Gray Man I agree with you and I’m glad that Rolex continues to propose 34mm diameter cases in their classic collection. I’m particularly interested in the 34mm Oyster Perpetual so that my wife can enjoy it too :) what is your favorite watch in your collection?
@@tonyga5 Yes and no. It depends on the case size, pretty much. Sure, just because it looks small doesn't always necessarily mean it looks small unless you've experience the watch in person.
Just back from a business trip in the US, where one of my colleague was wearing a silver face Air King 14010 (the one with an engine turned bezel). The guy is 6' tall with a thin / athletic frame, and I couldn't help noticing how nice the watch wore on him. So one can definitely look great wearing a 34-35mm watch, as long as the wrist is not too big. I absolutely applaud the trend back to sub 40mm sizes. It was about damn time they went back to human sizes.
Johnny Guitare I completely agree with you. One dear friend of mine is about 192cm tall and athletic, and he wears a Datejust 34mm looking perfect on him. I wear daily a Black Bay 36 and I think it looks killer even on me besides being 175cm and pretty muscular. In my opinion a smaller watch makes you look smarter!
@@zakofrx Sorry for the sweeping statement. Of course there are people with 8 inch plus wrists. But they are a minority, whereas a few years ago you would have been hard pressed to find any new watch offered at less than 41mm. With a significant portion at 44mm and above.
@@GermanMike89 Love the BB36. I got the blue one for my wife a few months ago, but was very impressed on how it wore on my 7" wrist. I am a 6' tall / 200 lbs ex-rugby player, and the watch looked great on me. Will probably get the BB58 next year. 39mm is my sweet spot, I have 5 watches in this size.
I love 36mm watches especially Rolex oyster perpetuals but when I tried on my 8 inch wrist it was so small I just couldn’t do it and went with 39 mm.Now when I put on my 41 mm black bay it feels quite big
The 34mm white OP has a cleaner dial than the 36mm OP. My perfect choice would be the 36mm OP with the dial of the 34mm. The 34mm OP is a nice watch nonetheless!
Darren Siow Agreed, but it's not THAT much cleaner, especially if going with the same color dial. The double indices at 3-6-9 and 5-10-15 on the minutes track does add some "busy" factor, but I find it more than acceptable.
i dislike how the dot marker is so close to the crown logo on 34mm and 39mm design, but i haven't got a chance to look at the black dial 34mm in real life, but 36mm black dial is absolute stunner.
It was this video that inspired me to pick up a 36mm black dial ref 116000 from my local AD. I'm thrilled with the watch. Timeless style, black dial goes with any outfit, 36mm is just large enough to be sporty with the "large presence" oyster case yet small enough to be considered an appropriate dress watch. Not to mention, it keeps time incredibly well. So far, +2s in a week. I love it, and I will keep it forever. I'm excited to pass it down to the next generation too :)
I received a gift of a 34mm Date from my late Mom in the 80s. It’s a beautiful piece and one I will cherish as long as I’m alive. It doesn’t look small and it’s incredibly accurate, running less than a second slow a day after RSC service. Nothing wrong with a 34mm Rolex! Great video.
Hey Adrian, I never thought I was a Rolex kind of guy... my initial impression was the brand is just too much glitz for me ( diamonds, gold, etc...), plus a huge price to boot. But then today, (before watching this video :) I started noticing the more "humble" Rolex watches, like this one you reviewed and the Datejust... I really like that polished stainless steel (or white gold) bezel. I recently bought a Seiko Sarb033 and am I so happy with its size and classic appearance. Regarding size. I so very much agree with you. In the late 80's through early 2000's, I saw that ever increase in size, where 42mm + started to be the norm. For me, I find a smaller size (36-40mm is my sweet spot) more intimate and personally connected to me... I am wearing it, versus, it is wearing me. :) I have to say I'm enjoying your reviews and you have started to erode my negative bias against Londoners. :)
1:38 I can't agree with this more! It is so amazing that how far spread we humans are from each other but we have similar feelings towards the smallest of the details! I honestly believe that appreciation for quality is baked into human souls! I really can't stress enough that, although I have not heard it from anyone before here, but the opposite side of the crown is an absolute perfection on a a datejust. That curvature and the polishing of the case gives an illusion of the case-lugs and the bracelet, melting into each other! Peak craftsmanship.
White OP is the jewel in the Rolex crown. Never mind the value. But of course, that is a matter of taste. The 39mm has totally equal and symmetrical markers and is truly special.
I'm in love with 34mm Rolex watches : the"Date", and especially this oyster perpetual. It is simply gorgeous. Elegant and unobtrusive. Great review by the way, as usual. Thanks!
I own a 34mm OP w/Blue Dial..........a fantastic watch! I have small wrists and the 34mm is the perfect size for me. Previously, I owned a 36mm Oyster Perpetual DateJust that my wife bought me for me in 1987 as a Father’s Day gift. I wore that Rolex every single day until 2011 when I had to have my right thumb amputated due to cancer in the nail bed. It was very difficult to wind the watch and, stupidly, I sold it. Seven years later, I decided to try wearing a watch again and was able to manipulate the crown with my opposite hand. I saw my Blue Dial OP in a Rolex AD and bought it on the spot. I love this watch, though I still wish I’d kept my previous watch for sentimental reasons. Also, I’m in the market for a Ref. 114270 Explorer which I’ll buy when I find one with box and papers. I’m not a collector and treat my Rolex exactly like my Porsche........a daily driver! For me.........Nothing Even Comes Close To Rolex and Porsche.
