Was lucky enough to get a 36 within a week last month. 7.25" wrist and also own the 42mm Explorer II. When the 40 was released I was certain this would be the perfect size, and having previously tried on the 36 thought it a little small. However, I tried the 40 and although a good fit, something just didn't feel right. Decided there and then the 36 was the way to go, and trying it again just confirmed it. Then you also have the 'history'. It wears great, but I would advise against if you think it'll wear bigger. You're buying a small watch. Happy with that, then a must purchase.
Hi Britt. To understand why 4mm make such a big difference - you should consider how it affects the face area. A watch with a 40mm diameter has a face area of around 12.5 cm squared. A watch with a 36mm diameter has a face area of around 10 cm squared. So this 4mm increase make for a 25% increase in watch face area (most of which is the dial)
Exactly. However if you look at the explorer 40 in person, the dial looks much smaller than an OP41. Especially if you’re looking at a light coloured OP like silver. Black dials always look smaller for some reason. I prefer smaller Rolex watches in 36 mm but I can’t help but wonder if Rolex intended for the 36 and 40 explorers to be his and hers options because of the aggressive taper and small clasp and lugs on the 36. I measured the 40 mm at 38.6 and the 36 at 35.4 mm. I wish Rolex would just call it the explorer 35 and explorer 38 so people can make informed buying decisions…
I’d like to see 39 vs 40 comparison- including dial measurements. It would also be helpful to see dial measurement comparisons with other watches 40mm-ish case dimensions (ie bb58 or sub)
@@marten3675 it wasn't hard because I was an existing customer, having bought a JLC Reverso earlier the same year. I went in one day, expressed my preference and confirm the size and they called to confirm it the next day. I paid retail (There is no way that I will pay over retail).
As an owner of the 124270 36mm Explorer I am probably biased BUT I have to say the the 2021 36mm Exp 1 is vintage sized with modern updates! Bracelet is built like a tank and the updated movement is really nice. Also the anti reflective coating under the crystal is a huge improvement! Its the most comfortable watch I own and my favorite. One of the BIG issues between the two sizes is the weight. The 36mm is way way way lighter on wrist! I have a 40mm Submariner when I want something a little bit beefier!
Totally agree..its fantastic, I always find myself looking forward to wearing it. I will only part with the explorer in the event of a financial melt down
That’s impressive to see a collector to have the latest 3 variants of the Explorer. For me, if I ever had the choice, I would go with the 36. I tried on the 40 AirKing and the dial looked on the bigger size than what I was used to. As well, the dial on the 36 is almost identical to the dial on a 41 Sub. As always, thanks for the content.
I just picked up the 36mm Explorer from the AD on April 7th. It's my first Rolex, and I am loving it so far. Also, I was not on a list. I walked in, and it was available!
That’s encouraging. Either someone backed out of it or the demand for the 40 far exceeds that of the 36. I’m probably going to swing by my AD tomorrow.
I think the 39 mm was a perfect size for the Explorer. Replacing it with a 40 was a weird decision, but as you alluded to, they had to make this look like an intentional approach rather than the retraction of a mistake. But I can subscribe what you said, if it was my money I would totally go with the 36.
Thanks for the Explorer showdown. My wrist is 7.5" and I adore 36mm. I had a few 40mm OP and Explorer homages but I just felt something off putting about the proportions. Now I have about 12 watches all 36mm and absolutely ❤ them. Guess one thing perhaps is that not all 7.5" is the same. Some might be more round, some more elliptical if you look at the wrist cross section. Then the wrist's muscularity will appear differently perhaps. Or just simply put, beauty is in the eyes of beholder.
I own a 124270 and love it. Fits my 6.75" wrist perfectly. Unless one has a large wrist, this is the one to get. Dial proportions are perfect and it is all day and night comfortable. The 36 is truer to the Explorer's original purpose - a robust, durable and highly accurate watch that does not get in the way while exploring. And it flies under the radar screen (usually). I would enjoy seeing more Explorer content. P.S. I have both the Explorer and a 36mm OP (green dial) and they compliment each other - the Explorer is a bit sportier, the OP a bit classier. Cheers!
Explorer 36 is my all time grail, the perfect watch for me 🙌🏻. Hopefully I will be able to get one soon in the coming years 🙏🏻. Great video as always Britt 🤩.
Unquestionably the 36mm Explorer over the 40mm Explorer for my preference. The more intriguing decision would be my pick between the Explorer and the Oyster Perpetual. Please give us more content on both of these.Your content is always informative and engaging. Thanks for keeping it fun!🥃
I can comment on this as I've had both op36, op 40 and the Explorer 40. The OP40 is nice but it does have a very large dial. The Explorer 40 wears between the OP 36 and 40 without feeling top heavy or too dial centred. The op 41 has a very small crown and handset which fortunately isn't the case with the Explorer 40. Now, the OP 41, especially the silver dial with the yellow gold hands, is extremely nice regardless of some of my issues with proportionality.. Maybe my favourite dial of all time. But the op41 proportions don't feel nearly as nice as the Explorer 40 which is near perfect.
@@SanMisterEandBWorldincredible! Yeah I just put my name down on a list and the manager was very supportive of my interest so I’m hoping similar time frame.
I have the modern 36 and it's perfection. The inky black dial, the proportions, the indicies, the hair thin seconds hand, the case and bracelet shape. Also, it looks so very good on my 157mm wrist
You are lucky! I can't afford any of my 5 favorite Rolexes right now. I had $120K save up, but decided to pay off my house. $50K gone...blam, leaving me with less than $70K. But that $70K will be gone. Roof and car may need to be replaced in the next 5 years.
The 19mm lug on the 36 makes a huge difference in the fit. Like you mentioned, it looks dainty. The 36mm OP, on the other hand, with 20mm lugs, wears great even for larger wrists.
