Still The Best Rolex In 2024? What Makes The Explorer Classy - Ft. Seiko Alpinist & Omega Seamasters
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ต.ค. 2024
- Today I share part 1 of 2 videos all about the Rolex Explorer. In this episode 1, I analyze what makes the Explorer the classiest and best Rolex of all time, what made it such a compelling design, and how it inspired so many other great watches, including the most important Omega Seamasters and Seiko Alpinist watches. Even to this very day, new models from both brands still reference the foundations laid by Rolex. Case in point, the new for 2023 Seiko Alpinist (ref. SPB409) and the Omega Planet Ocean 75th Anniversary (ref. 215.30.40.20.03.002) watches. But beyond the Rolex brand's ongoing influence in terms of watch design, I delve a little deeper with a look at some of my own personal heroes, and why this particular Rolex embodies a far deeper connection to British culture of the 20th century, Hollywood stars of the Golden Age like Robert Mitchum, and pop and style icons like Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music fame. It's also the real James Bond watch and choice of 007's creator Ian Fleming himself, and was famously worn by fictional TV ad exec, the dapper Don Draper. But more importantly, what do you think? Is the Explorer still the classiest and best Rolex in 2024? Please share in the comments.
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I stopped watching a Nico Leonard video because TGV uploaded and I’m part of the notification gang. This channel always has class quality content. 🤝
100%, Nico Leonard is a shouty pretentious idiot….TGV all the way
Two very different styles and personalities
Nico who? 😂
I used to watch Nico's videos, when he was mainly "fake watch spotting". Nico's shtick of attaching a price tag to everything is quite tiresome, now.
I watch a stupid amount of watch content. I watch Nico purely for entertainment. I watch TGV’s channel for history and education and non-biased watch opinions (which is pretty rare on YT)
Nothing better than an Urban Gnetry episode on a Friday, an insightful episode full of history one of of my favorite Rolex models, also the edit is top notch as always.
This channel is one of the main reasons I bought this watch in 2018, and I’ve never regretted it for a second.
TGV, after all of these years I have finally found the correct adjective for you...inspirational. Thank you for all that you do to entertain and educate.
As an OG, this was vintage TGV. Well done, sir! I’ve owned a 214270 MK1 for 6+ years and truly feel that it is a perfect 1 watch collection.
RESPECTFULLY THE TERM OG NO LONGER APPLIES UNLESS YOU ARE OJS DRIVER TRYING TO OUTRUN TMZ TO GET TO A HALF DECENT ACTION MOVIE PREMIERE
I really enjoy TGV’s historical perspective on new popular watches. This feels like a return to the old days to me, LOVE IT!
Just when I thought I had gotten the Explorer 1 off my mind… then you go and post this…
Amazing work TGV 🎉
It’s bonkers that you coined all those phrases. Well done. Wait those mugs are for sale?! Never thought I would enjoy a history lesson on Rolex so much… looking forward to Part 2.
I was drawn in to the watch hobby/ addiction/ madness after watching tgv many years ago. Always detailed, consistent, unbiased content and not cash grabbing. I would never have gotten into watches otherwise. Thank you for everything. Fyi, no such thing as a final grail!
THREE PEOPLE JUST DIED THEIR HAIRSTYLIST AT WHITESPOT
As a fellow Englishman I tip the rim of my top hat to you Sir and congratulate you once again on a refined, seemingly simplistic and elegant presentation. I'm new to the appreciation of your channel and to the watch collecting community although I've had a few beauty's (watches that is well and the other sort of aesthetic magnificence) in my time without having genuinely appreciated their value or historical importance. Top hole old chap and thank you for creating such splendidly captivating content.
"Top hole?!" How do you know that?
The perfect two watch collection in my mind;
Explorer 11470 & Explorer 16570.
I keep buying watchs and selling them because really I only need these two.
They cover all scenarios 👌🏻
🙏🏻 keep up the good work TGV
Always a pleasure to watch
If you haven't convinced yourself to keep it with that masterfully told story then nothing will. Wearing my explorer 40 today because of this. I love it. Thank you for giving me more to love in it than I already had.
