Guys help me decide - OP39 or Explorer 1

[kwingy]

Hi Guys,

What would you buy as your next watch if you had to chose between the 6 digit Explorer 1 (pre-2016 model) or OP39 White.

I should say a dealer friend is offering me the explorer 1 at 4250 full set. I should say I've seen the white OP39 in the window at 4350 retail.

What would you guys go for? I am just not sure if the smaller hands on the pre-2016 model would do my head in and my last 3 watches have all been black face hence the lure of the white OP.

Thanks all for opinions.

[abozz]

I like the explorer but the OP39 white is beautiful and a new watch.

[delboylee]

If it had to be one of those, probably OP39 white. The explorer doesn't really do anything for me tbh.

Explorer 2 on the other hand.... seeing as you are considering a white dial, I would try and get hold of one of a white dial explorer 2.

[Bazza.]

I won't a white but I do have a Red OP39 which a use a dress watch
I don't wear it so much as my wife has it most of the time :)

[kwingy]

Originally Posted by delboylee

If it had to be one of those, probably OP39 white. The explorer doesn't really do anything for me tbh.

Explorer 2 on the other hand.... seeing as you are considering a white dial, I would try and get hold of one of a white dial explorer 2.

I can't pull of a 42mm and I've had the 5 digit before and want to go to a smooth bezel Rolex as well as a modern reference.

Thanks.

[Brew]

I haven't regretted choosing the rhodium OP39 over the Exp. I prefer the OP's bezel and Mercedes hands don't do much for me.

[G M Francis]

I have both watches with the OP 39 in blue. There are a lot of similarities between the two but for me it’s how they feel after a couple of days wearing. The Explorer has the DNA of a tool watch, very legible with the Mercedes hands, clear numerals and a fliplock bracelet. It wears well from a casual dress standpoint, it’s definitely the “tougher” of the two. The OP is a more dressier watch, it’s got a great dial with an extra bit of colour in and the convex bezel which oddly enough makes a bigger difference than you would think compared to the flat Explorer bezel. It’s a tough call, I don’t think you can go wrong with either as they are both classic watches in their own right. For what it’s worth the OP 39 is getting harder to get a hold of now than before.

[BillA]

Which ever one puts the bigger smile on your face

[shkure]

I was in the same dilemma as you but i ultimately went with the Explorer 1 Mk2. The reasons are the following:

Mercedes hands
More iconic, holds value better
Much better lume
better bracelet with 5mm extension which makes a surprisingly big difference.

[1William]

I like the Explorer better and I think you can also put it on leather straps and NATO's.

[DLRIDES]

EXP, but I would suggest a little more and get the MK II.

[RHIII]

I’d go with the white dial OP. Every collection needs a white dial watch - as well as a blue dial IMHO.


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[nick800]

This one

[JayHantz]

Or this one:

[Bob the brush]

That OP is stunning. My choice without doubt.

[WatchBrothersLondon]

Exp 1 gets my vote

[siempreko]

OP


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[cocopeep]

I really like all the OP dials they have, I would say a vote for the OP

[mjclark32]

OP39 for me

[airpeace]

OP39. it's clean and classy

[timvbs]

Whichever one you love more. Try them both on, see how they wear. I'm sure you will be happy with either option. I recently acquired a Exp I MK1 and I wouldn't give it up for the world.

[uncufunc]

OP with mercedes hands?

[Tampashooter]

Explorer 1. Easy link. EOS

[kwingy]

Thanks for all your opinions guys - much appreciated.

I think I am now leaning toward the OP39 for the following reasons I've convinced myself:

- Can get a new one for retail easily enough versus an old one. Get the AD experience etc.
- The little quirks - like the laser etched crown on the logo. I actually think that looks really cool and modern. The lack of an easy link doesn't really bother me.
- The clean face is really no nonsense, won't lie it looks damn photogenic in every picture I see. I also really fancy a white face watch. I was considering a Milgauss in white but I can't get my heard around the orange batons. And also as mentioned I think I need a change from black dial watches.

It also can't hurt that I saw one in my local AD where I am on the list for the new BLNR and Hulk so can't hurt my chances of being called on those...but of course I am realistic - it might never happen still.

Thanks again all. I will post pics when I get it.

[moting]

Both :)

[coaxial]

Explorer. Some argue its form factor as a tool watch only because of heritage, but it wears well for dressing out for formal attire. The perfect watch for everyday wear, ime.

[dafuture]

I prefer the Explorer just on virtue of the better clasp on the bracelet. Personal preference, but I love the fliplock.

[JLUK]

I had a similar debate between an OP with rhodium dial and a DJ41 on oyster. Little details like the stamped coronet on the bracket on the OP put me off - it didn’t feel as premium as the DJ. I ended up going with the Milgauss blue dial. Go figure....

[zengineer]

I have the 39mm Explorer Mk1 and wear it more than any other watch. I see more than a few comments from others who say the same thing. The OP39 White is nice. I had one and sold it. I liked it but a white dial watch was not something I went for very often so I went with a Grand Seiko in white to mix it up a bit.

I don't think there is a more versatile Rolex than the 214270. If I was to go to an OP39 instead as a primary watch I'd go for the black dial.

[MichaelT123]

Explorer Mk 2 > OP 39 white > Explorer Mk 1