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PatrickJ · 29 July 2016, 09:39 PM

Great watch

Convert79 · 27 October 2008, 12:08 PM

I joined TRF because my wife said she would buy me a watch for my law school graduation. I started looking for a watch and focused on pieces that were simple and elegant. I came across the IWC Pilot Mark XVI and thought I had found the one. After I mentioned this to a friend who is more of a watch guy than me, he showed me the Explorer I. I immediately fell in love (and that's when I joined this forum). I showed it to my wife and she too fell in love with it. Now I spend more time looking for a good deal on the watch and watching this forum for Exp. I threads (like this one) than studying for my classes! I can't wait to get this watch! It's beautiful, simple, elegant, understated. I'm hoping to move the acquisition date up from May (graduation) to December - maybe a mixed xmas/graduation present! Wish me luck!

Carolina · 27 October 2008, 12:27 PM

My favorite - classic, understated, and clean looking. It's #1 on my wish list as far as gifts for my husband someday.

cbird · 27 October 2008, 01:26 PM

I have one, my only Rolex and the only model I've really wanted. I like the stealth aspect abd the excellent (almost unmatched) legibility of the dial, but it just really caught my eye somehow when I first saw one at an AD. Something about it just inspires confidence that it can stick with you in almost any conditions and any activities(maybe the name "Explorer" helps) - a fine watch that needs no babying.

Porsche · 27 October 2008, 03:19 PM

Hey, all you people Overseas (especially the USA), our lousy AU$ exchange rate ($0.61 today) means there are some real bargains to be had.

This one from a gray dealer (condition 9.8/10, all papers, box etc) is ONLY US$3K

Wish I had me some US dollars....

tommy_uk77 · 27 October 2008, 07:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Porsche

Hey, all you people Overseas (especially the USA), our lousy AU$ exchange rate ($0.61 today) means there are some real bargains to be had.

This one from a gray dealer (condition 9.8/10, all papers, box etc) is ONLY US$3K

Wish I had me some US dollars....

how about brand new explorer I selling how much?
i will travel to sydney end of this month

delldeaton · 27 October 2008, 11:31 PM

Add my name to the Explorer I owners group here: Have a D-series and absolutely love it (associate me w/ many of the responses already Posted).

Yeah, it doesn't fit the current "trend" of larger watch cases; then again, not sure how much more than a trend that will end up being. It's not that much smaller than any other watch of the 1950s - just hasn't "grown" since then. I think it looks great and appropriate these days.

It's not getting as much wrist time w/ me for practical reasons: Got my Sub Date back from servicing, and wanted to run a longer-term timing test observation it. Then, as I've confessed elsewhere in these Forums, it's on to the Omega 2531.80 for the next month or so for the Quantum of Solace opening.

But you'll be hearing a lot more from me about the Explorer I in a couple of months.

Meantime: Isn't there an affinity group here for this model? I'll have to look around, and, if I find it, I'll bump it up.

Garandboy · 27 October 2008, 11:43 PM

I purchased a previously loved Explorer last Christmas and I cannot tell you begin to tell you how much I love it. I also own a GMT II, which has not been on my wrist since. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and some may think that it is too simple or not blingy enough, but for me its the perfect watch. A classic, that smiles at me 24/7.

delldeaton · 28 October 2008, 12:09 AM

Here's a LINK to the "Social Group" for our types:

http://www.rolexforums.com/group.php?groupid=8

DSJ · 28 October 2008, 01:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by delldeaton

Here's a LINK to the "Social Group" for our types:

http://www.rolexforums.com/group.php?groupid=8

Thanks for posting that for us, Dell!

Loggins · 28 October 2008, 12:31 AM

This watch really really smiles at me. I was so close to buying it, but I tossed a coin and ended up buying my 16610.

For me, Sub-Date, Explorer I and SS Daytona are the perfect trio, some day I'll have all three..

jm433 · 7 November 2008, 08:31 AM

I really love the Explorer. It embodies the less is more ideal. I think it is not as popular due to its size, its lack of date and its "stealth" quality. I actually think most people like having their watch known to be a rolex. I think however, that, once you have a rolex and get to know more about them, the Explorer model gains in appeal. It's probably every Rolex WIS's "second favorite" Rolex.

It's got such great heritage.

Quicksilver · 7 November 2008, 08:38 AM

The Rolex Explorer is a truly classic watch and one of the all time great Rolex watches with a first class pedigree. It was also, I understand, the Rolex worn by Ian Flemming as well as many explorers. If you were purchasing your Explorer to go on an expedition to a cold enviroment you could request Rolex to use a special lubricant in the movement designed to cope with sub zero temperatures - I am not sure if you can still do that. I love that attention to detail and customer satisfaction.