Have both a 2010 114270 and a 2023 124270 and though the 124 is slightly more legible the 114 is far more comfortable with the low profile clasp. The 114's proportion of the bracelet to the case is also more visually pleasing to my eye. This watch is pure class, form and function. And one of the few prestige watches that looks good showing its age with scuffs and scratches. The one caveat is the less than great legibilty in low light, but then my eyes aren't what they used to be.
The Explorer is nice, but I don’t know how anyone can put on a Daytona of almost any configuration and think the Explorer is better!
Good evening TGV, great to see you're back with one of those OG Gentry topics. On my opinion the Explorer is the foundation where so many other designs drew inspiration from, like my Sinn 556a for example. That said, we are lucky to choose if we go with the original or if we go with a, let's say, with an alternative, for example the Tudor Ranger. Have a great evening! Best regards!
Very good point and observation. Love the Tudor suggestion too.
Have a great evening too my friend, chin chin and thank you as always, 😎🥂
Best regards right back at you!
TGV
Oh My Days... a 2 part-er on the Explorer! Immense! Such a classy watch. Quietly brilliant.
Oh no. Your silly little mustache is back.
Oh no, shuuuut uuuup.
Dear Tristano, the one thing I envy more than your exquisite watch collection, is your editing style.
Another brilliant video TGV.
Unrelated but I've recently decided my next purchase will be the Lorimer Hyperion on their upcoming restock thanks to your previous review on the watch. Can't wait!
Sidenote- Loved the Blackadder excerpt. Onwards and upwards.
You can see the effort that goes in to these videos. Always look forward to the next one, thank you 👍
i couldn't agree more about the dial being the best ever. the explorer is my favorite watch of all time
You’re blowing up my spot. I just went into an AD last month to try and secure a new Explorer… I know it’ll take some time and perhaps some massaging but I’m ferociously optimistic I can land one
One of my favourites from the crown, too. Recently picked up the 40mm. All the best TGV.
Perfect blend of elegance and utility imo. Youre videos over the years have made it my true grail watch. Seiko needs learn some watches don’t need a date window, it ruins the dial symmetry in my opinion. Those are just my opinions on things. Thanks again for the videos TGV!
Nice to see the 2-tone getting a favorable mention. I’ve developed a real attachment to mine, a special piece.
As an average American, I can appreciate fine craftsmanship like the Rolex Explorer even if high-end watches are out of my budget. My grandfather won and later lost a Rolex on a dice roll which accurately sums up a lot of his life. For that reason the brand reminds me of him. The Explorer has a dial matching my hometown area code, represents enduring family memories that no price tag can match.
We all splurge on some luxuries, whether a nice car or the latest tech gadget, but a $10,000 watch is hard to justify when many still struggle to afford necessities. I hope to one day be able to afford an Explorer to honor my grandfather's memory. However, even as I find career success, I don't want to lose perspective or compassion for those less fortunate.
Owning luxuries doesn't preclude giving back. If possible, I will consider donating to charity alongside such a meaningful, if extravagant, purchase. More than projecting status, I want my grandfather's watch to represent values like family bonds and community caring.
As an average Brit, I’m reminded of a quote by Clement Attlee:
“Charity is a cold grey loveless thing. If a rich man wants to help the poor, he should pay his taxes gladly, not dole out money at a whim.”
We have a fairly high tax rate here, and a welfare state, which I think is in contrast with the American system. Once I’m done paying my taxes, what’s left is mine. I’ll definitely be getting myself one of these little beauties one day.
It demonstrates a lot of community spirit on your part that you still feel the need to contribute after you’ve paid your due, but I get that we have slightly different cultures.
@derdummeasi You missed the last part of what I wrote, chief, or you just enjoy taking things out of context so you can virtue signal on the internet?
He's not some Southern Belle and you need to jump in and defend his honour. Christ.
Respectfully.
