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turboawd · 23 April 2015, 01:47 PM

Hi all,

I'm in the market now for my first rolex. I'm turning 40 and my wife is letting me get one, after years of mental conditioning by me on her - so this is my one chance to get it right!! The next time I'll be allowed to spend this much on a watch will likely be in 10 years when I turn 50.

So I've narrowed it down to two choices, the 116000 OP 36mm with the blue 3-6-9 dial vs the 39mm Exp 1 ref 214270. I've always wanted a simple low-key rolex, and these two seem to fit the bill.

I've been quoted the following prices by my local AD (I live in Toronto):

OP 116000: CAD$5800 all in
Exp 1 214270: CAD$7200 all in

Basically they are offering both watches at the MSRP before the latest 7% increase, and no tax. To me these seem like not bad prices, especially with the weak Canadian dollar now. these would be factory fresh ordered watches. But feel free to chime in with your thoughts on these prices.

So which one would you choose? here are some of the reasons I thought of to buy, for each model

OP 116000:
-the blue 3-6-9 dial is discontinued, but it's still available now to order brand new. but pretty soon the blue 3-6-9 will not be available new. So that's a reason to get it now.
-36mm size is a better fit than 39mm on my super-thin 6.2" wrist
-cheaper than the Exp 1 (CAD$1400 difference)

Exp 1 217270:
-i do prefer the mercedes hands, as well has having the triangle at 12
-higher value retention than the OP
-I do like the straight sloped bezel to the domed bezel of the OP
-it still fits pretty good on my wrist (but not as well as the 36mm OP)

Anyone have any other thoughts or opinions? I'd love to hear them!

Here are some pics borrowed from the net on the two models:
OP 116000:

Exp1 217240:

Thanks

rusty427 · 23 April 2015, 02:21 PM

I like both.
If I was getting the OP, I would check that it has the newer date just style hands for legibility. I am pretty certain the latest models have the fatter hands. Hard to confirm though.
If it was my only Rolex and the cost was not an issue, I would go the explorer. Regardless of the short hand issue.

CDNWatchNut · 23 April 2015, 02:43 PM

I really like the blue dial OP you're considering, definitely my favourite dial in the 116000 also. I don't think you can go wrong with either, but I would (did) pick the 214270 as I wanted the Explorer, and The 39mm case size for the style of watch suits my taste just a little better than the 36mm OP. It feels just right on my wrist (7.5") for a sport type watch. Also, the easylink and oyster lock clasp are nice upgrades on the Explorer.
All that said, it does seem from your comments and wrist size that the OP is a better fit, and to me that trumps value retention(which I really don't think there is that much difference) and maybe even your preference of hands, 12 o'clock marker and bezel. What I'm getting at is that you may enjoy the smaller watch more for its overall fit, and the other details you will just become accustomed to and enjoy the watch as a whole, than if you go too big for your wearing comfort and size perception.

rollee1 · 23 April 2015, 02:51 PM

Explorer I all the way.

Your best bet is the original Explorer I 36mm 114270.
Try to see if you can find a mint one with box and papers, perfect watch for you and save some dough.

Oyster99 · 23 April 2015, 03:01 PM

I like the 36mm OP better!

turboawd · 23 April 2015, 03:23 PM

Thx for the feedback guys...

cdnwatchnut, Thx for your input, yeah, i may be leaning towards the op...what do you think about the price quotes I was given by the AD? Particularly the exp 1 for cad$7200 all in?

rollee1, you are right, the 36mm exp 1 is really nice, and I've been looking out for one for a while. But the thing is, in Canada it's hard to find, and as for importing one from the US to Canada, with our weak dollar plus duties and taxes, it make it pretty expensive, almost negating any savings over a new watch bought locally. For example a usd$4400 exp1 after taxes , duties and exchange rate works or to be about cad$6600, which is more than the op, and not much less than the brand new 39mm exp 1... About a year ago it was a much better time, due to the strength of the Canadian dollar at that time...

DCheeta · 23 April 2015, 03:28 PM

If this is your one chance to get it right, then it's worth waiting for a 36mm Exp to come along. Sounds like its the perfect watch for you.

