9 Rolex Explorer Affordable Watch Alternatives Worth Owning From $100+
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- Опубліковано 13 лип 2024
- Today we return to a UA-cam video concept first pioneered on this channel. Yes, it's time for more affordable alternatives to some iconic watches! Let's kick off this revamped series for 2020 and beyond with one of my favorite watches of all time-the Rolex Explorer.
If you're looking for something to give you that feel and function of an Explorer, by brands that command respect and are beloved by watch enthusiasts, from as little as $100 and upwards, you simply must check out my top 9.
Warning: Spoilers Ahead!
Featured in my top recommendations are the following watches:
Sinn 556A, Fortis Spacematic, Bell & Ross BR V1-92, Steinhart Ocean One Vintage, Timex Waterbury 38mm, Smiths Everest 36mm & 39mm, Omega Railmaster 220.12.40.20.01.00, Tudor North Flag, Black Bay 36 & Ranger, Seiko Alpinist SARB033, SPB117, SPB123, SPB121, SPB119, SPB121 and SBDC115.
To view details on the new Dan Henry 1962 Two Tone mentioned in this video, click here:
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To check out the outstanding Fortis UA-cam channel mentioned today, click here: / @fortiswatches1912
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Thank you for watching The Urban Gentry channel, home of the #wristwatchcheck ! Check out my other videos for more watch and lifestyle content. - Навчання та стиль
You should do the videos in reverse, such as, "expensive alternatives to the seiko SKX".
GENIUS!!!!!!
Thank you my friend, very clever indeed.
Best regards,
TGV
🤣
Even though I cant afford anything beyond an skx id totally watch that.
This could legit be a whole series of videos. Brilliant idea.
LOL😂
TGV, loved the section on Smiths watches and the in depth info, as always. You go above and beyond. You're a massively positive person, which I really admire. Your positivity, is infectious. I think you're doing more good than you realise....particularly in the current climate.....
Gosh, I love this guy! Keep it coming TGV! I'm new to watches and learning a lot from your channel.
TGV, I have enjoyed every video episode you produced. This was an excellent and well thought out the top 10 list!
As a history enthusiast, specifically military history, I love your channel because you always provide a backstory and historical aspects of each watch you have reviewed and more importantly owned!
I'm looking forward to the next episode, have a great upcoming holiday!
SEMPER FIDELIS! ⚡💪🏽
Hello TGV! Thank you for another amazing video!
Really loved the entry with the bloopers :D
Fantastic video! Love all these tbh ! All give a little something extra to just having been influenced by the one and only Explorer! Love my 214270! The most understated most iconic watch in the Rolly fleet!!!!
I 100% second the Sinn 556a. I have been going through so many watches over the last 6 months, and then I found the Sinn. I try to wear other watches and have to force myself to wear them because the Sinn is just perfect for me, and I got it because it has a little bit of the explorer vibes with the 3,6,9,12 Arabic numerals. The anti-magnetism is also amazing because I record stuff, meaning I’m around speakers a lot with massive magnets on the back.
All in all, it’s pretty much the perfect watch for me. 10/10 recommend it.
I love that you opened with the bloopers, love them. Gave me a well needed laugh, always look forward to your content, thank you TGV Sir.
I would say the ball fireman comes to mind first as an alternative. Another option in my opinion would be the Longines Conquest VHP. Great content as always TGV!
Im so happy knowing that this list, without watching yet, won't include any MVMT or equivalent in it
Glad to see this come back! I been waiting for years to pull the trigger on a watch and decided to get a Junghans Max Bill based on your favorite watches under $500 video from a few years ago. Keep up the great work!!
How is there no Hamilton field watch in this line up? I’m shocked!!! ;)
Was still a great list none the less!
I think TGV's requirement for today's watches are 3, 6, 9 Arabic on the dial.. As far as I know, Hamilton do not have any watch with that sort of dial layout cmiiw
I do agree still a great list of watches nonetheless 👍🏼
Hamilton Khaki Field Auto 38mm fits perfectly
@@kickbillcom
I agree.
