OP 36 or Explorer

[cdm765]

I currently have a Sub 124060, GMT BLRO on oyster, JLC MUT Moon, and Speedmaster.

Looking for a Rolex with a touch more simplicity. Have narrowed to OP, Exp, or maybe DJ.

Questions: any strong views on OP vs. Explorer? Dial color on OP (I think I love silver and green).

[Talon84]

I prefer the rounded bezel and dials on the OP, the numerals and indicies on the explorer…perect combo of both were the 3 6 9 dials on the air king back in the early 2000s….shame it was only 34mm though. Damn you rolex!

[lord91]

I'd opt for a DJ 36 since you've mentioned it, fluted + jubilee. It's a classy sports watch, perfect for any scenario.

[996marty]

Explorer for me gives you the more simple look and is a great looking reference

[Moonwatcher]

Explorer : thicker indices, 3-6-9, Mercedes hour hand, lumed lollipop seconds hand, inverted triangle at 12, glossy vs sunburst finish. In one word: sportier hence nicer…FOR ME. What about you ?
Ah: and I do not like the double indices at cardinal points on OP.

[Harry-57]

If you're looking for simplicity the OP is about as simple as it gets, and it's a great watch with a well balanced aesthetic.

[brandrea]

I prefer the Explorer, but that said with your collection I’d go OP

[michael6120]

If it were me with your collection.. I would go the OP.. I think!?

[travisb]

I think one of the colorful dials in the OP line would be a great addition to that collection.

[1William]

The Explorer as opposed to the OP for me. I actually prefer the DJ on Jubilee with the fluted bezel. Find a semi-vintage one in good shape, save some money and have a cool watch.

[jcdevoe26]

for me I would go OP 36...the new Explorer 36 actually wears a little smaller then the OP....I am also biased as I have the previous generation 214270 Explorer MKII and I think its far superior....I dont like the gloss black dial on the new Explorers. The OP has great dial color choices. My wife has a 34mm with the blue dial and it looks amazing, and I am waiting on the 36mm with celebration dial (which I did not actually like, until my AD had one for me to try on and my wife thought it was great looking and nice "fun" option to wear on weekends).

[Kairos2x]

all the wey explorer ,i think one of the most iconic with no date

[HogwldFLTR]

OP and Exp are both great watches. OP gives greater breadth of style choice. Exp has great lume. Choose what is important to you.

[espanol]

Have both, and it's a coin toss.

Explorer has better clasp. OP has more modern bracelet taper. OP is cheaper at MSRP.

For me, Explorer would win for most OP models. Only exceptions would be turquoise or silver 36mm OPs.

[rohada]

Originally Posted by Moonwatcher

Explorer : thicker indices, 3-6-9, Mercedes hour hand, lumed lollipop seconds hand, inverted triangle at 12, glossy vs sunburst finish. In one word: sportier hence nicer…FOR ME. What about you?
Ah: and I do not like the double indices at cardinal points on OP.

My sentiments exactly, right down to the double indices commentary. Explorer all day, every day. However, I am partial to sport models. Pick what you like.

[javier]

Explorer

[exp90]

Exp1 36 100%

[Submariner868]

Ask yourself the following: Do I want another Rolex with Mercedes hands?

[marmite2005]

I own both, a Yellow dialed 36mm OP 126000 and a TT Explorer 124273.

They are fantastic watches and wear very different.
The OP is a great everyday watch for me in the summer with its sunshine yellow dial.

The explorer is smaller and has a great tapered bracelet. Its extremely comfortable. I went for gold and steel which isnt a populer choice but I love it and makes it special.

If you hav any specific questions just ask.

[marmite2005]

OP Vs Explorer

Sent from my LE2113 using Tapatalk

[subtona]

Hands are the biggest consideration for me.

Sport vs dress?

Color is next?

[worldofoyster]

why not a datejust with flute bezel and jubilee bracelet?

[mike morris]

I think DJ 36 will be work in your collection

[effovex]

Not sure if you care about heritage/history of the watch, but here are my thoughts:

I love the Explorer 1, but if I recall correctly (someone please correct me if I am wrong), the Explorer 1 was made by Rolex as a “tribute” to the watch that summited Mt. Everest. The actual Rolex that was with Sir E. Hillary and T. Norgay was an Oyster Perpetual that had a white dial. (Off topic, but I believe a Smiths watch was actually worn while summiting)

In that sense, I feel like Explorer 1 is only loosely connected with the Everest expedition and the Oyster Perpetual, is the “true” descendant. For that reason (since I am a sucker for watches with cool history (like the Speedmaster, Tuna, SD), I’d vote OP white/silver dial.

[173rdabn]

Really fond of the Explorer. I've had three (36x2 and 39) and really miss them.

[Zero_Regret]

OP for me as you never know when they will discontinue that dial. Explorer you can pick up later if you still want it.

[AF_Rob]

I have a Sub and added a 36mm Explorer and ended up selling it. I thought there was too much overlap with the mercedes hands and the black dial.

Down the road and added an OP in olive and I still have it. As you know, there's a lot of options out there for OPs and DJs. That's what I would do.

[FL2024]

Explorer is far better imo

[jacowestt]

You’ve got a phenomenal lineup, and the search for a simpler Rolex makes total sense. Between the OP and the Explorer, I’d say it depends on the vibe you’re after:

• OP: It’s pure simplicity and versatile enough to dress up or down. The silver dial is timeless and subtle, while the green has that extra pop and a bit of fun edge. Both give the OP an understated elegance, but the green’s a unique twist.
• Explorer: With the Explorer, you’ll get that iconic history and sportier edge, plus a touch more wrist presence. It’s more casual and a little rugged, but still keeps it clean.

You really can’t go wrong, but if you want something that stands out in a refined way, that green OP might just hit the spot.

[matthew P]

I prefer the explorer in 36mm
I prefer the OP in 40mm.
I prefer the single batten cardinal markers of the previous generation OP

7 inch wrist.






..Explorer, Spring Diver & APRO..