Recent Comments
I’d highly recommend checking out the IWC 36 in the metal, specifically the IW324010 with the black dial and steel bracelet. It’s unlike all of the other 36-37mm explorer-like watches you already have in your collection. The bracelet is terrific, better than the explorer oyster bracelet. It also looks great on straps. And unlike the pilot xx, the date window is perfectly placed and executed. And no rolex baggage.
I also had the explorer on my list, but when I tried it on, it just didn’t click, for whatever reason. The pilot 36 is very under the radar and in many ways feels more like what the explorer used to be - more of a tool watch.
It also has a vertical clutch, so I think that would still work:
https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/introducing-tag-heuer-green-dato
GS SBGX261 (9f) and Citizen AQ4080-52L (A060). The Citizen solar HAQ movements are so cool:
https://www.gnomonwatches.com/products/the-citizen-eco-drive-sunray-blue-ref-aq4080-52l
"On the other hand, there’s lots about the Explorer that I don’t love." This sentence really jumped out. Have you tried on the Explorer? (I couldn't tell if the photos in the post were yours.) If not, I'd definitely recommend trying it on. For a long time I thought the Explorer was my goal, and had built it up in my mind as the perfect watch (especially since it seems so universally loved). But when I finally got a chance to try it on, I was really underwhelmed, and this completely cured me of any desire for the watch. Sometimes we build things up in our minds, and the reality just doesn't match, for whatever reason.
On the other hand, if you have tried it on, don't love it, but still want it .... I'm not sure what to say. Maybe try another Rolex that you might like more? (I wound up getting an OP instead, and that scratched the itch for a Rolex).
Note: I'm guessing if you like the Lorier, you would really prefer a 1016 -- as would I! -- but that's a whole different ballgame.