Explorer 1, DateJust 2, or Submariner

[rolex75216]

I am a newbie (hello everyone) and signed up to hopefully get some expert knowledge before going to purchase my first Rolex watch. I am looking at three models all with a black dial and stainless steel band. I have narrowed my choices down to the following three watches.

1. Explorer 1 - To me, this is one of the best values for the money. You get the Pragmatic blue Parachrom hairspring found in the higher end models along with the Paraflex shock absorbers (something the higher end models do not have). I think the white gold 3, 6, and 9 on the dial is a nice touch.

2. Submariner - Very nice watch. I like that it has the tripple crown water proof system, although it does not have the Paraflex shock absorbers like the Explorer 1. I really like the dial timer on the watch.

3. DateJust 2 - I think I like the size of this one at 41 mm. The Submariner at 40 mm and the black dial together makes it look larger than 40 mm which is nice too.

I could really use some help as there may be other factors I am not considering during my research. I am hopeful that posting the question will allow me to get some real users who may have owned these watches and can shed some light.

Thank you!

[Tools]

Hmmmmm

If it was me I would get the watch I wanted to wear on my wrist for a few years..........

[Ravager135]

The Explorer is really starting to grow on me. I think since you like all the watches and could potentially be happy with any one, think on which personifies you the best. Are you looking for something more rugged and military-esque (the Submariner), something more dressy and elegant like the DJ2, or do you want to skirt the middle and go with a watch that has both appeals (the Explorer). My vote is the Explorer. Everyone has a Sub; go different but still classic.

[nick c]

Sub

[warrior]

+1. IMO, this is a good response. To the OP: you've obviously done your research regarding the technical aspects. To be honest, they're all going to the job and do it well. Most on this forum would say get the Sub.I'd go for the one that best suits your persona. Having said that, I have both the EXP I and Sub...but I like the EXP a bit more. Plus, its a bit different.

Originally Posted by Ravager135

The Explorer is really starting to grow on me. I think since you like all the watches and could potentially be happy with any one, think on which personifies you the best. Are you looking for something more rugged and military-esque (the Submariner), something more dressy and elegant like the DJ2, or do you want to skirt the middle and go with a watch that has both appeals (the Explorer). My vote is the Explorer. Everyone has a Sub; go different but still classic.

[kilyung]

Based on your write up, seems you like the Explorer.

[wokafu]

SUB 1st..exp1 later...

[topjimmi]

My first Rolex was a sub and i loved it. The perfect all around watch that you can wear in virtually any situation. If I could have only one Rolex, I think this would be the one.

[SUBversive]

Item 1 or 2

[Hairdude1]

I say EXI

[ltdsands]

I chose the exp 1. No regrets. I wanted no date watch so selected it over Datejust. The Explorer 39mm size fit my wrist versus the OP and Air King. I agree with your comments on the watch having the newest mechanical advancements, also the new bracelet is fantastic. Although the submariner is a very popular watch, the Explorer is me. Best advice go to an AD, put them on your wrist, you'll know what watch to buy. Failing that, your spouse will tell you! I wouldn't get too hung up on the value for your money, buy the watch you want. It looks like you are doing your research, take your time and joining this forum will provide you with invaluable insight.

[thomaspp]

Welcome.

All 3 great choices. If you go with the DJII you're going to agonize over dial options! Probably the most rounded of the three, but you have the polished center links and bezel (assuming you're going fluted) which are rather delicate.

EXP 1 is nice, simple and elegant. Had this one but eventually moved it for something else.



Sub is great and can take heavy duty well. Really have enjoyed this watch. Downside is just how common they are (not to mention all the sub look alikes out there).



without knowing more about you (collection/activities, etc.) i'd say Sub. Good luck.

[jlc123]

I went Explorer when I was choosing my first Rolex.

[chrono1g]

EXP1

[ROLEX4EvEr]

I've been dreaming of a simple watch like the Exp I

[DT14]

I own the 39mm and I will share a few thoughts with you. It has grown on me although I still think the 369 in white gold causes them to disappear when you're wearing it. The short minute hand that you will read about has never been an issue for me, and frankly I've never read a post from an owner in which that was a concern. More of a forum criticism than anything else, in my opinion. It's a great all around watch and is a great size when wearing a dress shirt. It's a "big" 39mm. With that said it does not wear nearly as big as the DJII.
Hope that helps. Good luck with your decision.

[sea-dweller]

Sub or Exp 1

[andyboy39]

Originally Posted by sea-dweller

Sub or Exp 1

This..

[samuel019]

This

[mmmk604]

Submariner

[Mrkjeezy]

Sub!!!

[jshepard]

Explorer 1 gets my vote... Unless the date function is important to you. The Explorer is very clean looking while capable of taking a good beating. Also, less common, unless of course you wanted something that screams "Look! I've got a Rolex!" If that's the case, go with either option 2 or 3. Try it on first cause even if its the smallest of the three options, the dial is so clean, spacious and uncluttered that it looks bigger than it actually is. When I went out and bought my first Rolex it was between an explorer and a sub... You can probably guess which one I got...

[afc1]

On the whole, I think the Submariner is the ideal Rolex if you are going to have one to wear every day. It will always be a classic and it looks great with everything. However, go try them on and see which one you enjoy wearing most.

[Bangel]

Aside from technical specifications of the movement and aesthetics which you have mentioned, another differentiating factor to consider is comfort.

In this regard, the current submariner models are the only watches in your selection that offer the Glidelock clasp. This facilitates quick and simple adjustments to optimise fit due to normal physiological variations in wrist size. I find this feature particularly useful.

Good luck with your decision. Let us know what you end up getting.

[travisb]

Best bet is to spend some time in an AD trying all 3 on.
You usually leave with one on your mind more than the others.

[Rogdogg]

Go try them on. My first and so far only Rolex, is the ExplorerII 42mm. I am strongly considering the Explorer 1 for my next one. I just think it looks really nice. The short hands issue when I think of it I wonder why would they not fix that issue. It is such an easy fix and that kind of annoys me but when I look at the watch itself this problem does not bother me and seems to go away. (I have tried it on and it is really nice).

Go try them on. Until you do that I don't think you will ever be able to decide.
Trying one on might immediately scrub it from your list if it is not right for you and make your decision easier.
I fully agree with Evan above

[Z3grape]

Just took delivery of the 39 mm Explorer today. Thanks Oscar (BodyBump).... I have been wearing it all day and have decided it is way more comfortable than my GMTIIC. I love my GMT -Which I would imagine wears very similarly to a Sub - I have found the Explorer very nice. I bought it because my GMT would tend to not fit as nicely as I would have liked under a dress shirt and suit jacket. The Explorer will now be my weekday (work) watch and my GMT will be a weekender. Good luck with your choice. You can not go wrong

[mruhland31]

I just got my sub c and I can honestly say I'm in love..just my opinion but it is an amazing time piece...best wishes