear it a fair amount…… and I’ve only had one compliment …. I have a Dan Henry watch that cost $300 and if I were to compare the two of them with the same usage my Dan Henry gets me around 35 compliments a year…… but I like how my 39mm Rolex Explorer flies under the radar!!!!

Great video. I’m debating on the 124270 and the no-date sub 124060. I’m leaning towards the Explorer now. Looking forward to more content from you.

Damn. I really wanna slam some Yard Beer with this dude!

I own one and agree with all your observations. A great watch.

As a watch nerd that’s been hunting for the perfect IYKYK, digging through reference histories and details, this is the watch and honestly - THIS - is the video. You nail what it is that makes the 114270 a total babe. A sleeper that’s perfected in every dimension. And your video stays true to the aesthetic. Thanks for the action shots in different attire. Seeing someone rock a chore coat to a suit to a t-shirt is genuinely where you notice how a watch stands out (or in this case, blends in perfectly). Cheers to your taste, sir.

Nice vid! I love my 124270 for almost exact reasons.! Nice G.

I just got a new Explorer 36mm 2021 late September. It is a Rolex purists watch. It really blends in, does not flex or show off. It’s also the perfect classic size. This with my Speedmaster, JLC Reverso….. Perfect 3 watch collection. The Explorer on its own can be a one watch for life. Very versatile stealth timepiece. A Rolex for guys who like Rolex but are not douchebags.

What a great video , really good job man

Classy watch A gentleman’s rolex👍🏻

I love my 214270 for all the same reasons. The Explorer is the perfection of simplicity, and simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

Great video sir! I take delivery of my 114270 in a week or so. I’m very excited.

Good work! I am waiting for the same reasons for my Explorer.

Great video, amazing pieces, m3 and exp36.

I had a (then) new E36 M3, and loved it for a lot of the same reasons you mention with the E46 M3 (also a great car). I think I am attracted to the Explorer for the same reasons I was attracted to the M3, but I never thought of it like that until you mentioned it.

I have a 114270 too and was wearing watching this. I like the understatement of the watch but those that know, know lol. I like your apartment, Barbour jacket and cars too! I guess Explorer 36 owners have similar tastes

So I'm completely ambidextrous... I can Write with both hands, Golf, Baseball, Shoot, you name it I can do it ( yes that too ). My Mother, Sister & Brother are lefthanded. But my Dad & I are both handed... The flak you're getting for having YOUR Explorer on the right hand is ridiculous... This is how I wear it and am glad I'm not alone...

Have you thought about upgrading to the 124270?