Just the ticket for an heirloom
Written: Nov 14 '06 (Updated Nov 15 '06)
|
Product Rating:
|
|
|
Pros: Quality, Styling, Reputation.
Cons: No Date function.
The Bottom Line: An heirloom quality timepiece with a rich legacy and notable history.
|
|
|
| dr427's Full Review: Rolex Explorer Silver Wrist Watch for Men |
I did months of research in finding an automatic watch for under $3000 that would be suitable for an heirloom for my Son. I purchased mine in Oct. 2005.
The points of interest that sold me on the Rolex Explorer I.
#1) A version of this watch has been in production since late '50's to 1963 and as I understand it in 1989 is was pulled for nearly a year and revised with a newer 14270 which is the current version (2006). That alone tells me my son will be able to get parts and repairs fairly inexpensively in the future as Rolex doesn't make many changes.
#2) The movement is an Officially Certified Chronometer which basically means the watch meets specific standards set forth by a board in Switzerland (COSC). I am not clear if a sample of watches from the line or each and every watch is tested, but it is a standard by which components must meet criteria or the watch is rejected until it can comply. Just extra security in knowing you are getting a well crafted time piece.
#3) The styling is classic and in my opinion won't go out of style. And is both Sporty and Dressy.
#4) At first I didn't want the stigma associated with a "Rolex". In fact I came full circle as I initially avoided Rolex's because of the stigma associated with them. I am not wealthy by any stretch. I am just a fan of a nice watch and something that could be handed down as an heirloom. It was important to me to have something my son see's everyday . In the end knowing Rolex manufactures about 90% of it's components made me feel like this was the brand for me. Most "Swiss" watches have movements made by one company (ETA) and then make their own case, strap, etc around the 3rd party movements or outsource most of it's parts.
#5) It had to be an automatic. I have spent upwards of $500 on several "moderately" nice brands such as Tag Heuer only to have the batteries leaked and ruin the watch. An automatic Rolex will require adjustments and cleanings over the years, BUT I feel it will last!
___________________________________________________________
In my research before buying I had trouble actually locating one in stock. Apparently the Rolex I has been quite popular in Japan for many many years. The size of the case is slightly smaller at 36mm (nice for smaller wrists like mine) so it doesn't appear overbearing. The Rolex Explorer II is only a few mm larger (40mm) but looked huge on my wrist.
The Bezel is highly polished and smooth. The bracelet has a double clasp. The face is glossy black with numbers only at 3, 6, & 9. The crystal is sapphire.
If you are considering a Breitling, Omega, Tag Heuer, etc. I strongly suggest you look at the Rolex Explorer I even if you are not a fan of Rolex as this is a solid watch with a great history and future.
Recommended:
Yes
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
dr427
|
|
Location: Oklahoma
Reviews written: 55
Trusted by: 3 members
About Me:
|
|
|
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.