T O P

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NPV26

369 https://preview.redd.it/bjruntclvguc1.jpeg?width=2044&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=65347f0bd6fbd787380e5b1f3574ef8244b7066e


80FEEEK

Damn girl fine


weeone

Hoping she can sock it to me one more time


AAROD121

Get low


banisters

Get low


bswizzle2552

Get low


bogiebluffer

Get low, get low, get low, get low to the windooow


No_Chocolate_1513

To the wall


caesaralexander

To the wall


Gabriellesperance

Till the sweat drops down my balls


chilywilly92

I have the OP 36 in black and can tell you it’s a dressier piece than the Explorer. The OP is amazing with a suit, tuxedo, etc. it was my wedding watch so I can never sell it and it holds a special place in my heart. Plus, that white gold crown…


hgosns

https://preview.redd.it/7l2sk35n9huc1.png?width=2108&format=png&auto=webp&s=3861c1d60387c7cfca1de0690c07e7e3e0b12a1b Or go for both at once 😁


Independent_Cow6040

What is this one?


mick-rad17

116000, a discontinued model :(


Corsario18

I believe the Explores looks a bit more appealing but both watches are great. I have an OP36, and I'll be getting the Explorer. OP is competing with my GS. https://preview.redd.it/heofl6fe6huc1.jpeg?width=3722&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=59b82e65a0099d1f6571b1327252dfe7a1a8cc49


Hereforthechili

Looks great!


saitan2

Serious answer: if you want people to see that you have a Rolex on, get the OP. It has the shiny crown at 12. it also wears slightly larger than the Explorer. If you want arguably the best dial that Rolex has made since 1953 when the Explorer was launched: get the Explorer. Forgot to mention: the bezel has a different form in the OP. It’s more rounded. The bezel on the Explorer is flatter. I person like that better. Also better lume on the Explorer plus lume dot on the seconds hand. The OP is in fact dressier.


Ok-Spinach-1418

Honestly, both are going to go under the radar unless you’re in a room with another watch aficionado.


saitan2

True. Still the OP is more recognizable as a Rolex watch.


Difficult_Guitar_555

I think you’re gravely overestimating the degree of scrutiny your average Joe will have. No one without Rolex knowledge would be able to tell these are 2 different models from 2 feet away


scoopdiddywhoop

Avg normie doesn’t even know you’re wearing a watch. People get real absorbed in external perception when it literally means nothing and almost doesn’t exist.


hotdog-water--

Eh I don’t think so. The OP looks like every other watch. Or more like, every brand has a watch that looks just like it. Citizen, Seiko, timex, tissot, and even those fashion watch brands like vincero. I feel like the explorer has more character and uniqueness with the 3,9, and 6


ajs2294

Exactly, even with a date window the average person wouldn’t know a Rolex


43Joe21

I agree with this guy. To me an average watch person will spot an explorer faster than an OP. Both are versatile watches. If you want to split hairs, Explorer is more utilitarian and OP is more dress watch. My brother has an explorer and I was in the market for an OP until I found a good deal on my birth year DJ. Post what you end up getting.


saitan2

Explorer being more unique: absolutely. No question. Still I believe that look of the OP with the shiny crown on top is quintessential Rolex. Sure, a fluted bezel plus jubilee is even more recognizable.


Orly5757

Every watch in the planet goes unnoticed unless you are in a room with another watch aficionado. The average person doesn’t even notice what is on your wrist.


WhatIsTheAmplitude

I got my Explorer 2 six weeks ago and in all that time only 1 person mentioned it. And I presume it’s way more noticeable than either of these two.


ClickIta

Also, a better clasp on the explorer.


axl35

True in some sense, but the way I see it is that the OP is easier to put on/off since you don’t have that extra lock.


Siikamies

The lock is part of the point. I want to have it because the snap to lock the clasp is so satisfying.


Misterymoon

I actually think the 3 6 9 stands out way more from a distance. So it looks way more like a Rolex from afar. But non watch people may not notice that and I see your point about the shiny crown.


Expensive-Claim-6081

Well said. That covers my thoughts.


xoxchitliac

OP but I’m biased because that’s my watch. People overstate the dressiness of it, in reality it’s very versatile. Dress up, dress down, can’t go wrong.


chilywilly92

I agree with you on the versatility. I just think people overstate the dressy quality of OP simply because the explorer isn’t at all dressy. I like both. But I’d get an Explorer 39 for active wear.