Purchased the 39mm MK2 6 years ago. I enjoy vintage sport watches, and wearing the 39mm exp felt a lot like wearing a vintage piece in terms of size and thickness, so it’s been my daily since new. 👍🙏🙏🙏
36mm is the right size for an Explorer. The current 36mm bracelet does taper a lot and is noticeably thin around the clasp. I can see why that might put people off, some perceive it as being "dainty". However, because its thinner it wears incredibly comfortably. Maybe Rolex will produce an updated 36mm in future that reduces the taper back to the original proportions, but I wouldn't hold out for it any time soon. The gap between Explorer releases tends to be quite protracted compared to other models in the Rolex catalogue.
I mean! I couldn’t agree more with all of this!!! 💕✨ and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with it feeling a bit more dainty. It feels… beautiful and intentional! It’s clearly a design decision and I really love it! It makes it feel so much more elegant and refined (in my humble opinion!) EDIT: sorry. In this comment I was mostly talking about the taper! Not necessarily the 36mm size!
@@BrittPearceWatches I agree 100%, it feels like a very deliberate design decision and the taper gives it that vintage feel. I love mine and it gets a lot of wrist time
Back when I got my wife her Datejust it was originally going to be 40 but a quick wrist check and it was a 36 she came out with (with rose gold and and diamond dial too - must have been a good day - I got my GMT too) - the side by side wrist shots - 36 - drop mic.....................
I was going to jump on the 40mm earlier this year. I liked that the hands appeared larger and wider than my Master 2 which would make them easier for me to read. Went into my Rolex AD and she said she could put me on a list with an unknown wait time. Walked down the street - Greenwich, CT USA - to the next watch store and purchased a Glashutte Original 39.5mm with a fully brushed bracelet that day. Never looked back except to watch this video.
36 all day and I'm 6'2" with 71/4" wrists. It has the same dial size as a 40/41 Sub - not small. To me a 36 Explorer is the direct equivalent of a 40mm Sub or 42mm Speedy. Classic tool. I regularly wear 44/45 divers, but returning to 36 is a pleasure. The beauty of classic size field watches is how well they wear in any situation and when used as tool in their natural environment - they never snag on kit/machinery/clothes - super comfy. The 40 Exp is fine for enormous dudes, but mainly it's there for the "40mm or nothing" US market. Nuance.
Don’t you also find the Explorer 36 is more subtle and under the radar vs your Sub? And a lot of people don’t know that dial between the 36 and Sub are essentially the same size.
Snagged the 36mm shortly after it came out from AD… def wears small on my 7.25 wrist so I usually only wear it when wearing long sleeves/dressing up a little bit so it doesn’t stick out as much but def a joy to wear
Great vid Britt! I love the Explorer!! I did own a 39mm Mk2 version and sold it - regretting it now, lol. Wondering if I should buy a 39 from the grey market or go to my AD for a 40. SO please can I have a comparison vid! Pleeeeeeaaase 🙏🙏🙏
They are both lovely watches but I prefer the Explorer text position being below centre on the 39mm along with the smaller crown. I understand why the 36mm is so popular but it just doesn’t look as good in my opinion.
I’d love to see a comparison video between the 39 and 40mm explorer. I just think the less text under the crown on the 39mm version look much more balanced. Also, I’ve never understood people’s loyalty to the 36mm Explorer. Yes it’s the original, but wear what fits your wrist size the best.
My wrist is 7.3 inches and I wear the 36. All my watches are under 40. Not a matter of what fits, but a matter of understatement. Reading what time it is is for yourself and yourself only, not everyone else on the streets. You don’t need a watch the size of NY pizza on your wrist.
In the past I never would have thought Rolex would follow fashion instead of tradition. From my general watch experience i'd get the 36, my nearest thing to that is my Pagani Ranger which I get to 36.5mm, and i'm glad it's not something like 40mm.
Back in the day, most watches were 35.5mm, but for some reason in these days it's not seen as "masculine" to wear anything below 40mm. I certainly tried both on my 6.75" wrist and no doubt the 36mm takes the cake
Picked up the 40mm a few months back and I love it! Love the size , the dial and that the black looks blacker 😅 and love that "explorer" has been put back where it belongs 😊
Great review!!!! I will say for me I have a manly 7 inch wrist, I can wear just about any size watch, but I prefer smaller watches. Especially watches that sit close to the wrist and look proportional. My everyday is the 36mm Explorer. I use to talk crap about how the 39mm was disproportional and that is wears larger than a Speedy. Now I take that back and say the new 40mm wears and looks more like a 42mm. It’s a GREAT watch for those who like bigger watches. The new 40 is proportional and looks good. However on me I prefer the 39 over the 40. I still wish Rolex made a true 37-38mm Explorer with 20mm lugs. That would be the perfect sweet spot.
Great video that indirectly explores the labyrinthine business decisions of this manufacturer. I own the 39 mm MK2 and still think it's the most versatile watch Rolex has ever produced. Of my collection of around fifteen watches, if I had to choose just one, it would be the 39 MK2.
It’s got to be the 36 for me. Comparing the two shots of your husband side by side, the 40mm looks like you put a magnifying glass up to an explorer. It’s like they jumbo sized everything… does not have the classic field watch spirit, but instead feels oversized IMHO. I think it has a lot to do with the dial size on explorers. The 36 dial is already about the size of a typical 40mm Rolex dial. When you try to get the overall size of the watch up to 40mm on an explorer the dial becomes very big-maybe the equivalent of a 42-44mm watches dial in Rolex terms. So ya, I dunno… I want to like the 40, and I wear mostly 40s, but I’ve went with the 36 and the size has slowly felt more and more right for this watch.
After fortunately being given the choice between the Explorer 36mm and 40mm, I opted for the 36mm. Like the OP, this model is intended to be an understated piece to suit most occasions, so the 36mm size makes perfect sense (for my 6.5" wrist or below). 36mm is also true to its heritage so you get the same feel as the 1953 original with the best modern updates. Being smaller, it's nice and light for everyday wear and the new tapered bracelet and clasp is amazing. If I could suggest any improvements I'd add glide-lock but seems this is only comes on the dive models. P.s. This was a great video :)
I've handled both the newer and neo-vintage Rolex Explorer 36 and felt that the latest version was too small (something about the new bracelet and case that makes it more petite). It definitely felt smaller compared to my vintage Datejust 1601 that is also 36mm!
