9 Rolex Explorer Affordable Watch Alternatives Worth Owning From $100+

Today we return to a YouTube 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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Thank you for watching The Urban Gentry channel, home of the #wristwatchcheck ! Check out my other videos for more watch and lifestyle content.

[Andromahlius]

You should do the videos in reverse, such as, "expensive alternatives to the seiko SKX".

[HouseofJello]

I was in a car accident with my alpinist on my wrist. The car rolled onto its side and my arm ended up dragging on the pavement, ripping the watch off of my wrist. I ended up walking away from the crash with only minimal road rash. I went back a couple days later to find the watch. When I found it on the side of the road, it was still running, despite an enormous chip and crack in the crystal. The alpinist is TOUGH. AS. NAILS.

[BandrewScott]

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.

[THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR]

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!!!!

[TheRunningManZ]

How is there no Hamilton field watch in this line up? I’m shocked!!! ;)

Was still a great list none the less!

[foamige]

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!

[danielchadney]

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!

[jlg]

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!

[tmfrs]

Im so happy knowing that this list, without watching yet, won't include any MVMT or equivalent in it

[MrJamel]

I would like to see you talk about citizen watches a little bit more.

[willardhooton]

Honorable mention to Armida A-6. Good looks of the 1016 Explorer, almost as antimagnetic as Milgauss, and the water resistance of the Subbie👌

[someguy]

I can’t get over how great the Smiths Everest 36mm is for the price. It is stunning.

[Mixali]

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!

[sicemdawgs]

Very excited about the new Rolex Blahblah

[Chancellor]

Steinhart! I've become a huge fan. Thanks for including one. I actually sold my four Rolexes when the prices got just plain ridiculous - not to mention the games a dealer requires to get one. I've replaced them all with Steinys - and have taken my Ocean One GMT OLKO Special Edition on two dive vacations to Jamaica with the Rolex proceeds.

[Barbourardour]

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.

[TheWayofGrace]

Seiko SARB017 is 15 time less expensive than a 214270 Explorer - and is just as if not
more gorgeous. My .02.

[mastery]

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.

[Jsong]

My favorite from the list is Sinn. I personally think it is the one of the best value for money watch brands.

[arbestcrontisb]

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 🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