Summer Watch Spotting Rolex Explorer Adventure
Every summer, I spend about a month and a half in Spain with my wife’s family. Choosing just three watches to bring is always a challenge, but this year, my Rolex Explorer ref. 114270 emerged as the standout companion. In hindsight, it seems I could have left my other watches at home.
I also packed my Seiko SPB317, which I wore non-stop last summer, and my Serica 5303-3, both of which come with various strap options. While they are excellent summer choices, I found myself gravitating towards the Explorer. Its comfort and versatility rendered the others unnecessary, and whenever I sought variety, I simply admired the watches others were wearing and struck up conversations about them.
Previously, I praised my Cartier Santos Galbée XL as my go-anywhere watch. Yet, this summer, the Explorer has taken the lead. Each watch in my collection serves a specific purpose, and the Santos, while still a favorite, didn’t suit my summer plans. The lack of micro-adjustment and my reluctance to wear it swimming made it clear that I needed replica watches without such limitations. Hence, I opted for a proper sports watch for my trip, ultimately realizing my watch roll could have stayed home.
Since acquiring the Explorer at the end of last year, it has become my perfect summer companion. Its renowned Oyster bracelet fits comfortably on my wrist, and its robust design can withstand playful encounters with kids and other hazards. I ensured it was serviced and waterproofed when I bought it, allowing me to swim confidently in lakes, seas, or rivers.
Another key aspect is its aesthetic appeal. This is the first Rolex I’ve owned for longer than a month; my previous one, a 1974 Datejust ref. 1603, never felt quite right. In contrast, the 114270 exudes sturdiness and carries that distinct Rolex aura. Its familiarity, quality, and confidence provide reassurance every time I glance at my wrist.
Wearing the Explorer throughout the day, I only removed it while building sandcastles with my kids to avoid scratches. Some friends, not as into watches, often ask why I’d wear such an expensive piece at the beach. I explain that it’s made for any occasion, which is precisely how it feels. Interestingly, I often find myself as the only one wearing a watch while swimming, leading to frequent inquiries about the time, especially considering the importance of lunchtime in Spain.
I also noticed numerous Rolexes on others’ wrists, perhaps due to my own frequency bias. At one point, I approached a senior lifeguard on La Plage des Chênes-Lièges in Hossegor, who wore a replica Rolex Explorer II ref. 16570 with a polar-white dial. My French isn’t what it used to be, but he was pleasantly surprised that I recognized it. He shared that his wife gifted it to him, and while he admired the Submariner, he preferred the Explorer for its subtlety.
At a pool in Spain, I spotted two older gentlemen conversing. One wore an Ebel with a stunning two-tone bracelet, while the other sported an older Submariner with a faded bezel on a well-worn rubber strap. Intrigued, I approached them after their chat. The Ebel wearer appreciated my compliment and left, but the Submariner owner was eager to share his story.
He recounted purchasing it over 40 years ago with his first paycheck, revealing it was actually a Sea-Dweller ref. 1665. He never removed it during his career as a miner, only switching to the rubber strap when the bracelet became fragile. He also introduced me to his son, who wore an Explorer II, matching his father’s choice, albeit on a bright red rubber strap that perfectly complemented the GMT hand.
While I observed various other brands during my trip, the prevalence of MoonSwatches still surprises me. Despite their limited water resistance, they’re light and ideal for the Spanish heat. One friend proudly showcased his Mission to Pluto on a burgundy NATO strap, complete with a racing stripe, making me wish there was a Swatch boutique nearby.
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