Although they are both field watches, I think the sub-category of "explorer" field watch is it's own thing. Something Hamilton doesn't really have. The khaki field is much more tool-watch and much more complicated (arabic numerals for each hour, 24 hr markers etc). Explorer style watches are born from what were somewhat simple dressy sport watches for their time. That's why the alpinist is a perfect alternative. Tough field watch credentials with dressy applied numerals and cathedral hands.
I love how much you turn up on watch channels! Big fan of the stream/channel ;)
You read my mind! I was just looking for a Explorer alternative , thank you! Awesome video as always!
Another great episode! I chuckled during the blooper intro! I’ve been saving up for an explorer. Your channel has taught me so much about watches. Thank you for your hard work into this passion of yours. I have been enlightened to the world of horology and the qualities of being gentlemanly.
Hey TGV a superb video as always, would be interesting to see you and Marc with this affordable options for classic time pieces!
Thanks for yet again another high quality, informative, entertaining and classy video, TGV. Very nice list you compiled here. Good to see you’re continuing your great work during these trying times, providing some much appreciated distraction. All the best from the Netherlands from a longtime fan. P.S. Couldn’t help but smile about your statement about the greatest watchbrand in the world. Luckily haven’t seen any cheap shots in the comments yet. We know you’re a big fan and rightfully so. You’re not alone.
Brilliant video as always. I'll never get sick of all the background and history you cover. I'd love one of those Sinns. Thanks again TGV.
I love going back through your back catalog of videos!
Great list TGV. I love this return to the original Gentry "top xx" lists!
I saw this with a little delay but the intro made me laugh so hard 😁
Excellent line up. My personal favourite would have to be the Seiko Alpinist. It’s just an original stylish Seiko watch designed as an explorer and at an affordable price. Second would be the Steinhart though. Classic styling.
Regarding the Omega Railmaster, it is the most underrated in my opinion. I wore one not long ago for a short while and it’s an excellent everyday tool watch. It has a simple design but the 8900 Calibre is simply superb if not the best.
Thanks for again an excellent and beautiful edited video. I also very much like how you always incorporate pictures of old ads/magazines to support your narrative. Bravo!
Thank you so much for producing this video, TGV... I have always enjoyed your “affordable alternatives” series very much; and this continues to be my favourite of all. The Rolex 114270 is my ultimate grail watch but, unfortunately, is far beyond the financial means of a semi-retired teacher. I therefore consider myself lucky to own the Tudor Heritage Ranger, which is a true tool watch at 41mm. As they had been recently discontinued, I was able to pick up the Ranger at a considerable discount. Speaking of Seiko, my longing for an Explorer motivated me to buy the SARG009 a few years ago, which I still cherish. They have become very tricky to find and it is hard to believe that the SARG007 and 011 watches could be bought for under $400 at one time.
Absolutely love your videos. I learn so much, it makes me feel like I'm in history class. The Smith's has to be the closest "looking" to the explorer among your examples but frankly I love them all. Currently drooling for that Sinn 556a. How about that top 10 Seiko explorer alternatives? Would love to see that!
I'm so glad you rated Seiko alpinist as a good choice alternative because I had the same mindset but doubted if others would agree so it's reassuring you've mentioned it. I've actually purchased the new Seiko sbdc115 because I just feel in love with how simple but bold it design is. For me the thing that sold me was how unique the luminous effect was compared to others.
Great entertaining stuff and very good info again as always. I enjoyed watching this!
I would like to see you talk about citizen watches a little bit more.
Orient as well
My pick would be the Traska Summiteer. The stepped dial, hard coated 316l stainless steel tapered bracelet from 20mm to 16mm, 28,800 BPH myota 9039 and BGW9 lume. All for $500. Can't go wrong.
I have one. Very awesome watch. Love it.
Just got my Dan henry 1970, Absolutely chuffed to bits with it. I haven't taken it off in a week. Me my father and brother all have A different Dan Henry watch, just happy to be able to have to own them together!
That is one stylish and classy family!
