Hey watch guys, why does the Rolex explorer 1 look better on a strap than on a bracelet?

[kalye]

I've read this countless of times on the forum and on various watch forums.. Any logic to it or just aesthetic preference? I am fine either way. I am digging the bracelet and looking for straps to play around with. Maybe even a NATO. Bad idea?

Also what kind of strap would you put it on?

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UTeQhQcvdNU/S6HiyShKXFI/AAAAAAAAFhM/SUdCfWT09CE/s1600-h/exp.jpg

 

[dandy1]

I think all watches look better on a leather strap ..although more costly with Swiss rip off strap replacements .. NATO strap can look ok if a little too utilitarian IMHO and perhaps as bit tacky as well .. et the explorer and go with a black leather strap separately ..

 

[reinhardgs]

the dresswatch-looks alike nature of Explorer I makes it looks better with a strap. and most watches looks elegant with those leathers. but remember that Explorer is a sport watch, might find better way with bracelet or rubber (or NATO) strap

NATO strap had a tendency of mil-wannabe looks that might not what you want on your watches. its tough and you could use it anywhere (leather might not be a good companion when meet waters). FYI, not all NATO straps are 'smell-free'

 

[Sander]

Just wear what you like. That's all there is to it.

Get a casual leather strap, a few natos and rotate them with the bracelet; soon, you will know what you like.

 

[fritzl]



just aesthetic preference?

this. no strap for me on sport watches.

 

[kalye]

What brands do you recommend? I have hirsch riva strap in black. Looking for other browns.. Hirsch liberty vintage?

http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k210/hiro1030/sshot-1.png

 

[kalye]



the dresswatch-looks alike nature of Explorer I makes it looks better with a strap. and most watches looks elegant with those leathers. but remember that Explorer is a sport watch, might find better way with bracelet or rubber (or NATO) strap

NATO strap had a tendency of mil-wannabe looks that might not what you want on your watches. its tough and you could use it anywhere (leather might not be a good companion when meet waters). FYI, not all NATO straps are 'smell-free'

What is a mil btw? I guess not a lot of takers for the NATO.

 

[JayJay]

I prefer it with a bracelet, as I do most sport watches.

 

[apropos]



I guess not a lot of takers for the NATO.

Well, actually there is at least one around these parts...

 

[dukerules]

Wearing Rolex sports watches on natos and straps is popular among WIS types these days, and the look does work for me. However, and I'm not a bracelet lover, the original Rolex oyster bracelet reigns supreme.

 

[fritzl]



I prefer it with a bracelet, as I do most sport watches.

correct

 

[ter1413]



Just wear what you like. That's all there is to it.
Get a casual leather strap, a few natos and rotate them with the bracelet; soon, you will know what you like.

+1

 

[reinhardgs]

What is a mil btw?
I guess not a lot of takers for the NATO.

mil = military. NATO straps first used by the military for cheap but tough strap alternatives (who want to wear alligator strap to jungle into the mud anyway)

Rolex Sub used to be one of the watches that make NATO strap famous, being used by British Military. nowadays, we could see Luminox (and some other military themed watch) that feature NATO

 

[Gauss17]

This is actually one of my favorite Rolex watches. I personally like it on the bracelet, because (1) I like steel bracelets and (2) it gives you more versatility.

You can't really wear a NATO strap with a suit.

 

[P. Bateman]

Is it possible to find an Explorer II under $2k? (used of course)