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carlhaluss · 15 November 2009, 09:35 AM

Within the past week or so, I have become somewhat obsessed with the enchanting Explorer I. Picking up a new Milgauss next week - of which I have absolutely no regrets buying - I went to my AD and had another look at the Explorer I today. Again, we put it side-by-side with a Perpetual, also with a black dial. I just don't know what it is about the Explorer I, but I can understand totally why people who own one are so much in love with them. Between the Explorer I and Perpetual (also 36mm), the price difference is only $300. According to MSRP Canadian price list I have the Perpetual is $4800. and the Explorer I is $5100.
I truly love that fact that there is actually a watch like this that has no calendar!
Just wondering: other than the dial and the hands, is there any other major difference between the Explorer I and the Perpetual?
Cheers,
Carl

The GMT Master · 15 November 2009, 11:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by carlhaluss

Within the past week or so, I have become somewhat obsessed with the enchanting Explorer I. Picking up a new Milgauss next week - of which I have absolutely no regrets buying - I went to my AD and had another look at the Explorer I today. Again, we put it side-by-side with a Perpetual, also with a black dial. I just don't know what it is about the Explorer I, but I can understand totally why people who own one are so much in love with them. Between the Explorer I and Perpetual (also 36mm), the price difference is only $300. According to MSRP Canadian price list I have the Perpetual is $4800. and the Explorer I is $5100.
I truly love that fact that there is actually a watch like this that has no calendar!
Just wondering: other than the dial and the hands, is there any other major difference between the Explorer I and the Perpetual?
Cheers,
Carl

The bracelet is the other major difference - the standard perpetual has the latest and greatest clasp, as well as solid centre links, making, in my opinion, a far more solid watch. You also get the choice of a domed or fluted bezel.

The Explorer I meanwhile has hollow centre links and the old pressed metal clasp, which makes it feel a touch outdated. Some people like the fact that it's a touch lighter, but if I was buying, I'd buy the OP simply due to the bracelet. I'm not entirely sure how they managed to work out the pricing on the Explorer compared to the OP

esm · 15 November 2009, 11:26 AM

oh Carl, the Exp I is calling. Is it too late to change the order? Just wondering.

snow_rocks · 15 November 2009, 11:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The GMT Master

I'm not entirely sure how they managed to work out the pricing on the Explorer compared to the OP

It might be that the EX1 is considered in the Professional line of watches Rolex makes.

The GMT Master · 15 November 2009, 11:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by snow_rocks

It might be that the EX1 is considered in the Professional line of watches Rolex makes.

Maybe, but you're getting more watch for less on the OP on what should essentially be identical watches

snow_rocks · 15 November 2009, 11:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The GMT Master

Maybe, but you're getting more watch for less on the OP on what should essentially be identical watches

Really, doesn't make sense this pricing, and I own an EX1,

but I love that dial!

The GMT Master · 15 November 2009, 11:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by snow_rocks

but I love that dial!

The dial is the big selling point, simple, clear, classic - can't get much better, if I'm honest

Hummer · 15 November 2009, 12:21 PM

The price list that I have shows the Cdn MSRP of the Exp I at $5870 and the DJ ( 116200 ) at $6310 . If you need to have a date function, go with the DJ. If not, the Exp I is your choice. They are both Rolex classics, and you cannot go wrong with either choice.

carlhaluss · 15 November 2009, 02:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by esm

oh Carl, the Exp I is calling. Is it too late to change the order? Just wondering.

Don't worry...I have no regrets at all about buying the Milgauss! After all, I simply could not live another day without that wonderful orange lightning rod second hand! There are so many "innovations" in that watch, that it is simply a work of art unto itself. I have always thought that about the new Milgauss, now I have a chance to own one.
I know that if I want something badly enough, I will eventually get it. I hope that doesn't sound arrogant - it is not meant to be - often, when I look back on my life, I find that is the way it has been. Sometimes, with a lot of work and effort. Sometimes, things just happen the way they are meant to.
Kind of like when my AD showed me the new Omega Aqua Terra caliber 8500, with the Teck-Grey dial last February. Possibly the most beautiful object I will ever own. But after I ordered it, I saw a 36mm Railmaster at another AD, I fell in love with it, and knew that, at the time, I could not afford it. Six months later, it was still there, and I could afford it. There is something very special about it, and it is my favourite.
This is the kind of thing that I can see happening with the Explorer I. Every watch has a soul of it's own, and sometimes the ones we choose just cannot be justified other than to say that we are attracted to them.
Sorry to ramble. After a beautiful Italian meal, at my favourite Italian Ristorante down the road, with some lovely wine, and now a Jameson 12 years old Irish Whiskey to finish it all off, my tongue is a bit more loose than usual.
If I didn't have people like all of you on these forums to talk to about watches, I would go nuts.
Cheers,
Carl

Speed · 15 November 2009, 03:03 PM

I may have to pick up an Explorer I someday...after I get a Cherry Red Sub!

esm · 15 November 2009, 08:53 PM

that is the Spirit Carl! My last 2 Rolexes were more of an "unexpected" buy rather than planned, but both worked out well. Wish you all the best, I'm sure an Exp I will find you soon.