Thank you Britt for making this video. I am shocked that there aren’t more videos explaining these two watches from a size and wearing perspective because, as you pointed out, they are very different on the wrist. I originally wanted the classic size of the 36, but the less than 36mm case and the extreme bracelet taper make the watch too dainty for my 6.75 inch wrist. If it was 36.5mm and less tapered I think it would work for me. My guess is that Rolex had these two watches planned out from the beginning. The 36 is intentionally dainty to serve the women and small wristed men and the 40 fixes the various design issues with the 39 had (and is essentially the same size). Glad they make both. My wife would look good with the 36 and I would look good with the 40 - if I can just get that call from the AD…
Agree 100%. I have the same size wrist and also bought the 40mm. Trying on both the new 36mm did indeed feel too small and dainty. I understand the confusion because a lot of the "36mm cult" have not even seen the new EX1 36mm in person. They think it has the same dimensions as the older 36mm reference, which was physically larger. The new 36mm is just too small, especially doing the mirror test. A lot of online videos and photos naturally show close ups of wristwatches, which always look bigger because of focus and lens distortion. In person and in the context of a full body, the new 36mm is just a touch too small. But... each to their own. Everyone likes different things. There is no right or wrong size.
@@kristofferglennpfalmer4751 Congrats and it's an awesome watch! I was lucky enough to buy it as a walk-in from an AD in Macau. Obv no dealer relationship at all. I don't have the biggest wrists but the 40mm was the only choice!
forget strap options! i got a b&j 21mm nato for my sweet new 40mm explorer and the spring bars are so close to the case it won't fit! yes, a nato is too thick to fit between! i love love love this watch but this part of it totally sucks! and no one online is mentioning this.
As an object of fine design, there’s something about a smaller watch that turns something like this into a jewel like object. There simply should be a 36mm Explorer. Subjectively speaking, I thought it was a better pairing on your husband too, I like a vintage fit. For perspective, I’ve got just shy of a 7.5” wrist, my favorite watch is my Chronomaster Revival. I’ve got zero issue with 19mm lugs, 21mm lugs on the 40 would bother me more. The smaller watch has great taper and it simply looks more graceful. I don’t have an urge to buy either anytime soon, but each has its place.
Great vid Gringa!! 🎉🎉 36 was just too small for me. I know it’s true to original size but I just couldn’t do it. Got the 40 and love it, only rated 4 months. Actually was called by 2 ADs for it, had to turn one of them down!
The first thing I had to get my head around when I began with serious watches is the magnitude of the difference a few millimeters makes. I have been binging these videos lately. So great.
I have a 7 inch wrist and tried both on and would 100% go for the 36mm, pure class. Plus I’m old 😊😢 lol This is coming from a guy that wears a 45mm Panerai 380 O yes one more thing please sing at the end that squeaky voice cat thing at the end was just weird …. Lol ❤
That’s a great video with such beautiful photography as well! Would you mind making a video comparing in depth the Explorer 36 directly to your OP 34? That might help you to build up enough reason to pull the trigger and get an Explorer for you. 😂 Thank you so much in advance and keep up the great work! Cheers!
Whaaat! Thabk you so much! I’ve been trying so hard to improve my videography! 💕💕 You know! This is an amazing idea! I am totally going to do this - Explorer vs OP!
Thanks Bebe! Love this video and want to see the “Ultimate Explorer” vid for sure. My one critique is that often popular watch tubers say 21mm is an annoying bracelet size! Be aware of your influence. You should instead be saying “It’s annoying that so few aftermarket strap and bracelet manufacturers provide options in 21mm dimensions.” Be the change! Love Ya!
I was able to return the 36 to my AD after I took it home. The extreme taper just seemed too dainty even for my 6.25 inch wrist. Lesson learned to try first before purchasing
8” wrist, the 40 mm bracelet just fits on the last micro adjust and the easy link out. I really prefer the glossy black dial on the 40 over the matte dial on the 39.
Exactly the review I was waiting for. I purchased the 124270, classic 36. I really wanted to love it but it always felt too diminutive. Along with the 14mm taper just never felt right and after 7 months I sold it.
Always been a fan of the 36mm Explorer, but I’ve never owned one. I was able to try on an ‘exhibition’ 40mm Explorer yesterday at local AD. Very nice watch, but it’s dial was bigger than my 16570 Explorer II’s dial, making it look badly proportioned. After trying it, I’d still go with the classic 36mm.
It's funny, my wrist is 7 inches, and I wear the Exp 36 all day long. I love the smaller look. When I was offered both the 36 and the 40, I was all about 36, just perfect. 👌 The 40 has a lot of white space that I'm not a big fan of.
I have the 36mm 124270. If I wear my 40mm sub for a few days and then put the Explorer on, it feels a bit small for a while but then feels perfectly OK. It's a watch I could wear continously if I had to keep just one (heaven forbid). Close to perfection for me.
@@johnt2694 Yes definitely. The Explorer dial is beautiful. I have the sub on now though (14060M 2-liner) and it's a pleasure to own so I'll be keeping both.
This is pretty much the only sports model you can easily buy from an AD at retail price. Best value Rolex! It's low profile, elegant, not so loud, making it the perfect all-rounder watch for daily use, work, travel, and more.
Cool vid 🤩 With a wrist of 15.5cm I tend to go with smaller watches, so I chose the 36 in two-tone. The bracelet really is tiny!! Fantastic watch that I wear almost every day.
Ladies and Gentlemen, so much hate for classic watch sizes. If you're of age, bought and wore watches in the 70's - early 90's. You know 33mm - 38mm was a common size for men. Fast forward today, what's overlooked when it comes to watch sizes. It's the size of your hand, and forearm. Forearm size/proportions make a big difference on how a watch looks. A 6'1 man can be skinny and have a 7 1/4 inch wrist, slender size hands, slender forearm. A 36mm will look ok. Take a 5'6 chubby/fat/athletic/stocky guy with a 6 1/2 inch wrist, fat/muscular forearms, fat hands. A 36mm watch might look small. So really size is subjective and that's a personal choice. It also depends on the design of the watch, the case material, dial design/color, also lug to lug, or the height, not so much the circumference/width of the watch. Don't go by what you read or see on TH-cam when it comes to watch size. I will say yellow gold watches are the exception. Yellow gold pops and gives any size watch wrist presence.
