My 40mm explorer stays on my wrist pretty much 24/7 in my blue collar job.

I used to think that the Rolex Explorer was boring and basic. I used to wonder why anyone would buy one. Then I saw one in the flesh at an event. I talked to the owner for a while and the more I looked at his on his wrist the more I realised I was wrong about it. Pictures do not do it's understated elegance justice. It doesn't need to announce it's presence like a GMT or a Daytona. It just does it's job and does it really well. I bought a 224270 40mm yesterday. It's actually displacing my white dial Speedmaster from high rotation and it will likely be my go to watch for many years to come.

@degenerateWA

2 ай бұрын

The only way to really have an opinion on a watch is to experience it in person. Great pickup.

@majedalessa8376

26 күн бұрын

100% agree on this

I just got a 224270 and couldn't be happier. My background is in guitars, and I have a few north of $3-4k. I used to keep them in the case and rarely played them. No drinky bar room gigs for these pieces of art. But then I realized that I wasn't getting my money's worth. It was kind of embarassing to take out a blemish free guitar. What does that say about me as a guitar player? So I stopped. I still take care, but I play them. The next owner doesn't get a blemish free instrument. I played the hell out of that thing. I'm taking the same approach with watches. I paid a shitload of money so that I could be the one to give it some wear and patina. My kid is going to inherit a watch with some stories to tell. It's the anti-collector's credo. I'm not saying beat it up on purpose. I have a beater watch for that. But if you're going to own a watch, then own it. Don't give some future unknown buyer an ownership interest in your watch, keeping it pristine for them. What else are you asking them permission for? It's yours. Ownership means you do what you want, and battle scars are the proof. But also don't be that guy who can't take care of your stuff.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

if you need a lead singer, I've been told I'm this generation's Steve Perry.

I watched your video before I got the 40mm one and a few times after. For some reason YT keep serving me this video and it is one of the best videos I have seen in this category. The only thing that bothers me about the 40mm is that "Rolex" is naturally more noticable than on the 36mm. I like Explorer because its low-key presentation. I like to have a Rolex without the regular civilians noticing I have a Rolex; but a few noticed it because they could read it :) Anyways, this is my first Roli and I love it incredibly, super classy and comfortable on the wrist. Thanks for the video, I keep enjoying the honesty and a lot of humor in it! :)

@degenerateWA

2 ай бұрын

That's awesome. The feedback is much appreciated, and congrats on the great watch 🍻

haha... wow, I am feeling this review. I have been in the "I will NEVER own a Rolex" camp. And yet, I started looking at Rolex, and suddenly found myself deeply desiring the Explorer. For similar reasons you describe - I found myself drawn into the history, what it meant, the pure simplicity in a time of hyper complications... yes, I was smitten by the Explorer40. I'm coming from Omega, IWC, Longines, Tudor, etc., and I thought I had many in the "better" category already. I'd describe the Explorer40 as delightfully, perfectly boring, in an absolutely perfect and delightful way. I just got my first Rolex, an Explorer40, and I am delighted - and it has been surprising how many have already said "wow, didn't know a Rolex could be something other than super glitzy..." And yep, I'd have a Ranger next to my Explorer - that is the joy of collecting watches.

@degenerateWA

Ай бұрын

Excellent choice🍻

Wow I just got my first Rolex and it was a 40m explorer too. Summed up exactly how I feel. I think I like my San martins more now lol.

@degenerateWA

26 күн бұрын

Can't beat that🍻

Great appraisal and love the comparison with the Ranger. Much appreciated honesty regarding the pair; I like the Explorer, but the shininess doesn't seem very "explorer-like." I like the Ranger, but prefer the edge on refinement the Explorer has.

Okay imma say something. No one hate me for this, but I genuinely believe Rolex told Tudor to make the Ranger's dial look cheap so that it wouldn't cannibalize the Explorer. A Ranger with a piano black dial like the one the 79540 has would pretty much obsolete the Explorer 😂

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Then you would basically have a Rolex that was as readily available as a Tudor. Probably the same reason why there isn't a sub 12mm thick Tudor GMT or Chrono either because that would also affect Rolex sales by a significant margin.