I comprehend both viewpoints. The majority of my tax money is spent on funding proxy wars, while the general public is left to deal with the consequences of widespread pharmaceutical abuse on the streets. There undoubtedly comes a time when one must acknowledge that, despite the overall tragedy of life, there is no justification for denying oneself the things one desires and is capable of obtaining. I reside in a university town where everyone would recognize a Rolex, but if I wore a JLC Reverso, they would be unaware of its value. The Explorer's understated elegance appeals to me, but the crown will inevitably attract the attention of those who are desperate or envious.
@@VIVsVeiws yup - of all the Rolexes, this has to be one of the stealthiest. Plus it’s just so classy.
I’m glad secondary market prices have collapsed - it’s becoming much safer to wear these again. I wouldn’t give a second thought to wearing an explorer out and about anymore.
If I find a 39mm for 6000k out the door I'll snag that right away. I've been looking at this 1 watch for 4 years now and have far more than enough to pull the trigger
I think you know my feelings on this one! We bought our Explorers very close together I remember - I think you’d regret moving it on!
I’m ordering that olive rubber strap, looks great.
Couldn't make out where he got that strap. ____ Club? Thx
Love the Explorer. My favourite watch and feel lucky to have one.
Your appreciation of this watch opened my mind to the true aesthetic appeal of the watch. I thought it boring prior to you banging on about it for the last decade.
I'll buy one if i eventually when i pass my connection on to my children and become a one watch boy...
Of the Rolex watches I’ve admired from afar, worn, and have come to own - there is something profoundly special about the quiet class the Explorer I exudes while keeping an outwardly clean, but instantly recognizable aesthetic. Deemed simply boring for some, and while I understand that p.o.v., I have always appreciated the “Less is More” approach that has been the mainstay of the Explorer 1 dynasty thus far. Great content TGV, thank you for the amazing work, as always!
"Quite class" love it and so true. Thank you my friend, stay classy.
Best regards,
TGV
amen
This was incredible T. Incredible. As a fellow brit, the way you tell the history of what it means to be British through the explorer is incredible. It's, undoubtedly, one of the most significant watches ever made. As for me, my general idea of a four watch collection is junghans max bill as daily beater, navi as chrono, santos as GADA, and gold reverso as haute horology dress watch. No better statement of being British than the reverso.
I love your channel man. You are the best.
Currently weighing up my first Rolex purchase between the OP and 40mm Explorer so your video is perfectly timed as an impartial source. My only concern is the black dial, as my BBPro and Seamaster 300.
Hi TVG, great video as always! Speaking of the Explorer, a friend of mine is making his own watch in China. One of their most popular models take inspiration from the Explorer, I mentioned you to them, he would love to send his watches for you to review. Cheers, Xuan
I brought the Big 40mm Explorer last year. Absolutely love it. Stays under the cuff & under the radar...
The Explorer is such an easy to grab and put on watch. You feel the class the moment you put it on. It’s somewhat magical. The Alpinist is my second favourite and the PO is a class of its own. Although I prefer the original version.
Perfect video TGV. Also always class 😊
Your early Explorer videos got me into watches and eventually - years later - got me to purchase an Explorer as well. I will never sell it and I think you will regret it when you sell it. Seeing how often you are wearing it, it probably holds a bunch of memories
A great video essay. Just so you know, I coined the term "watch monster" as in this strap is a real watch monster. 😀
There’s just something about a 36mm sized Rolex Explorer that I find quite appealing actually. I immensely enjoyed your video. Well done 🥃
👏👏👏👏 Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
Never understood the love for this, how people say it's GADA; terrible to me in so many ways
I must confess yourself & you're channel has been huge catalyst in my watch collecting journey with it all starting with the Seiko SKX009 some time ago. I personally think the Oyster Perpetual is better for me as I'm wearing a green 41mm right now an adore it but while seeing your video (Masterpiece)... i get the feeling I'm going to be adding
the Explorer to my collection in the near future.
