rockysw Is rolex explorer 39 really... 26 February 2024, 07:42 AM
Dauntless I previously had a 39 mm... 26 February 2024, 07:46 AM
beachboy17 I actually own one ...the... 26 February 2024, 07:48 AM
zengineer That's not the Mk I dial. 26 February 2024, 09:21 PM
Miker86 A 214270 is less conspicuous... 26 February 2024, 07:49 AM
nyc2la Agreed all around.
... 26 February 2024, 07:55 AM
Robf52 +1. :cheers: 27 February 2024, 12:56 AM
TunaTuna The explorer 39 is very... 26 February 2024, 08:00 AM
kkqd1337 If discretion is top of your... 26 February 2024, 08:07 AM
brandrea I think it’s about as low key... 26 February 2024, 08:08 AM
pa1113 I have the 39, love it, and... 26 February 2024, 12:32 PM
Wario406 https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.c... 26 February 2024, 08:14 AM
East of Eden I think a Tudor Ranger would... 26 February 2024, 08:22 AM
Wario406 Is rolex explorer 39 really... 26 February 2024, 12:12 PM
Old Expat Beast The Tudor Heritage Ranger,... 26 February 2024, 04:48 PM
East of Eden I was referring to the new... 26 February 2024, 11:01 PM
espanol It’s a watch with legibility,... 26 February 2024, 11:17 PM
East of Eden I wouldn’t call a scratch... 27 February 2024, 12:00 AM
TimeAZ Absolutely the perfect watch.... 26 February 2024, 08:27 AM
GrailTime Very low key.
Even London... 26 February 2024, 08:31 AM
173rdabn I had a 39 for several years.... 26 February 2024, 08:32 AM
JimSnyder If I was a one watch guy........ 26 February 2024, 08:51 AM
BroncoOne No nice watch is really... 26 February 2024, 08:46 AM
davek35 I always thought the 39mm... 26 February 2024, 08:56 AM
Mystro Look off brand. Anything... 26 February 2024, 08:57 AM
Davidt Absolutely understated. I’ve... 26 February 2024, 09:05 AM
Javierruis The 39mm Mark 2 is my... 26 February 2024, 09:09 AM
Jerrocop Owner here as well. Not only... 26 February 2024, 09:14 AM
matthew P Even more stealthy of the... 26 February 2024, 09:21 AM
rockysw thank you all for the very... 26 February 2024, 09:41 AM
Dr. Robert I have two explorers, a... 26 February 2024, 11:25 AM
6161HH I too have a 114270 as well... 17 March 2024, 06:10 AM
DOUBLE 0 SE7EN I was tired of the eyes on my... 26 February 2024, 04:04 PM
Ninja Master I don't think it's an... 26 February 2024, 04:32 PM
PenDelicate The word, "Rolex," is... 26 February 2024, 04:36 PM
996marty A Rolex is a Rolex no matter... 26 February 2024, 05:14 PM
joli160 It’s the most modest Rolex... 27 February 2024, 01:36 AM
Scottyboy No such thing as an... 26 February 2024, 09:15 PM
espanol Without a doubt. As noted... 26 February 2024, 09:22 PM
HHIslander For Rolex, the only watches... 26 February 2024, 11:09 PM
Ninja Master I have the silver 36" OP and... 27 February 2024, 12:50 AM
travisb As far as Rolex goes, it's... 27 February 2024, 12:55 AM
HHIslander Agree, I completely forgot... 27 February 2024, 01:07 AM
cdmorenot Depends... I live in the... 27 February 2024, 01:34 AM
KatGirl That’s a very nice Seiko.
... 18 March 2024, 01:59 AM
wcall I was in the same mindset... 27 February 2024, 03:32 AM
Ninja Master That looks great! 27 February 2024, 03:41 AM
rockysw That looks awesome! 29 February 2024, 08:45 AM
rmwill My 40 slips under a shirt... 27 February 2024, 05:10 AM
Jonny8 39 MK2 is fantastic.... 27 February 2024, 07:31 AM
Chris_80 I also wanted an under the... 28 February 2024, 11:06 AM
Mr. K The 39mm Explorer is great.... 28 February 2024, 11:30 AM
sheldonsmith I went with an understated... 28 February 2024, 11:38 AM
East of Eden Great idea, I’m having an AR... 28 February 2024, 07:49 PM
5thLegion I had a brief love affair... 29 February 2024, 01:15 AM
Jack T I have the 39mm Mark I, short... 29 February 2024, 11:40 AM
rockysw ok so in the end I went a... 16 March 2024, 08:03 AM
FHFinster Nice choice.