Thank you Daniel, so happy to hear that, I adore the 1970, here's to many more years of enjoyment :D
Best regards,
TGV
I can’t get over how great the Smiths Everest 36mm is for the price. It is stunning.
I feel like this is the renaissance of the channel. Great video! Glad to see these back. Thanks TGV!
Thank you so much Zachary, it feel great to be back just doing what I love and to hear your comment has made my day. You are awesome!
Best regards,
TGV
TGV every time I watch one of your videos, old or new, I’m reminded just how great you are at creating interesting, inclusive and engaging watch content. You are and have always been head and shoulders above the typical watch industry pundits. You’re a pleasure to watch and should feel rightly proud of what you’ve achieved.
Honorable mention to Armida A-6. Good looks of the 1016 Explorer, almost as antimagnetic as Milgauss, and the water resistance of the Subbie👌
Awesome content TGV. Your reviews have influenced my collection.
There is an added bonus. When I watch the videos with my 1 month old she tends to fall asleep. Guess u have a soothing voice
Fantastic video. For somebody looking for an Explorer "budget" alternative, this was invaluable. Thanks TGV👍
Love these alternative videos, always wanted a Rolex but realistically never going to have one, so knowing the best to get in my price range is invaluable.
Thanks TGV great video as ever!
Love this episode! I bought an Alpinist after your reviews. Beautiful watch and a GREAT timepiece. Stay healthy TGV! Have a Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!
Wow this vid has been done AT LEAST 60 times over it's so fresh amazing list well done
Because of you getting me into watches during this pandemic, I now own #10 and #1 on this list. Thanks for giving me an fun, unexpected, and worrisomely expensive hobby!
Was seriously going to ask this in the facebook group! An updated rolex explorer alternative video. As in just this very minute, amazing!
Very excited about the new Rolex Blahblah
Still rocking the new Batman.😉🍺
Too late, they're sold out.
Wonder how long the waitlist is now for that model
Or you build your explorer homage yourself . Take a seiko snkk87 and add the explorer style dial from raffles time :) .. did it and would do it again ^^
Let the posers buy a premium for it and get a Grand Seiko Spring Drive instead.
Thank you for this video TGV.
I am in love with the latest version of the Alpinist (especially with the grey dial) and see it almost not (just) as a simplification of an Alpinists, but as a new line of watches. It seems for me this line is aimed/designed to draw in a newer generation of "gentlemen" (with need for a simple/ mature layout, extra though built (200m WR) but still staying classical/ elegant und a bit understated, with a price range that was kind of a Seiko 5 in the past for the young students, workers).
Many call this watch as baby alpinist, for me they are more of a Seiko Explorer or a Seiko Railmaster... lets see what the future brings for this models, I am more than to keen to put my hands on one of this grey beauties in 2021
Certina DS 1 is what came to my mind. It has its own unique aesthetic but still fills that explorer mode. I tried the Precidrive but it didn’t quite work for me, but more then willing to give Certina another go! 🙌🏼
Great fun Watch content again Sir 👏🏼
Hi TGV. Thank you for making a great video. I have a couple of questions. Do you think that except for the Timex Waterbury there are other affordable alternatives to the Explorer int the sub $500 category? And Can Pagani Design - which as you would know are making extreme homages of Rolex - can be an upstart just like Steinhart was 20 years ago? Thank you for your time and dedication.
Been a while since you did one of these alternative videos TGV. Great to see this back and amazing picks for alternatives.
Lloyd!! Great to see you in the comments, I hope this finds you well my friend.
O&U!
Best regards,
TGV
@@theurbangentry I'm really good and just getting ready for summer here in Australia. Take care & hope you are staying safe in Philly.
Thanks for the selection TGV, especially as it's such a tough brief. The Explorer is a magnificent piece and very hard to choose an alternative.
Some really great alternatives mentioned thanks for this video
Best intro yet! 😂 Anyways, Your videos are always enjoyable and informative as always!Thanks for sharing your love of watches as a gateway for my joy of timepieces!
Lorier Falcon - captures the Explorer vibe with a real identity of its own.
Have you seen a GMT is coming soon?