It is scandalously over looked, which is a shame. The reason is because a lot of wis folk, quite unjustly, do not like 36 mm watches (I love 36 mm) and because its one Rolex which to most people does not look typicaly Rolex.

Long live the Explorer I. Its on my shopping list

Atlanta · 28 October 2008, 12:59 AM

I am in fear that as soon as I buy one, Rolex will release a polar face or some limited version and I will wish I waited. Reviewing the history of this watch - there is no shortage of limited runs and updates and I don't want to miss out, even though it is perfect as it is.

What do they say - "let a man talk and he will answer his own questions." What am I waiting for?

GradyPhilpott · 28 October 2008, 02:46 AM

I know that this might seem nitpicking, but I prefer not to refer to my Explorer as the Explorer I, because its name is really just Explorer. The Explorer II has that appellation clearly marked on the dial, but nowhere that I'm aware is an Explorer ever officially designated as an Explorer I.

Do others share my sentiment?

Atlanta · 28 October 2008, 03:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GradyPhilpott

I know that this might seem nitpicking, but I prefer not to refer to my Explorer as the Explorer I, because its name is really just Explorer. The Explorer II has that appellation clearly marked on the dial, but nowhere that I'm aware is an Explorer ever officially designated as an Explorer I.

Do others share my sentiment?

I agree totally

, but think many people assume II if it is not qualified. Many Explorer threads quickly turn to Explorer II threads.

Brushpup · 28 October 2008, 01:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GradyPhilpott

I know that this might seem nitpicking, but I prefer not to refer to my Explorer as the Explorer I, because its name is really just Explorer. The Explorer II has that appellation clearly marked on the dial, but nowhere that I'm aware is an Explorer ever officially designated as an Explorer I.

Do others share my sentiment?

Grady you are not alone. I think message boards are responsible for this or......thats what I am blaming it on anyway. It bugs me that the 1 designation is needed, but that's where we are. I just say it as it truly is.

I should add though that this watch can never be complimented too much. It is simply one of the greatest looking watches on the planet, and so many, Rolexes included, pale in comparison to it's striking appearance.

Patrick

sea-dweller · 28 October 2008, 02:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GradyPhilpott

I know that this might seem nitpicking, but I prefer not to refer to my Explorer as the Explorer I, because its name is really just Explorer. The Explorer II has that appellation clearly marked on the dial, but nowhere that I'm aware is an Explorer ever officially designated as an Explorer I.

Do others share my sentiment?

JediRolex · 28 October 2008, 01:23 PM

I can't wait to pick mine up in three weeks! As I mentioned in another thread. This watch is perfect for my tastes. Not to big, not to small, not to formal, not to casual... just right. I was torn between a Sub or an all stainless DateJust, so I decided to purchase their love child!

Lol-x · 28 October 2008, 01:37 PM

Yes it is the one and only Explorer

DaveInLA · 28 October 2008, 05:37 PM

I like my Expy 1 more than I do the Sub.

I originally really wanted a Sub, but felt it was too big for my wrist at the time, so I "settled" on the Explorer. A few months later, I couldn't get my mind off the Sub, so I went out and bought that too.

While the Sub fits and looks fine, I still feel it's a bit large and heavy (clumsy) for my wrist. The Explorer is just perfect. Great blend between sport and dress.

buz-lh · 28 October 2008, 09:05 PM

I picked up a preowned K Explorer last month and have worn it more than any other. Best dial in the lineup, fits nicely under the cuff, legible at night, (relatively), looks great on the oyster bracelet or a nice strap and is the most comfortable watch I own. It's a keeper.

TheDude · 2 November 2008, 09:40 AM

I just tried an M series Explorer on at Tourneau in NYC today. Very nice watch. I wish the bracelet were more substantial, but it's a beautiful watch.

I think I have been spoiled by my first Rolex being a GMT-IIc. That bracelet is just insane. I wonder if/when the rest of the lineup will get the beefier bracelets.

GradyPhilpott · 2 November 2008, 09:46 AM

I had lunch with a friend today and he had a brand new GMT. I don't know the proper designation, but it had the ceramic bezel and the beefier bracelet. I is an absolutely beautiful watch.

While the trend in watches has been toward thicker clasps and Rolex is now catching up to everyone else, the truth is that when the watch is secured on the arm, the difference seems to me to be negligible.

I know that there must be some circumstance under which the heavier clasps would fare better, but I'm a little hard pressed to think of one, especially considering how long the "flimsier" ones have been getting the job done.