I'm starting to build an appreciation for the oyster perpetual having seen a few in person now. They're an understated and simple watch at a glance. Look closely and they're beautiful and very classy
I think you’re quite clearly the best watch reviewer on UA-cam. More relaxed less biased version of Hodinkee. Watchbox reviews are great as well but are quite bland. I feel you have a great balance.
Wow, thanks so much Bob! Being compared to Hodinkee and Watchbox is quite the honour. I'm really glad you like the reviews. Have a great weekend. Cheers, Adrian
@@LesterLovesWatches thanks buddy. Watchfinder to make incredible videos, but they do have a production team behind them. It's just me doing this. Does Christian say "let's get into it"? I didn't know that. I'll have to think of something else to say!
I bought a 34 MM , 2005 Air King 14000 for $2800.00 US dollars or 2158.63 GBP. it was in great shape and worth the money. the 34mm Oyster perpetual runs $5000.00 USD -3854.56 GBP. the used market is a better deal.
I'm considering to buy this exact OP in white for my birthday next year, but can't decide between the 34 or 38mm (not 36 due to the double indices at 3,6,9) version as I've got a pretty small 6.25 wirst. Do you think that 34mm is too small for a 6.25-6.5 inch wirst or does it fit perfectly?
@@carlo.b You could easily go 34 but try one on to make a decision. Chances are that your AD will not have them as they are so sought after but try on a smaller Datejust to give you an idea. I have a 7 and 3/4 wrist and could have been ok with the 36 but I was also put off by the bigger indices so went for the 39.
C B hey! I just bought the 34 and my wrist size is the same as yours. Its difficult choosing the size as iam so used to seeing huge rolex watches. But I like that this is discreet
Hi this video is what made search for a white dial but I got the OP 36 instead. Thanks for the video. It made me really wanted this white dial. Like the blue dial also but decided the on the white in the end.
May I ask where did you get it from? I have checked with multiple stores of Watches of Switzerland and Frazer hart. None of them seem to have the white dial 36mm..
The Ad I went to so happen had it. Most store had the black dial but I felt it made the watch looks small. Not with the white dial it looks really great. I been looking for a month or so around so lucky I suppose, I search pretty much every Ad I can think of in Singapore. I am from Singapore
@@CRISTOBALBALENCIAGA yes I been in waiting list for the OP39 for over a year and when I saw this at the Ad I just got it. The white dial is really nice plus I have a small wrist too. I liked the blue dial too.
I'm glad the sizes are going down. I love so many watches but with a 6-1/4 wrist, so can't wear 95% of them. This might be a possibility, at 34mm. Thanks for the review!
I wish Rolex made an OP34 in 18k yellow gold with a complete brushed finish on the case and bracelet. Thank you for the video, I was feeling the non-fluted bezel on 36mm Rolex looked like the bezel was little too chunky for the dial while the 34mm with smooth bezel looked more proportional.
I like the no date sub. Similarly I like the OP over the datejust. Also a fan of the white milgauss (discontinued) and on some days, the explorers. This white OP is the best though. Most versatile in the range for the price. Put a leather strap on it, jubilee, nato, silicone, all looks great. Wear it into the city, at work, the beach, a dinner party, a wedding, it can do it all. Simple, elegant, will last a life time.
I'm not quite sure what's drives me ,may be after watching your video,but I feel more confident to wear my 34mm vintage watch which I think no one else is wearing today.
The thing about Rolex watches - and one or two others - is that, given their probable lifespan, any design is going to be in or out of fashion potentially dozens of times. That's assuming we all enjoy a long, happy and prosperous life, of course. Which I hope we do!
@Adrian - This was your video that got me into watch collecting! Not sure if I should thank you or hate you 🙃 I watch this video for nostalgia; the watch shots are amazing -- wow, the way the light hits this OP is stunning! Keep it up! You're awesome!
Bought my OP36 back in December, I love it. I looked at the 34mm OP too and it honestly wears so close to the 36. The only reason I bought the 36 specifically is for the blue "3,6,9" dial and I like that the numerals are lumed. You can't go wrong with the OP line, understated luxury all the way.
I happened to be wearing my 34mm 14000 air king with the silver satin dial today and at glance the two look very similar. The two other watches in my collection now are the HULK at 40mm and 39mm Explorer 214270. My favorite go to watch for daily would be the explorer and the HULK comes out every blue moon. The air king was a spur of the moment buy a few months back because I got a great deal on it but I almost passed it up thinking 34 would be too small. Rotating between the three I have never had anyone tell me they thought the air king was too small, in fact a few friends were quite surprised after heading it was indeed 34. On the wrist I think being there is less contrast with the dial and stainless body it the illusion of being bigger than it really as if to say the dial were say black or blue. Congrats on the batman btw, we have a similar collection of Rolex's and a love of coffee! Keep with the great reviews!
I like the understated, non bling look of these entry-level Rolexes. However I'm not a fan of small watches as they make me look even more old-school than I am! Ironically I think they work better on younger guys who want to look retro. Personally I prefer the wrist presence you get with a larger 39mm or 40mm watches. Still, each to their own!
I like the shot at 8:30 - you can really pick the difference in color between the dial and the lume. This is the kind of details that bothered me before, and now I happen to love them! I'm super happy with my SARB035 but I really wouldn't mind this OP 34 (even if my favorite is the 36 in blue with Arabic numerals). It's a cracking looking piece. Thanks for this episode! Love from Belgium
I have an OP Date 1500 34mm and it’s my absolute favourite watch. It’s so comfy its unreal. I’m a 6ft4 big dude with a beard and i don’t think it feels too small at all. It’s perfect.
