My first "nice" watch was the Rolex Explorer 39mm (MK1) in 2010. After several months of internet research and visits to retailers, I completely fell for the Explorer, even though Rolex decided to switch from 36mm to 39mm. I loved this model but thought that the 36mm would have been ideal, thus better respecting its history. A little over a year ago, I made the decision to sell it to get the new 36mm version (reference 124270). Here we are… This watch is simply exceptional, with notable improvements over the previous ones: the 3230 movement offering 72 hours of power reserve, blue luminescence on all the indexes, a very beautiful black lacquered dial and a particularly solid bracelet. What I particularly like is its comfort, much better than the 39 mm and even the new 40 mm. It is a watch that is both sporty and chic, offering a beautiful presence while remaining discreet. With a wrist of more than 17 cm, some may find it a little "small", especially because of the 19/14 bracelet which makes it thinner. But believe me, after a few days, you get used to it, and you quickly realize that it is actually an advantage, because the dial stands out more and the comfort is fabulous. I have a collection of four watches, and this is without a doubt the one I wear the most. So yes, if I had to keep only one, it would be the Explorer 36.

The Rolex Explorer, reference 124270, embodies the timeless elegance and spirit of adventure that have shaped Rolex’s history. With its 36 mm Oystersteel case, this historic size pays tribute to the original 1953 model, designed to accompany the exploits of mountaineering pioneers, including the ascent of Everest. A BALANCED AND REFINED DESIGN The black lacquered dial is a masterpiece of simplicity and readability, with its distinctive Arabic numerals at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock. These applied hour markers, filled with Chromalight, ensure optimum visibility even in the dark. The perfect balance between proportions and refined details gives the dial a timeless aesthetic, while remaining impeccable in functionality. A BRACELET OF EXCEPTIONAL PRECISION The watch is equipped with the famous stainless steel Oyster bracelet, robust and comfortable. This bracelet, with its secure Oysterlock clasp and Easylink adjustment system, reflects all of Rolex’s expertise, combining comfort, finesse and durability. THE QUINTESSENCE OF WATCHMAKING FINESSE With its perfectly controlled thickness, the Rolex Explorer ref. 124270 elegantly adapts to all occasions, from the most demanding explorations to the most distinguished evenings. Its automatic movement caliber 3230 guarantees precision, reliability and an exceptional power reserve of 70 hours. ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PIECES FROM ROLEX The Explorer 36 ref. 124270 is much more than a watch: it is an icon, a symbol of exploration and watchmaking perfection. Its historic size, balanced design and impeccable finish make it one of Rolex’s most admired and desired creations. A watch that spans generations with elegance and timelessness.

Gold and steel, readable, luminescent, waterproof, robust, contained and without warts, it has everything to reach the top with class. In addition, being shunned by investor buyers, I was able to get it at a price significantly lower than the boutique price, which is rare these days with this brand.

I was looking for a timepiece at the dawn of my 30th birthday. It was when I walked through the door of a Parisian AD to try on models from the brand with the crown that I fell in love with this Explorer 36mm ref. 124270. After months of thinking, I had only two criteria in mind: a black dial without a date and a discreet watch on the wrist. This watch remains faithful to the design codes of watches from the post-war years. An extremely clear dial without bling-bling. A watch with perfectly mastered proportions. This Explorer exudes robustness and is a beautiful tribute to the explorers of yesteryear. In short, a professional with the codes of a dress watch, a dial of flawless readability with precious metals in this deep black. My first Rolex, a Rolex for a lifetime.

At first, nothing was predestined for this timepiece to enter my collection. Already having the Explorer 2 in my possession, I made the mistake of trying on this little Explorer, not so small, and it was love at first sight. It has a crazy charm, this plethora of details, this size, this presence, this brilliance made me fall in love with this little gem. My AD was able to find me a model in just 2 days. What a joy to wear it every day, it is discreet and so classy that I never tire of contemplating the 3-6-9 adorned with its lumibright. As you will have understood, I am crazy about it. It is very pleasant to wear even if the adjustment was a little too tight at first, the easylink has restored a little grace to my wrist. Far from the madness of Daytona and other GMT Masters, it really deserves to be an icon. I advise you to try it on to realize that you have a sleeping monster there

Currently the only watch in my collection after having owned Longines and Tudors, it is the result of a long reflection that pushed me to start from scratch and start again with this iconic model from Rolex. This reference from 2001 embodies in my opinion the golden age of Rolex, between tradition and modernity, this watch is light, thin, precise and adapts to all outfits thanks to its contained diameter and its harmonious dial. It lets itself be forgotten on the wrist, until the sun comes to illuminate the sapphire crystal devoid of anti-reflective, thanks to the sparkle of the indexes and the 369 in white gold. Classic, coherent, you just have to put a nato on it to rediscover it, all the colors suit it perfectly. The 3130 movement is of formidable precision, which despite its age delivers astonishing performances, with less than 1 second advance per day. THE first watch par excellence