Another engaging video from the man who inspired my interest in watches! Art, culture, design, history and technology. Loving Japan, I got the Alpinist reissue -only 1959 made and…”pure class” at that. Thanks TGV!
Gold just doesn't fit to Explorers spirit, in my humble opinion. If man wants still minimalistic but fancy Rolex - there is OP.
Thanks for another great video!
A brilliant, informative & entertaining episode. And the 36mm Explorer is a brilliant, iconic watch. I've always wanted one and am proud to own and wear a 124270. It is timeless, sporty and classy. And the easiest analog watch to quickly and accurately tell the time with. Cheers!
Always illuminating TGV !
My first and only Rolex a SeaDweller from 1994 is very much my idea of quintessential wrist watch. Can be worn with anything but tails and tie and sturdy enough to withstand a midnight plunge, i would still choose it over the explorer to this day. And one more thing ... the stache suits you 😉
TGV! At about minute 3:45 there seems to be a green light cast upon the Explorer dial/hands. Purposeful or is this really a Rolex Predictions 2024 edition?!? If Rolex brings out a green dial Explorer, I'm calling it....seen on UG first! Looking forward to part deux. Cheers, D
Hello Mr TGV,
How about a review on a brand called TITONI? They make stupendous watches. And now they've a caliber of their own.
I'm going to pull the trigger over one of their divers, a Seascoper.
Congrats for your wonderful work.
Awesome video! Been wearing proudly my 214270 since 2018 - such an awesome piece
As always another great video.
There is not a Rolex AD near me, a few hours drive. I have taken a lesser path and I chose the Seiko 241 with the cream dial as my Explorer alternative. I did put it on a brown leather strap and it has served me very well. I did have to have it regulated after 6 months of wear and now it really keeps good time. 38 mm case size, 200 meters of water resistance, approx. 70 hours of power reserve, sapphire crystal, this simple and elegant watch fits me. I do have a few divers, but less is more.
That"s great. For me, my 37mm Longines Spirit fulfils that role. Not as a 'second best' or alternative, but simply as a solid, everyday explorer-type watch that stands on its own.
friday night, raining outside a nice german beer and a tgv video what more can I ask for!
Wonderful video! Reminds me of the two part epics you did in the past. Thank you for the amazing work!
A closer look at inner battle of two different views of class fighting for dominance in urban gentry format represented by the Rolex explorer as a centrepiece. Bravo 👏. Might have read too much in between the lines though. Thank for the video. Always a pleasure.
Great episode! Got to your channel around 2016, you were a pioneer for sure! Tudor Ranger does it for me. Rocking a blue Glycine Combat Vintage for now.
Always suave TGV, loved the video, but please keep that Explorer
I love the Explorer, it’s my favorite Rolex model. Your video on the Lorier Falcon 3 made me pick one up and I’ve enjoyed it ever since! But now, I’m looking towards purchasing my first luxury Swiss watch and I have my eyes on Tudor. Either the BB58 or the Ranger. The styling of vintage Rolex is carried over into Tudor these days, in my opinion. Decisions, decisions.
I love my BB58 (I like a bezel for timing things), but the Ranger apparently has the better bracelet. Definitely try them both on if you can!
Can't wait for more future TGV colabs with Squale and Islander. I'm loveing the designs ❤️🔥
I both loved the vid. While I have collected sub $200 watches for years for pleasure and fun, true collecting and research into heritage of brands has been in the last year. 1) I gravitate instantly to 12,3,6,9 dials... Top shelf for me it's the Super Squale in black. 2) While I love my Kamasu... I waited patiently for the Mako 3 with same build but with the 6,9,12 Dial. 3) Now that I'm a bit more versed in the history of certain watch brands... I'm angling for the Super Antarctic/Antarctic line from Nivada. Now that TVG has placed a huge spotlight on Nivada... Won't be surprised if the second market takes notice... I'm Tudor Ranger or Rolex Explorer all the way, as I'm a fan of field watches all day... But that Dial pattern is definitely the hook.