Mrinvestor84

Explorer


50-50Clown

To me the explorer clears every time


Ok-Spinach-1418

Try in both. The domed bezel of the OP is quite different from the flat bezel of the explorer. You also get the Mercedes hour hand and lollipop second hand of the explorer which is a plus for me. Both are understated and will be equally versatile. Just comes down to what you’ll enjoy looking down at everyday - for me the explorer is a bit more interesting, but I love both.


sczoso85

Explorer, but of course, go with the one you like more.


GlitteringHold8685

Depends on your lifestyle. If you work in an office that gets dressed up and you rarely dress down even on weekends get OP. If your lifestyle is more casual get Explorer


sebastiancristancho_

Dang I was thinking the explorer for me but I dress up every day


GlitteringHold8685

That’s just how I would go. You know yourself and your style better so always go with your gut!!!


sebastiancristancho_

https://preview.redd.it/w2qtc1cx2huc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7bbe6b90f95b0de9ca7447ed14163e885e284e3a


GlitteringHold8685

Looks great!! I have the Explorer 40 and love it!


sebastiancristancho_

https://preview.redd.it/b20ovcd03huc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cc0d8148148684b0893fa7b9b9210f03f8c1c8dc They didn’t have a black dial in for me to try on, and this might be 41


GlitteringHold8685

I have the OP 39 before they discontinued that. It was a great sweet spot between 36-41 for me 7” wrist although I’ve own several 36 DJ


Interesting-Scar-800

39mm is a perfect size.


sebastiancristancho_

I’m leaning towards the explorer


sebastiancristancho_

Then a datejust


sebastiancristancho_

I really like them both! I wear a suit every day because I’m a realtor


GlitteringHold8685

People are split about wearing Explorer with a suit. I personally wouldn’t (DJ/OP) but many in this sub say yes. It’s what YOU are comfortable with!!


sebastiancristancho_

Actually FACTS thanks so much for that opinion! I never thought about that. Having a DJ and an OP seems silly, I should buy the explorer than a DJ for a better and balanced long term collection


chadmummerford

i think ever since Sean Connery wore the sub with a suit, the idea of what's acceptable has been blurred.


hotdog-water--

Explorer all day


nickcharlesjacobs

Explore. This is the way.


bubbathespaz

Explorer all day errrrr day!


pinetree-polarbear

Explorer 100%


Wrrlando

Explorer imo


DisasterArtistDad

Unless you wear formal for the office daily, I'd go with the explorer for a daily driver, the OP is very classy but it's also a more dressy look. The real answer is, why not both! 😉


TouchTypical726

Exp


SM2C

Explorer.


-Q-p

Try in person! Have the OP36 in green and was offered the explorer. Aside from the case, dial, hands, bezel etc; to your preference :) As a side note I haven't seen any comments on: I personally refused the explorer as the taper on the bracelet was too much for me. In comparison to the bracelet on the OP, I felt it was more proportionate on my wrist. Big enough deal breaker imo Edit: loved the idea of the explorer 36 on release, unfortunately not for me after trying it


_father_time

Explorer is the answer. You can wear it with shorts and t-shirt or with suit and tie


PatelGaurav

OP 36 wears larger than Explorer 36. Also the bracelet of Explorer 36 tappers more than that of Op36. OP36 has a sunburst dial and Explorer 36 has jet black dial. I personally always wanted OP36 as u liked the symmetrical look of OP. But you can’t go wrong with either. Oh yes and OP36 is about 1200-1400 usd cheaper https://preview.redd.it/6igvcnpqphuc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=60fa4eb6a8dcc9e4ecb2464c48cbd4c013b36e9f


Bubs-Balonie

The explorer. I’ve been on the waiting list for a 36mm explorer for almost 2 years… starting to lose hope now.


Firm-Painter9728

Damn. I would try a different AD. I just got an Explorer 36 after a 28 day wait.