... 17 March 2024, 01:08 AM
rockysw thanks! It will delivered... 17 March 2024, 09:55 AM
worldofoyster IMHO, the perfect size for... 16 March 2024, 10:55 AM
sherrill I tried on the 36mm 124270 at... 16 March 2024, 10:10 PM
Saransh I love it on other peoples... 16 March 2024, 11:19 PM
Metro The 39 is a quintessential... 17 March 2024, 12:11 AM
Ukkanhifi I've had the new Exp 40 for 3... 17 March 2024, 01:36 AM
goodolejr I imagine the only thing that... 17 March 2024, 03:48 AM
6161HH https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.c... 17 March 2024, 06:37 AM
ol\' Rex I've often read posts here on... 17 March 2024, 08:11 AM
6161HH Opinions and mileage vary... 17 March 2024, 08:57 AM
k3nnis I have the black datejust... 17 March 2024, 05:12 AM
SAP7 No one notices Explorers. ... 17 March 2024, 05:41 AM
Jonny8 It’s all subjective. In your... 17 March 2024, 07:58 AM
6161HH You certainly raise a valid... 17 March 2024, 08:47 AM
Kenny G The 39 MK2 is the best... 18 April 2024, 12:53 PM
Jonny8 One of my favourite watches... 20 April 2024, 05:36 AM
Highfly Explorer will be my 3. ROLEX... 20 April 2024, 06:09 AM
173rdabn I had a 39 mm Explorer Mk 1... 17 March 2024, 06:17 AM
Rolexforthewin Put mine on a RubberB and... 17 March 2024, 11:26 AM
Verdi It is my GADA watch. Not only... 17 March 2024, 10:31 PM
GGGMT Yes. Worn it in many... 17 March 2024, 11:55 PM
Chris_80 And the joke would be on... 20 March 2024, 09:15 AM
GGGMT Concur! That’s why I have an... 20 March 2024, 11:48 AM
East of Eden Is there a watch less legible... 27 March 2024, 12:08 AM
macluven I'm a new member and have... 27 March 2024, 02:27 AM
Metro I suggest you go try one on. 27 March 2024, 01:31 PM
Eddiea The Explorer is understated... 18 March 2024, 02:55 AM
subprimero Even more understated on a ... 18 March 2024, 03:56 AM
the dark knight My experience was it was... 20 March 2024, 09:22 AM
watchwatcher Yes, but in a really awesome... 20 March 2024, 10:49 PM
Metro 39 mk2 is an awesome choice... 26 March 2024, 11:12 PM
nyc2la https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.c... 27 March 2024, 04:04 PM
Metro Is rolex explorer 39 really... 16 April 2024, 05:07 AM
the dark knight If robbery is a concern, just... 18 April 2024, 12:57 PM
vlps Have had mine for 5 years.... 18 April 2024, 01:29 PM
DudeLove I had a 39mm mk2, very nice... 18 April 2024, 08:52 PM
digitalR Own a 214270.. def flys under... 20 April 2024, 07:40 AM
trailblazer68 Have had this version since... 23 July 2024, 05:01 PM
Dr. Robert I think the 214270 explorer... 23 July 2024, 06:02 PM
Rolexforthewin Yep, even more so on a rubber... 23 July 2024, 07:58 PM
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26 February 2024, 07:42 AM | #1 |
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Is rolex explorer 39 really understated?
Does any one has experience with rolex explorer 39 (214270) being understated (i.e. doesnt attract attention)?
I want an everyday watch that is simple and understated. Another option I am considering is IWC mark series (16, 18 or 20) in black dial (just to give a referene about kind of understatement I am looking for. But explorer 39 also seems to fit the bill gievn its matte dial (vs glossy on the new 40mm). 36mm explorer are not an option for me as I like slightly bigger watches. I also appriciate that this is very subjective. For example, I have heard some people say that sub is understated which I dont agree with (I find it quite flashy given its glossy dial, striking looks and ligth reflection from bezel teeths etc). But any views would be appriciated. |
26 February 2024, 07:46 AM | #2 |
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I previously had a 39 mm Explorer. I now have a submariner 126610LN. I have had many more people notice my Explorer. I wore it, thinking I would be inconspicuous, and for some reason several people who are not even watch people zeroed right in on the Explorer. Hey is that a Rolex?
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26 February 2024, 07:48 AM | #3 |
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I actually own one ...the discontinued mark I dial..what appealed to me is that it doesn't scream Rolex. Its subtle and can be worn for dress and play. And the 39mm is the perfect case size for me.
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26 February 2024, 09:21 PM | #4 |
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26 February 2024, 07:49 AM | #5 |
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A 214270 is less conspicuous than your average Rolex imo, no shiny ceramic bezel etc.
Also for me the best iteration of the Explorer, the positioning of the dial text and matte dial are superb. |
26 February 2024, 07:55 AM | #6 | |
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Quote:
Agreed all around.
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27 February 2024, 12:56 AM | #7 |
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+1.
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126610LV//116508 Daytona YG Black/Champagne 116655 YM40 Everose Oysterflex//126622 YM40 Blue//126600 SD43 126710BLNR//126711CHNR 126334 DJ41 Rhodium/Diamonds//126331 DJ41 TT Wimbledon 124300 OP41 Green//126334 DJ41Mint Green |
26 February 2024, 08:00 AM | #8 | |
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Quote:
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26 February 2024, 08:07 AM | #9 |
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If discretion is top of your priority list, any Rolex should be at the bottom.