People keep getting bigger though. A 34-36mm watch size in the old days was as appropriate to physiques of the time as a 40mm is for physiques of today.
@@BeerLeagueGoalieGodfather Agree, it's the chemicals produce, and steroids in the chicken. People are getting bigger. The new 40mm is perfect modern size, even for larger wrists/individuals. For me my 36mm Explorer is a perfect watch for me, checks all boxes. I will say I'm drawn more towards a new 41 (really 40.5mm) Sub no date. After wearing my 5513 Sub off and on last year. Now that I look at it. THAT watch looks and feels small, LOL
@@Milofchg it must be. I’m middle aged and 6’ and I used to feel tall. Now when I go to the mall I feel short compared to the giant husky millennials lol I inherited a couple 1950s Omegas 35mm ish that I would love to wear. But the strap on them looks like a leather ladies bracelet lol
Whoops! Nope! I’m sure the current way is 10-4. ^_^ but either way…. It’s the same. ^_^ I did 10-4. Which I am sure is the standardised way to measure. No?!
(But James and I both measure a few different ways. And uhmmmm it is 35.5-35.6mm you’re more than welcome to measure and let me know if your numbers are different. We also used 2 different sets of callipers to be sure!)
I was really into about getting the explorer 40mm but after I tried the Submariner 41mm I can't, I gotta go with the Sub even if the wait list is longer :(
you should get the 114270 exp1. That way it isn't too similar to your OP and you get a neo vintage watch that has all the bells and whistles of a modern watch, but with the vintage charm.
Got the call on the Explorer very quickly, though I fell in love with the IWC Mk XX and bought that instead. Looking for a call again in April 24, will definitely get it this time!
Was lucky enough to get a 36 within a week last month. 7.25" wrist and also own the 42mm Explorer II. When the 40 was released I was certain this would be the perfect size, and having previously tried on the 36 thought it a little small. However, I tried the 40 and although a good fit, something just didn't feel right. Decided there and then the 36 was the way to go, and trying it again just confirmed it. Then you also have the 'history'. It wears great, but I would advise against if you think it'll wear bigger. You're buying a small watch. Happy with that, then a must purchase.
Hi Britt. To understand why 4mm make such a big difference - you should consider how it affects the face area.
A watch with a 40mm diameter has a face area of around 12.5 cm squared.
A watch with a 36mm diameter has a face area of around 10 cm squared.
So this 4mm increase make for a 25% increase in watch face area (most of which is the dial)
Exactly. However if you look at the explorer 40 in person, the dial looks much smaller than an OP41. Especially if you’re looking at a light coloured OP like silver. Black dials always look smaller for some reason. I prefer smaller Rolex watches in 36 mm but I can’t help but wonder if Rolex intended for the 36 and 40 explorers to be his and hers options because of the aggressive taper and small clasp and lugs on the 36. I measured the 40 mm at 38.6 and the 36 at 35.4 mm. I wish Rolex would just call it the explorer 35 and explorer 38 so people can make informed buying decisions…
Thank you!
I’d like to see 39 vs 40 comparison- including dial measurements. It would also be helpful to see dial measurement comparisons with other watches 40mm-ish case dimensions (ie bb58 or sub)
Very much would like to see 39 mkII vs 40!!
Tons of those reviews online already
Got my 36mm about 5 months ago. More than happy with the size.
Congrats! Was it hard to get? How much did you have to pay above retail, if I may ask?
@@marten3675 it wasn't hard because I was an existing customer, having bought a JLC Reverso earlier the same year. I went in one day, expressed my preference and confirm the size and they called to confirm it the next day. I paid retail (There is no way that I will pay over retail).
I'd love to get your thoughts on a comparison on the 39 vs the 40. Great video!
As an owner of the 124270 36mm Explorer I am probably biased BUT I have to say the the 2021 36mm Exp 1 is vintage sized with modern updates! Bracelet is built like a tank and the updated movement is really nice. Also the anti reflective coating under the crystal is a huge improvement! Its the most comfortable watch I own and my favorite. One of the BIG issues between the two sizes is the weight. The 36mm is way way way lighter on wrist! I have a 40mm Submariner when I want something a little bit beefier!
Totally agree..its fantastic, I always find myself looking forward to wearing it. I will only part with the explorer in the event of a financial melt down
That’s impressive to see a collector to have the latest 3 variants of the Explorer. For me, if I ever had the choice, I would go with the 36. I tried on the 40 AirKing and the dial looked on the bigger size than what I was used to. As well, the dial on the 36 is almost identical to the dial on a 41 Sub. As always, thanks for the content.
Right?! He clearly has a bit of a thing for Explorers! 😝 it’s like my closet. Almost the same thing with tiny variations.
I just picked up the 36mm Explorer from the AD on April 7th. It's my first Rolex, and I am loving it so far. Also, I was not on a list. I walked in, and it was available!
That’s encouraging. Either someone backed out of it or the demand for the 40 far exceeds that of the 36. I’m probably going to swing by my AD tomorrow.
Congrats. A great choice of watch! Enjoy it my friend
How much was it?
39mm explorer is just perfect, love the Explorer text at 6 o’clock
I think the 39 mm was a perfect size for the Explorer. Replacing it with a 40 was a weird decision, but as you alluded to, they had to make this look like an intentional approach rather than the retraction of a mistake. But I can subscribe what you said, if it was my money I would totally go with the 36.
The 40 really isn't 40 it's actually 39 point something
hm, for me 42 would be perfect
The 40 is 38.8 mm
@@idemerand??
