Opinions please: Rolex Explorer, Vacheron Constantin FiftySix or something else?

[RTG]

In that case size I would be all over a VC 56.

[SolesFly]

2020 is bogus for either a Sub or Explorer, any other AD could do better. The older pre 2018 GMT models I don't think ADs will get new anymore, as the new models are in.

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[Galaga167]

Buy the Explorer and stick with the same brand as your sons. It’s .

[DasKptl]

Originally Posted by pinoy

You may want to consider the VC Overseas (simple date) in blue. And am sure you already know that it comes with the rubber and leather straps. But between the Explorer and the 56, I would choose the 56.

I concur.

[socal80]

Definitely go with the Explorer. I just picked mine up today and it's definitely going to be my daily driver. Very comfortable and I love the fact that it can be worn for almost any scenario.

[Justindo]

It seems you really want a Rolex and either a Submariner or an Explorer would make for a great complement to your sons' Air King and Explorer II. The wait on one of these should not be too long and even if you were to go gray, the premium is not too much, although, as you write, you would be missing out on the AD experience and that seems to be important to you. I would also recommend considering a 39mm Oyster Perpetual with either a black, blue, rhodium, or white dial. It's basically the same as the Explorer except the hands, dial, bezel, and clasp are different. It also dresses up better than an Explorer. This watch is easier to get than the Explorer and the Submariner and it's less expensive. For what it's worth, I have both an Explorer and a Submariner and I like them both but I find the Explorer to be more versatile but if I wanted a one and only watch, I would get a white dial 39mm Oyster Perpetual.

As for the Fiftysix, it's a far superior watch to anything Rolex makes except when it comes to durability, resale, and common man status. Stlll, it's a different watch than a Rolex and is on the dressier side, although the bracelet dresses it down some. (FYI, all of the Fiftysixes have a date except for the tourbillon, so you'll be getting a date, which would eliminate it from contention if you are looking for a no date watch.)

[airchitect]

That seriously looks like half the Bulova’s at Macy’s. go overseas (preloved) or wait for the Rolex.

[Fleetlord]

Rolex only.

[jailja]

Thank you all for additional comments!

There are really good points mentioned here and I think that I have made up my mind. Although Vacheron Constantin has some beautiful watches, I would most likely be too scared to wear them. I know Rolex is durable. In addition, Rolex would be nice continuity for my boys's Explorer II and Air-King. So I either get SUB (no date) or Explorer from aftermarket, even if that would mean paying up some premium.

Thank you all so much for your help!

[AK797]

Guess this thread shows why Rolex demand is thru the roof, even when a preferred Sub/GMT is off the table the other brands can't get a bite.

[jailja]

Thank you once more for all those who helped me to make a decision! I ordered a pre-loved SS Sub ND. Will be posting pictures soon!

[jailja]

Finally, it has arrived! And it is a beauty! And sorry, can`t seem to upload small enough image from ipad, but you all know how beautiful the SS Sub ND is.

[drtii]

Originally Posted by Tokyo Mike

The Explorer is the 3nd easiest to get, behind the AK and Sub. What about a Sub?

Whaaaaat? The Sub isn't that easy to get. You can find AK's all day.

The difficulty level in obtaining SS models goes like this, from easiest to hardest.

1.) OP

2.) DJ

3.) AK

4.) Milgauss

5.) DSSD & EXP2

6.) Submariner (ND)

7.) Submariner (Date)

8.) SD43 & JC (TIE)

9.) CHNR (it's a TT, I know)

10.) GMT Black

22.) GMT BLNR

35.) GMT BLRO

399.) 11650LN

[sagla]

VC fifty-six day date (awesome). Explorer I great choice as well and should not be difficult to get. But if the budget is ok, I guess I would get VC, imho

[matt009au]

Originally Posted by bomb

With the current market now, I recently realized that you can get a pretty good deal from VC. I think the fifty six is nice and if it sings to you, I think you should go for it. On another hand, if you are on the fence, I recommend you take a look at the Oversea. The blue dial on the Oversea is stunning. Also, the Oversea comes with a choice of a steel bracelet, a leather strap, and a rubber strap. So you can dress it up or dress it down depending on the occasion.


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I'm having that internal debate right now. Overseas or CHNR.
Plusses and minuses on both sides. I think I like the overseas slightly more, I just worry it might be slightly too big lug to lug for my 6.5" wrist.

[realmiti]

What both excel at: Accuracy
What Explorer is far more better: Brand recognition, among average people
What 56 are superior: Superb finish / understated
ps. VC 1326 movement doesn't have date change limitation, same as many recent Rolex watches