Hairdude1 · 23 April 2015, 03:29 PM

I say the EXI, I love mine and wear it more as it flies under the radar

turboawd · 23 April 2015, 03:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rusty427

I like both.
If I was getting the OP, I would check that it has the newer date just style hands for legibility. I am pretty certain the latest models have the fatter hands. Hard to confirm though.
If it was my only Rolex and the cost was not an issue, I would go the explorer. Regardless of the short hand issue.

Hi Rusty... I think it's the older style hands on this op. This one is officially discontinued, but currently can still be ordered...

rusty427 · 23 April 2015, 04:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by turboawd

Hi Rusty... I think it's the older style hands on this op. This one is officially discontinued, but currently can still be ordered...

Hi mate,
I have seen the newer hands on the the blue OP.
Check this picture out, you can see the hands are slightly shorter and fatter, the lume starts at roughly the same inside diameter. You can see the minute hand does not out past the buttons.
I recently saw one sell on WUS with these hands as well.
Though I could be deluded :) but I am pretty sure there was a change in the last batch. These hands can be seen on the new double baton grape dials as well.
By the way the blue is sensational!

Borrowed pic.

Evo6 · 23 April 2015, 05:15 PM

I say get the best of both worlds and buy a 36mm Explorer 1 from a trusted seller here. You'll save even more $ and get everything you're looking for. I love my 116000 but I've been very tempted by a 36mm Exp1, they are just so elegant and sporty at the same time!

David SW has one with B&P for sale, I just bought my 114060 from him, super reliable and amazing to deal with...
http://rolexforums.com/showthread.ph...=explorer+36mm

Especially on a 6.5" wrist (See below)...

Malak · 23 April 2015, 06:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oyster99

i like the 36mm op better!

+1

turboawd · 23 April 2015, 11:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rusty427

Hi mate,
I have seen the newer hands on the the blue OP.
Check this picture out, you can see the hands are slightly shorter and fatter, the lume starts at roughly the same inside diameter. You can see the minute hand does not out past the buttons.
I recently saw one sell on WUS with these hands as well.
Though I could be deluded :) but I am pretty sure there was a change in the last batch. These hands can be seen on the new double baton grape dials as well.
By the way the blue is sensational!

Borrowed pic.

Wow you are totally right!! I can see that the newer style hands are faceted with a ridge down the middle... I'll have to check on that. Apparently they would order it in new for me, so I think it should be the newer hands...

joesetx · 24 April 2015, 12:43 AM

Both are great watches but for me the Explorer 1 is more classic and more likely to hold it's value in the long run.

You've got a great wife there.

jshepard · 24 April 2015, 01:22 AM

I agree with the others that finding a 36mm Explorer will pretty much meet all your requirements. However, that decision will take you from the worry-free AD purchase since its been discontinued for a few years now. Make sure you do your research well prior to making a non-AD purchase in getting to know your seller. If you don't want to do all that work then I'd have to suggest the 116000 based off of the reasons you mentioned.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Loevhagen · 24 April 2015, 01:29 AM

How about a comprise:

AK797 · 24 April 2015, 02:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rusty427

Hi mate,
I have seen the newer hands on the the blue OP.
Check this picture out, you can see the hands are slightly shorter and fatter, the lume starts at roughly the same inside diameter. You can see the minute hand does not out past the buttons.
I recently saw one sell on WUS with these hands as well.
Though I could be deluded :) but I am pretty sure there was a change in the last batch. These hands can be seen on the new double baton grape dials as well.
By the way the blue is sensational!

Borrowed pic.

mui.richard · 24 April 2015, 03:01 AM

Hi all, greetings from Hong Kong.

To OP: I have a really small wrist too...15.5cm (6.1") and I just purchased the 214270 Explorer from an AD here in Hong Kong at approx the same price you mentioned. Honestly I don't think the 214270 is big at all. Plus the newer version oyster bracelet is really comfortable, what with the easylink and all.

Not sure if you've actually tried the watches on at an AD yet but if you haven't I think you owe it to yourself to try them both on before deciding. Weight, lug distance, case thickness all play a roll on how a watch fits.

As an example I tried both the Milgauss and the Explorer before deciding...while the Milgauss at 40mm is only 1mm bigger, the thicker case and weight made it felt substantially bigger on the wrist than the little difference in size would suggest.