@@machinistmikethetinkerer4827 yeah, excited for the reveal. Although it'll be a while til I can justify another purchase...
@@karabiner159 I'm with you. 800 bucks-whoa!
@@machinistmikethetinkerer4827 damn, didn't know it was that much. If that's the case it'll definitely be more than a while 😂
Really enjoyed this!!! Very comical and informative!!! "coming at you", LOL!!!
What a throwback, well done my friend.
I purchased the Tudor Black Bay 36 after watching your review. I couldnt be happier with it. I use it for everything, work, casual, swimming and black tie. Its an amazing piece for the price and built like a tank!
Just bought the SARB017 love the look and quality, just wish the straps were better and longer. I seem to say that about all Seiko's I have bought.
Great video! Glad to see the homage genre revisited!
Informative and entertaining. Your insights and knowledge are always so impressive.
Thank you so much Paul, you are a true gent for saying so, onwards and upwards!
Best regards,
TGV
Turtleneck and sports jacket weather! Looking good, Tristano! :)
Yes, a great occasion to revisit my beloved Sinn 556 (indices version for my taste), but also refreshing to hear about some brands not being talked about that much. As always the video was over too soon!
Tgv, I come for the watches but I stay for the history. Another great video
Some fantastic alternatives here sir. Love the Tudor. As always thank you very much and hope you are keeping well 👍
Great video, and absolutely spot on with the Seiko Alpinist!
I love that. Thanks TGV!
I was recently attacked in the comment section for having the temerity to mention how much I adored my STEINHART Ocean 39 Vintage GMT. TGV, you Sir exude class. I so admire your penchant for taking down the watch snobs. My watch has no cyclops. My watch has no crown guards. The case shape is distinctly not Rolex (but SO WHAT, if it did? The name says STEINHART. Homage?…..whatever, but fake? A cyclops is something like a wart on the face of a pretty girl. You will not miss the day she has it removed.
They are WATCHES, for gosh sakes. No one has EVER even asked me about my watch. No one cares except all us watch nerds.
Keep it positive Tristano and your channel will continue to prosper. And CONGRATULATIONS! to all who own a Rolex. I hope to join your ranks one day!
Tgv always puts a smile on my face!
Juste in time before going to bed ! 👌
I think you read in my head, because Iam currently obssesed with the explorer!
Actually I have the sarb033 and i am seriously considering a Smiths Evrest the black dial with same Arabic number of the explorer...we will see
Thanks again for your work.👌
Cheers 👏 from France
JwC
Seiko SARB017 is 15 time less expensive than a 214270 Explorer - and is just as if not
more gorgeous. My .02.
I’m not a fan of the sarb017 tbh. Also, it’s not as straightforward so I’m not sure it’s a great replacement. Anyways, that’s my opinion. Cheers mate
you obviously have never owned one with that comment
That Seiko looks just terrible to me.
I have the Sinn (the 556i) and it’s a truly outstanding watch, killer proportions, hard as nails, classic understated design. Used to have the Heritage Ranger too - beautiful but a bit oversized for the type of watch it is. Tudor would hit a home run by making a 38mm version.
My favorite from the list is Sinn. I personally think it is the one of the best value for money watch brands.
The Steineys get some love, fantastic! I love my Ocean One, I hope someday to replace it with a genuine Sub, but for now it does the job nicely. Great video!
“Come at me in the comments!” Brilliant. I have to tell you that you have fully converted me to Seiko, especially with your Flighty review. Your passion here is fantastic and I am so happy to see there is no snobbery with having to have expensive brand names with a watch you enjoy.
Completey agree with the Alpinist being number 1 on this list!
I absolutely love this style of video...more please!
Hello TGV,. Great to see a new video. Can't watch just yet but I am sure it will be fantastic. One more watch you should put on your Explorer alternative list ... Bernhardt Binnacle Anchor. Excellent excellent piece that is from an American company at a great price point. Can't wait to watch the video when I land tonight. All the best and thanks! Thank for the Dan Henry news as well. Onwards and upwards!!
Wonderful lineup and video! I would throw the Hamilton Murph into this mix. Thanks for what you do, TGV!