The "40" is actually only 39.6mm. I think the old 39mm was 39.3mm. There's nothing in it, like with the 41mm Sub vs the 40mm (40.3mm vs 40.6mm)
Thanks for the Explorer showdown. My wrist is 7.5" and I adore 36mm. I had a few 40mm OP and Explorer homages but I just felt something off putting about the proportions. Now I have about 12 watches all 36mm and absolutely ❤ them. Guess one thing perhaps is that not all 7.5" is the same. Some might be more round, some more elliptical if you look at the wrist cross section. Then the wrist's muscularity will appear differently perhaps. Or just simply put, beauty is in the eyes of beholder.
So true. My wrist is big but round so long lug to lug don't fit on me. Smaller watches are also way more comfy.
I own a 124270 and love it. Fits my 6.75" wrist perfectly. Unless one has a large wrist, this is the one to get. Dial proportions are perfect and it is all day and night comfortable. The 36 is truer to the Explorer's original purpose - a robust, durable and highly accurate watch that does not get in the way while exploring. And it flies under the radar screen (usually). I would enjoy seeing more Explorer content. P.S. I have both the Explorer and a 36mm OP (green dial) and they compliment each other - the Explorer is a bit sportier, the OP a bit classier. Cheers!
Really insightful review on the Rolex Explorers! 👍
Ahhh! Andrea is here! Thabk you so much! 💕✨
Explorer 36 is my all time grail, the perfect watch for me 🙌🏻.
Hopefully I will be able to get one soon in the coming years 🙏🏻.
Great video as always Britt 🤩.
The doc is HERE!!!! Man! The 36 is just sooo good! Perfect proportions, go anywhere do anything. One of the best Rolex watches money can buy!!!!
amen@@BrittPearceWatches
Unquestionably the 36mm Explorer over the 40mm Explorer for my preference. The more intriguing decision would be my pick between the Explorer and the Oyster Perpetual. Please give us more content on both of these.Your content is always informative and engaging. Thanks for keeping it fun!🥃
I can comment on this as I've had both op36, op 40 and the Explorer 40. The OP40 is nice but it does have a very large dial. The Explorer 40 wears between the OP 36 and 40 without feeling top heavy or too dial centred. The op 41 has a very small crown and handset which fortunately isn't the case with the Explorer 40. Now, the OP 41, especially the silver dial with the yellow gold hands, is extremely nice regardless of some of my issues with proportionality.. Maybe my favourite dial of all time. But the op41 proportions don't feel nearly as nice as the Explorer 40 which is near perfect.
I just got 36mm for a month. And I have to say. I love it. It very versatile watch. Definitely awesome!
That's so awesome man. How long did you have to wait to get yours?
@@Gcameraman actually just 4 months. I didn't expected.
@@SanMisterEandBWorldincredible! Yeah I just put my name down on a list and the manager was very supportive of my interest so I’m hoping similar time frame.
I have the modern 36 and it's perfection. The inky black dial, the proportions, the indicies, the hair thin seconds hand, the case and bracelet shape. Also, it looks so very good on my 157mm wrist
Great video and content, as always Britney 😊 I would love to see a comparison between the 39mm mk2 and 40mm Rolex Explorer!
This please thank you!
I picked up my 40 last week, love it. Three week wait. Not too bad.
Yeah, these are readily available now.
You’ve got a GOOD AD! 😱💕
You are lucky! I can't afford any of my 5 favorite Rolexes right now. I had $120K save up, but decided to pay off my house. $50K gone...blam, leaving me with less than $70K. But that $70K will be gone. Roof and car may need to be replaced in the next 5 years.
I want to see every possible explorer content you can get us! 😍😍😍
YOU GOT IT!!! One big dose of Explorer coming up! 😝
The 19mm lug on the 36 makes a huge difference in the fit. Like you mentioned, it looks dainty. The 36mm OP, on the other hand, with 20mm lugs, wears great even for larger wrists.
Purchased the 39mm MK2 6 years ago. I enjoy vintage sport watches, and wearing the 39mm exp felt a lot like wearing a vintage piece in terms of size and thickness, so it’s been my daily since new. 👍🙏🙏🙏
36mm is the right size for an Explorer. The current 36mm bracelet does taper a lot and is noticeably thin around the clasp. I can see why that might put people off, some perceive it as being "dainty". However, because its thinner it wears incredibly comfortably. Maybe Rolex will produce an updated 36mm in future that reduces the taper back to the original proportions, but I wouldn't hold out for it any time soon. The gap between Explorer releases tends to be quite protracted compared to other models in the Rolex catalogue.
I mean! I couldn’t agree more with all of this!!! 💕✨ and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with it feeling a bit more dainty. It feels… beautiful and intentional! It’s clearly a design decision and I really love it! It makes it feel so much more elegant and refined (in my humble opinion!) EDIT: sorry. In this comment I was mostly talking about the taper! Not necessarily the 36mm size!
@@BrittPearceWatches I agree 100%, it feels like a very deliberate design decision and the taper gives it that vintage feel. I love mine and it gets a lot of wrist time
Yesssss, love a Britt Rolex vid 🎉❤
HARRISON IS HEEEERE?!?! Ahhhh!!! 💕💕✨✨✨ are you back from Scandinavia?!! I want to say Finland?!
@@BrittPearceWatches hahaha not yet! Back tomorrow. Your videos getting me through the -30 degree temperature at the moment! 😂😂
This is why my fave is 114270. 20mm bracelet, 36mm, light and comfy 😅 for looks though, no other beats my 1016
Ahhh this is what I was trying my best to express - these lug dimensions make a HUGE DIFFERENCE!!! It doesn’t sound it at first - but it really does!
Back when I got my wife her Datejust it was originally going to be 40 but a quick wrist check and it was a 36 she came out with (with rose gold and and diamond dial too - must have been a good day - I got my GMT too) - the side by side wrist shots - 36 - drop mic.....................
I demand to know where to get the hard shell zipper case that gorgeous explorer ii is in
I was going to jump on the 40mm earlier this year. I liked that the hands appeared larger and wider than my Master 2 which would make them easier for me to read. Went into my Rolex AD and she said she could put me on a list with an unknown wait time. Walked down the street - Greenwich, CT USA - to the next watch store and purchased a Glashutte Original 39.5mm with a fully brushed bracelet that day. Never looked back except to watch this video.
