14270 vs 114270

[sluu83]

I have an opportunity to get a 1996 14270 Explorer which has some nice patina for roughly the same price as a 114270.

If you were in my situation, would you sacrifice the better movement and bracelet for the tritium markers + novelty of the watch being produced in your birth year?

[Raza_actual]

No, I wouldn’t. You’ll have your whole life to get a birth year watch. And tons of choices. The current model is better in every way (unless it’s too big for your wrist) and is in a size that will last a lifetime without looking too big or too small.

[chillwill120]

Originally Posted by Raza_actual

No, I wouldn’t. You’ll have your whole life to get a birth year watch. And tons of choices. The current model is better in every way (unless it’s too big for your wrist) and is in a size that will last a lifetime without looking too big or too small.

The 39mm Explorer is the 214270, NOT the 114270. There is really no difference between the two other than the solid endlinks on the 114270 and a slightly improved movement. If you like the tritium go with the 14270.

[fskywalker]

Probably no


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[sluu83]

Originally Posted by Raza_actual

No, I wouldn’t. You’ll have your whole life to get a birth year watch. And tons of choices. The current model is better in every way (unless it’s too big for your wrist) and is in a size that will last a lifetime without looking too big or too small.

Not interested in the 39mm 214270 as it is too large.

Trying to decide between 2 36mm models.

[Nikrnic]

I'd go six digits

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[robbyrolex]

The birth year factor would be neat, provided the condition is good.

[Raza_actual]

Originally Posted by chillwill120

The 39mm Explorer is the 214270, NOT the 114270. There is really no difference between the two other than the solid endlinks on the 114270 and a slightly improved movement. If you like the tritium go with the 14270.

Oh, thanks for the correction. In that case, I agree with you, go for whichever you like better.

[spoilsofwar01]

Ive just bought a pre owned 114270, for me the improved movement and still retaining a classic look was a deciding factor, I understand the prices are comparative, the 14270 did have a limited run on blacked out numerals that you will pay a premium for (very rare) so I guess it would be down to condition, box and papers above all else.... if you can obtain photos of both that you are considering add them to your post... and await guidance, all the very best

[chillwill120]

One of the nice things about the 14270 is that you can wear it on a jubilee from a datejust, you don't have this option with the 114270.

[sluu83]

Here is the 14270 in question.

[Vlad the Impaler 007]

Originally Posted by chillwill120

One of the nice things about the 14270 is that you can wear it on a jubilee from a datejust, you don't have this option with the 114270.

AND if you like wearing NATO or other straps, the spacing on the 14270 spring bars is better for such. The 114270 spring bars are closer to the case and make lots of straps rub on the case. I'd go for the 14270.

[Art 1]

I would not.

[brandrea]

The newer 6 digit is better in every way, at least to my eyes

[MCO1]

I'd say mostly 6 of 1 Half dozen of the other. The only thing I might say is that the lume on the older one may not work anymore. If you want to see it in the dark then this is a factor if not then no worries.

[Justinmg]

Go with the 14270, it’s a birth year watch and has a tritium dial. I have a sub from 96 and the tritium markets are starting to turn and it’s beautiful. The movement is as accurate as any modern Rolex i have owned, and if it’s not, nothing a service can’t fix. SEL for me was a non issue, I can’t even tell. Plus I love the feel of the old five digit bracelets.