About to pull trigger on first luxury watch, Explorer I?

[hhcave]

Hi guys,

So, I'm a 23 year old analyst at a bank and am looking to purchase my first luxury watch as I have always been fascinated by such timepieces and I figured it would be a great reward for myself for completing university and finally starting my working career. I figured, as an every-day-carry I need something which is versatile and understated - given my tiny wrists (6 inches) the submariner and GMT were out of the question (I think?) and I seem to have settled on the 39 mm Explorer as I realised I'm not a huge fan of the cyclops and the Explorer looks classy yet versatile for me. The 36 mm would most probably be a better fit however I am hesitant to buy used as given its my first watch, I want it to be 'my own' - also, I can get a 20% discount on new models through a friend.

The problem is, I am VERY indecisive. I can get 20-50% discounts from the following brands - Blancpain, Cartier, Chopard, Franck Muller, Glashutte Original, Jaeger LeCoultre, Omega and Zenith. Having looked into other brands, I have always been in love with the Reverso Grande Taille (metal strap) as well as some other pieces (eg. Glashutte PanoMatic Lunar). Thing is, firstly, I'm not sure I can wear these pieces as an every day carry and secondly, a friend said that the Reverso looks like a lady's watch so I'm doubting my taste.

Please throw me some advice! From these brands, things I am looking for in the watch are:
-Steel bracelet
-Clean look (classy but versatile - won't be out of place in t-shirt and jeans in a nightclub)
-Something that is not 'in your face' so I don't get torn to shreds when meeting clients etc
-Something that signifies new beginnings, the start of a significant point in life, but also individuality - I don't so much like going with the trend and have a piece that so many others have (eg. SubC)
-Something classic that I can build a collection from and that I will always appreciate (eg. I love the look of the Cartier Roadster but I may get tired of it after a few years - there are more timeless pieces out there)

Sorry for the absurdly long post and I look forward to hearing your suggestions!

HC

[travisb]

The 39mm Explorer is perfect. Don't over think it.
Consider adding one of the other brands you mentioned as a second watch some point down the road.
And congrats in advance!

[zama]

I think you will be on a path of many future watches start with your Rolex of choice and maybe go Blancpain as a dress watch in a few years.

[Old Expat Beast]

You might also consider the 116000 Oyster Perpetual, 36 mm. Similar to the 36 mm Explorer and a better fit for a 6 inch wrist than the 39 mm Explorer. Quite a bit more affordable, too.

[Cru Jones]

First of all, enjoy the hunt!

As for size, you might find the 39mm Exlorer to be pretty large on the wrist, as its dial is bigger than a Submariner or GMT.

[gmlomas]

EXP I...from experience

[trumpedaces]

I'm with you, I got the 39mm exp I as my first piece and love it. Some doubt on here abt hand length but it works perfectly for me. Also, down the road you'll get a better return on your investment with Rolex.

[uansari1]

First off, the Reverso most certainly does not look like a ladies watch, and your friend is plain wrong. It's a brilliant classic with horological heritage oozing from it.

That being said, a Rolex, while being somewhat understated and simple compared to the other brands you've mentioned, is where it is for a reason...especially to us WIS types. I'd recommend a 36mm Explorer I, ref. 114270. There's nothing wrong with buying used, especially if that's the only way to get exactly the watch you want. This watch has been in production long enough that finding a mint example, or maybe even an unworn piece, will be relatively easy. You'll save some money to boot. ;)

[GGGMT]

114270. The perfect first rolex. It is 36mm, super classic, discontinued, and affordable. They occasionally are for sale here from great sellers. You can buy with box and papers for about $4600 in mint. 39mm a bit too big. Good luck!!

[AWPage]

Go for it... Exp I is a great understated Rolex that can be worn anywhere.

[Bangel]

The Explorer seems like an ideal option, particularly if you don't mind not having a date function.

Congrats on finishing your university studies.

[BMess]

I'm shocked by this thread. I would suggest the OP get the JLC Reverso without hesitation. The explorer is a nice watch. I've seen them a few times and I'm sure they'd look nice on a small wrist. However, OP said it himself, he really likes the Reverso and he can get a significant discount. Rather than being unsure about whether or not you like the explorer, buy the Reverso which you've known for some time that you like and don't worry about your friend's opinion. The Reverso is a fantastic watch that is commonly misconstrued as a dress specific watch. This is not the case. The watch was originally made for Polo players to wear during their games. The reverse side of the face had a simple steel face so if it was hit during a match it wouldn't break.

This classically styled watch is perfect for the OP as his first watch especially if he is a young analyst for a bank where he wears a suit 100 hours a week.

[Roll the Lex]

Your post pretty much describes my first luxury watch buying thoughts (aside from the Reverso).

The Explorer I is a fantastic watch- it will NEVER go out of style and it's got a classic design. I love it and have no regrets. As a first Rolex, I think it is a fantastic idea. And if you are uncomfortable about buying used (and you will get a lot of advice to buy from a trusted seller here), then don't buy used. Look into it, but if you want to buy new, go for it. This is supposed to be a celebration, not full of worry and uncertainty.