Would that helps. :)

mui.richard · 24 April 2015, 03:21 AM

To OP:

Have you tried both watches on at an AD yet? If you haven't, you owe it to yourself to try them before deciding.

The 214270 wears smaller than the size suggest. I have a 6.1" wrist too but the explorer fits my wrist perfectly.

When I purchased mine I tried on the Milguass as well. Even though the Milgauss measures only 1 mm bigger, the extra weight and thickness made it feel substantially bigger than the Explorer on wrist.

Sent from my D6653 using Tapatalk

travisb · 24 April 2015, 03:40 AM

Both great but I'd probably go with the OP given your wrist size. Love that shade of blue!
It really just comes down to which size you like better on your wrist.
Congrats either way!

CDNWatchNut · 24 April 2015, 04:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by turboawd

Thx for the feedback guys...

cdnwatchnut, Thx for your input, yeah, i may be leaning towards the op...what do you think about the price quotes I was given by the AD? Particularly the exp 1 for cad$7200 all in?

Sending you a PM

hdms · 24 April 2015, 04:19 AM

Go with explorer. I think 7,200 is still on the high side. You can have a better deal than that.

ernie2 · 24 April 2015, 04:28 AM

a good condition 114270 is about $4000 usd

Kristen Wiley · 24 April 2015, 04:49 AM

If you would ever need/want to, the Explorer will be much easier to sell and has a quicker rate of return than the Oyster Perpetual.

wrightbrain · 24 April 2015, 04:57 AM

114270

Bfd70 · 24 April 2015, 05:09 AM

The Blue dial is gorgeous. If you prefer the fit of the OP, I say go with it.
Don't sweat resale options. Wear it in good health for the next 10 years then get a Sky Dweller.

Gerardus · 24 April 2015, 06:01 AM

The OP Blue face for me.

SemperFi · 24 April 2015, 06:13 AM

Both great choices. Don't know if you've had them on your wrist yet but that's almost a must. Watches will always have a different look in person and on your wrist. Whatever you decide, enjoy the hunt...that's half the fun.

turboawd · 24 April 2015, 06:51 AM

Thanks everyone... The 114270 certainly seems like the right combination, only concern is not being able to try it on or see it in person before buying. This weekend I'll be trying on the 217240 to see how it fits...

watchwatcher · 24 April 2015, 07:14 AM

With only one shot at it...I would go with the EXP for sure.

23 April 2015, 01:47 PM	#1
turboawd "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2013 Location: Canada Posts: 208	first rolex - 116000 Oyster Perpetual vs 214270 Explorer 1 Hi all, I'm in the market now for my first rolex. I'm turning 40 and my wife is letting me get one, after years of mental conditioning by me on her - so this is my one chance to get it right!! The next time I'll be allowed to spend this much on a watch will likely be in 10 years when I turn 50. So I've narrowed it down to two choices, the 116000 OP 36mm with the blue 3-6-9 dial vs the 39mm Exp 1 ref 214270. I've always wanted a simple low-key rolex, and these two seem to fit the bill. I've been quoted the following prices by my local AD (I live in Toronto): OP 116000: CAD$5800 all in Exp 1 214270: CAD$7200 all in Basically they are offering both watches at the MSRP before the latest 7% increase, and no tax. To me these seem like not bad prices, especially with the weak Canadian dollar now. these would be factory fresh ordered watches. But feel free to chime in with your thoughts on these prices. So which one would you choose? here are some of the reasons I thought of to buy, for each model OP 116000: -the blue 3-6-9 dial is discontinued, but it's still available now to order brand new. but pretty soon the blue 3-6-9 will not be available new. So that's a reason to get it now. -36mm size is a better fit than 39mm on my super-thin 6.2" wrist -cheaper than the Exp 1 (CAD$1400 difference) Exp 1 217270: -i do prefer the mercedes hands, as well has having the triangle at 12 -higher value retention than the OP -I do like the straight sloped bezel to the domed bezel of the OP -it still fits pretty good on my wrist (but not as well as the 36mm OP) Anyone have any other thoughts or opinions? I'd love to hear them! Here are some pics borrowed from the net on the two models: OP 116000: Exp1 217240: Thanks

23 April 2015, 02:51 PM	#4
rollee1 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2015 Real Name: Rollee Location: Boston Watch: it watching me Posts: 1,945	Explorer I all the way. Your best bet is the original Explorer I 36mm 114270. Try to see if you can find a mint one with box and papers, perfect watch for you and save some dough. __________________ Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted

23 April 2015, 03:01 PM	#5
Oyster99 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2015 Real Name: Kris Location: Holland Watch: me go Posts: 730	I like the 36mm OP better! __________________ Instagram watchpage: k99app, feel free to follow me ;) 17014 - oysterquartz Corniche Mistral40 Regards.