I just bought one of these last night. I got the olive green dial and at 25% off msrp. I can always return if I decide I don't want to keep it, but I've been eyeing it up for a while and just tried in on last month. Like you I don't like oversized watches, but I have Speedmasters so I do have pieces that are 42mm. While I was surprised at how wearable the 39mm Oyster Perpetual is, having before trying it on expecting it to be too big, the olive dial is only available in the 34mm size or smaller. Personally I think 34mm is fine and the current Rolex cases are of an acceptable size and I would say I have a pretty average size wrist.
I have no issue with the size, if the watch is comfortable and shows well. I have large wrists, over 8" and I do have a couple of smaller pieces that I wear with confidence. I am of the opinion that if someone feels smaller sizes are too feminine, they're saying more about themselves than they are about the watch itself.
I am wearing a 1943 black sub second hand 15 jewel manual wind Omega watch. It looks great and run great. Watch companies today still watches that look like this. It is 78 year old wonder watch!
I’ve got a OP date that is from my birth year at 34mm. Sometimes I feel it’s too small however when you catch a glimpse in the mirror you realise it’s got a real wrist presence.
I feel exactly the same with my olive green OP 114200. Looking down at my wrist, it feels too small sometimes. In the mirror or on pics it looks perfect.
Partly thanks to this video I bought a white dialed 115200 Oyster Date 34mm from 2010. Works really well on my slim wrist as the case is quite beefy. The idea that anything below 36mm is too small for men is really arbitrary and over simplified as it’s all about propositions. Great video!!
Agreed! Bought a Rolex air king 2010- model white dial last week for 6k and I must say, it fits well and looks good 👍🏽 on me goin for a date just two tone jubilee invisible clasp next
Adrian, I am looking back at this video and this was what drove me to buy my Rolex OP 36. Absolutely awesome piece. More importantly, as a silent follower, really happy to see how fun you've come. I am based in London and loves watches. Would love to catch up if you are up for it.
I am a big fan of 34mm watches which is why I gravitate towards vintages pieces. The disadvantage in that is the smaller lugs! I think Rolex did a fantastic job in making a 34mm but keeping a 20mm lug. The 3130 is an excellent movement as well! The price is an added bonus and probably would have bought it at a higher price. I will definitely talk to my AD as I will want to acquire one in the near future. Love the eggshell dial or so it looked eggshell. Another great video Adrian! I do want to mention that its a pleasure seeing all your feedback on the comments. You are very engaging and that makes your channel different than most...
Thank you sir. Watching your vids and subscribed to your channel from the U.S. Your passion for time pieces benefits all of us wanting to learn about this world of wrist watches.
Hi Adrian, just a bit of info on the “applied” coronet on a typical Rolex clasp... it’s not applied but one piece, it is milled with the clasp. (Which is why they don’t fall off, ever) ;)
And if you like historical significance, this is the modern iteration of the watch that Sherpa Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary wore during the 1953 first summit of Everest expedition (Supposedly Tenzing was wearing his on the summit.)
Another nice review Adrian, I have been eyeing up the 114200 Airking with the 3,6,9 dial in blue or silver for some time now - still afew knocking about in NOS condition :) They didn't change the reference number (as far as I know) when they dropped the "Airking" logo off the dial back in 2014 I think.
Not sure how I haven’t seen this video until now. I have the 36mm OP in the black dial and absolutely love it. Very under the radar and unquestionably versatile!
@@realblackbetty2204 the white dial wears a bit larger than the darker dials. The white and black dials are more versatile then other colors. The black dial is probably the most Rolex like dial. If you take a darker dial like blue or black you might also consider the 36 mm version as it looks a bit smaller on the wrist compared to the white dial. The blue dial looks stunning but is less versatile.
What are your thoughts on the Olive Green 34mm OP? I am so close to pulling the trigger on that one, but was wondering what you think about that one too :)
I saw one of these at the AD in Chicago tonight. I honestly struggled to tell the difference between the 34 and 36mm. I didn't ask to try any on as they were busy, but I did make the mental note that it looks bigger than it is. I think i'll still hold out for a 36mm explorer or the blue OP with explorer dial.
Couldn't get my hands on an Explorer I (availability and price) so I compromised to an AirKing 114200, no regrets whatsoever. Initially I was apprehensive about the size but man does wear beatiful on the wrist! Your'e right man, it's time we go back to reasonable watch sizes.
When I got into watches years ago I thought the explorer was ugly and boring and couldn't imagine why anyone would want one. I was into busy complicated watches, chronos , etc.......jump a few years and I now own 3 explorers lol funny how tastes change over time. Less is more
It's easy to dismiss this watch when glancing over the catalogue online. It doesn't stand out in any way at all yet as you say it has masses going for it. personally I'd go for the newer 39mm version but I really like the ivory or off white dial. It oozes class and suggests the owner knows something special.
The small case size makes sense for that bracelet. Yet, 34, 36, don’t have the same movement in 39mm which houses BOTH paraflex sock absorber and parachrom spring.
Good Vid Adrian .. The 34 mm does fit him well. It would have been interesting to hear why he chose the 34 over the 36 or even the 39. The white dial does look great. The watch is timeless simple, classic and will never look dated Rolex is good at this by keeping in its lane with its styling . I tried a 39 OP with rhodium dial a while ago as this watch was really on my radar and the deal breaker for me was the way they machined the bezels on these. I just really dont like how it bulges out and it is more curved in its profile. I much prefer the flatness of the the bezel on your 14270 as it has a flat profile and to me that is more classic. its amazing how a few degrees of difference can change the appearance in such a way. I think that if the OP line did have a flatter bezel these would be a killer watch! I wear my 36mm explorers far more than I wear my 40 mm gmt's but my wrists are 7.5" and I just dont think I could pull off a 34mm at least of the vintage variety but with such a beefy case this is a possibility Congrats to John on his new watch!
