OP 36 or Explorer

[Lol-x]

Explorer is for professionals.
OP is for non-professionals.

[BraveBold]

DJ smooth bezel on jubilee.

[stark1]

I had a similar lineup as you, and I went with the Exp1. The Exp1 didn't last because it didn't add much visual difference. I ultimately replaced it with an OP with a colorful dial. I think that's the way you should go (green in your case).

[cdm765]

Originally Posted by 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.

You sir have tremendous insights. Thank you for sharing!

[Lesnerelli23]

I would say Explorer unless you’re absolutely drawn to a colorful dial.

To me the Explorer at 36mm is perfection. Subtle yet rugged and capable. Timeless but modern. It’s casual and sporty at the same time, but put it on a black leather strap and it becomes “dressy”, or a green NATO for an instant military vibe!

My problem with the OP and the colorful dials is that they’re really (IMO) geared for large collections where once in while you’d like that POP but like, not all the time.


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[OG1982]

It depends, what else you have in the collection?

I had a 36mm Exp and sold it last year. I've just picked up a green dial 36 OP and it's like owning a completely new watch from another brand. The indices and handset are different to any Rolex I've ever owned.

[ArtNouveau]

I have a BLRO, a black dial 116500, and some colorful OP41s. They get the most wear these days. I love their simplicity and the contrast compared to the more common black and white dials.
The Explorer just doesn’t do much for me, the black is just plain and I don’t care for the large 3/6/9’s.

[bibbi]

Go with the green OP.




bibbi

[bibbi]

Though exp is equally great…




bibbi

[edyu]

Originally Posted by bibbi

Though exp is equally great…




bibbi

I think a green explorer would be awesome.
Overall I love the triangle and 3, 6, 9 on an Explorer, which makes the dial much more interesting.

[Kenny G]

You can’t go wrong with any of them. All are great. Based on your collection however, I’d go with a DJ fluted/jubilee.

If you’re deciding between the OP and Ex1, I’d go OP.

The DJ and OP would offer you the most diversification based on what you already have.

[trailblazer68]

Seems to me other than the BLRO, the rest are pretty utilitarian in nature. I would say go for a DJ, especially on the preferred colors mentioned

[RoRoRo]

I’d lean towards the Explorer. Then in the future as your collection builds would leave space for a Datejust/day date

[rich-96db]

How about an OP36 that kind of looks like an Explorer? Unfortunately, they discontinued this OP dial when they reintroduced the 36mm Explorer.

[cdm765]

Originally Posted by rich-96db

How about an OP36 that kind of looks like an Explorer? Unfortunately, they discontinued this OP dial when they reintroduced the 36mm Explorer.

I bought my Dad this watch in 2016. Might still be my favourite Rolex!

[edyu]

Originally Posted by rich-96db

How about an OP36 that kind of looks like an Explorer? Unfortunately, they discontinued this OP dial when they reintroduced the 36mm Explorer.

Great photo.

[Submariner868]

Originally Posted by 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.

Interesting. I had a Sub, added the 36mm Explorer, and ended up selling the Sub. The Explorer was a better fit.