When is part 2 coming?! I love your videos and I love the Explorer! I’m still saving up to get one!
Classic indeed! Over priced now…but patience is a virtue. I do consider my Omega AT 41 to be equally as understated and classic
Totally different quality
Another great one and I can’t wait for part II. I never owned an Explorer - but this two-tone is in my head for long as I may love it as much as the 3 R in my collection (an old Air King, a recent Sub, and a pre-vintage Daytona, two tone with Zenith caliber). I don’t know how you find the force to be able to sell yours but I admire that - my collection journey hasn’t reached this level of maturity yet. I only sold one watch I loved, because it’s price had become stupid and I couldn’t wear it because of the status symbol it had become. Thanks again for your great great work
Owned the 124270 and just couldn’t get used to the diminutive size and feel. I truly wanted to like it but after 7 months sold it.
Awesome, just came from the other popular channel that peddles watches, this one is so refreshing! Wow 😊
Are you doing a video about that Omega? I'd love to see it!
I think the Sub is the best for the glidelock clasp and the rotating bezel which is so helpful for timing slug mating sessions in the lab.
TGV , any plans to visit marks shop , have a look around on camera and pick out some watches you see ect . Would make a great video for us that cannot visit easy (england) or review some of the islanders on the channel iam sure mark would lend them into the chanel . Eitherway nice work , iam really enjoying all your content . My personal thing is solar quarts but love watching anything about timekeeping
Ciao Tristano! Bella puntatona come sempre! Piccola considerazione. Le lancette del Planet Ocean sono di iridium. Almeno nella versione standard col quadrante nero 42mm. Che spettacolo! Più prezioso e resistente dell’oro 😊
“Donkeys Years”
Just a little tip, the term is a cockney phrase and it is actually Donkeys Ears”.
Donkeys Ears = Years
So you can say ‘Donkeys’ or ‘Donkeys Ears’ but not ‘Donkeys Years’ as you are actually using the word in the phrase……but 99% of people do this.
Great work TGV
Kind regards
Tony
Thank you Tony, this saves me explaining it! I like to use Donkeys years myself, otherwise it is totally lost on those unlike us who know about this sort of thing. Talking of cockney, I actually picked it up when I lived in Hackney for 2 years as a student, this was a long time ago, I heard it's very different these days.
Best regards,
TGV
I’m ready for no.2 i’m hoping you’re not parting ways with the Explorer, maybe just getting the newer version maybe for reasons you may discuss.
Pioneer TGV
Funny coincidence ,I was contemplating about my next big Milestone watch. The Rolex Explorer 1 39mm as my first ever Rolex watch. I'm also considering the Air-King and the Oyster Perpetual 36mm. It's time for a visit to the AD to take a look at all 3. However the Explorer 1 has the most resemblance with my personality. If you know what I mean.😊 thanks for your video. It is a real perspective of your view on the Explorer 1 done in your excellent positive style. Onwards and upwards! 😁👍🏻👍🏻
You're partly responsible for my newfound watch addiction at the age of 39 haha. I have bought 3 watches in as many weeks, two new straps and a watch box. How am I already out of control? haha!
Fantastic video as usual , I’m a Brit who is a direct descendent of Sir George Everest so i have always had a fascination with Everest so I have a birth year Rolex Explorer from 1970 and also I bought the new Explorer 36mm in 2022 so the Explorer is by far the most versatile and legible watch and to add stunning at the same time , I would like to know what the posh dinosaur thinks of the watch lol
Another good video, cheers. I think you should keep that Explorer. As you know, the ebbs and flows of watch collecting and the "what I like" are an impossibly moving target. Also, cheers to Moyer for supporting your channel. As a native Hoosier, I love that they are giving something back to the watch community.
This is the only way I know I could have digested a video about Rolex.
Would love a 114270 some day... just got my watch finally this week though...an 1861 Speedy...I wonder if TGV will go back to the moon watch some day..
I've been eyeballing this watch for years, and I feel it's finally time to pull the trigger. And I saw some of my other pieces.
