Help me decide what to buy! Explorer or Sub-C No Date

[bob78h]

Help me decide what to get for my next Rolex! I'm currently wearing a 36mm Explorer which I like, but due to my tiny 6" wrists I'm having trouble getting the clasp centered which is driving me nuts. I'm looking to flip it and get something with the new bracelet instead.

I'm looking at either the updated 39mm Explorer or the no date Sub-C. The Explorer lugs are curved so it feels like it wraps my wrist better, whereas the Sub is flatter and sits more on top of my wrist. The chunky, thicker case on the Sub gives it a lot more wrist presence whereas the Explorer blends in more as a part of my wrist.

Aside from that, I like both equally and am having trouble deciding what to get. I like the Explorer for its history (I tend to explore the outdoors rather than go diving) and how it is understated and less ubiquitous. It seems like a lot of people who buy a Rolex for the brand name buy Subs, and I don't want to give off that vibe. I'm also a little concerned that at my age (mid 20s) I'll get called out for having a fake Rolex since the Sub is so commonly faked (of course, I buy things for my enjoyment, not other people, but it would honestly irritate me a little to spend so much money on anything and have it mistaken for a fake). On the other hand, the Sub is a classic for a reason, and the chunky look is really growing on me, it is built like a tank. Also, even though I generally like the simplicity of the Explorer, on some rare occasions (when I'm dressed very casually in t-shirt/shorts) I feel like it is a little too plain and I want something with a little more wrist presence.

I only plan on owning one watch and wearing it for all occasions (hiking, skiing, the office, more formal events, a beer at the local bar, working on my car, etc). I don't want to look back in few years and not feel satisfied/get the itch to buy the other watch. I know many of you have (or have had) both, and I'd like to hear your wisdom on which one you wear more/would get as your only watch. Also, I'd appreciate opinions on which of the two you think looks better on my wrist (my 36mm Explorer included for comparison)

[Old Expat Beast]

The 36 looks much better than the other two, which both look too big on you, IMO. Try and get the bracelet/clasp issue fixed instead.

[sea-dweller]

I'd get the Explorer, looks nice on you.

[zaydans]

Can't go wrong with either as they are both so versitile but if I had to choose I'd say nothing comes close to a sub. you can always add the explorer later!!

[Sunny Arizona]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

The 36 looks much better than the other two, which both look too big on you, IMO. Try and get the bracelet/clasp issue fixed instead.

You can have one of the half links taken out of the Explorer Bracelet. A jeweler can do it for a low cost. The news ones look too big.

[Jcy90]

Explorer looks nice in you

[citanest]

Both explorers are nice. I bet the sub overhang a little if you take a photo from the side. Can't go wrong with any of them though.

[And1dre]

Both are beautiful. I would pick the Sub ND though.

[aes7.5x55]

Originally Posted by old expat beast

the 36 looks much better than the other two, which both look too big on you, imo. Try and get the bracelet/clasp issue fixed instead.

+1

[Andrewlennywatches]

Pretty hard choice for me as both of them are really nice watches.

[watchwatcher]

I would go with the EXP...looks great.

[KingRichard]

If you only want one watch, which I think is great, then I would recommend you save a bit and get a sub date. You are less likely to look back and regret your decision. The 116610LN is a 'steel stunner' and although a very 'typical' or common Rolex purchase, it is that for a reason. Think about it more...that's probably the best advice I could give. All of these options are perfectly suitable for someone in his mid twenties.

Also, I love the fact that you want to wear your watch while doing everything but I would avoid working on your car with your Rolex on. Plenty of owners have damaged their watch (even many TRF members) doing something like this it's not worth it.

[Bigsykedaddy]

I think the 36 mm looks the best on you, however I do think the SubC looks awesome on you too. The 39 mm explorer looks a too big on you because it doesn't have the thick bezel like the Sub.

I would go 36 mm Explorer > SubC > Explorer 39 mm

Obviously you gotta get the one that you like the most

[Hairdude1]

Ex1

[Scapegoat]

36mm looks fab on you. The 39mm and 40mm watches seem to be wearing you, instead of yourself wearing the watch.

[kauffee]

I think all 3 look great and I don't think the 2 new ones are too big at all. They look perfect on you. In fact I like the 39mm Ex on you better than your current one.

Hard decision. You have an Explorer so you know what that's like. You can't make a bad choice. Be aware, with a small wrist the glidelock clasp will basically cover all of it. Some people find that less comfortable, even though there is more adjustability.

[904VT]

I think Explorer looks best (either of the two). Sub is always a classic, but I'd keep in mind that the outer clasp covering of the Sub may be uncomfortable given it's size and your wrist size.

It may be unconventional in thought, but I'd also consider a 16610LN. I think it may be a nice middle option.

IMO at least, the finishing quality on 904 modern steel is a step above anything someone would confuse with not being genuine.

Good luck

[kauffee]

Looks like 904VT and I were typing at the same time and had the same thoughts about the Sub's clasp. Thinking about it more, you may want to go with the 39mm Explorer since comfort is clearly a priority for you. The Sub sits high and has that huge clasp, so you might have issues.

[JohnLT]

As much as I love my Sub the 36mm Exp looks perfect on you.

[MCO1]

First, the 36mm Explorer looks fine on you I wish I could wear one. The bracelet should be fixable.

I own a 39mm Explorer and a pre ceramic Sub and I like them both a lot and would have trouble choosing the one to keep. If I were a one watch person the Explorer could fit the bill pretty good for me dressy when needed yet quite adventurous.

[Psmith]

Sub

[Chewbacca]

exp36

[rolexnub]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

The 36 looks much better than the other two, which both look too big on you, IMO. Try and get the bracelet/clasp issue fixed instead.

This

[manhattanproj]

with the new exp, you may end up having the same issue with the bracelet. there is only so much you can adjust.

for that reason, i vote for the sub with the glidelock. sub or the sub date.

[mps354]

Another vote for the 36mm explorer

[NLYogi]

To me personally, the Exp1 sings most. That is why I got it. i have to say that the 36 mm looks good on you. If you already own that one I would not get another Exp1.

[nursejm]

Personally i will choose subc nd, but on your 6 inches wrist, Explorer looks aesthetically better.

[watchyou]

The 36mm Explorer looks great. You can have one of the permanent links on the 6 o'clock side of the bracelet removed so the clasp will be centered on your wrist. Michael Young of Classic Watch Repair can do it with an option for you to put it back on in the future.

[kboy2379]

Explorer looks great on you. SubC also is a great choice.

[Gary.]

If an off-centre clasp drives you "nuts", the ill-fitting Sub sitting on top of your wrist will be a nightmare.
The Explorer 36mm looks best out of the three. Have you considered the Oyster Perpetual 36mm?