Fratello Watches. The best independent microbrand alternatives to the Rolex Explorer in 2023

magicman · Post by **magicman** » Tue Jan 31, 2023 6:59 pm

https://www.fratellowatches.com/the-bes ... r-in-2023/

Sealander gets a mention, I'd love to see a dateless version, please.

Regards Steve

Mikkei4 · Post by **Mikkei4** » Tue Jan 31, 2023 7:26 pm

I read this a few days ago with interest as I really fancy a 3,6,9 dial.

Rolex Explorer current model is 36mm which looks too small on me plus I'd have to go on a list plus of course it's way over budget and the previous 39mm version is perfect size but even more over budget and I don't intend giving someone a big profit

1 of the brands that Fratello doesn't mention is Steinhart - their Ocean 39 Adventure is 39mm, looks good and gets good reviews.

The Sealander is a great watch and I'd buy another very quickly if CW did a black 39mm 3,6,9 dial.

Post by **Amor Vincit Omnia** » Tue Jan 31, 2023 7:45 pm

It’s not often the CW is the most expensive one in the lineup.

iain · Post by **iain** » Tue Jan 31, 2023 7:51 pm

Mikkei4 wrote: ↑Tue Jan 31, 2023 7:26 pm ..... I really fancy a 3,6,9 dial.

Rolex Explorer current model is 36mm which looks too small on me plus I'd have to go on a list plus of course it's way over budget and the previous 39mm version is perfect size but even more over budget and I don't intend giving someone a big profit

This was pretty much my thought process when I ended up with the 41mm JLC Polaris. The inner rotating bezel means it’s not a exact substitute but it’s no date 3,6,9,12 and is very comfortable to wear. A perfect watch for every occasion.

Dancematt · Post by **Dancematt** » Wed Feb 01, 2023 10:25 am

I feel like the explorer is the ultimate "one watch" design. Feels at home in any environment. Have definitely taken some inspiration from it myself as most brands have I bet. Doubt il ever get featured in a blog but figure il just keep going with my little brand, it's been great fun, no rush, no pressure, just see where it leads.

stefs · Post by **stefs** » Wed Feb 01, 2023 12:12 pm

Mikkei4 wrote: ↑Tue Jan 31, 2023 7:26 pm I read this a few days ago with interest as I really fancy a 3,6,9 dial.

Rolex Explorer current model is 36mm which looks too small on me plus I'd have to go on a list plus of course it's way over budget and the previous 39mm version is perfect size but even more over budget and I don't intend giving someone a big profit

1 of the brands that Fratello doesn't mention is Steinhart - their Ocean 39 Adventure is 39mm, looks good and gets good reviews.

The Sealander is a great watch and I'd buy another very quickly if CW did a black 39mm 3,6,9 dial.

I always thought this was a decent 369 option. Probably yet another I shouldn't have sold!
I would add that I too would like to see and applied 3,6,9,12 from CW

Christopher Ward Forum

Christopher Ward Forum

Fratello Watches. The best independent microbrand alternatives to the Rolex Explorer in 2023

Fratello Watches. The best independent microbrand alternatives to the Rolex Explorer in 2023

Re: Fratello Watches. The best independent microbrand alternatives to the Rolex Explorer in 2023

Re: Fratello Watches. The best independent microbrand alternatives to the Rolex Explorer in 2023

Re: Fratello Watches. The best independent microbrand alternatives to the Rolex Explorer in 2023

Re: Fratello Watches. The best independent microbrand alternatives to the Rolex Explorer in 2023

Re: Fratello Watches. The best independent microbrand alternatives to the Rolex Explorer in 2023

Independently Operated Forum for CW Enthusiasts