Thanks TGV for another great Vid have a great thanksgiving day
I just got my alpinest a few weeks ago, but it’s the vintage piece with 4s15 movement green dial and a red alpinest on the dial, it took me a look time to find a really good condition piece. As alpinest has been my next buying watch for a long time and I always got distracted by other watches, and I also prefer the best version of it as I do believe 4s movement are much finer than 6r. Love the video love the alpinest
Thank you for, as usual, a very well informative video, alot of things one learned, of which one, was never aware of, very admirable, kind regards
Great video as usual TGV!
Explorer is my grail so I've been eyeing up all of these.. the Sinn 556 has been on my list for a while, but that Fortis is also beautiful... and the Tudor North Flag.. Urgh!
Thanks for another great video. ✌
ah yes the video i needed! thank you :)
Love these outtakes!
Great video! I always loved the Ranger and the North Flag! That Fortis is nice as well. Cheers my friend. Hope all is well!
YOU ARE A MIND READER! Ive been looking at Explorer alternatives all week. Trying to find a Smiths Everest or others but its extremely hard to find sadly. Looking at a Vaer C3 right now as its $175, a perfect quartz alternative and the bracelet comes out in a few weeks
Loving your Video. Bright, intelligent and thought provoking; just what’s required in these tough days. Seiko Alpinist excellent choice and of course your point about Top Twenty Seiko just had me grinning broadly.
Only issue..... Orient ? Or does that sneak in under Seiko these days?
Keep up the excellent quality. All the very best, Bill
love your videos, been a fan for nearly 10 years. I've owned a green dial Alpinist, currently wearing a Steinhart Adventure but my favourite has to be my Pointer Date Big Crown Oris...so classy x
Glad you mention the Steinwatch. Have the Ocean One Vintage Military. Such a great value for money watch!
Come at me bruh!! Hahaha, T, I love it! In my 20+ years of collecting, I never owned my a Seiko until I joined the channel. Now, they have become a favorite of mine as well and I have seven of them. Great choices for your affordable alternatives.
Hi great video keep them coming
Hamilton Murph - the same feel and vibe of the explorer to me. - love the channel
Three watches I would steal from The Urban Gentry: Bulova Accutron, Rolex Explorer, Fortis cosmonaut chronograph iss limited edition. Hugo, are you down for a shady deal: 55 juicy young sheeps for 3 watches? I'll throw in there a bottle of champagne too...don't tell TGV though 🤫
Anyway, Great video as always TGV...Ciao from Italy 🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹
Was waiting for Seiko to be number one haha. Great list! Loved every single one of them
Absolutely loved this list.
Lorier Falcon 2 is also an amazing option for those with smaller wrists. I just got one and it definitely scratched that explorer itch.
Really enjoyed this video TGV. Your line "in many ways I feel the North Flag is simply an Explorer from the future..." is brilliant! I would love to see you do a review of the Tudor North Flag.
I love that Seiko was #1. They are so durable and priced so appropriately. Loved the video so thanks for sharing your opinions and educating on so many Interesting horological facts pertaining to each watch on the list. Really enjoy your stuff.
Every time I think about rolex explorer the prices jumped 500$ and dealer waiting list extended 5month more 😞😞💔
Great to see someone FINALLY do a video like this. I have an alpha Explorer that scratches the itch for now.... Do like the Smiths though. I actually have an original spitfire cockpit clock given to me by my uncle. Top stuff as always TGV.
Very amazing video! I would add the Hamilton Khaki Field too, as it sort of has a similar versatile feel like the Explorer. Bernhardt is a microbrand that has a very nice Explorer homage too.
Thrilled to see the Alpy at 1! I bought my very own sarb 017 which arrived today and I am besotted! Great video as usual!
I saw the Tudor North Flag in person and I must say I was impressed with it. Can't believe it's not so popular.
Well done ! Thank you!
Got my new Sinn 556a in today and I love it! Thank you for your help in deciding what I wanted instead of a new Apple Watch.
I was waiting for Sinn...love this brand!