I got my 40 a few months ago and love it..... Each to their own
Ahhh big big congrats!! I’m so glad you’re enjoying it! 💕✨
Great video! Love the 36mm on the explorer. A fan of that watch roll! Where is it from?
Im on the list for a 36 datejust, palm dial on the jubilee - i normally go big, but I loved it!
I’m on the fence between the explorer and oyster perpetual. Do you think the explorer is worth the extra money?
Nope. OP is a much nicer fit.
Picked a 16570 black dial up this week. I must say I love it. I’m thinking 36mm explorer next 😬
Ouuu HOOO! BLACK DIAL OR WHITE DIAL?!?! 5 digit Ex 2 are just *chef kiss*
What size explorer would look best on Willow? 🤔 16mm? 18mm?
She really likes the oversized watches. She’s a BAD GAL! So 18mm is more her vibe!
@@BrittPearceWatches Oversized so everyone can see what she's wearing.. She likes to flex 😄
36 all day and I'm 6'2" with 71/4" wrists. It has the same dial size as a 40/41 Sub - not small. To me a 36 Explorer is the direct equivalent of a 40mm Sub or 42mm Speedy. Classic tool. I regularly wear 44/45 divers, but returning to 36 is a pleasure. The beauty of classic size field watches is how well they wear in any situation and when used as tool in their natural environment - they never snag on kit/machinery/clothes - super comfy. The 40 Exp is fine for enormous dudes, but mainly it's there for the "40mm or nothing" US market. Nuance.
Don’t you also find the Explorer 36 is more subtle and under the radar vs your Sub?
And a lot of people don’t know that dial between the 36 and Sub are essentially the same size.
36 would look ridiculous on a 7+ inch wrist. It’s only a 35 mm watch.
@@whereRbearsTeethAbsolutely not. In fact, the 40mm looks bad on every wrist size.
@@maitrehg So a 38mm watch, which is what the 40mm actually measures, looks "bad on every wrist"? Ok.
@liquid_metal The Explorer 40 is way too small for an alpha male. It's a 38mm tiny watch.
I would love to see 39mm vs. 40mm. Would also love to hear your thoughts on the Mk1. I know a lot of people poop on this one, but I love mine.
MK2 looks so much nicer
I still love my mk1. The Ugly Duckling. @@whereRbearsTeeth
Snagged the 36mm shortly after it came out from AD… def wears small on my 7.25 wrist so I usually only wear it when wearing long sleeves/dressing up a little bit so it doesn’t stick out as much but def a joy to wear
Great vid Britt! I love the Explorer!! I did own a 39mm Mk2 version and sold it - regretting it now, lol. Wondering if I should buy a 39 from the grey market or go to my AD for a 40. SO please can I have a comparison vid! Pleeeeeeaaase 🙏🙏🙏
39 is absolutely the better of the 2
They are both lovely watches but I prefer the Explorer text position being below centre on the 39mm along with the smaller crown. I understand why the 36mm is so popular but it just doesn’t look as good in my opinion.
OUUU REALLY?! I’m the exact opposite!! I love the Explorer written at the top!
I’d love to see a comparison video between the 39 and 40mm explorer. I just think the less text under the crown on the 39mm version look much more balanced.
Also, I’ve never understood people’s loyalty to the 36mm Explorer. Yes it’s the original, but wear what fits your wrist size the best.
My wrist is 7.3 inches and I wear the 36. All my watches are under 40. Not a matter of what fits, but a matter of understatement. Reading what time it is is for yourself and yourself only, not everyone else on the streets. You don’t need a watch the size of NY pizza on your wrist.
40MM IS BEST FOR MODERN MEN ERA
In the past I never would have thought Rolex would follow fashion instead of tradition. From my general watch experience i'd get the 36, my nearest thing to that is my Pagani Ranger which I get to 36.5mm, and i'm glad it's not something like 40mm.
Back in the day, most watches were 35.5mm, but for some reason in these days it's not seen as "masculine" to wear anything below 40mm. I certainly tried both on my 6.75" wrist and no doubt the 36mm takes the cake
a 39mm vs 40mm comparison form you would be so great!
Picked up the 40mm a few months back and I love it! Love the size , the dial and that the black looks blacker 😅 and love that "explorer" has been put back where it belongs 😊
Great video Britt. Can you please give me true measurements of OP 34mm since I am looking to buy one. Keep op great work.
I have the 39mm and I think it's absolutely perfect.
Great review!!!! I will say for me I have a manly 7 inch wrist, I can wear just about any size watch, but I prefer smaller watches. Especially watches that sit close to the wrist and look proportional. My everyday is the 36mm Explorer. I use to talk crap about how the 39mm was disproportional and that is wears larger than a Speedy. Now I take that back and say the new 40mm wears and looks more like a 42mm. It’s a GREAT watch for those who like bigger watches. The new 40 is proportional and looks good. However on me I prefer the 39 over the 40. I still wish Rolex made a true 37-38mm Explorer with 20mm lugs. That would be the perfect sweet spot.
Great video! What watch case is that please (the three watch roll)?
Great video that indirectly explores the labyrinthine business decisions of this manufacturer. I own the 39 mm MK2 and still think it's the most versatile watch Rolex has ever produced. Of my collection of around fifteen watches, if I had to choose just one, it would be the 39 MK2.
Couldn’t agree more. I have the same watch and it’s definitely my favorite piece in the collection
It’s got to be the 36 for me. Comparing the two shots of your husband side by side, the 40mm looks like you put a magnifying glass up to an explorer. It’s like they jumbo sized everything… does not have the classic field watch spirit, but instead feels oversized IMHO. I think it has a lot to do with the dial size on explorers. The 36 dial is already about the size of a typical 40mm Rolex dial. When you try to get the overall size of the watch up to 40mm on an explorer the dial becomes very big-maybe the equivalent of a 42-44mm watches dial in Rolex terms. So ya, I dunno… I want to like the 40, and I wear mostly 40s, but I’ve went with the 36 and the size has slowly felt more and more right for this watch.