TheDude · 2 November 2008, 10:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GradyPhilpott

I had lunch with a friend today and he had a brand new GMT. I don't know the proper designation, but it had the ceramic bezel and the beefier bracelet. I is an absolutely beautiful watch.

While the trend in watches has been toward thicker clasps and Rolex is now catching up to everyone else, the truth is that when the watch is secured on the arm, the difference seems to me to be negligible.

I know that there must be some circumstance under which the heavier clasps would fare better, but I'm a little hard pressed to think of one, especially considering how long the "flimsier" ones have been getting the job done.

No doubt - I'm sure any of the oysters are more than tough enough. It is simply a matter of feel when putting it on and removing it.

jdpny · 5 November 2008, 07:02 AM

mmanzara · 7 November 2008, 01:14 AM

Boy, I couldn't agree more. If I can get my pic to insert into this reply it will be great. I have a white face Exlorer late 50's (similar to an Air King) and I can't seem to get any more info other than "Nice Watch". It is quite simplistic with a Jubilee Band with S/N 3700XX. Very little history other than my Dad gave it to me. Keeps excellent time and only serviced once back in 1993.

Still can't get my picture to copy into my reply. If you wnat me to send a pic here is my e-mail: [email protected]

mfer · 7 November 2008, 01:34 AM

I just love the simply look of it. It would be the only sub 40mm watch I would buy right now.

Tortoise · 7 November 2008, 08:04 AM

Like many others of you out there, I settled on the Explorer (a) because the 36mm case suits my skinny wrists better than a larger divers' watch and (b) its understated appearance makes it so versatile - it can be worn in the office without looking too "blingy" and attracting unwanted attention, it can be worn casually with less risk of its smaller case getting caught up and damaged whilst fooling around - and all the time it remains extremely comfortable to wear with an easy to read dial.

A true classic.

mmanzara · 19 April 2009, 01:28 AM

Like you I am perplexed by the lack of info or pictures relating to Explorer l. I own a Canadian dress Explorer, circa 1958 (S/N 3700XX). It does not have the Mercedes Hands and the dial is white with a faint herring bone pattern, straight hands the dial is marked " Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer" at the 12 O'clock and "Super Precision" at 6 o'clock. I can never get a straight answer for the difference between Precison and Super Precision. It is a model 5500 with a Jubilee Bracelet.

27 October 2008, 12:27 PM	#3
Carolina "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: North Carolina Watch: it, Bubba! Posts: 6,271	My favorite - classic, understated, and clean looking. It's #1 on my wish list as far as gifts for my husband someday. __________________ . .Member #5380 .

27 October 2008, 03:19 PM	#5
Porsche 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Real Name: John Location: ɹǝpun Watch: and learn Posts: 2,986	Fs? Hey, all you people Overseas (especially the USA), our lousy AU$ exchange rate ($0.61 today) means there are some real bargains to be had. This one from a gray dealer (condition 9.8/10, all papers, box etc) is ONLY US$3K Wish I had me some US dollars.... Attached Images __________________ Obey Gravity, it's the Law! ROLEX --- SEIKO --- HEUER TRF REHAUT T H E R O L E X F O R U M T H E R O L E X F O R U M T H E R O L E X F O R U M T H E R O L E X F O R U M T H E R O L E X F O R U M T H E R O L E X F O R U M

27 October 2008, 11:31 PM	#7
delldeaton "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Real Name: Dell Deaton Location: NAWCC Museum! Watch: Never kiss & tell! Posts: 883	Weighing in here Add my name to the Explorer I owners group here: Have a D-series and absolutely love it (associate me w/ many of the responses already Posted). Yeah, it doesn't fit the current "trend" of larger watch cases; then again, not sure how much more than a trend that will end up being. It's not that much smaller than any other watch of the 1950s - just hasn't "grown" since then. I think it looks great and appropriate these days. It's not getting as much wrist time w/ me for practical reasons: Got my Sub Date back from servicing, and wanted to run a longer-term timing test observation it. Then, as I've confessed elsewhere in these Forums, it's on to the Omega 2531.80 for the next month or so for the Quantum of Solace opening. But you'll be hearing a lot more from me about the Explorer I in a couple of months. Meantime: Isn't there an affinity group here for this model? I'll have to look around, and, if I find it, I'll bump it up. __________________ . Watches, James Bond Watches .

28 October 2008, 12:09 AM	#9
delldeaton "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Real Name: Dell Deaton Location: NAWCC Museum! Watch: Never kiss & tell! Posts: 883	Enigmatic Explorer Endorsing Enthusiasts Here's a LINK to the "Social Group" for our types: http://www.rolexforums.com/group.php?groupid=8 __________________ . Watches, James Bond Watches .