DatDude · 15 November 2009, 10:55 PM

The Explorer is also "reinforced" when compared to the DJ, if i'm not mistaken, as it is a sport model. It's original named was the "reinforced rolex". The Explorer dial is iconic...in terms of resale value you're much better off with an Explorer than DJ...sport models reign supreme.

Mr. K · 16 November 2009, 01:19 AM

I like the Explorer. Very clean and understated. When I wear a Rolex and want to fly under the radar, it fits the bill.

Funny thing was I did not like it at first, but after learning more about the watch and over time, I just had to have one.

carlhaluss · 16 November 2009, 01:22 AM

Thanks for all the replies. I must admit, at first when I was in the shop, I was thinking like Chris said, about essentially both being the same watch. Except, now I have learned that the bracelets are different, and the Explorer is "reinforced". I don't remember ever reading about that, and exactly what is meant by it? Regardless of whether it is or not, I also agree with you guys that the dial is what really sets it apart. My AD did a test for me, as we were not sure if they have now made the arabic numbers on the dial luminous, and they have not. This would not be a make-or-break thing for me, just more of a passing curiosity.
I would like it if it had the heavier bracelet and also the Easylink. It will be a while till I can afford one anyhow, maybe by then that will be a subtle change that Rolex will make. Although, I somehow prefer that they leave it exactly as it is.
Cheers,
Carl

carlhaluss · 16 November 2009, 01:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr. K

I like the Explorer. Very clean and understated. When I wear a Rolex and want to fly under the radar, it fits the bill.

Funny thing was I did not like it at first, but after learning more about the watch and over time, I just had to have one.

It was the same thing for me. When I saw it in the display case, I thought it looked too much like my Omega Railmaster, also 36mm. When I actually read all the posts on this forum, and did some more research into the history, it started to get more appealing. It is really a big plus for me, that there is no date as well.
Cheers,
Carl

sea-dweller · 16 November 2009, 02:00 AM

Explorer 1 is one of my favorite Rolexes, I wear mine often, as I will be today.

kyle L · 16 November 2009, 02:59 AM

Sorry, I can't help wipe off that drool, but here are some pictures.

If you buy it, I'm sure you'll won't regret it!

esm · 16 November 2009, 03:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kyle L

Sorry, I can't help wipe off that drool, but here are some pictures.

If you buy it, I'm sure you'll won't regret it!

you are such a teasrer Kyle

im loving this shot

kyle L · 16 November 2009, 03:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by esm

you are such a teasrer Kyle

im loving this shot

Thanks Eric. It's one of my favorite shots too!

carlhaluss · 16 November 2009, 04:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by esm

you are such a teasrer Kyle

im loving this shot

Thanks, Kyle! Some of your pics were the ones that really got me started on this model! I had been at my AD, and he asked if I would like to try on the Explorer. At the time, I said that I thought it was too much like my Railmaster (which is also 36mm). I did a little more research, and browsing around this forum, and completely changed my mind. I went back with my Railmaster, and took a real good look at the Explorer. Similar in some ways, but really a totally different watch.

The Railmaster on ss bracelet. Have since put on brown leather with deployment:

Carl

kyle L · 16 November 2009, 04:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by carlhaluss

Thanks, Kyle! Some of your pics were the ones that really got me started on this model! I had been at my AD, and he asked if I would like to try on the Explorer. At the time, I said that I thought it was too much like my Railmaster (which is also 36mm). I did a little more research, and browsing around this forum, and completely changed my mind. I went back with my Railmaster, and took a real good look at the Explorer. Similar in some ways, but really a totally different watch.

The Railmaster on ss bracelet. Have since put on brown leather with deployment:

Carl

I love the railmaster too. It looks good on your wrist!

Dan 07 · 19 November 2009, 01:34 PM

Carl

Which AD are you dealing with? I'm in the market for an Explorer 1 also, will probably pull the trigger in a couple weeks, MonteCristo or Brinkhaus ?

carlhaluss · 20 November 2009, 12:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dan 07

Carl

Which AD are you dealing with? I'm in the market for an Explorer 1 also, will probably pull the trigger in a couple weeks, MonteCristo or Brinkhaus ?