BUT... if you love the Reverso, you love the Reverso. Try it on and if it is love at first sight, buy it. I don't care if you say you love a Timex. If you love it, buy it. No matter what you buy you'll find somebody that hates it. Even a solid gold Rolex. Never buy something for yourself for others.

[Jack T]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

You might also consider the 116000 Oyster Perpetual, 36 mm. Similar to the 36 mm Explorer and a better fit for a 6 inch wrist than the 39 mm Explorer. Quite a bit more affordable, too.

My thought exactly. I love the Exp I, but it's 39mm wear larger than you might think. The Oyster Perpetual has the same attributes - simple, understated, versatile, durable, no date. The oyster bracelet gives it some heft, a silver dial is beautiful, try it on.

[Psmith]

Welcome!

They are all nice watches, so take your time and try some on your wrist

[datejusting]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

You might also consider the 116000 Oyster Perpetual, 36 mm. Similar to the 36 mm Explorer and a better fit for a 6 inch wrist than the 39 mm Explorer. Quite a bit more affordable, too.

With the OP 36mm you can get the 3, 6, 9 dial just like on the explorer. Would be a great choice.

[AF_Rob]

If i had small wrists, a connection to get up to 50% off some nice brands, and wore dress clothes everyday, I would look at a Reverso.

[sea-dweller]

The Explorer 1 is a great choice! It continues to be one of my favorite watches. Welcome to TRF!

[Cc1966]

The Exp I seems tailored for you.

[rouxeny]

Congrats on looking for your first watch. As is commonly stated here, get what you like. Both the Exp 1, in either 36 or 39 mm size are classic watches, which will have that understated appeal that many want. The JlC is another classic.


To me, the JLC is a bit more work vs play, and I haven't worn a suit or long sleeves at work for years, so I don't think it'd be my choice for me. Doesn't mean it wouldn't be great for you!

If you're not sure, keep trying different watches on!

[AK797]

I agree with the other guys, the Exp1 is a great choice for you as a Rolex because you are 23 and a banker so you know the clichés, but the Exp1 is very un-Rolex and not blingy at all. Also maybe look at the Milgauss.

[CFAmick]

I just bought an Exp as my first Rolex last week. It's very understated.

[kericks6]

You'll love the 36 or 39 mm Explorer - I bought the 39 as my first Rolex no more than a month ago and have been very happy with my decision. But if I were you, I'd buy used from one of the trusted sellers here. With a bit of looking, you can find one in mint or near mint condition and save a good bit off the sticker price.

[up2nogood]

I respect your love for the JLC, but don't share it.
One you may not have seen is the Air King in 34mm.

[Racerdj]

Your choice is perfect. Have you considered a Daytona?

[Ravager135]

The Explorer is EXACTLY the watch you want given your specifications. To me the Explorer is the base Rolex model. Add something to it and you have a different watch. It is also the most versatile of all the pieces in the lineup. At 39mm it's not too large and not too small. It has the nice, clean look you highlighted and can be worn anywhere.

Everyone always seems to jump to a Submariner (myself included) or a GMT when the Explorer is probably the most appropriate (from a design meets function standpoint) for most Rolex wearers. It's one of those models all Rolex owners respect. Aside from it's size, it is one of the most unchanged pieces in Rolex history. A classic. Let us know when you pick it up.

[Coubs]

Originally Posted by Ravager135

The Explorer is EXACTLY the watch you want given your specifications. To me the Explorer is the base Rolex model. Add something to it and you have a different watch. It is also the most versatile of all the pieces in the lineup. At 39mm it's not too large and not too small. It has the nice, clean look you highlighted and can be worn anywhere.

Everyone always seems to jump to a Submariner (myself included) or a GMT when the Explorer is probably the most appropriate (from a design meets function standpoint) for most Rolex wearers. It's one of those models all Rolex owners respect. Aside from it's size, it is one of the most unchanged pieces in Rolex history. A classic. Let us know when you pick it up.

Agree with Evan. 39mm Exp 1 is so versatile. Having small wrists isn't so bad, makes the watch look bigger without the heft of a large watch.

[Ector495]

The explorer looks great. Classy watch. Maybe look at the date-just too. If I'm not mistaken they have smaller cases too. I have small wrists as well, I wear a 40mm YM and it looks ok to me. Good luck.

[TimeOnMyHands]

-Something that is not 'in your face' so I don't get torn to shreds when meeting clients etc
-Something that signifies new beginnings, the start of a significant point in life, but also individuality - I don't so much like going with the trend and have a piece that so many others have (eg. SubC)
-Something classic that I can build a collection from and that I will always appreciate

*****************

Um......it's just a watch.

[Nidal]

39 or 40 mm is basically the same. Actually exp1 looks bigger on the wrist than you think in a good way though.

Getting 20% so count is a rare thing and you should grab it and run with it. It's a timeless classic