7 November 2008, 08:38 AM	#13
Quicksilver "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: David Location: London+Guangzhou Watch: ing watches Posts: 2,603	The Rolex Explorer is a truly classic watch and one of the all time great Rolex watches with a first class pedigree. It was also, I understand, the Rolex worn by Ian Flemming as well as many explorers. If you were purchasing your Explorer to go on an expedition to a cold enviroment you could request Rolex to use a special lubricant in the movement designed to cope with sub zero temperatures - I am not sure if you can still do that. I love that attention to detail and customer satisfaction. It is scandalously over looked, which is a shame. The reason is because a lot of wis folk, quite unjustly, do not like 36 mm watches (I love 36 mm) and because its one Rolex which to most people does not look typicaly Rolex. Long live the Explorer I. Its on my shopping list __________________ Rolex Sea Dweller 116600, GMT Master II 16710 (Pepsi) and 116710 BLNR, Daytona 116500LN, Submariner 14060M.

29 July 2016, 09:39 PM	#1
PatrickJ Banned Join Date: Dec 2015 Location: England Posts: 456	Go explorer 1's Great watch Attached Images

27 October 2008, 12:08 PM	#2
Convert79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Washington, DC Watch: Explorer Posts: 10	I joined TRF because my wife said she would buy me a watch for my law school graduation. I started looking for a watch and focused on pieces that were simple and elegant. I came across the IWC Pilot Mark XVI and thought I had found the one. After I mentioned this to a friend who is more of a watch guy than me, he showed me the Explorer I. I immediately fell in love (and that's when I joined this forum). I showed it to my wife and she too fell in love with it. Now I spend more time looking for a good deal on the watch and watching this forum for Exp. I threads (like this one) than studying for my classes! I can't wait to get this watch! It's beautiful, simple, elegant, understated. I'm hoping to move the acquisition date up from May (graduation) to December - maybe a mixed xmas/graduation present! Wish me luck!

27 October 2008, 01:26 PM	#4
cbird "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Illinois Posts: 34	I have one, my only Rolex and the only model I've really wanted. I like the stealth aspect abd the excellent (almost unmatched) legibility of the dial, but it just really caught my eye somehow when I first saw one at an AD. Something about it just inspires confidence that it can stick with you in almost any conditions and any activities(maybe the name "Explorer" helps) - a fine watch that needs no babying.

27 October 2008, 11:43 PM	#8
Garandboy "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Maryland Watch: GMT II & Explorer Posts: 21	I purchased a previously loved Explorer last Christmas and I cannot tell you begin to tell you how much I love it. I also own a GMT II, which has not been on my wrist since. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and some may think that it is too simple or not blingy enough, but for me its the perfect watch. A classic, that smiles at me 24/7.

28 October 2008, 12:31 AM	#11
Loggins Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: NE England Posts: 105	This watch really really smiles at me. I was so close to buying it, but I tossed a coin and ended up buying my 16610. For me, Sub-Date, Explorer I and SS Daytona are the perfect trio, some day I'll have all three..

7 November 2008, 08:31 AM	#12
jm433 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Real Name: James Location: California Posts: 312	I really love the Explorer. It embodies the less is more ideal. I think it is not as popular due to its size, its lack of date and its "stealth" quality. I actually think most people like having their watch known to be a rolex. I think however, that, once you have a rolex and get to know more about them, the Explorer model gains in appeal. It's probably every Rolex WIS's "second favorite" Rolex. It's got such great heritage.

28 October 2008, 12:59 AM	#14
Atlanta "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Real Name: Jack Location: Atlanta, GA Watch: 126619LB & 114270 Posts: 767	I am in fear that as soon as I buy one, Rolex will release a polar face or some limited version and I will wish I waited. Reviewing the history of this watch - there is no shortage of limited runs and updates and I don't want to miss out, even though it is perfect as it is. What do they say - "let a man talk and he will answer his own questions." What am I waiting for? __________________ Member# 14554

28 October 2008, 02:46 AM	#15
GradyPhilpott 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: New Mexico Watch: Seiko #SRK050 Posts: 34,460	I know that this might seem nitpicking, but I prefer not to refer to my Explorer as the Explorer I, because its name is really just Explorer. The Explorer II has that appellation clearly marked on the dial, but nowhere that I'm aware is an Explorer ever officially designated as an Explorer I. Do others share my sentiment?