@dainluke

7 ай бұрын

@@degenerateWA The fact that they won't let Tudor make a tricompax says enough hehe. The funny thing is, the Tudor Submariner looked very much like a Rolex, but they won't allow MT Tudors to look modern. I can barely afford my BB58 and I am definitely grateful for it, but it's kinda funny knowing that Tudor were nudged into the vintage aesthetic. I mean, they pull it off like no other though. It is what it is though, I think if all Tudors were nearly identical to Rolex, it would be a massive dent to the exclusivity Rolex has created amongst its sport models.

@picanha694

3 ай бұрын

Obsolete? Tudor secondary market is shit.

@dainluke

3 ай бұрын

@@picanha694 Perhaps obsolete was a strong term. It would draw a lot of potential buyers away from the Explorer, as the audience for Explorers is the same as the audience for your average Tudor (people who like rugged tool watches).

@eunc00

2 ай бұрын

It's the fact it's a crappy printed dial with appalling fonts, not that it isn't shiny, the Explorer didn't lack sales when it had a matt dial previously. Give it some decent applied indices like the rest of the Tudor range, keep a bit of personality like the 3-6-9-12, and it'd be a winner, it's already got a top movement and bracelet but is so let down by the bit you look at.

Great message. Frfr. You didn’t merely regurgitate the same dribble many others do. Very relatable

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

That's awesome, I appreciate that🍻

Superbly observed film. Know both watches. And share all the feelings. Well done!

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Right on, that's awesome🍻

I have both of these as well and completely agree with your assessment. Over all, I prefer the Ranger as it feels feels more care free (and I think it’s more comfortable). But they both serve different purposes in my collection. They do compliment each other very well. And my Ranger actually is more accurate than my Explorer.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Right on🍻

Great content. Going to work my way through your others!

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

It'll only disappoint you!😁 Much appreciated🍻

I was going to talk a bunch of smack, but this is a legit review. To be honest, this video felt more like the walk through to 5 star video game!

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

I stay in that 5-star level for so long I forgot 4-star even existed😎

Great review with all the relevant nuances, like the comparison with Ranger. Also I love knowing the explorer wears like a 38mm. Cheers my man

@degenerateWA

5 ай бұрын

Appreciate the positive feedback🍻

Thanks for your thoughts. Deeply personal & philosophical.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Much appreciated 🍻

Well done you…the best and most honest watch review I have seen in a very long time. Maybe because I feel exactly the same about my Air King and Tudor gmt and panda. Don’t get me wrong I love my Tudor watches except for the uncomfortable bracelets which I replaced with an Uncle Seiko for the gmt and Tudor nato for the panda.. omg they have transformed both watches.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

That's awesome, means a lot, appreciate it🍻

This is a great review DK. This is certainly my favorite Rolex…just the history behind it makes it special in a way few other pieces can match. Now you can go on collecting whatever the hell you want! 👊🏼

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Right on brotha, always appreciate your insight🍻

Tremendously balanced, informed and entertaining review. Agree all round with your comments on watch ownership, Rolex as a brand and watchmaker, the Ranger and Explorer experience. Couldn’t not have said it better. Nice work. Great to see someone enjoying their watch journey with heart and not hate.

@degenerateWA

21 күн бұрын

That's awesome. Appreciate the positive feedback 🍻

Best watch video I have seen. Thanks 👍

@degenerateWA

5 ай бұрын

That's awesome. Much appreciated🍻🍻🍻

Just got my call today for the Exp 1 40mm. I agree with your pitch. I'm only getting it because I've tried everything else .. okay, many of the main brands. I might as well buy the Crown. Experience being worn by the watch instead of wearing a watch. I Great video. I've subscribed 👍

@degenerateWA

5 ай бұрын

That's awesome, great choice🍻

Nice video. Great watch. I've got the 36mm. A bit small - but classic and refined. Enjoy.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Much appreciated🍻

Great accurate honest review

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

That's awesome, much appreciated🍻

Great review, thank you for sharing your thoughts!

@degenerateWA

21 күн бұрын

Men of culture, welcome🤝

That’s one of the most balanced review of a Rolex I have heard in a while. If I could afford it, there is zero doubt I would buy a Rolex (minus the Submariner - too hackneyed). Thanks for the great review!