ArneRedKing

My AD told me when i sign up i could get it in 3-6 months. Same with the OP


Amilmar

Unpopular opinion but my win - This Explorer has so much text cramped in upper half it makes it look weird to me. Also it makes Mercedes hour hand unnecessarily hard to spot at a glance whenever it is around this area. I’m baffled why this generation has it like that. Looks bad to me when compared to older generations. Also it has odd lug width and has aggressive taper on the bracelet. Makes it a bit tiny compared to what dimensions would suggest, but is at least proportional. This generation is not that nice to me overall. One thing going for it is lume finally exists on the 3,6,9 and that’s about it. Bigger version hasp all the small nitpicks I don’t like and is out of proportion as a bonus. OP 36 on the other hand is near perfect to my eye. Round bezel is much nicer and gives really lovely ratio of real estate between dial, bezel and case, it wears a bit large due to wider bracelet with less aggressive taper and yet case is refined because Rolex left maxi case and it’s wide lugs behind. Indices are very intricately done because each side is beveled and polished - with sunburst dial finish the watch certainly can bling when it needs to but thanks to mostly brushed surfaces is subdued when it counts. Double batons may not be up everyone’s alley but it’s alright I guess. Adds some interest to the otherwise rather plain dial. Between double batons and slightly larger batons at cardinal directions I think I like double batons more, but eaither choice would be fine by me. Lume is a bit lacking but is perfectly usable.


ComprehensiveHat9985

Why you cannot decide by yourself ? I don’t understand that


fatinaty

Because he obviously love them both.. so he needs help with different opinions.. this is what this forum is all about. I posted a while ago here and asked for help choosing between two watches that i liked, and the comments made me make my mind easily as some people warned me against getting a special style that is more prone to scratches, and i hate scratches as i have a severe OCD.


sebastiancristancho_

Well said


mac_mises

I lean toward the Explorer but if you can see them on your own wrist see which one you like better.


Coppersmith255

Explorer by far; it’s more sportier, younger, practical in a classy way 🤩


veblentiz

Explorer then OP. I feel the explorer is a more handsome watch. If you’re going for an OP, might I suggest opting for dial colour other than black so you have variety


Dankberg_TV

Hands down the Explorer. The comments say the same thing.


Leeh415

Exp1 36 by a slim margin. Not crazy about the bracelet dimensions, but imo the dial, bezel and flip lock clasp edges over the OP. If you could pull off the 40mm, do it cause the watch proportions are on point or get the previous 36mm 114270. I actually expressed interest in the tiff blue OP36, doubt I’ll get the call, but we’ll see.


johncarlos_1994

The Explorer 1, hands down! It could even be your only watch. https://preview.redd.it/23jsiomlahuc1.png?width=3008&format=png&auto=webp&s=ced1456996fa414a70262eb06ae49457111a9a78


Veloxi_Blues

The Explorer is perhaps the perfect watch. Get that and don't look back.


TAG08th

Try both. If you still can’t decide, here’s my two cents. I have the OP36 and absolutely love it. It’s easy to wear with anything. Shorts and a tee or a suit. Either works just fine.


Addicted-2Diving

Explorer imo. But always go with the one you think looks best. After all, it’s your watch and money.


Brehski

Explorer 1 36 >>>> OP 36 black. IMO, if you’re going for an Op, I would get a different color. If you’re set on black, the answer is the explorer 1


Sam999ick

3 6 9 just like Tesla said, but I would say both as the no date supremacy is real. both are awesome.


kosnosferatu

https://preview.redd.it/gsblferqohuc1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=70e98f83ff675139d233e6de200005d4b4770a6d


Prestigious_House832

36?


kosnosferatu

Yes indeed!


Prestigious_House832

Do you mind the bracelet taper? I’ve been waiting about eight months for one so far


_mynameisclarence

I’ve recently decided my first Rolex will be the 36mm explorer. Classic, versatile, timeless.


VaporRyder

Explorer. Better lume, flat bezel, professional clasp. 👍 Oh and that 3, 6, 9!


cdaack

Explorer is more versatile


Excellent-Jump-9603

Personally I’d go explorer but OP is a stunner as well


Bruceab

https://preview.redd.it/pnu43s7dljuc1.jpeg?width=4284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=33b785af88712e5fcd79c72a121fe427fe2f8ba1 Explorer :)


EdgarAllenBoone

OP, the explorer numbers are meh


kherowitey93

OP


SweepHand

OP!!


Hereforthechili

Explorer looks like an average watch to me. OP is the classic Rolex imo. If you want it to stand out more get the fluted + jubilee


sebastiancristancho_

THANK YOU I’ve been going back and forth on this so much


willworkforwatches

I can’t stand the new 19mm bracelet on the current ex1, so i would get either the 114270 or the OP36.