I totally agree about how nice it is to have a watch that flies under the radar. I was fortunate enough to purchase a Tudor Black Bay 58. I love that it's a *really* nice watch but it's not flashy. In fact, I've had it for a month and I've had two watch guys talk to me about it.
I have a 180mm wrist and would not hesitate to rock a 34mm piece. Aside from dive watches I try to stay at or below 38-39mm in watch diameter. The OP is timeless in the 34 and 36mm sizes. Great talk!
This guy always finds interesting angles and truths about a watch that makes me want to look again. I agree completely with the ‘chunky’ and curvaceous lug beauty of the smaller Rolex’s like the 34mm. I just never considered the overall small size of the watch as suitable for a 7.5 inch wrist. I may take another look…
Great video Adrian , spot on review of a great watch , I ‘ve worn my Rolex Air-king 1400 everyday for nearly twenty years now . Love your phrase “ under the radar “ because that’s exactly what they do, all the great things about owning a rolex with none of the bullshit.
First time I saw my 1500, I fell in love. But my brain immediately shot "but that case size?...". When I clicked it on my wrist... oh, my god. It became a giant lol. What a piece, what a presence!
It's a piece you need to try on..34-36 sounds small in today's world but when you think the bigger Rolex's are including a Bezel the face on these beauties look surprisingly large when on the wrist.....many have a mental block on anything under 39mm
I never thought it was a trend to prefer smaller watches. I think the trend was the big monstrosities. Thankfully starting to play out. Actually, the last two pieces I purchased, a vintage Datejust and a Tudor Submariner are both 36mm. Great Chaney and I really appreciate your content.
Not a rolex, but my daily is a late 60s 34mm Tudor Prince Oysterdate, couldnt be happier with the understated size and surprising wrist presence.The old ETA runs at a great +4 to +7seconds a day, really happy with that considering the age. Would love a 34mm OP
I own the 114210 with silver dial. It's very light and slick (comparably my Omega Seamaster 300 midsize is much much heavier), you can almost forget you have it on the wrist.
I just love this watch. Yes, its small. I would have to see how it looks on my wrist before I bought it. For me, elegant but not pretentious is a great quality in a watch.
Sorry guys, I got the lug width wrong, it's 19mm, not 20mm.
Bark and Jack you miss the most important measurement. The lug to lug?
Stupid measurement. Just make it a nice round number
Hey i got a 1956 Tudor royal. Numeals just like your explorer. What do you think of these?
You should know most oysters are 19mm. Just sayin. Great channel tho! Huge thumbs up.
Everybody makes mistakes.☺️
"The Oyster Perpetual is not the baby Rolex. It's the Rolex for the purist."
You are absolutely right 😉
Gray Man I agree with you and I’m glad that Rolex continues to propose 34mm diameter cases in their classic collection. I’m particularly interested in the 34mm Oyster Perpetual so that my wife can enjoy it too :) what is your favorite watch in your collection?
The first Rolex
Gorgeous watch but just looks too small for a mans wrist.
@@tonyga5 Yes and no. It depends on the case size, pretty much. Sure, just because it looks small doesn't always necessarily mean it looks small unless you've experience the watch in person.
Just back from a business trip in the US, where one of my colleague was wearing a silver face Air King 14010 (the one with an engine turned bezel). The guy is 6' tall with a thin / athletic frame, and I couldn't help noticing how nice the watch wore on him. So one can definitely look great wearing a 34-35mm watch, as long as the wrist is not too big. I absolutely applaud the trend back to sub 40mm sizes. It was about damn time they went back to human sizes.
Johnny Guitare I completely agree with you. One dear friend of mine is about 192cm tall and athletic, and he wears a Datejust 34mm looking perfect on him. I wear daily a Black Bay 36 and I think it looks killer even on me besides being 175cm and pretty muscular. In my opinion a smaller watch makes you look smarter!
Humans come in all sizes.
I wear XL sized gloves and have an 8 inch wrists(but like to wear a loose watch)
@@zakofrx Sorry for the sweeping statement. Of course there are people with 8 inch plus wrists. But they are a minority, whereas a few years ago you would have been hard pressed to find any new watch offered at less than 41mm. With a significant portion at 44mm and above.
@@GermanMike89 Love the BB36. I got the blue one for my wife a few months ago, but was very impressed on how it wore on my 7" wrist. I am a 6' tall / 200 lbs ex-rugby player, and the watch looked great on me. Will probably get the BB58 next year. 39mm is my sweet spot, I have 5 watches in this size.
I love 36mm watches especially Rolex oyster perpetuals but when I tried on my 8 inch wrist it was so small I just couldn’t do it and went with 39 mm.Now when I put on my 41 mm black bay it feels quite big
Love these modern OP's, so simple, elegant and refined.
Totally agree with you
@@Hans-Georg_Buddne It’s not that difficult to get one. For the silver dial I only waited 3 moths before I got it in August.
This was my first Rolex and I'm still over the moon with it. This review helped me massively in deciding. Appreciate it!
The 34mm white OP has a cleaner dial than the 36mm OP. My perfect choice would be the 36mm OP with the dial of the 34mm. The 34mm OP is a nice watch nonetheless!
Definitely! The older 36mm OP with the 369 dial are quite nice too. Very Explorer-esque.