I would suspect your average Joe wouldn't have even heard of IWC. However - if you want a Rolex - the Explorer is a fantastic, as discrete as it gets, choice. |
26 February 2024, 08:08 AM | #10 |
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I think it’s about as low key as you can get in the Rolex professional line.
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26 February 2024, 12:32 PM | #11 | |
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Quote:
I have the 39, love it, and 100% agree with this. Someone would have to WANT to know (and care) what watch you are wearing and if that is the case they'll know the IWC too Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk |
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26 February 2024, 08:14 AM | #12 |
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I love mine for many of the reasons you stated. I’ve yet to have someone walk up and say “nice Rolex”, but I regularly get “nice sub” comments when I wear my 124060. |
26 February 2024, 08:22 AM | #13 |
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I think a Tudor Ranger would be much more understated than the Exp with its shiny bezel, not really a tool watch. The Ranger also has AR coating on the crystal which makes it less blingy
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26 February 2024, 12:12 PM | #14 | |
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Is rolex explorer 39 really understated?
Quote:
The Ranger is awesome, but it’s NOT an Explorer. I owned a Ranger prior to the Mk2, and there’s no comparison in my mind as a “keeper”. :-) MK2 is my EDC. Truly love it. |
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26 February 2024, 04:48 PM | #15 |
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The Tudor Heritage Ranger, which was discontinued a few years ago, is also a good underrated option. DLC black rehaut, 50m deeper depth rating than the Explorer, 99% brushed steel, and looks more similar to the original Explorers with its straight endlinks. Got mine in 2014 and its still running like new. (Sold my Explorer).
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26 February 2024, 11:01 PM | #16 | |
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Quote:
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26 February 2024, 11:17 PM | #17 | |
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Quote:
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27 February 2024, 12:00 AM | #18 |
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I wouldn’t call a scratch magnet polished bezel a darn tough case. I’m referring to the original expeditions these watches marketing efforts use, I don’t think those guys would choose today’s Explorer for those trips. Not that I’m going on one, but I have gone on week long fishing trips to the NW Territories of Canada, and hunting trips where shiny jewelry would be a hindrance, a Ranger would not be. I guess with today’s urban population where an outdoor adventure is a Sunday stroll in a park the Explorer is fine. That being said, I would agree the Explorer is more understated than most models.
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26 February 2024, 08:27 AM | #19 |
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Absolutely the perfect watch. Flawless execution in terms of case, dimensions, movement, dial design/dial elements, bracelet, and on the wrist wearing experience. Also, very under-the-radar, but still somehow conveys high quality even from a distance.
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26 February 2024, 08:31 AM | #20 |
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Very low key.
Even London watch thieves may not notice one. |
26 February 2024, 08:32 AM | #21 |
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I had a 39 for several years. Stealthy, never asked about it and great legibility.
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26 February 2024, 08:51 AM | #22 |
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If I was a one watch guy..... it would be the Explorer, 36mm The 39mm is also a great choice.
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26 February 2024, 08:46 AM | #23 |
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No nice watch is really understated except in comparison to other nice watches.
Explorer definitely is no bling and a more simple face that is easy to read. Great watch and I think that it will give you what you are looking for as not being a “statement” watch. |
26 February 2024, 08:56 AM | #24 |
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I always thought the 39mm Explorer had rather large 'Rolex' text on the dial, so I passed on them. Same with the 40mm.
I do have a 124270 |
26 February 2024, 08:57 AM | #25 |
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Look off brand. Anything with a ”ROLEX” on it the average person knows what it is. There is no getting around this. Rolex spent way too much to not have unmatched name recognition.
A IWC is unknown.
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26 February 2024, 09:05 AM | #26 |
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Absolutely understated. I’ve never noticed anyone looking at my Explorer 214270 but frequently notice people ogling my Sub.
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26 February 2024, 09:09 AM | #27 |
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The 39mm Mark 2 is my favorite of all explorers. Super understated, classy, rugged and beautiful! You really can wear this watch anywhere as it's perfect for all occasions.
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26 February 2024, 09:14 AM | #28 |
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Owner here as well. Not only is it stealthy, I think it fits well and has a timeless design that’s tough to get tired of. IWC Mark __ are great watches too but in my opinion if your comparing the two and end up going with the IWC I think there’s a high percentage that you’ll come back and get the Explorer later down the line. It’s such a great watch that it’s tough to forget about it. If you go with the Explorer first IMO you’ll forget about the IWC.
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26 February 2024, 09:21 AM | #29 |
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Even more stealthy of the bracelet
..Explorer & Spring Diver - I’m just here for the photos.. |
26 February 2024, 09:41 AM | #30 |
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thank you all for the very helpful comments. :)
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