23 April 2015, 03:29 PM	#8
Hairdude1 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2012 Real Name: Alex Location: Chicago Watch: AP,PP, Rolex Posts: 37,156	I say the EXI, I love mine and wear it more as it flies under the radar __________________ Instagram: @Hairdude Watches in Collection 5070R, 5522A, 214270 MK1, 228238 16750, 26401, 5711, 116718, 116710LN, 116300, 16710"Coke", 372, 15300, 15703 (All Flipped) Official Member "Perpetual 30" Las Vegas GTG 2016 Official Member "WIS-CON" Las Vegas International GTG 2017 Official Member 'WIS-CON' Las Vegas Int'l GTG 2018

24 April 2015, 04:57 AM	#25
wrightbrain "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: USA Posts: 197	114270 Attached Images

23 April 2015, 02:21 PM	#2
rusty427 "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2013 Location: Australia Posts: 204	I like both. If I was getting the OP, I would check that it has the newer date just style hands for legibility. I am pretty certain the latest models have the fatter hands. Hard to confirm though. If it was my only Rolex and the cost was not an issue, I would go the explorer. Regardless of the short hand issue.

23 April 2015, 02:43 PM	#3
CDNWatchNut "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Juan Location: Sherwood Park, Ab Watch: 114060 Posts: 1,509	I really like the blue dial OP you're considering, definitely my favourite dial in the 116000 also. I don't think you can go wrong with either, but I would (did) pick the 214270 as I wanted the Explorer, and The 39mm case size for the style of watch suits my taste just a little better than the 36mm OP. It feels just right on my wrist (7.5") for a sport type watch. Also, the easylink and oyster lock clasp are nice upgrades on the Explorer. All that said, it does seem from your comments and wrist size that the OP is a better fit, and to me that trumps value retention(which I really don't think there is that much difference) and maybe even your preference of hands, 12 o'clock marker and bezel. What I'm getting at is that you may enjoy the smaller watch more for its overall fit, and the other details you will just become accustomed to and enjoy the watch as a whole, than if you go too big for your wearing comfort and size perception.

23 April 2015, 03:23 PM	#6
turboawd "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2013 Location: Canada Posts: 208	Thx for the feedback guys... cdnwatchnut, Thx for your input, yeah, i may be leaning towards the op...what do you think about the price quotes I was given by the AD? Particularly the exp 1 for cad$7200 all in? rollee1, you are right, the 36mm exp 1 is really nice, and I've been looking out for one for a while. But the thing is, in Canada it's hard to find, and as for importing one from the US to Canada, with our weak dollar plus duties and taxes, it make it pretty expensive, almost negating any savings over a new watch bought locally. For example a usd$4400 exp1 after taxes , duties and exchange rate works or to be about cad$6600, which is more than the op, and not much less than the brand new 39mm exp 1... About a year ago it was a much better time, due to the strength of the Canadian dollar at that time...

23 April 2015, 03:28 PM	#7
DCheeta "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2013 Real Name: Dave Location: NYC Posts: 7,181	If this is your one chance to get it right, then it's worth waiting for a 36mm Exp to come along. Sounds like its the perfect watch for you.

23 April 2015, 05:15 PM	#11
Evo6 "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2014 Location: SoCal Watch: BLNR55131675BB58 Posts: 829	I say get the best of both worlds and buy a 36mm Explorer 1 from a trusted seller here. You'll save even more $ and get everything you're looking for. I love my 116000 but I've been very tempted by a 36mm Exp1, they are just so elegant and sporty at the same time! David SW has one with B&P for sale, I just bought my 114060 from him, super reliable and amazing to deal with... http://rolexforums.com/showthread.ph...=explorer+36mm Especially on a 6.5" wrist (See below)...