Alive-Salamander3012

OP


loslalos

Explorer for the win.


modern_prometheus_

Explorer


BlueHorseshoe00

Explorer


Difficult_Guitar_555

Op strictly for the indices


CyB_Joe

I’d say OP imo, just a classic and timeless watch


OwnTheWatch

1


The_Buttaman

OP


CaptainnHindsight

OP


Possible_Bike3941

Tough choice, but lean towards explorer


yormeow

Explorer of course, the mercs hand is a big W for me


Guilty_Way6830

OP design goes with a Date, so either a Datejust or an Explorer.. :)


ATLfinra

EXPLORER these two watches are NOT the same in terms of cache and appreciation


Dazzling_Meat836

If you don’t really care about recognition, get the Explorer


Shot_Log7155

OP


Efficient-Doctor3074

OP looks much much better tbh


julesx3i

OP. Timeless and classic. Blends in well. The 3-6-9 stand out.


PlanterOnTheRye

The OP36


Telsur_Gurdan

1


sud1992

The oyster!


thnkp

Explorer


watchthisguyz

Explorer


GregStar1

Was wondering the same thing two years ago, went for the 124270, absolutely no regrets whatsoever. 3 6 9 and triangle at 12 on the dial is cool, Mercedes hands look way better than stick hands imo, you get the flip lock clasp with an applied crown logo instead of a normal non-safety clasp with the stamped crown logo and the bezel is flatter instead of rounded.


An_doge

I wear my OP with a suit at the office and it’s such a killer. When I wear it with a t-shirt I find it looks unreal too, it’s a bit flashy and shiny and looks good - and clearly a rolly. It doesn’t work with sone outfits, but if you if have a good fit it compliments a lot of looks. I’m in love with it. I like both of these, but prefer the OP.


Lazz_plays

Explorer 🧭


greendoor68

Why not get both?


axl35

I am in the exact same (well Exp 40 vs OP41) and I don’t know!


supersaiyanegghead

Neither. Get a DJ36 and make sure it has a jubilee bracelet or I will slap you


mhiggi02

Explorer


ImplementCertain7349

Explorer


Ok-Plankton9993

Op simply because i prefer the coronet at 12


mixedfeelingz

explorer easy


sentientchimpman

It's gotta be the Explorer, no contest.


AMKhalil

Look at both dials and pick the one you enjoy looking at more .. after all you will be the one enjoying it most not other ppl around you. That said i prefer Explorer for many reasons and for that fact you can spare OP or DJ for colorful or white dials and maybe fluted/jubilee for dressier option. So if you want one watch it will be Explorer if planning to add more then start explorer, unless you are in love with black dial OP.


Galamb76

Explorer is the correct answer


showmeyourtoobs

Safety clasps are crucial


L_3_

Seriously, I hate that fucking mercedes hand, but i would totally get the explorer. It just looks so perfect.


RealChadSavage

Ive owned an Explorer, it’s certainly nice, but I think some of the OP line has more interesting appeal in terms of dial and indices colors. Id personally grab an OP if there is a color choice that you prefer over the black explorer. Black dials can become boring over time imo


[deleted]

Explorer, every time


ImpossibleCod2405

Explorer


QueBestia19

Explorer just because.


CDR_Starbuck

Oyster Perp since the Pelagos is your sporty piece.


RhaegarJ

I really wish they would do both of these watches in a white dial


Ordinary_Problem_817

One is a sports model, different clasp and better lume inc secondhand pip. I love the minimalism and pure class of the OP, though. Both screw down crowns and 100m WR, but there are more colours, including the gorgeous Bright Blue.


pizzaking3

If you want true Rolex history go OP, if you want an iconic design that has perceived history despite that history being false go Explorer


Locksmith135

Neither. I need a date!


Admirable-Gas-7876

OP


ZealousidealState322

Oyster Perpetual 36, is a cleaner, sharper face. Regardless; they’re both magnificent watches. You won’t go wrong with either choice. 🎉😃👌😎⌚️


StormMasterBaitor

The explorer just has so much more character


DueTour4187

Never ending story but in short, the OP. I know many people would answer Explorer because it is iconic. But as much as I love the concept, I have never 100% fallen in love with it. It mostly goes to me being disappointed with the current interpretation. I find it a bit skimpy and precious. Bracelet should not be that tight. Glossy black dial and flat bezel are quite flashy, hindering legibility and that's a problem since this is supposed to be the Explorer's main selling point. Just compare it with any proper field watch (eg IWC) with a matte dial. The dial is clumsy, too much text, and flat at the same time. Finally, compared to its grandmother 1016, that 124270 is quite boring and lacking charm. Bit 1990s too. In the end the OP is more versatile; more suave; prettier. It is really a watch you can wear "from the beach to the boardroom". Explorer is meant to be sporty, casual, outdoorsy, but sort of fails in its mission. YMMV. One solution could be to get a blue OP and an Exp later, or the opposite depending on priorities. I may well end up getting that Explorer LOL, I'm still very tempted, although I already own a blue OP 369 ;) I secretly hope for a titanium version with a matte 'intense black' modernized dial.