28 October 2008, 01:23 PM	#19
JediRolex "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Real Name: Derek Location: Chicago Watch: 114060 Posts: 447	I can't wait to pick mine up in three weeks! As I mentioned in another thread. This watch is perfect for my tastes. Not to big, not to small, not to formal, not to casual... just right. I was torn between a Sub or an all stainless DateJust, so I decided to purchase their love child!

28 October 2008, 01:37 PM	#20
Lol-x Facilitator Join Date: Nov 2005 Real Name: Steve Location: Omnipresent Posts: 33,587	Yes it is the one and only *Explorer* __________________ *Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.* ~Abraham Lincoln Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride. ~John F. Kennedy ROLEXploitation - yeah I'm a victim

28 October 2008, 05:37 PM	#21
DaveInLA "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: California Posts: 336	I like my Expy 1 more than I do the Sub. I originally really wanted a Sub, but felt it was too big for my wrist at the time, so I "settled" on the Explorer. A few months later, I couldn't get my mind off the Sub, so I went out and bought that too. While the Sub fits and looks fine, I still feel it's a bit large and heavy (clumsy) for my wrist. The Explorer is just perfect. Great blend between sport and dress. __________________ Explorer I 114270 Z-serial Submariner-date 16610 M-serial

28 October 2008, 09:05 PM	#22
buz-lh "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Buz Location: Atlanta Watch: Rolex Tudor Pam Posts: 5,108	I picked up a preowned K Explorer last month and have worn it more than any other. Best dial in the lineup, fits nicely under the cuff, legible at night, (relatively), looks great on the oyster bracelet or a nice strap and is the most comfortable watch I own. It's a keeper. __________________ Buz The faster you move, the slower time passes, the longer you live. Peter Diamandis

2 November 2008, 09:40 AM	#23
TheDude "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: DC Area, USA Watch: IIc,1680 Red,16660 Posts: 4,492	I just tried an M series Explorer on at Tourneau in NYC today. Very nice watch. I wish the bracelet were more substantial, but it's a beautiful watch. I think I have been spoiled by my first Rolex being a GMT-IIc. That bracelet is just insane. I wonder if/when the rest of the lineup will get the beefier bracelets.

2 November 2008, 09:46 AM	#24
GradyPhilpott 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: New Mexico Watch: Seiko #SRK050 Posts: 34,460	I had lunch with a friend today and he had a brand new GMT. I don't know the proper designation, but it had the ceramic bezel and the beefier bracelet. I is an absolutely beautiful watch. While the trend in watches has been toward thicker clasps and Rolex is now catching up to everyone else, the truth is that when the watch is secured on the arm, the difference seems to me to be negligible. I know that there must be some circumstance under which the heavier clasps would fare better, but I'm a little hard pressed to think of one, especially considering how long the "flimsier" ones have been getting the job done. __________________ JJ Inaugural TRF $50 Watch Challenge Winner

5 November 2008, 07:02 AM	#26
jdpny Banned Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: NY Posts: 501

7 November 2008, 01:14 AM	#27
mmanzara "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: London, ON, Can Posts: 8	Boy, I couldn't agree more. If I can get my pic to insert into this reply it will be great. I have a white face Exlorer late 50's (similar to an Air King) and I can't seem to get any more info other than "Nice Watch". It is quite simplistic with a Jubilee Band with S/N 3700XX. Very little history other than my Dad gave it to me. Keeps excellent time and only serviced once back in 1993. Still can't get my picture to copy into my reply. If you wnat me to send a pic here is my e-mail: [email protected]

7 November 2008, 01:34 AM	#28
mfer "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Real Name: Mik Location: USA Posts: 13,724	I just love the simply look of it. It would be the only sub 40mm watch I would buy right now. __________________ member#3242

7 November 2008, 08:04 AM	#29
Tortoise "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: uk Posts: 18	Like many others of you out there, I settled on the Explorer (a) because the 36mm case suits my skinny wrists better than a larger divers' watch and (b) its understated appearance makes it so versatile - it can be worn in the office without looking too "blingy" and attracting unwanted attention, it can be worn casually with less risk of its smaller case getting caught up and damaged whilst fooling around - and all the time it remains extremely comfortable to wear with an easy to read dial. A true classic.

19 April 2009, 01:28 AM	#30
mmanzara "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: London, ON, Can Posts: 8	Like you I am perplexed by the lack of info or pictures relating to Explorer l. I own a Canadian dress Explorer, circa 1958 (S/N 3700XX). It does not have the Mercedes Hands and the dial is white with a faint herring bone pattern, straight hands the dial is marked " Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer" at the 12 O'clock and "Super Precision" at 6 o'clock. I can never get a straight answer for the difference between Precison and Super Precision. It is a model 5500 with a Jubilee Bracelet.

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