24 April 2015, 12:43 AM	#14
joesetx "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2014 Location: Texas Posts: 67	Both are great watches but for me the Explorer 1 is more classic and more likely to hold it's value in the long run. You've got a great wife there.

24 April 2015, 01:22 AM	#15
jshepard "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: USA Watch: GMTII Posts: 1,180	I agree with the others that finding a 36mm Explorer will pretty much meet all your requirements. However, that decision will take you from the worry-free AD purchase since its been discontinued for a few years now. Make sure you do your research well prior to making a non-AD purchase in getting to know your seller. If you don't want to do all that work then I'd have to suggest the 116000 based off of the reasons you mentioned. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

24 April 2015, 01:29 AM	#16
Loevhagen "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2014 Location: The aperture Posts: 4,941	How about a comprise:

24 April 2015, 03:01 AM	#18
mui.richard "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Hong Kong Posts: 673	Hi all, greetings from Hong Kong. To OP: I have a really small wrist too...15.5cm (6.1") and I just purchased the 214270 Explorer from an AD here in Hong Kong at approx the same price you mentioned. Honestly I don't think the 214270 is big at all. Plus the newer version oyster bracelet is really comfortable, what with the easylink and all. Not sure if you've actually tried the watches on at an AD yet but if you haven't I think you owe it to yourself to try them both on before deciding. Weight, lug distance, case thickness all play a roll on how a watch fits. As an example I tried both the Milgauss and the Explorer before deciding...while the Milgauss at 40mm is only 1mm bigger, the thicker case and weight made it felt substantially bigger on the wrist than the little difference in size would suggest. Would that helps. :)

24 April 2015, 03:21 AM	#19
mui.richard "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Hong Kong Posts: 673	To OP: Have you tried both watches on at an AD yet? If you haven't, you owe it to yourself to try them before deciding. The 214270 wears smaller than the size suggest. I have a 6.1" wrist too but the explorer fits my wrist perfectly. When I purchased mine I tried on the Milguass as well. Even though the Milgauss measures only 1 mm bigger, the extra weight and thickness made it feel substantially bigger than the Explorer on wrist. Sent from my D6653 using Tapatalk

24 April 2015, 03:40 AM	#20
travisb 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Real Name: Travis Location: FL / NYC Watch: Yes.. Posts: 33,493	Both great but I'd probably go with the OP given your wrist size. Love that shade of blue! It really just comes down to which size you like better on your wrist. Congrats either way!

24 April 2015, 04:19 AM	#22
hdms "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2013 Location: canada Posts: 243	Go with explorer. I think 7,200 is still on the high side. You can have a better deal than that.

24 April 2015, 04:28 AM	#23
ernie2 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Real Name: Arnold Location: New York Watch: SD4K+BLNR Posts: 849	a good condition 114270 is about $4000 usd

24 April 2015, 04:49 AM	#24
Kristen Wiley "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Midwest Watch: 15200 & 80298 Posts: 14	If you would ever need/want to, the Explorer will be much easier to sell and has a quicker rate of return than the Oyster Perpetual.

24 April 2015, 05:09 AM	#26
Bfd70 "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Chicago Posts: 893	The Blue dial is gorgeous. If you prefer the fit of the OP, I say go with it. Don't sweat resale options. Wear it in good health for the next 10 years then get a Sky Dweller.

24 April 2015, 06:01 AM	#27
Gerardus "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Real Name: Gerardus Location: often in the air Watch: ♕ Posts: 12,142	The OP Blue face for me. __________________ ♕126610 ♕126333 ♕116300

24 April 2015, 06:13 AM	#28
SemperFi "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Real Name: Angelo Location: Brooklyn, NY Watch: Rolex Submariner Posts: 42,164	Both great choices. Don't know if you've had them on your wrist yet but that's almost a must. Watches will always have a different look in person and on your wrist. Whatever you decide, enjoy the hunt...that's half the fun.

24 April 2015, 06:51 AM	#29
turboawd "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2013 Location: Canada Posts: 208	Thanks everyone... The 114270 certainly seems like the right combination, only concern is not being able to try it on or see it in person before buying. This weekend I'll be trying on the 217240 to see how it fits...

24 April 2015, 07:14 AM	#30
watchwatcher "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Larry Location: Kentucky Watch: Yes Posts: 35,047	With only one shot at it...I would go with the EXP for sure.

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