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Old 20 October 2017, 01:41 AM   #1
jntemple11
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Which 36mm Rolex to get?

Hi all,

I had a question that I wanted to throw out to the forum members here, as I'd love to get your perspective. I'm interested in two 36mm watches and am torn between which one to go with. One is the new red grape oyster perpetual, and the other is the older model 114270 Explorer.

On one hand, the Explorer goes with almost anything since it's black and can be dressed up or down. Plus, it's an absolute classic. On the other hand, the red grape face is such a stunner, and there just aren't that many dials that look like that. But I don't know that a red grape dial could be an every day watch. The OP is slightly more expensive, but they are close to comparable price-wise. Both have lume, which I like.

Currently, I own a 1958 Air King with dagger dial, as well as a 1964 Datejust 1600 on leather. So either of the two options would represent a new model than those.

I know there is no perfect answer to this one but am interested in any feedback you all may have. If you're an owner of one of these two watches, photos are always appreciated. Thanks very much.
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Old 20 October 2017, 01:48 AM   #2
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There may be a perfect answer...



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Old 20 October 2017, 01:50 AM   #3
Quicksilver
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Both are nice and its a personal choice of course, but I would go for the 36mm Explorer. Its a real classic and I think will become more collectable in the future and therefore a better investment.
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Old 20 October 2017, 01:51 AM   #4
mato123
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Of these two I choose Explorer. But get the one YOU like most, don't listen to us (no matter how much cliche it sound).
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Old 20 October 2017, 01:53 AM   #5
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It's your call clearly; love the hands on the Exp. I'm curious as to why nothing over 36mm?
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Old 20 October 2017, 02:12 AM   #6
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OP 116000 Blue 3-6-9 Arabic Dial

2011 OP 36 with mercedes (16610) hand set....
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Old 20 October 2017, 02:14 AM   #7
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I personally like my DJ.
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Old 20 October 2017, 08:15 AM   #8
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I personally like my DJ.
Agreed
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Old 20 October 2017, 09:02 AM   #9
jntemple11
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I've tried on the 39mm Explorer, and it just felt too bulky for my tastes. Plus, there's something neat about the classic sizing. I'm not opposed to watches upwards of 40-41mm. But there's kind of an understated elegance to 36 in my mind. And thank you all for the replies. I suppose I can't go wrong either way.
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Old 20 October 2017, 10:47 AM   #10
Calatrava r
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Originally Posted by jntemple11 View Post
I've tried on the 39mm Explorer, and it just felt too bulky for my tastes. Plus, there's something neat about the classic sizing. I'm not opposed to watches upwards of 40-41mm. But there's kind of an understated elegance to 36 in my mind. And thank you all for the replies. I suppose I can't go wrong either way.
Maybe Rolex will upgrade the current 36mm line with the new movements and bracelets. The improvements in the DD40 and DJ41 are quite impressive. Makes it hard to opt for the traditional 36mm size.
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Old 20 October 2017, 01:41 PM   #11
BlackRose
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There may be a perfect answer...



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Agreed. These OPs with 3 6 9 dial are so cool. Understated, classy and a perfect daily wear


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Old 22 October 2017, 01:26 AM   #12
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It is lovely ...
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Old 22 October 2017, 05:10 AM   #13
GarbanzoNegro
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My vote goes for the Explorer I 114270.

Best regards,
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Old 22 October 2017, 06:06 AM   #14
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I like this one:
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Old 22 October 2017, 10:12 AM   #15
q8rolex
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I like this one:
such a beauty!
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Old 22 October 2017, 10:23 AM   #16
q8rolex
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I highly recommend the 36mm steel bezel datejust blue dial


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Old 22 October 2017, 12:54 PM   #17
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such a beauty!


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Old 22 October 2017, 01:20 PM   #18
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Try the BB 36?

Just bought this and found the size to be perfect. Really great price point too!

Big recommendation from me!
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Old 22 October 2017, 02:34 PM   #19
psychokandy
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my choice would be
1. Exp 114270
2. DJ 36mm silver / black dial
3. OP 36mm blue / red grape dial
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Old 23 October 2017, 05:00 AM   #20
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I also think the OPs with 3 6 9 dial are so cool. Understated, classy and a perfect daily wear! I tried one on last week as I very much like the look of it; I so wanted it to fit well so I could buy it but it is a tad small for my wrist. If they made this watch in a 39 or 40, same exact style no mercedes hands, I would order one right now!!
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Old 23 October 2017, 05:03 AM   #21
dysondiver
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explorer is as classic now as it ever was classy.
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Old 23 October 2017, 03:15 PM   #22
RolexDad
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I'm biased because my only watch right now is a 114270, BUT I think the blue and grape OP dials make them a little dressy. Sounds like you already have a dress watch in your DJ. Explorer is about as sporty as you get in 36mm IMO. Good luck
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Old 23 October 2017, 03:53 PM   #23
hambone1983
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I personally prefer the grape OP. Does the 36mm have the red markers?
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Old 24 October 2017, 08:46 PM   #24
SamP
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Explorer all the way. 14270 if you can. Even better 1991 14270 blackout dial if you can.
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Old 24 October 2017, 10:49 PM   #25
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Second that: 116000 blue.
I miss mine.
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Old 25 October 2017, 01:37 AM   #26
Leeq
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Quote:
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Both are nice and its a personal choice of course, but I would go for the 36mm Explorer. Its a real classic and I think will become more collectable in the future and therefore a better investment.

I think the same, you might regret going with your other choice in the long run. I think the Explorer is a way better investment.
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Old 25 October 2017, 01:45 AM   #27
axel23
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Yes, the Explorer is probably the better investment. That's probably becomes it's timeless (while still telling the time...).
Hard to top simplicity, though the date function does come in handy.
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Old 25 October 2017, 02:23 AM   #28
Raypep
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Simple, classy DJ. Goes with everything.

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Old 25 October 2017, 03:06 AM   #29
Libban
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I think the Explorer is classic. I find that I get tired of colorful dials after a while. But, as others have said, go with whichever you like best.
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Old 26 October 2017, 01:26 AM   #30
Sunly
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I will go for the Explorer, but I have to say the Grape OP is a nice one but its not easy to carry, depend on your personal style of course.

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