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

That's awesome, really means a lot. Thank you🍻

Fantastic and unique review. I resisted Rolex for a while for many of the reasons mentioned here, but ultimately decided to purchase a 224270 as my first Rolex and could not be more pleased. Most people have no idea what it is, as it doesn't stand out like other models (which is good for me). I can wear it with jeans or a suit. And it's accurate within a couple seconds per week, far exceeding expectations. One watch collection? This could be it.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Thank you for the kind words, it means a lot🍻, and you are absolutely right.

Excellent opinion and comments!!

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Much appreciated 🍻

Solid review. I previously owned a 39mm Exp Mk1 for 8 years. Great size and concept, just got tired of the white-gold 3-6-9 markers and the short hands. Moved it to a new home. Missed the Explorer concept, so I picked up a 39mm Ranger last October. Really love everything about it. Cool, understated look, fantastic proportions, low-bling, tool-centric design, and it just feels right on my wrist. That said, I wouldn't mind getting the Exp 40 at some point. Thanks for your thoughts. Liked & subscribed.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Right on. Appreciate your insight🍻

Very honest review!

@degenerateWA

4 ай бұрын

Thats awesome, much appreciated 🍻

If you have to have one, the Explorer is a great choice. (IMO)

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

No doubt🍻

Great video. I totally and I agree that there is a point of diminishing returns when you’re comparing luxury Swiss watches (ie Rolex, Longines, Omega, etc.). I came across your other review of the Citizen NB1050. Wondering how you feel about the finishing built quality between the Citizen NB1050 and the Rolex Explorer- not withstanding the difference in the movement and the fact that the Rolex is COSC.

@degenerateWA

4 ай бұрын

The Citizen is beautifully finished

Love the Explorer! Had the 226570 that watch wore like a 44MM, beautiful watch but should be no more than 40mm. This one is perfect looking to add it to my collection which includes 116613LN Submariner and Breitling Superocean 42 Last gen on rubber strap as daily. 3 has always been sweet spot.

@degenerateWA

5 ай бұрын

Can't argue that🍻

Damnit, you gonna make me late too the live stream 🤣🤣

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

This is unacceptable. I'm gonna need at least 3x more loyalty.

Interesting!😊

Excellent video! I am a baised viewer though since i own a 124270 😁

@degenerateWA

3 ай бұрын

Sometimes there's truth in bias. The Explorer in any flavor will always be a good watch.

Thanks for the information. I'm making the same comparison with the Explorer 36mm and so far my conclusions are pretty much the same. Both watches have space in the same collection as they do have their very own "personality".

@degenerateWA

5 ай бұрын

And the true luxury here is the fact that we have so many great quality options to choose from🍻

@TheWatchFrame

5 ай бұрын

@@degenerateWA that is so true. A luxury of our first world privileged point of view. And the quality comes in very different price ranges!

"and God himself to come down and congratulate me" .... I laughed pretty hard at that line!

@degenerateWA

4 ай бұрын

😁 gotta know how to make fun of yourself with this thing

Have the same watch wearing it everyday

@degenerateWA

3 ай бұрын

Excellent choice 👌

What if brush the Rolex explorer's shiny case?

One of my work colleagues had a friend for dinner, he showed him his new Rolex explorer, oh I got a Rolex to its been in my drawer in the bedroom for some 25 years. He bougth it when he was stationed at the Thule base at Greenland in 1980, it was worth at least 25000 dollars. And he still have it in the drawer 😂😂.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Goddamn... that's awesome. Love to hear about that, back when these watches were truly good value in every sense of the word

still have it? still like it? i have the opportunity to get one, but i have a similar sized wrist, and find it a bit small. I like how its an understated rolex though.

@degenerateWA

4 ай бұрын

Yes and yes. I used to prefer larger watches. My preferences have changed over time to enjoying this size more.

Waiting for this one from my AD

@degenerateWA

4 ай бұрын

Excellent👍

@youngphil8766

2 ай бұрын

Did you get it?

Keep seeing the new Explorer dial with some added digits

The fucking Bukowski of KZread watch reviewers. Lean into that shit. It's brilliant.

May be a cardinal sin but i want to see a explorer date. Love the explorer but having the date is so useful

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Everybody wants a no-date until they remember just how useful a date complication is.

One of the few wrists I've seen online that is large enough for the 40mm version.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

It wears smaller than the 39mm Ranger so it'll fit plenty of wrists just fine.