Darren Siow Agreed, but it's not THAT much cleaner, especially if going with the same color dial. The double indices at 3-6-9 and 5-10-15 on the minutes track does add some "busy" factor, but I find it more than acceptable.
i dislike how the dot marker is so close to the crown logo on 34mm and 39mm design, but i haven't got a chance to look at the black dial 34mm in real life, but 36mm black dial is absolute stunner.
Do 36mm dials fit on 34mm?
@@emeraldpk8570great question 🙋🏽♂️
It was this video that inspired me to pick up a 36mm black dial ref 116000 from my local AD. I'm thrilled with the watch. Timeless style, black dial goes with any outfit, 36mm is just large enough to be sporty with the "large presence" oyster case yet small enough to be considered an appropriate dress watch. Not to mention, it keeps time incredibly well. So far, +2s in a week. I love it, and I will keep it forever. I'm excited to pass it down to the next generation too :)
I received a gift of a 34mm Date from my late Mom in the 80s.
It’s a beautiful piece and one I will cherish as long as I’m alive. It doesn’t look small and it’s incredibly accurate, running less than a second slow a day after RSC service.
Nothing wrong with a 34mm Rolex! Great video.
Hey Adrian, I never thought I was a Rolex kind of guy... my initial impression was the brand is just too much glitz for me ( diamonds, gold, etc...), plus a huge price to boot. But then today, (before watching this video :) I started noticing the more "humble" Rolex watches, like this one you reviewed and the Datejust... I really like that polished stainless steel (or white gold) bezel. I recently bought a Seiko Sarb033 and am I so happy with its size and classic appearance.
Regarding size. I so very much agree with you. In the late 80's through early 2000's, I saw that ever increase in size, where 42mm + started to be the norm. For me, I find a smaller size (36-40mm is my sweet spot) more intimate and personally connected to me... I am wearing it, versus, it is wearing me. :)
I have to say I'm enjoying your reviews and you have started to erode my negative bias against Londoners. :)
1:38 I can't agree with this more! It is so amazing that how far spread we humans are from each other but we have similar feelings towards the smallest of the details! I honestly believe that appreciation for quality is baked into human souls!
I really can't stress enough that, although I have not heard it from anyone before here, but the opposite side of the crown is an absolute perfection on a a datejust. That curvature and the polishing of the case gives an illusion of the case-lugs and the bracelet, melting into each other! Peak craftsmanship.
Why the heck everyone forget the lug to lug size?
That’s what determine how big the watch will look on your wrist.
Why should you care?
@@matthewburden9403 thats not your business
Is 41.8mm
@@matthewburden9403 So you're asking a guy in the comment section of a watch review video why should he care about the specification of the watch?
@@matthewburden9403 Because it's literally the most important number to consider when buying a watch. Why shouldn't he care?
White OP is the jewel in the Rolex crown. Never mind the value. But of course, that is a matter of taste. The 39mm has totally equal and symmetrical markers and is truly special.
I'm in love with 34mm Rolex watches : the"Date", and especially this oyster perpetual. It is simply gorgeous. Elegant and unobtrusive. Great review by the way, as usual. Thanks!
I think that is such a stunning watch, I would definitely buy one of these.
Got my first Rolex, 34 OP m114200 yesterday. Absolutely love it!
I own a 34mm OP w/Blue Dial..........a fantastic watch! I have small wrists and the 34mm is the perfect size for me. Previously, I owned a 36mm Oyster Perpetual DateJust that my wife bought me for me in 1987 as a Father’s Day gift. I wore that Rolex every single day until 2011 when I had to have my right thumb amputated due to cancer in the nail bed. It was very difficult to wind the watch and, stupidly, I sold it. Seven years later, I decided to try wearing a watch again and was able to manipulate the crown with my opposite hand. I saw my Blue Dial OP in a Rolex AD and bought it on the spot. I love this watch, though I still wish I’d kept my previous watch for sentimental reasons. Also, I’m in the market for a Ref. 114270 Explorer which I’ll buy when I find one with box and papers. I’m not a collector and treat my Rolex exactly like my Porsche........a daily driver! For me.........Nothing Even Comes Close To Rolex and Porsche.
I'm starting to build an appreciation for the oyster perpetual having seen a few in person now. They're an understated and simple watch at a glance. Look closely and they're beautiful and very classy
I think you’re quite clearly the best watch reviewer on UA-cam. More relaxed less biased version of Hodinkee. Watchbox reviews are great as well but are quite bland. I feel you have a great balance.
Wow, thanks so much Bob! Being compared to Hodinkee and Watchbox is quite the honour. I'm really glad you like the reviews.
Have a great weekend.
Cheers, Adrian
I'm sorry, but do you know of Watchfinder and Co? Their cinematography is second to none, and while I love B&J, there really is no comparison.
@@LesterLovesWatches I could see that, though I do think that Adrian overuses the curvy arrows to points out watch specs.
That's exactly why I watch.
@@LesterLovesWatches thanks buddy. Watchfinder to make incredible videos, but they do have a production team behind them. It's just me doing this. Does Christian say "let's get into it"? I didn't know that. I'll have to think of something else to say!
Top 5 best one watch "collections" ... just simple beauty, works in most situations. Lovely
I agree, 34mm is a fine size with that case and bracelet. I wouldn’t go anywhere lower than that. I think the sweet spot for most men is 36-38mm
A 34 or 36 mm steel Rolex is perfection!!! and you can never go wrong with a white or black dial with baton/stick markers!!!
Took me a long time to realise the beauty of the OP34.
I bought a 34 MM , 2005 Air King 14000 for $2800.00 US dollars or 2158.63 GBP. it was in great shape and worth the money. the 34mm Oyster perpetual runs $5000.00 USD -3854.56 GBP. the used market is a better deal.
