Rolex Collection: Crown Enthusiast Picks

JoshTheCanadian · 2022-07-13T01:33:35Z

JoshTheCanadian shares his journey to Rolex appreciation with the Explorer 124270 and his choice of a 36mm green-dial Datejust as a legacy piece for his daughter. Discover community insights on passing down watches.

JoshTheCanadian

WPS member · Rolex forum

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JoshTheCanadian, a seasoned collector with a diverse horological background, shares his journey to appreciating Rolex, culminating in the acquisition of a 36mm Explorer 124270. His experience highlights how a watch, initially a personal milestone, can evolve into a cherished family heirloom. This piece explores his decision to acquire a 36mm Rolex Datejust with a green dial, intended as a future legacy piece for his daughter, and the community's reflections on passing down watches.

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It took me a long time to get my first Rolex - specifically, I purchased a 36 mm Rolex Explorer 124270 to celebrate the birth of my son last year. I engraved his initials on the case back, and plan to give it to him some day.

Before purchasing a Rolex, I purchased (and still own) a Damasko, Seiko, Orient, Brew, G-Shock, Omega, JLC, Bulgari, Patek, and perhaps some others I cannot think of. In short, it took me more than a decade before I bowed down before the Crown!

But I will be darned, that Explorer is just a fantastic watch! Especially in the 36mm, it is a perfect daily wearer. Further, I am particularly impressed by the guaranteed accuracy (+/- 2 seconds) and the precision. It is a darn fine watch! By no doubt, there are nicer watches in my collection and in general. However, for the rigors of parenting, I cannot think of a single brand I am more comfortable wearing! I can keep up with him and not worry if I whack it into a carseat, or submerge it in the tub, etc.

My wife and I are welcoming a daughter into the world this year, so I have been looking into what I want to pass down to her. I tried on the Submariner and some others in the sports range, and just don't love them. I have grown addicted to the mid-size Explorer.

So, I think I have landed on the Datejust. In 36mm, I think it will be a nice unisex option for her. And, so far, I am completely smitten by the green dialed 2022 iteration (not my pictures):

I think it will be a fantastic companion to my beloved Explorer:

About the Rolex Rolex Explorer Ref. 124270

The Explorer 124270, introduced in 2021, marks a return to the 36mm case size for the model line, a dimension historically associated with the Explorer. This reference updates the previous 39mm iteration, offering a more compact wearing experience while retaining the core aesthetic of the tool watch. It features a black dial with the characteristic 3-6-9 Arabic numerals and baton markers, all filled with Chromalight for legibility in low light conditions.

This reference is housed in an Oystersteel case measuring 36mm in diameter and approximately 11.5mm in thickness. It is fitted with a fixed smooth bezel and a sapphire crystal. The watch is powered by the automatic Caliber 3230, a movement known for its precision and a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Water resistance is rated to 100 meters, ensuring durability for daily wear.

The 124270 appeals to collectors who appreciate the traditional proportions of the Explorer and prefer a smaller case size. Its reintroduction of the 36mm diameter aligns with a broader trend towards more classic watch dimensions. This reference is offered exclusively on an Oyster bracelet, maintaining a consistent and robust presentation within the collection.

Specifications

Caliber: Cal. 3230

Case: Oystersteel

Diameter: 36mm

Dial: black

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The dilemma of wearing a watch intended for a child versus preserving it for future gifting is a common concern among collectors.
Some collectors find themselves unable to part with a watch purchased for a child, especially if the child shows no immediate interest, opting to wear it themselves until the child develops an appreciation or a new piece can be acquired.
The 36mm Rolex Datejust is considered a versatile timepiece, suitable for both casual and formal occasions, and its unisex appeal makes it an excellent choice for a legacy watch.
The 2022 green-dialed 36mm Datejust is a unique and aesthetically pleasing reference that has garnered significant interest from the community.
The Grand Seiko SBGW289, a 36.5mm timepiece, is also recognized as a strong unisex option for those looking to acquire a watch for a daughter.

The Discussion

mdg

Jul 13, 2022

...and a very nice (eventual) gift : )

Ping.Timeout

Jul 13, 2022

Great choice of dial, by the way.

takman

Jul 13, 2022

I’m waiting for the SBGW289 from Grand Seiko to arrive. It’s 36.5mm, perfect unisex option for my daughter and for me in the meantime. Great choice with the Rolex and congratulations again!

Arronax

Jul 13, 2022

The first two could easily figure in an official rolex catalog!

Thomas_3

Jul 13, 2022

I bought a DateJust also with the same idea of passing it on. Problem is I can't bring myself to let go of it and the son it was intended for is well into his 20's but has no interest in watches, so I will wear it. When and if he decides he wants it I can either give it to him or get him a brand new one.

AlexSunrise

Jul 13, 2022

Blessings to all of you! As for the Datejust, I love it! I too recently discovered that version on the Rolex website and it is awesome to my eyes. Keep us posted, please. Cheers, Alex

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About the Rolex Rolex Explorer Ref. 124270

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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