Rolex ExplorervsZelos Swordfish Field 38

lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures

Measurements

Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Rolex Explorer at true scale

Explorer

Zelos Swordfish Field 38 at true scale

Swordfish Field 38

Diameter

36mm

38mm

Thickness

n/a

12mm

Water Resistance

100m

200m

highest

Power Reserve

70h

n/a

MSRP

$14,600

$399

lowest

Movement

3230

Seiko NH35

Case

7 specs
Diameter
36mm
38mm
Thickness
n/a
12mm
Lug Width
n/a
20mm
Material
Yellow Rolesor
316L Stainless Steel
Finish
Yellow Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and yellow gold
n/a
Water Resistance
100m
200m
Caseback
Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown
n/a

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal Shape
Flat
n/a
Dial Color
Black
Bronze
Indices
Arabic numerals
n/a
Lume
Chromalight
None

Movement

6 specs
Caliber
3230
Seiko NH35
Beat Rate
28,800 vph
0 vph
Power Reserve
70h
0h
Jewels
31
0
Hacking
Yes
No
Hand-winding
Yes
No

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$14,600
$399
Keep your wishlist and collection together in the appExplore the app

Reviews

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Rolex Explorer

Owners widely report the Rolex Explorer is exceptionally comfortable and versatile, dominating daily wear even for those owning higher-end pieces. Its understated design and immaculate finishing are frequently praised, with many highlighting the comfortable, tapering bracelet and ideal 36mm size. Accuracy is noted as excellent, with figures around +1 second per day. Some owners find the bezel scratches easily, and a few consider the 36mm case size small or the design too plain. On balance, owners and reviewers highly rate the Rolex Explorer for its unparalleled comfort, versatility, and understated "watch-guy's" appeal.

From video reviewers

The 36mm case size is a significant strength. Reviewers were divided on the value of the two-tone construction, with some highlighting it as a unique aesthetic and others finding it disappointing.

Zelos Swordfish Field 38

Owners widely praise the Zelos Swordfish Field 38 for its excellent value, with one owner calling the Bronze 'Burnt Orange' a terrific buy and another finding the Mother of Pearl Mosaic model a stunning, best-in-class microbrand. The 38mm case dimensions are noted as acceptable by some, though one owner found them too small for their personal preference. The watch is considered perfectly cromulent for its $430 price point, featuring a Seiko NH35 movement with exceptionally smooth winding. Overall, owners rate the Zelos Swordfish Field 38 highly for its value and aesthetic appeal, particularly the Mother of Pearl Mosaic dial.

From video reviewers

The dial's striking visual element is a consistent highlight. The lume is also praised. Reviewers did not agree on any weaknesses.

Similar watches

Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.

DiscussionNot started

Also compared

Comparisons nearby in the catalog: alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.