Excellent watch. Perfect match for everyday use.
I love that you made a Video on the watch that i own, love it!
I bought this watch in black. It's been 8 month and I'm still in love with it.
Also have it in black. Awesome simple piece👍
I think this is the perfect channel for just average guys who want to learn while in a chill setting. Keep it up!
Having a puny 6.5 “ wrist I would wear this watch. Simple is BEAUTIFUL!!
Joe G I am also a “Joe G” with similarly skinny wrists. I just bought this watch and love it!
I'm considering to buy this exact OP in white for my birthday next year, but can't decide between the 34 or 38mm (not 36 due to the double indices at 3,6,9) version as I've got a pretty small 6.25 wirst. Do you think that 34mm is too small for a 6.25-6.5 inch wirst or does it fit perfectly?
@@carlo.b You could easily go 34 but try one on to make a decision. Chances are that your AD will not have them as they are so sought after but try on a smaller Datejust to give you an idea. I have a 7 and 3/4 wrist and could have been ok with the 36 but I was also put off by the bigger indices so went for the 39.
C B hey! I just bought the 34 and my wrist size is the same as yours. Its difficult choosing the size as iam so used to seeing huge rolex watches. But I like that this is discreet
Hi this video is what made search for a white dial but I got the OP 36 instead. Thanks for the video. It made me really wanted this white dial. Like the blue dial also but decided the on the white in the end.
May I ask where did you get it from? I have checked with multiple stores of Watches of Switzerland and Frazer hart. None of them seem to have the white dial 36mm..
The Ad I went to so happen had it. Most store had the black dial but I felt it made the watch looks small. Not with the white dial it looks really great. I been looking for a month or so around so lucky I suppose, I search pretty much every Ad I can think of in Singapore. I am from Singapore
Neeraj Sharma yea, it’s impossible to buy any Rolex these days...I’ve ordered 34 OP..waiting from ~1 month to 6 months.
@@CRISTOBALBALENCIAGA yes I been in waiting list for the OP39 for over a year and when I saw this at the Ad I just got it. The white dial is really nice plus I have a small wrist too. I liked the blue dial too.
The 114200 is Rolex DNA synthesized to its most basic building blocks.
Great looking watch. I think I would prefer it in 36mm, but I love the clean look. Beauty in simplicity.
I'm glad the sizes are going down. I love so many watches but with a 6-1/4 wrist, so can't wear 95% of them. This might be a possibility, at 34mm. Thanks for the review!
I wish Rolex made an OP34 in 18k yellow gold with a complete brushed finish on the case and bracelet. Thank you for the video, I was feeling the non-fluted bezel on 36mm Rolex looked like the bezel was little too chunky for the dial while the 34mm with smooth bezel looked more proportional.
I like the no date sub. Similarly I like the OP over the datejust. Also a fan of the white milgauss (discontinued) and on some days, the explorers.
This white OP is the best though. Most versatile in the range for the price. Put a leather strap on it, jubilee, nato, silicone, all looks great. Wear it into the city, at work, the beach, a dinner party, a wedding, it can do it all.
Simple, elegant, will last a life time.
Love that white dial and its versatility! The clean and minimalistic look is definitely the highlight of this Rolex! Great review Adrian!
I'm not quite sure what's drives me ,may be after watching your video,but I feel more confident to wear my 34mm vintage watch which I think no one else is wearing today.
The thing about Rolex watches - and one or two others - is that, given their probable lifespan, any design is going to be in or out of fashion potentially dozens of times. That's assuming we all enjoy a long, happy and prosperous life, of course. Which I hope we do!
@Adrian - This was your video that got me into watch collecting! Not sure if I should thank you or hate you 🙃 I watch this video for nostalgia; the watch shots are amazing -- wow, the way the light hits this OP is stunning! Keep it up! You're awesome!
I really think this could not be better. The perfect watch.
Great vid. Love the 3D effect the applied marker creates. Really great no-nonsense watch.
Bought my OP36 back in December, I love it. I looked at the 34mm OP too and it honestly wears so close to the 36. The only reason I bought the 36 specifically is for the blue "3,6,9" dial and I like that the numerals are lumed. You can't go wrong with the OP line, understated luxury all the way.
I have the blue 3,6,9, absolutely love it ❤️
I happened to be wearing my 34mm 14000 air king with the silver satin dial today and at glance the two look very similar. The two other watches in my collection now are the HULK at 40mm and 39mm Explorer 214270. My favorite go to watch for daily would be the explorer and the HULK comes out every blue moon. The air king was a spur of the moment buy a few months back because I got a great deal on it but I almost passed it up thinking 34 would be too small. Rotating between the three I have never had anyone tell me they thought the air king was too small, in fact a few friends were quite surprised after heading it was indeed 34. On the wrist I think being there is less contrast with the dial and stainless body it the illusion of being bigger than it really as if to say the dial were say black or blue. Congrats on the batman btw, we have a similar collection of Rolex's and a love of coffee! Keep with the great reviews!
I like the understated, non bling look of these entry-level Rolexes. However I'm not a fan of small watches as they make me look even more old-school than I am! Ironically I think they work better on younger guys who want to look retro. Personally I prefer the wrist presence you get with a larger 39mm or 40mm watches. Still, each to their own!
I like the shot at 8:30 - you can really pick the difference in color between the dial and the lume. This is the kind of details that bothered me before, and now I happen to love them! I'm super happy with my SARB035 but I really wouldn't mind this OP 34 (even if my favorite is the 36 in blue with Arabic numerals). It's a cracking looking piece. Thanks for this episode! Love from Belgium
I have an OP Date 1500 34mm and it’s my absolute favourite watch. It’s so comfy its unreal. I’m a 6ft4 big dude with a beard and i don’t think it feels too small at all. It’s perfect.