I have the 39mm and I'm in Love !
I have a slightly bigger 7 inch wrist, but I def would choose the 36.
After fortunately being given the choice between the Explorer 36mm and 40mm, I opted for the 36mm. Like the OP, this model is intended to be an understated piece to suit most occasions, so the 36mm size makes perfect sense (for my 6.5" wrist or below). 36mm is also true to its heritage so you get the same feel as the 1953 original with the best modern updates. Being smaller, it's nice and light for everyday wear and the new tapered bracelet and clasp is amazing. If I could suggest any improvements I'd add glide-lock but seems this is only comes on the dive models. P.s. This was a great video :)
I've handled both the newer and neo-vintage Rolex Explorer 36 and felt that the latest version was too small (something about the new bracelet and case that makes it more petite). It definitely felt smaller compared to my vintage Datejust 1601 that is also 36mm!
Thank you Britt for making this video. I am shocked that there aren’t more videos explaining these two watches from a size and wearing perspective because, as you pointed out, they are very different on the wrist.
I originally wanted the classic size of the 36, but the less than 36mm case and the extreme bracelet taper make the watch too dainty for my 6.75 inch wrist. If it was 36.5mm and less tapered I think it would work for me.
My guess is that Rolex had these two watches planned out from the beginning. The 36 is intentionally dainty to serve the women and small wristed men and the 40 fixes the various design issues with the 39 had (and is essentially the same size).
Glad they make both. My wife would look good with the 36 and I would look good with the 40 - if I can just get that call from the AD…
Agree 100%. I have the same size wrist and also bought the 40mm. Trying on both the new 36mm did indeed feel too small and dainty. I understand the confusion because a lot of the "36mm cult" have not even seen the new EX1 36mm in person. They think it has the same dimensions as the older 36mm reference, which was physically larger.
The new 36mm is just too small, especially doing the mirror test.
A lot of online videos and photos naturally show close ups of wristwatches, which always look bigger because of focus and lens distortion. In person and in the context of a full body, the new 36mm is just a touch too small. But... each to their own. Everyone likes different things. There is no right or wrong size.
I did get the call from the AD and the 40 is awesome on my wrist!
@@kristofferglennpfalmer4751 Congrats and it's an awesome watch! I was lucky enough to buy it as a walk-in from an AD in Macau. Obv no dealer relationship at all.
I don't have the biggest wrists but the 40mm was the only choice!
@@liquid_metal Congrats to you!
I got the call for the 40mm yesterday, I'd been on the list 6 weeks lol
i love 36 but i can’t overlook the new lug width and tight space between the case and spring bar, it’s a strap monster!
Britt! What’s the matter with you? 😜
The best explorer is the full lume 39mm…and yes I have one on a Rubber B strap
Amazing comparison.
It would be awesome to see a comparison of the 39 and 40.
39❤
Would love to see a 39mm / 40mm comparison please !
forget strap options! i got a b&j 21mm nato for my sweet new 40mm explorer and the spring bars are so close to the case it won't fit! yes, a nato is too thick to fit between! i love love love this watch but this part of it totally sucks! and no one online is mentioning this.
I am just glad I bought the 39mm mk1 before the 39mm size were discontinued. :)
As an object of fine design, there’s something about a smaller watch that turns something like this into a jewel like object. There simply should be a 36mm Explorer. Subjectively speaking, I thought it was a better pairing on your husband too, I like a vintage fit. For perspective, I’ve got just shy of a 7.5” wrist, my favorite watch is my Chronomaster Revival.
I’ve got zero issue with 19mm lugs, 21mm lugs on the 40 would bother me more. The smaller watch has great taper and it simply looks more graceful.
I don’t have an urge to buy either anytime soon, but each has its place.
What about lug to lug, did I miss that part or not mentioned ?
Oh CRUMBS! I usually mention lug to lug! But it’s entirely possibly that I forgot for this one! ✨🤦🏻♀️
Oh wait no!! As I said this 3:46 clip came up. Lug to lug is mentioned. And I am sure it is for the 36mm as well
Great vid Gringa!! 🎉🎉
36 was just too small for me. I know it’s true to original size but I just couldn’t do it. Got the 40 and love it, only rated 4 months. Actually was called by 2 ADs for it, had to turn one of them down!
The first thing I had to get my head around when I began with serious watches is the magnitude of the difference a few millimeters makes. I have been binging these videos lately. So great.
I have a 7 inch wrist and tried both on and would 100% go for the 36mm, pure class. Plus I’m old 😊😢 lol This is coming from a guy that wears a 45mm Panerai 380 O yes one more thing please sing at the end that squeaky voice cat thing at the end was just weird …. Lol ❤
The 36 is awesome!! Also nice to mix it up as a lot of watches are sub 40 these days.
That’s a great video with such beautiful photography as well!
Would you mind making a video comparing in depth the Explorer 36 directly to your OP 34?
That might help you to build up enough reason to pull the trigger and get an Explorer for you. 😂
Thank you so much in advance and keep up the great work!
Cheers!
Whaaat! Thabk you so much! I’ve been trying so hard to improve my videography! 💕💕
You know! This is an amazing idea! I am totally going to do this - Explorer vs OP!
@@BrittPearceWatches thank you! Looking forward to it!
And congrats once again for the videography!
Brit what pants are those camo ones?
Thanks Bebe! Love this video and want to see the “Ultimate Explorer” vid for sure. My one critique is that often popular watch tubers say 21mm is an annoying bracelet size! Be aware of your influence. You should instead be saying “It’s annoying that so few aftermarket strap and bracelet manufacturers provide options in 21mm dimensions.” Be the change! Love Ya!
My name is also Mark, not the person who loaned you the watches for this video and I have a Explorer 39 from 2018.
It is my first Rolex and I love it.
Ouuuu SOOO GOOD! You got it just in the nick of time as well! Hope you keep enjoying it! What a fantastic watch!