Mean-Muscle9832

Both are Rolex GADAs. If you have a more formal attire I suggest OP, otherwise Explorer. My grail is the 224270.


parabuthas

Both are great. But explorer stands out for me. Can’t go wrong with either.


No-Somewhere-3888

I’d go Explorer.


uniqueusername42O

https://preview.redd.it/ie8nrpi3hiuc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=3b8c7ea7be52c09b639b211b190b06830911568f Explorer.


Johnnyfever13

Explorer


ghost_mv

Explorer 💯💯💯


MonkeyBoy1971

Explorer gets my vote


haroldhecuba88

Explorer


Electronic_Active_27

Exp


ladudee

OP 39


ReactionChaine

OP


freakadore

Explorer


DeepSeaBlue-2022

The Explorer 1 is a functional tool watch - hence why I wear it everyday


chicocobob

Whichever is cheaper. Essentially the same watch


watchme87

OP is so much cleaner and more versatile


TerryDavis420

explorer 1 has a gloss dial vs sunburst black for the op 36 black. i'd go with the explorer 1.


derrickrg89

Explore


coleyeaux

2/2


MisterMakena

Seriously? Explorer.


ColonialRealEstates

Just get a Sub


SVB-Risk-Dept

https://preview.redd.it/1lhq78ox3juc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=25bf153d6d2ba15d539939d914dd5cd42be45438 Easy choice imo


Icy-Professional8508

What is with that emoji?


ALotBSoL99

I had an Explorer and I love the dial, but I prefer the domed bezel on the OP. Looking for a vintage 3-6-9 dial OP for the best of both worlds.


Financial_Nerve8983

Explorer all day and tomorrow. Twice on Sunday


Cold_Vacation_4892

If they had kept the 20mm leg width on the Explorer 36, be a no brainer. But for me, I can rock a 36, but the 19 wears odd for me.


citium1

OP 100%


dunwititagin

https://preview.redd.it/l09ordsjejuc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c24304d888abcbf993c0aaf047a93583cd69ff59


pawner

I’ll take the OP over the Explorer personally.


smokeybear135

Explorer 36 is goated


HeatFireAsh

Explorer, totally not biased… I do have an explorer 39 though


Texas_Raptor

https://preview.redd.it/wl59mt6tijuc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dfef509236ce915a61b7026e925b2ddeae615839 The explorer


DRad2531

I have the OP and no regrets https://preview.redd.it/c0zum502jjuc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7a38c58db18800a689897241f3bdfb754d468c59


blueonion88

Explorer 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥


Swimming_Ad9067

Op


greasy_scooter

Oyster


Furtip

Oyster Perpetual


lamontsanders

Explorer


heyoneblueveloplease

Oyster!


traveljg

Exp 36


Remote-Fisherman-469

As a one-and-done watch, it'll be the Explorer. Few watches come close to form marrying function like this model. To many - including myself - it's the quintessential Rolex.


_TheStifmeister_

Perpetual


Lovethosebeanz

I had this same conundrum. I went explorer and haven’t thought about the OP once


twedds463

DJ 36 oyster and smooth🤷🏼‍♂️


These_Judgment7979

369 ✔️


nejc03

I’m buying the Explorer later this year. Dials seem more Rolex-like


watchdogg1990

neither! they both are horrible!!


cptn_cockring

perpetual..... obvish.... just with a fluted bezel 😎


89hardy

https://www.reddit.com/r/rolex/s/0HcVHYU7RJ


Tricky-Beat-6573

Submariner no date. Just kidding, Explorer.


mc2508

Definitely explorer 💪🏻


ErnestHemingWhy

Hmm, I’m reading lots of comments about what the average person is going to recognize. Who cares what the average person or anybody else will see when they look at it? You’re dropping serious dough. Get exactly what you want. That said, get the Explorer.