Love the simplicity of the watch yet quality.
I just bought one of these last night. I got the olive green dial and at 25% off msrp. I can always return if I decide I don't want to keep it, but I've been eyeing it up for a while and just tried in on last month. Like you I don't like oversized watches, but I have Speedmasters so I do have pieces that are 42mm. While I was surprised at how wearable the 39mm Oyster Perpetual is, having before trying it on expecting it to be too big, the olive dial is only available in the 34mm size or smaller. Personally I think 34mm is fine and the current Rolex cases are of an acceptable size and I would say I have a pretty average size wrist.
I have no issue with the size, if the watch is comfortable and shows well. I have large wrists, over 8" and I do have a couple of smaller pieces that I wear with confidence. I am of the opinion that if someone feels smaller sizes are too feminine, they're saying more about themselves than they are about the watch itself.
What a beauty! 20mm lug width and yet the proportions are fine
That shot of the explorer and the OP is my perfect set from Rolex
I am wearing a 1943 black sub second hand 15 jewel manual wind Omega watch. It looks great and run great. Watch companies today still watches that look like this. It is 78 year old wonder watch!
I’ve got a OP date that is from my birth year at 34mm. Sometimes I feel it’s too small however when you catch a glimpse in the mirror you realise it’s got a real wrist presence.
I feel exactly the same with my olive green OP 114200. Looking down at my wrist, it feels too small sometimes. In the mirror or on pics it looks perfect.
You make every point so very well and agree. You can even say there is more of an intimacy with a smaller watch.
Partly thanks to this video I bought a white dialed 115200 Oyster Date 34mm from 2010. Works really well on my slim wrist as the case is quite beefy. The idea that anything below 36mm is too small for men is really arbitrary and over simplified as it’s all about propositions. Great video!!
Agreed! Bought a Rolex air king 2010- model white dial last week for 6k and I must say, it fits well and looks good 👍🏽 on me goin for a date just two tone jubilee invisible clasp next
Adrian, I am looking back at this video and this was what drove me to buy my Rolex OP 36. Absolutely awesome piece. More importantly, as a silent follower, really happy to see how fun you've come. I am based in London and loves watches. Would love to catch up if you are up for it.
I am a big fan of 34mm watches which is why I gravitate towards vintages pieces. The disadvantage in that is the smaller lugs! I think Rolex did a fantastic job in making a 34mm but keeping a 20mm lug. The 3130 is an excellent movement as well! The price is an added bonus and probably would have bought it at a higher price. I will definitely talk to my AD as I will want to acquire one in the near future. Love the eggshell dial or so it looked eggshell. Another great video Adrian! I do want to mention that its a pleasure seeing all your feedback on the comments. You are very engaging and that makes your channel different than most...
07:21 I'm wearing a 29mm watch right now and it doesn't seem to have triggered any apocalyptic events. 34's probably fine.
I like how the thick lugs on the small watch almost make it look like its on a cushion case
Thank you sir. Watching your vids and subscribed to your channel from the U.S. Your passion for time pieces benefits all of us wanting to learn about this world of wrist watches.
Hi Adrian, just a bit of info on the “applied” coronet on a typical Rolex clasp... it’s not applied but one piece, it is milled with the clasp. (Which is why they don’t fall off, ever) ;)
Egg-shell white i’d say. Textured. Or even like cream. Cyrus
I am the happy & lucky owner of OP 36 mm blue dial. 36 mm is really a good size and the steell is so amazingly soft to touch ...
Same here - I love it!
I considered this as my first Swiss watch, but I decided on a 14270. I'm happy with my decision but would recommend the 34 mm OP to anyone.
And if you like historical significance, this is the modern iteration of the watch that Sherpa Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary wore during the 1953 first summit of Everest expedition (Supposedly Tenzing was wearing his on the summit.)
Another nice review Adrian, I have been eyeing up the 114200 Airking with the 3,6,9 dial in blue or silver for some time now - still afew knocking about in NOS condition :) They didn't change the reference number (as far as I know) when they dropped the "Airking" logo off the dial back in 2014 I think.
The first 30 seconds were honest and great. A Perfect sized watch for a fella like me. Good post.
Not sure how I haven’t seen this video until now. I have the 36mm OP in the black dial and absolutely love it. Very under the radar and unquestionably versatile!
The OP range is awesome.
34-36mm Rolex, for the true watch enthusiasts.
I agree.
@@BarkandJack im torn between the white and blue 34.....whats your suggestion. thanks.
@@realblackbetty2204 the white dial wears a bit larger than the darker dials. The white and black dials are more versatile then other colors. The black dial is probably the most Rolex like dial.
If you take a darker dial like blue or black you might also consider the 36 mm version as it looks a bit smaller on the wrist compared to the white dial. The blue dial looks stunning but is less versatile.
For the real men!
@@YY-nd8lz thank you :)
the white on white works well
its way too exepnsive for a simple watch, esp. if you dont care about the brand name
Yeah that's very true. If you don't connect with the brand, then it is pointless.
I just picked up a CW C65 Trident Vintage, at 38mm with a classic design.
Great if you don't want/can't afford a Rolex
What are your thoughts on the Olive Green 34mm OP? I am so close to pulling the trigger on that one, but was wondering what you think about that one too :)
Thank you for this excellent video Adrian. This watch is definitely is not too small, it looks great. Thank you for sharing :)
Thanks so much for stopping by Jeffrey. Glad you liked the video and don't think it looks too small. Cheers, Adrian
I saw one of these at the AD in Chicago tonight. I honestly struggled to tell the difference between the 34 and 36mm. I didn't ask to try any on as they were busy, but I did make the mental note that it looks bigger than it is. I think i'll still hold out for a 36mm explorer or the blue OP with explorer dial.