39 mm perfect for me. It is my sweet spot.
I was able to return the 36 to my AD after I took it home. The extreme taper just seemed too dainty even for my 6.25 inch wrist. Lesson learned to try first before purchasing
8” wrist, the 40 mm bracelet just fits on the last micro adjust and the easy link out. I really prefer the glossy black dial on the 40 over the matte dial on the 39.
Exactly the review I was waiting for. I purchased the 124270, classic 36. I really wanted to love it but it always felt too diminutive. Along with the 14mm taper just never felt right and after 7 months I sold it.
Same here, I was really trying to like it when I tried it at the AD but felt that it was more petite/dainty compared to my vintage datejust
i like the 39 better
39mm v 40mm would be good to see. Great video by the way
Always been a fan of the 36mm Explorer, but I’ve never owned one. I was able to try on an ‘exhibition’ 40mm Explorer yesterday at local AD. Very nice watch, but it’s dial was bigger than my 16570 Explorer II’s dial, making it look badly proportioned. After trying it, I’d still go with the classic 36mm.
It's funny, my wrist is 7 inches, and I wear the Exp 36 all day long. I love the smaller look. When I was offered both the 36 and the 40, I was all about 36, just perfect. 👌 The 40 has a lot of white space that I'm not a big fan of.
Whichever you go for, the Explorer I is one of the best looking simple watches out there. Simplicity at its very best.
Can we get an amen?! Couldn’t agree more!
Yes, to all the above. What I'm wondering is, what's the value of having both the 36 mm and 40 mm variants?
214270 MK2 is the best for me
I will go for the 36mm. I just love the more modest size.Perfect for my 6.6 inch wrist.
Would love to hear your thoughts on the 39. Considering one at the moment 🧐🙂
Best of the three.
@@watchpapiagree 100%
Would love a review of the Explorer II. If a comparison is necessary, compare it to the 40mm Explorer.
I have the 36mm 124270. If I wear my 40mm sub for a few days and then put the Explorer on, it feels a bit small for a while but then feels perfectly OK. It's a watch I could wear continously if I had to keep just one (heaven forbid). Close to perfection for me.
Do you find the dial on the Explorer more interesting to look at than the Sub?
@@johnt2694 Yes definitely. The Explorer dial is beautiful. I have the sub on now though (14060M 2-liner) and it's a pleasure to own so I'll be keeping both.
The 36 is stunning.
tried on the 40mm recently and was a little disappointed as I think there's too much space on the dial when it's the larger size
Brittany, my friend got the call from an A.D in Warwickshire last week, asking if he would like one a 40mm one, so he went straight round and got it.
As someone with a 7.5” wrist, the 40mm is the one for me!
The more i get into watches. The more i appreciate a sub 40mm case
This is pretty much the only sports model you can easily buy from an AD at retail price. Best value Rolex! It's low profile, elegant, not so loud, making it the perfect all-rounder watch for daily use, work, travel, and more.
Cool vid 🤩
With a wrist of 15.5cm I tend to go with smaller watches, so I chose the 36 in two-tone. The bracelet really is tiny!! Fantastic watch that I wear almost every day.
Ladies and Gentlemen, so much hate for classic watch sizes. If you're of age, bought and wore watches in the 70's - early 90's. You know 33mm - 38mm was a common size for men. Fast forward today, what's overlooked when it comes to watch sizes. It's the size of your hand, and forearm. Forearm size/proportions make a big difference on how a watch looks. A 6'1 man can be skinny and have a 7 1/4 inch wrist, slender size hands, slender forearm. A 36mm will look ok. Take a 5'6 chubby/fat/athletic/stocky guy with a 6 1/2 inch wrist, fat/muscular forearms, fat hands. A 36mm watch might look small. So really size is subjective and that's a personal choice. It also depends on the design of the watch, the case material, dial design/color, also lug to lug, or the height, not so much the circumference/width of the watch. Don't go by what you read or see on TH-cam when it comes to watch size. I will say yellow gold watches are the exception. Yellow gold pops and gives any size watch wrist presence.
Lucky for you the explorer 40 only measures 38.6mm
People keep getting bigger though. A 34-36mm watch size in the old days was as appropriate to physiques of the time as a 40mm is for physiques of today.
@@BeerLeagueGoalieGodfather Agree, it's the chemicals produce, and steroids in the chicken. People are getting bigger. The new 40mm is perfect modern size, even for larger wrists/individuals. For me my 36mm Explorer is a perfect watch for me, checks all boxes. I will say I'm drawn more towards a new 41 (really 40.5mm) Sub no date. After wearing my 5513 Sub off and on last year. Now that I look at it. THAT watch looks and feels small, LOL
@@Milofchg it must be. I’m middle aged and 6’ and I used to feel tall. Now when I go to the mall I feel short compared to the giant husky millennials lol
I inherited a couple 1950s Omegas 35mm ish that I would love to wear. But the strap on them looks like a leather ladies bracelet lol
Measure between 8 and 2 and the specified diameter should be correct.
She did and it isn’t.
Whoops! Nope! I’m sure the current way is 10-4. ^_^ but either way…. It’s the same. ^_^ I did 10-4. Which I am sure is the standardised way to measure. No?!
(But James and I both measure a few different ways. And uhmmmm it is 35.5-35.6mm you’re more than welcome to measure and let me know if your numbers are different. We also used 2 different sets of callipers to be sure!)
I was really into about getting the explorer 40mm but after I tried the Submariner 41mm I can't, I gotta go with the Sub even if the wait list is longer :(
I have the 39 Explorer and 41 sub. I’d take the Explorer over the submariner all day long.
you should get the 114270 exp1. That way it isn't too similar to your OP and you get a neo vintage watch that has all the bells and whistles of a modern watch, but with the vintage charm.
Good morning from Las Vegas!!
Gooood morning! Although it might be good afternoon now?!
Got the call on the Explorer very quickly, though I fell in love with the IWC Mk XX and bought that instead. Looking for a call again in April 24, will definitely get it this time!
That was a dumb move
Yes 39 vs 40! Thanks !❤