Greubel Forsey Tourbillon 24 Seconds Vision Limited Edition (GF01R) Greubel Forsey Watch Review

Today we're looking at the Rolex Explorer 40, a watch that's quietly won me over, and after selling my Submariner two years ago, I wanted another Rolex in my collection, a collection that already includes a couple of Amigas, IWC, Cartier and Jaeger LeCoultre. Could the Explorer be the only Rolex you need? One you don't need to wait for, that stands out for its simplicity, comfort and that tour watch heritage? A watch that avoids all the hype Rolex surrounds itself with? Let's find out, I'm Andy and welcome to the English Watch. I used to own a Submariner Date, bought new in 2020. It's a fantastic watch, iconic, durable, versatile, but over time I found it a bit, well, boring. I thought the case felt a little square, too blocky, sort of lacked the elegance I was looking for. Why don't you check out my previous video on why I sold it? And that's where the Explorer 40 comes in. Its rounded, oyster style case feels smoother, more refined and more comfortable on the wrist. It's less flashy, more purposeful and that suits me perfectly. Now the Explorer line dates back to 1953, the same year Rolex launched the Submariner, and it helped define the professional tour watch category. Unlike the Submariner, which has evolved significantly, the Explorer stayed remarkably true to its original design. And the only major changes, well, you know, a move from 36mm to 39mm in 2010, and a brief return to 36mm in 2021, and the introduction of a steel and gold variant. Then in 2023 Rolex introduced the Explorer 40, so the Explorer is no longer a single watch. It's in fact a range, with sizes to suit different wrists. Now there are plenty of great articles detailing the Explorer's history and its association with that Everest expedition. You know, a story Rolex has used to great effect. But at its core, the Explorer is a tour watch, simple, legible and rugged. In Rolex's lineup, it's the understated sibling to the Submariner and GMT-Master. No bezel, no complications, just time clearly displayed. Very fitting of its name. The Explorer uses the Oyster style case found in the Dressier models like the Datejust, with that smooth bezel and brushed surfaces that feel incredibly refined. This contrasts with the boxier cases of Rolex's Dive and GMT watches. Now interestingly, the Explorer 40 measures 39mm across the case, and 11.5mm thick, so slightly smaller than the dimensions suggest. It's compact at 46.3mm lug-to-lug, but the solid end links push the wingspan out to 51mm. Now the bracelet is solid and comfortable, though I do miss the slimmer clasp from the Submariner. This one's a bit chunky, tapering from 21mm at the lugs to 16mm, with the clasp just over 18mm wide. It does benefit from the folding clasp and easy-link 5mm extension, as it's part of the professional range. Inside is calibre 3230, a movement praised for its robustness and accuracy. It offers 70 hours of power reserve, and it's regulated to Rolex's superlative chronometer standard of plus 2 to minus 2 seconds per day. No date, no fuss, just set the time and go. What I love most is the fit and feel. The smooth edges of the case and bracelet are a joy. No sharp transitions, just comfort. You can feel the value in quality, something I find lacking in many modern Amigas. The high-contrast dial with Rolex's distinctive blue Chromalight at 3609 is perfect for someone like me, with less than perfect eyesight. It's quick to put on, easy to read, and flies under the radar. Not something that screens steal me, and it's appropriately expensive, but not ostentatious. I want a watch that fits my lifestyle, mostly work, some travel, and casual weekends. The Explorer 40 works beautifully and allows me to rotate within my collection seamlessly. It pairs perfectly with a navy blazer and an open collar shirt, or even a wax jacket and boots. It's versatile and quietly confident. It's not trying to impress, it's just doing its job. So is the Rolex Explorer 40 the perfect daily watch? For me, it's close, it's simple, robust, and elegant in a very understated way. I wish the bracelet tapered a bit more at the clasp, but that's a minor gripe. What you get is a watch that's built to last, easy to wear, and backed up by decades of heritage. It's not flashy, it's quietly brilliant, and that's exactly what I was looking for. Thanks for watching, and if you enjoyed this review, please consider subscribing to The English Watch, and give this one a thumbs up. Please also leave any comments below, and I'll be really interested to know from any of you guys who have a Rolex Explorer 40, what are your thoughts? Anyway, I'm Andy, this has been The English Watch, take care, and I'll see you soon. Bye for now.