Loved the intro. Great videos as always
18:58 "Wristwatch...CHRONOMETAAAAH!" 🧐😂
Always bringing the wry humor on top of the personal passion and historical backdrop.
Your old explorer video was why I got my 39mm. It's been beat up pretty good now and is what I wear most of the time. It actually fell onto the cement sidewalk when one of the steel bracelet screws (which consistently loosened) fell out without my noticing. 😱 Gouge on the front case and stopped working. Fortunately it was still under warranty and so I dropped it off at a local AD and got it back in 1-2months.
The damage was maddening to look at, especially since it wasn't some interesting scar off on some adventure, but by now it's beaten up enough and I've done enough exploring with it where I don't dwell on it. The understated functional beauty of the watch wins out.
I don't feel a need to own another watch, though there are many I'd like to get if I could. It's just part of me now. That's also why I can't imagine you getting rid of yours because it's so tied to your watch journey and channel's growth. If I had the mkI like yours, I think I would feel the pull to upgrade to the newer ones...but the sentimental side of me feels like it's a bad decision to part with it.
Regardless, I must thank you TGV for sharing your watch passion and helping me to find my lifelong one-and-done watch. There may be others in the future, but this one is my favorite.
Got any discount codes for holbens mate?
Hey TGV....on Monday Feb. 19th I'm releasing a video of me installing strap adapters for the Mudman, as I promised you. Link to where I got the adapters will be in the description of that video. Hope it helps you and others.
The Explorer isn't my favorite Rolex. A bit too boring for me. But that's just me. I actually am in love with my DeepSea Cameron and my green-tint Milgause. I just love both of those. But my very favorite Rolex is always the Daytona......but then again I've always been a chronograph guy. But after watching this video, and knowing what I know of your tastes and preferences, I understand why you love this watch. And I agree, it is pure class (trademark pending....).
Thank you for another great overview sir. Onwards.....Upwards.....
I can't wait, thank you for the heads up my friend.
Thank you my friend, especially for the kind words too. Have a great weekend, see you on he 19th!
O&U!
T.
After that very convincing argument of why the explorer is so good. How can you let it go? It seems so versatile.
If you did, if feels as though it would only be a regret waiting for you somewhere down the road.
I love the Explorer 1 and really enjoyed the narrative. For dial design, I prefer my Seiko Alpinist deep blue lake SPB249J. I don’t like numbers on dials, I find them distracting. I Don’t want to read anything. This Alpinist is perfect: it divides the dial into four quadrants with four triangle markers at 3, 6, 9 and 12, and that is it. A glance tells you all you need to know.
I can understand why it is popular, but never gelled with the non GMT Explorer myself......
I prefer an Aqua Terra in that space.
Just ordered my Super Antarctic 3,6,9 and can’t wait to scratch my 1016 itch. Hope all is well, TGV.
So well written and presented, I’m looking for a ghost writer for my life story , are you busy ??
I only own one Rolex. It’s a time only Submariner and I believe I will own it until the day I die. Thanks for sharing your content TGV.
Friday night in Manhattan + TGV + Vino = a great start to the weekend. I am between an OP 41 and the new AirKing right now. Explorer is a close second - cheers!
AirKing? You're joking, right?
Hi TGV, always enjoy your videos about the Explorer. Your early videos inspired me to buy my 39mm version. It flies under the radar as you say and fits my personality so well. I will always keep mine but good luck with your decision to keep yours or not. Thank you for leading me to mine. Best regards, John
My first and only Rolex to date is an explorer. I bought the new 40mm for my 40th, and took my son with me for the AD experience. All of those elements combined means the explorer will always have a place in my heart and my collection. Pure class 👌🏼
it's really good content. l have not seen such a good watch related video for a long time
Thank you so much 🙏🙏🙏
Best regards,
TGV
Dear TGV,
I want to give you my thoughts on to whether you want to give up the Explorer in favor of your ultimate (and until now still unknown) grail watch. Maybe I will learn more about your criticisms on the explorer in the part II of this video, and I am almost dreading to hear about it, not because it is a flawless watch, or because of the fact that I am a Rolex fanboy (I am certainly not). My reason is because I think that your Explorer has become more to you than merely a wristwatch. For me, when I started watching your video's and became a subscriber during the Covid pandemic (or as you would say donkey's years ago), the Explorer was always the defining piece in your collection, the one I aspire to own one day.