Hi Dan,
I bought my Milgauss at Monte Cristo. It just happened that when I was there first looking at Rolexes, I was treated so well. I dealt with a gentleman named Harvey Soon. There are sometimes two other gentelmen there also, one is named Fiore, but the name of the other one escapes me.
Went into Brinkhaus one time as well, to inquire about Panerai, which they don't have. They seemed nice as well, but think MonteCristo has the edge.
Cheers,
Carl

15 November 2009, 09:35 AM	#1
carlhaluss "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Carl Location: Vancouver, Canada Watch: Rolex Explorer 1 Posts: 1,780	Explorer I - wiping the drool off my chin! Within the past week or so, I have become somewhat obsessed with the enchanting Explorer I. Picking up a new Milgauss next week - of which I have absolutely no regrets buying - I went to my AD and had another look at the Explorer I today. Again, we put it side-by-side with a Perpetual, also with a black dial. I just don't know what it is about the Explorer I, but I can understand totally why people who own one are so much in love with them. Between the Explorer I and Perpetual (also 36mm), the price difference is only $300. According to MSRP Canadian price list I have the Perpetual is $4800. and the Explorer I is $5100. I truly love that fact that there is actually a watch like this that has no calendar! Just wondering: other than the dial and the hands, is there any other major difference between the Explorer I and the Perpetual? Cheers, Carl

15 November 2009, 12:21 PM	#8
Hummer "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Canada Posts: 36	The price list that I have shows the Cdn MSRP of the Exp I at $5870 and the DJ ( 116200 ) at $6310 . If you need to have a date function, go with the DJ. If not, the Exp I is your choice. They are both Rolex classics, and you cannot go wrong with either choice. Attached Images

16 November 2009, 02:00 AM	#16
sea-dweller "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Dennis Location: Bay Area - 925 Posts: 40,018	Explorer 1 is one of my favorite Rolexes, I wear mine often, as I will be today. __________________ TRF Member #6699 (since September 2007)

15 November 2009, 11:26 AM	#3
esm "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: Eric Location: Location,Location Watch: this, bro... Posts: 15,340	oh Carl, the Exp I is calling. Is it too late to change the order? Just wondering.

15 November 2009, 03:03 PM	#10
Speed "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: USA Posts: 19,706	I may have to pick up an Explorer I someday...after I get a Cherry Red Sub!

15 November 2009, 08:53 PM	#11
esm "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: Eric Location: Location,Location Watch: this, bro... Posts: 15,340	that is the Spirit Carl! My last 2 Rolexes were more of an "unexpected" buy rather than planned, but both worked out well. Wish you all the best, I'm sure an Exp I will find you soon.

15 November 2009, 10:55 PM	#12
DatDude "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: NYC Posts: 40	The Explorer is also "reinforced" when compared to the DJ, if i'm not mistaken, as it is a sport model. It's original named was the "reinforced rolex". The Explorer dial is iconic...in terms of resale value you're much better off with an Explorer than DJ...sport models reign supreme.

16 November 2009, 01:19 AM	#13
Mr. K "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: Mark Location: Seattle-ish Posts: 6,078	I like the Explorer. Very clean and understated. When I wear a Rolex and want to fly under the radar, it fits the bill. Funny thing was I did not like it at first, but after learning more about the watch and over time, I just had to have one.

16 November 2009, 01:22 AM	#14
carlhaluss "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Carl Location: Vancouver, Canada Watch: Rolex Explorer 1 Posts: 1,780	Thanks for all the replies. I must admit, at first when I was in the shop, I was thinking like Chris said, about essentially both being the same watch. Except, now I have learned that the bracelets are different, and the Explorer is "reinforced". I don't remember ever reading about that, and exactly what is meant by it? Regardless of whether it is or not, I also agree with you guys that the dial is what really sets it apart. My AD did a test for me, as we were not sure if they have now made the arabic numbers on the dial luminous, and they have not. This would not be a make-or-break thing for me, just more of a passing curiosity. I would like it if it had the heavier bracelet and also the Easylink. It will be a while till I can afford one anyhow, maybe by then that will be a subtle change that Rolex will make. Although, I somehow prefer that they leave it exactly as it is. Cheers, Carl

16 November 2009, 02:59 AM	#17
kyle L "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: USA Watch: Rolex Explorer I Posts: 10,278	Sorry, I can't help wipe off that drool, but here are some pictures. If you buy it, I'm sure you'll won't regret it!

19 November 2009, 01:34 PM	#22
Dan 07 "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Real Name: Dan Location: Vancouver, B.C. Watch: 114270 Explorer 1 Posts: 10	Carl Which AD are you dealing with? I'm in the market for an Explorer 1 also, will probably pull the trigger in a couple weeks, MonteCristo or Brinkhaus ?

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