The self-deprecation was holy magical, a wonderful way to kickoff 2024. 🎉

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Can't take yourself too seriously in this field of entertainment🍻

Nice Rolex. Nice Tudor. I prefer the dial of the Tudor (3, 6, 9, 12) and the hands of the Explorer (not really into the design of the Tudor hands). Prefer the brushed bezel on the Tudor as well. All things being equal, and affordability is there, the Tudor would get my money. Thanks for the comparison video.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

You'd probably like the Traska Commuter or Summiteer. I'm looking at adding at least one of those soon. I think they combined the best attributes of both the Ranger and Explorer there.

That’s a great acquisition. The only Rolex I want. Great job on the initial review. I hope you grow to love it more. Thanks for sharing as always. Stay blessed.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Thanks brotha. It is a wonderful watch no doubt. There are so many great watches out there and Rolex is definitely one of them.

You know I have no issue with Rolex as a company or their watches. I would not necessarily buy them over other watches but I can see the appeal. I do have an issue with the people owning them claiming to somehow be superior to those who don't. I remember when I got my day date as well. I felt underwhelmed like is this really it???? I will say that it was comfortable and that it does what it was supposed to really well but I just didn't care for it and so passed mine on to my brother. I do like the explorer and the Milgauss more and should have probably rather have gotten one of those. I agree. I would rather have the Ranger than the Explorer. Take care man and Merry Christmas to you and yours.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Great insight. Good to hear real opinions from real people instead of from the watch- selling machine. Merry Christmas to you and your family bro🍻

@johanvandersandt8904

7 ай бұрын

@@degenerateWA Much appreciated good sir!

Rolex is the king of watchmaking. Period end. However, I think other brands deserve your money if they offer better value for money when the Rolex you want is unavailable at a reasonable price, or if you cannot afford it.

@johnprosser5035

7 ай бұрын

I have the Explorer 40..... But Rolex are the King's of Marketing... Not the King's of watchmaking!

Price has gone up again. Currently MSRP $9700 CAD. It was $9050 CAD before the New Year.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Those dirty sons of bitches....

I think the San Martin SN020B looks better on camera than the Rolex actually. Also, will you be reviewing the titanium Boderry Voyager?

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Maybe. I have one, just can't find the motivation to wear it and review it.

@burmesebeef

7 ай бұрын

@@degenerateWA sounds like it's not worth a buy

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

@burmesebeef not necessarily. I'm just not really in to it myself. I'll take it out today and see if I can muster up the desire to wear it for a few weeks

@burmesebeef

7 ай бұрын

@@degenerateWA haha thanks! Hoping you'll end up saving me $140

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

@@burmesebeef just for you: kzread.info/dash/bejne/o6hrk5asfNzWppM.html

I am between Rolex Explorer 40mm and Omega Seamaster 300 Heritage 41mm and i cant decide ..... pffff

@degenerateWA

28 күн бұрын

Personally I would go for the Omega, but that's easy for me to say because I already have the Explorer. Tough choice. Even if I didn't have the Explorer, I would say my heart thinks the Omega has more "character".

@dimitrisaltanis4451

27 күн бұрын

@degenerateWA thanks for your reply... i think Rolex is more Dressy watch than Omega... Omega its a bit buffy compare to explorer ...11.5mm than 14.1 thickness... its very difficult to choose....i dont know if this Omega keep a good retail price in couple of years compare to the Explorer.. what is your opinion??

i have the ranger and love it. Also have the explorer ii, and no date submariner 124060. But that explorer one keeps calling me... damnit

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

I feel you, that's why I decided I just have to bite the bullet and get one for myself

@cmatz175

6 ай бұрын

@@degenerateWA Just ordered one, payed 1.3 over retail but that's fine with me. Videos like yours makes me know this one is a keeper.

@Deazy29

6 ай бұрын

@@cmatz175 Did you choose the 40mm? And what will you do with the Ranger because I'm in the same dilemma?

@cmatz175

6 ай бұрын

I listed it on eBay, lots of watchers already@@Deazy29

6:35 damn, this stud is built like Jack Reacher!!

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

Yeah with the right mirror, lighting, and delusions🍻

Did u shave your arm? Should we all. Shave our arm?

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

You should not

Hey man, whats your wrist size?