I also know that you are evolving as a person, and that is one of the reasons why you have also passed on your Brosnan Seamasters (Mid-size is and will always remain the best way to go for the small-wristed gentry) in the past. However, I do think that your Explorer is more than merely a watch for one to enjoy. I think your Explorer is the bedrock of your collection, the starting point of this wonderful career on TH-cam, and I think it is more akin to a loyal friend, than that it is a wristwatch.
I fully understand the want (and need) to pull the trigger on your true grail, and I wish that you can receive it as soon as possible, and I can't wait on the amazing video you will make on this piece. You definetely deserve that. However, even more than with the Brosnan Seamasters or the Speedmaster (and you have expressed this buyers remorse earlier during several of your videos on both watches respectively), this watch has been special. Yes, you can buy the aforementioned grail, and I am sure that you will enjoy the watch for the future, but when you sell this specific Explorer, you will never be able to buy this exact watch back. You will find the same reference for sure, but this watch will forever escape your wrist.
I would therefore suggest an alternative. Save up, for a month, a year, a decade more, and get your grail. But don't let this companion go just yet as I am afraid that when you sell this Explorer, you will find that it has been your secret grail all along.
The kindest of regards, and best wishes.
Luc
Dear Tristano,
Thanks a lot for this master class video.
A pleasure to watch for me, and a lot of work for you. Loved your editing, it is getting even better with time.
Pure class !
Best regards,
Alexandre
Hey TGV,good to see about a "not so hyped" rolex,i have a question do you know about the brand favre leuba? I would love to see your opinion about it.Greetings from Greece.
Very surprised to hear that you’re letting this classic go. When I think of the Explorer, I think of this channel. But as we say in the UK, onwards and upwards
I still have not decided to be fair, I will decide in part 2 😉
Thank you, I am honored to be associated with such a watch. O&U indeed my friend.
Best regards as always,
TGV
P.s. TH-cam tells me you hit like, so extra thanks my friend.
Strange how I didnt like this watch many years ago and now in my 50s I just love its simple smart design. Its a strap monster that reminds me of my Omega speedmaster.
Anyone came across the Roamer Primeline DayDate series watch ??
The explorer is my only rolex and i love it so much. Its a perfect complement to my omega seamaster nttd and itll stay definitely!
Fabulous video and unique.
Re: upper/upper-middle class Britishness. My take, drawing on the views of late, lamented members of my family is this:
Rugger-Bigger public schools idolise sport and man-to-man competition, verging on the homoerotic.
So sporty watch = OK if you're a titan of the muddy sports field and go on to be in the forces, preferably the Senior Service (water resistance comes in handy) or a colonial explorer/post-colonial oil executive (tropical climates and all that).
But for the other chaps from the same school now in charge of late Daddy's estate or doing rather well in the City, a gold watch from a watchmaker with a Royal Warrant would be just the ticket.
And if you want to show you're really old money something from JW Benson, which had the warrant from Queen Victoria, don't you know.
Longines was apparently also OK if you're a credible three-day eventer and/or in the cavalry - Longines had the equestrian marketing down to a tee even back then.
Yes, it is classy, but it also has some obvious downsides:
It's a bit small, divers are also tough and tend to have more heft to them for the taller gentleman.
It's maybe a bit TOO safe/boring - the Alpinist is more interesting even with the white dial - and the green one, oh God is it beautiful
BTW, if you trade or sell your Explorer, I would opt for a new one, with all the numerals lumed. A classic is always a classic.
I am wearing 36 mm explorer (124270) on my 7ish inch wrist. Absolutely classy and elegant. ❤