I definitely love it. I like the size. "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." Leonardo da Vinci
Couldn't get my hands on an Explorer I (availability and price) so I compromised to an AirKing 114200, no regrets whatsoever. Initially I was apprehensive about the size but man does wear beatiful on the wrist!
Your'e right man, it's time we go back to reasonable watch sizes.
Completely agree with what you say about both the OP and the Explorer being boring watches, but that's what I love about them!
When I got into watches years ago I thought the explorer was ugly and boring and couldn't imagine why anyone would want one. I was into busy complicated watches, chronos , etc.......jump a few years and I now own 3 explorers lol funny how tastes change over time. Less is more
Adrian, your close up shots look so good.
It's easy to dismiss this watch when glancing over the catalogue online. It doesn't stand out in any way at all yet as you say it has masses going for it. personally I'd go for the newer 39mm version but I really like the ivory or off white dial. It oozes class and suggests the owner knows something special.
The small case size makes sense for that bracelet. Yet, 34, 36, don’t have the same movement in 39mm which houses BOTH paraflex sock absorber and parachrom spring.
I like smaller dress watches. But when it comes to sports watches I like to go big. I love my Cartier and I love my Panerai.
Congrats on 100k! More to come!
Good Vid Adrian .. The 34 mm does fit him well. It would have been interesting to hear why he chose the 34 over the 36 or even the 39. The white dial does look great.
The watch is timeless simple, classic and will never look dated Rolex is good at this by keeping in its lane with its styling . I tried a 39 OP with rhodium dial a while ago as this watch was really on my radar and the deal breaker for me was the way they machined the bezels on these. I just really dont like how it bulges out and it is more curved in its profile. I much prefer the flatness of the the bezel on your 14270 as it has a flat profile and to me that is more classic. its amazing how a few degrees of difference can change the appearance in such a way. I think that if the OP line did have a flatter bezel these would be a killer watch!
I wear my 36mm explorers far more than I wear my 40 mm gmt's but my wrists are 7.5" and I just dont think I could pull off a 34mm at least of the vintage variety but with such a beefy case this is a possibility
Congrats to John on his new watch!
I totally agree about how nice it is to have a watch that flies under the radar. I was fortunate enough to purchase a Tudor Black Bay 58. I love that it's a *really* nice watch but it's not flashy. In fact, I've had it for a month and I've had two watch guys talk to me about it.
The enlarged 3/6/9 markers really make a difference for legibility.
I have a 180mm wrist and would not hesitate to rock a 34mm piece. Aside from dive watches I try to stay at or below 38-39mm in watch diameter. The OP is timeless in the 34 and 36mm sizes. Great talk!
This guy always finds interesting angles and truths about a watch that makes me want to look again. I agree completely with the ‘chunky’ and curvaceous lug beauty of the smaller Rolex’s like the 34mm. I just never considered the overall small size of the watch as suitable for a 7.5 inch wrist. I may take another look…
Great video Adrian , spot on review of a great watch , I ‘ve worn my Rolex Air-king 1400 everyday for nearly twenty years now . Love your phrase “ under the radar “ because that’s exactly what they do, all the great things about owning a rolex with none of the bullshit.
I really like the watch! Such a cool little piece!
34mm is just fine for anyone with a wrist circumference < 7""
34mm is a good size. No bling, nice and subdued. If I could change one thing, I'd have a California dial on it, just like the vintage bubblebacks.
First time I saw my 1500, I fell in love. But my brain immediately shot "but that case size?...". When I clicked it on my wrist... oh, my god. It became a giant lol. What a piece, what a presence!
I would rather get the 36mm with the blue dial but that also looks sexy
I think the 36 mm has the double baton markers at indicating 3, 6, 9.
The blue 36 comes highly recommended if your thinking of getting one 👍
It's a piece you need to try on..34-36 sounds small in today's world but when you think the bigger Rolex's are including a Bezel the face on these beauties look surprisingly large when on the wrist.....many have a mental block on anything under 39mm
Fact, sometimes the difference between a 34mm and a 36mm is a thicker bezel.
I never thought it was a trend to prefer smaller watches. I think the trend was the big monstrosities. Thankfully starting to play out. Actually, the last two pieces I purchased, a vintage Datejust and a Tudor Submariner are both 36mm. Great Chaney and I really appreciate your content.
Thanks so much Steve. Glad you like the content. And I agree, I’m glad the trend for over sized watches is coming to an end.
Too bad they didn't keep that dial on the 36mm version, I'm not a huge fan of the double batons at 3 and 9... Cheers !
So torn between an Oyster Perpetual, Omega Speedmaster, and Tudor Black Bay for my first luxury watch
My choice would be the 36mm with the blue explorer dial
It is beautiful
Thank you for the video its fantastic..is the dail colour cream or white i would like to know ..thanks again😊
Not a rolex, but my daily is a late 60s 34mm Tudor Prince Oysterdate, couldnt be happier with the understated size and surprising wrist presence.The old ETA runs at a great +4 to +7seconds a day, really happy with that considering the age. Would love a 34mm OP
I own the 114210 with silver dial. It's very light and slick (comparably my Omega Seamaster 300 midsize is much much heavier), you can almost forget you have it on the wrist.
I just love this watch. Yes, its small. I would have to see how it looks on my wrist before I bought it. For me, elegant but not pretentious is a great quality in a watch.