Rolex Explorer 36 Alternatives

Hi Crunchers,

I'm currently on the list for the current Rolex Explorer 1 in 36mm, however, at the moment I'm not 100% sure I'll actually take it if I get a message from the AD.

My collection is currently quite focussed and I will continue down that path for the foreseeable future.

Anyone have any ideas for a good Explorer 1 36mm alternative?

Looking for 36 to 38mm diameter, all steel with bracelet, black (glossy) dial, possibly in house movement, price range around the explorer, no complications necessary, 10bar WR.

Not necessarily after the explorer look, but after the style of watch.

Looking forward to some cool ideas!

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https://usd.farer.com/products/discovery-black-velvet-36mm

This offering from Farer is compelling!

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Lorier Falcon. Don't wear a lot of steel, but the bracelet they use might be the best in the price range.

Save the money for the Explorer.

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Lauren

https://usd.farer.com/products/discovery-black-velvet-36mm

This offering from Farer is compelling!

Wow, very nice!! You have any experience with La Joux-Perret movements?

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norrecc

Wow, very nice!! You have any experience with La Joux-Perret movements?

I personally I have not had a movement from them, but I do have another Farer! Overall quality is great! A lot of folks rave about Farer they are a solid microbrand.

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solidyetti

Lorier Falcon. Don't wear a lot of steel, but the bracelet they use might be the best in the price range.

Save the money for the Explorer.

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Yeah, have had my eye on Lorier for a while, love their watches. But seem to be harder to get than the Explorer 😂

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https://www.traskawatch.com/collections/summiteer-collection

No personal experience, but heard great things.

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norrecc

Yeah, have had my eye on Lorier for a while, love their watches. But seem to be harder to get than the Explorer 😂

At times. Haven't checked today but there's usually at least one or two on eBay.

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Last generation Black Bay 36 with the smiley dial ( Black dial ). You can get a great price pre-owned. That was the one I got while I waited for my Explorer. It’s a fantastic watch. ( has great lume too!)

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Hmmm I would say the Grand Seiko SBGX261 would be a Rolex Explorer-type watch in that it’s simple and understated. It does have more dressy undertones but it’s no slouch with a 100m water resist.

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More straight forward alternatives would be the Lorier Falcon mentioned, maybe the Longines Spirit 37 and the Tudor Ranger.

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Hey nevermind. I see you have the beautiful new BB36 in blue.

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My vote is the Lorier Falcon

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norrecc

Yeah, have had my eye on Lorier for a while, love their watches. But seem to be harder to get than the Explorer 😂

The Falcon seemed to stay in stock for quite a while in this last batch.

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Omega Aqua Terra. 38mm. You can get a black dial. But I prefer green. And, technically, this watch is better than Rolex.

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Steinhart Ocean 39

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How about a 38mm murph with an aftermarket Uncle bracelet?

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Kevinseiko

Wow! You went full patina huh? Looks super cool. Mine is taking the long way. Question: did you force that patina? If so, how?

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https://www.fratellowatches.com/bronze-watch-patina-project/#gref

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Kevinseiko

Wow! You went full patina huh? Looks super cool. Mine is taking the long way. Question: did you force that patina? If so, how?

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It was a fun little experiment. I'd highly recommend. I love this watch

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I am going to suggest something that might be a bit out of left field but why don't you try the Longines Conquest L3.377.4.58.6. Yes, it's marketed as a ladies watch but it has 300M of water resistance and a really nice bracelet along with a design that is a nod to the Explorer 1 but is definately not a 1 for 1 copy. I own the 39mm and it wears more like a 40 due to the dial and rehaut design and the aggressive lugs. You can probably find one for around 500 bucks

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Dan.dvm

How about a 38mm murph with an aftermarket Uncle bracelet?

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Which Uncle Straps bracelet is that? Do they have one specifically for the Murphy or does another one fit by coincidence?

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NorthernTime

I am going to suggest something that might be a bit out of left field but why don't you try the Longines Conquest L3.377.4.58.6. Yes, it's marketed as a ladies watch but it has 300M of water resistance and a really nice bracelet along with a design that is a nod to the Explorer 1 but is definately not a 1 for 1 copy. I own the 39mm and it wears more like a 40 due to the dial and rehaut design and the aggressive lugs. You can probably find one for around 500 bucks

It's a good idea, but I'm not sure I can pull off a 34mm quartz watch 🙈

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I like the different bracelets on this.👍

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Christopher Ward Sealander 63

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norrecc

It's a good idea, but I'm not sure I can pull off a 34mm quartz watch 🙈

Fair enough. This particular model does wear slightly larger. I just got the 39 mm version and I love it.

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Just go on YouTube, ask the same question and you’ll find tons of alternatives.

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Aa_bcfc

Just go on YouTube, ask the same question and you’ll find tons of alternatives.

Yeah I know how the Internet works... I would say the reason watch forums exist, is to DISCUSS watch related topics with like-minded people. If I want someone TELLING me their opinion while making money, I'll go to YouTube. Many great YouTubers out there, but sadly the amount of click bait and sponsored content is getting more each day.

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Previous gen Longines Conquest

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norrecc

Which Uncle Straps bracelet is that? Do they have one specifically for the Murphy or does another one fit by coincidence?

Specifically for the Murph!

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It doesn't have the 3-6-9 dial, but my 36mm #vaer A12 Dirty Dozen has negated any desire for an Explorer. It being only 9mm thick and a fraction of the price only adds to the enjoyment and piece of mind.

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The sapphire caseback for the Peseux 7001 movement is another bonus. Mine has been running at -1/+3 seconds per day.

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Good luck with the hunt, @norrecc!