Old 36mm Explorer (14270) vs new 36mm Explorer (124270)

[GGGMT]

Originally Posted by GGGMT

Made this switch in 2015 because the 36mm is too small.


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Whoops meaning to the 214270, the best sized exi


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[Gimoozaabi]

I am keeping both 214270 Mk II and 14270. The five digits Explorer is made in 1991, lug holes case, tritium dial and gorgeous light 'frozen' patina on the dial.

I really like that Rolex introduced the Explorer in its original old school size, I believe in few years it will be available in 41mm as well.

[baamvino]

Here are some side by side photos.
They are 2 different watches.
I think the old 36mm is more refined and balanced overall

[Sunny Arizona]

Originally Posted by iTreelex

I hope everyone knows that the 114270/14270 isn't really 36mm. It's about 35mm and wears a lot like a 34mm. That thing is tiny. I think Rolex got the Exp I right this time with a true 36mm.

36 on the button. All dial.

[2nastie]

Originally Posted by baamvino

Here are some side by side photos.
They are 2 different watches.
I think the old 36mm is more refined and balanced overall

Looks like the new one would resemble a “maxi” type dial. Overall interested to see what it looks like in person.

[McDusty]

Just learned of this new 36mm Explorer today. Looks very nice.

First thought though .. "now we know why they killed off the 36mm 3-6-9 OP six months ago".

[CagKaly]

From Hodinkee Japan

[nickscaps]

I've been following a few threads suggesting that the new 36mm may actually have 19mm lugs and slimmer outer lugs than a similar OP/DJ. It seems to make sense.

[CagKaly]

From Hypebeast

[Lew Archer]

That's right. The new one is pure garbage. Stick with the 39mm, or an old 36mm. So much better. Definitely don't buy one! Spread the word! Don't buy the new Explorer!

That way, I may be able to get my hands on one before I'm too old to tell time...maybe at a discount!

[jipstone]

Originally Posted by Lew Archer

That's right. The new one is pure garbage. Stick with the 39mm, or an old 36mm. So much better. Definitely don't buy one! Spread the word! Don't buy the new Explorer!

That way, I may be able to get my hands on one before I'm too old to tell time...maybe at a discount!

I for one will be happy to spread the word! Just sold my (beloved) 14270 to make room for the new one. The new garbage ticks all the boxes which weren’t ticked before, lumed numbers, better bracelet, AR coating…
Don’t buy it!


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[canneverdecide]

I thought I was sold when I heard the 124270 was in 36mm with lumed 3,6,9

Doubt crept in when I saw the beefy indices and lugs, and the 19mm bracelet size

the 114270 proportions just seemed so perfect to me, understated and classic. the new one is a bit 'louder' and dial features feel 'scrunched'.

Anyone else agree? I hope I'm wrong cause I'd love to buy a new Rolex!

[rossi46]

Originally Posted by canneverdecide

the 114270 proportions just seemed so perfect to me, understated and classic. the new one is a bit 'louder' and dial features feel 'scrunched'.

Anyone else agree? I hope I'm wrong cause I'd love to buy a new Rolex!

As someone else noted, this does seem like a "maxi-dial" version of the Exp. Certainly the hour markers are more bold (even a little brash?) compared to older 36 versions.

So on one hand, Rolex downsized the lug width and made the bracelet taper narrower. Yet, on the other, they made the dial a little louder. I find it a strange decision, but that's kinda the Rolex MO these days.

It will have to be an on-the-wrist decision. Which, considering how impossible any SS Rolex is to find these days, may be impossible.

[boxsash]

I think you nailed it with 'It will have to be an on-the-wrist decision.'

I have a 114270 and am on the list for a new model. I'm looking forward to the new movement, a great new bracelet, great new lume colour and a glowing 3,6 and 9. The dial Indices being larger I feel may be only really obvious it direct comparison or close up. I think that on the wrist it will look balanced and right to itself....if I get one I'll let you know :)

[boxsash]

I think you nailed it with 'It will have to be an on-the-wrist decision.'

I have a 114270 and am on the list for a new model. I'm looking forward to the new movement, a great new bracelet, great new lume colour and a glowing 3,6 and 9. The dial Indices being larger I feel may be only really obvious it direct comparison or close up. I think that on the wrist it will look balanced and right to itself....if I get one I'll let you know :)

[fania123]

14270 for me.

[dannyp]

Originally Posted by fania123

14270 for me.

Nice example! Never realized how "late" the Explorer was to the flip-lock party.

[fania123]

Originally Posted by dannyp

Nice example! Never realized how "late" the Explorer was to the flip-lock party.

Thanks, just came back from RSC.