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

7.75" / 19.6cm

It’s the perfect size for your wrist

Was this a grail piece or more degenerate curiosity? Not a moron at all. Having the ability and willingness to purchase so you can suss out what is myth and what is fact is pretty cool. Enjoy and Happy Holidays.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

A little bit of both. Although after this watch I no longer believe in the term "grail", because it did nothing to stop my addiction for other watches🤣. Happy holidays to you and your family🍻

I have had a Rolex Date Just, an Omega Moon Watch, and a Cartier Tank and even a Hamilton Khaki. To scared to wear any of them because I couldn't afford them maintenance wise I sold them off and never looked back. I buy watches I can afford and replace now, and Japan and China is selling some pretty good stuff and easily replaceable.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

At least you know for sure what works for you and there's nothing better then that.

How did you scratch the besil so badly? 😫🤦‍♂️

@degenerateWA

4 ай бұрын

When a bright light is shining on an object unnoticeable things seem worse than they are in person.

@NorthwestMariner

2 ай бұрын

Probably by wearing the watch the way its meant to be worn..

I bougth an Omega railmaster demin. Close to the quality of the explorer, for the same price as an Tudor ranger.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

That's a good deal👍

its a nice watch. I just hope you didn't get raked over the coals for it. 😂😂IMO an Explorer represents the best in the basic things a watch needs.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

You know me, the amount I'm willing to waste on watches is the same as some small country's GDP🤣

You've officially jumped the shark Fonzie

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Daddy's gonna love me now!

Rolex only makes sense because when I say Rolex people say wow.

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

There's more to it then that, but of course that is dependent on the person.

@trethatdude

7 ай бұрын

@@degenerateWA there definitely is. I see it as a reward, but it doesn’t sway me from my other watches.

I’m getting the 224270…

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

🍻

So, you plunged into the abyss! Have we lost you forever 😳😪

@degenerateWA

7 ай бұрын

Man, my mind stays in the gutter, might as well bring the watch collection down too.

a lot of scratches on that case.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

How could that be

@nycmaverick

6 ай бұрын

It looks like on the polished chamfer right below the crystal there are love marks. Mine has them too because I actually own the 40 and I everyday wear it. Coming from experience.

@degenerateWA

6 ай бұрын

@nycmaverick they weren't meant to be safe queens so that's good

@nycmaverick

6 ай бұрын

Absolutely . I have a Ranger as well and since the Explorer arrived it doesn’t get any wrist time. I’m a bit apprehensive like you mentioned in certain situations because I already trashed a Panerai because my job isn’t a 100% and office job I spend a lot of time in the field.

36mm is the right decision for this "real" Rolex.

@degenerateWA

3 ай бұрын

Too small for the case height. Doesn't look right.

@NorthwestMariner

2 ай бұрын

For someone with dainty wrists maybe. 36 looks too small unless you have smaller than 7 inch wrists. 40mm explorer is perfect for anyone with above 7 inch wrists.

@joeschlicht

Ай бұрын

@@degenerateWA 100% agree. I can wear small watches, but for some reason the 36mm Explorer seems off. I really wanted to like the 36mm version and even after a 1.5 year wait, my call came in and I couldn't do it due to the proportions. You're right it's too thick for 36mm (in my opinion), well really more like 35mm.

So.. did you have actual crap on your Ranger?😂

@degenerateWA

4 ай бұрын

I'm not proud of the things I've done.

I have several watches which exceed COSC; quartz is still better.

@degenerateWA

2 ай бұрын

Indeed a quartz movement is more accurate than a mechanical automatic movement👍

@joeschlicht

Ай бұрын

My (3861) Speedmaster was gaining .04 seconds a day for 6 months worn and wound daily (after that I stopped checking, and now it's in for service unfortunately). I think that exceeds typical quartz accuracy, unless you count the high end citizen calibers and the like.

When it comes to fine imitation watches, NKUWAN delivers. I've bought from them several times, and I've never been let down.

Great video! I've owned the Ranger and found it to be a very bland watch and it didn't fit me right. The Explorer on the other hand I like very much. It's the perfect combination of tool and jewelry. I love the way light plays with the dial. And it fits me perfectly. I will never sell it so I don't mind scratching it.

@degenerateWA

4 ай бұрын

That's the way to do it🍻🍻