Discovering the Unforeseen Favorite: A Journey of Watch Appreciation

Embarking on a Quest for the Ultimate Timepiece

When tasked to articulate the most rewarding watch ownership experience, I paused to consider. The challenge was to identify a watch that had consistently provided profound satisfaction and proved its worth through loyal service, rather than one possessing objective superiority. This exercise was about celebrating the deeply personal connection one develops with a cherished object.

Disqualifying Personal Creations: A Nod to Objectivity

To ensure impartiality and avoid promoting my own designs, I established a rule: any watch I personally developed would be excluded from consideration. This measure aimed to focus solely on my ownership experiences with commercially available timepieces, preventing any unintended bias.

The Near-Victory of a Classic: The Rolex Datejust 1601

Initially, my thoughts drifted to my 1967 Rolex Datejust 1601. This watch holds significant sentimental value, having graced the cover of my now-discontinued publication, The Vintage Rolex Datejust Buyers’ & Collectors’ Guide. That book marked a pivotal moment in my career, opening doors that eventually led to my current role at Fratello. The success of that venture also laid the groundwork for my future entrepreneurial endeavors, including starting a watch brand. Thus, the Datejust 1601 occupies a very special place in my collection.

Beyond Collecting: A Deep Dive into the Datejust's Appeal

Despite popular perception, I'm not a prolific Datejust collector. My extensive knowledge of the model stemmed from my time at a vintage boutique, where I had unparalleled access to a vast array of vintage Rolex Datejusts. While I meticulously examined countless examples, my personal ownership was limited to the one featured on my book's cover. This intimate study deepened my appreciation for its inherent elegance.

The Enduring Charm of the Vintage Datejust

Even on a purely aesthetic level, the Datejust 1601 remains a timeless favorite. Its unique blend of understated sophistication and subtle flair is, in my opinion, unrivaled. It manages to be both humble and audaciously charming. I've worn mine extensively, and it was only recently surpassed by another Rolex in my personal ranking of favorite watches.

The Unlikely Rise of the Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570

It's fascinating how preferences evolve. I vividly recall a time when I considered the Explorer II among the least attractive watches. The idea of my younger self encountering this article would undoubtedly provoke astonishment. The exact moment my perception shifted remains elusive; I only remember the transition from disdain to profound admiration. Now, it stands as the best watch I have ever owned, a testament to an inexplicable change in taste.

Embracing the Imperfect: The Explorer II's Unique Allure

Even today, I understand why my initial assessment was critical. The Explorer II possesses a certain unconventional charm, almost as if it were a subtly customized piece. Its steel bezel, adorned with bold, somewhat unwieldy numerals, creates a striking contrast with the glossy black dial. This visual friction, which once bothered me, now represents its most compelling feature. The stamped clasp, with its simulated links, also contributes to its distinct character rather than detracting from it.

The Power of Contrast: Why the Black Dial Reigns Supreme

This very tension, the juxtaposition of refined elements with more industrial design choices, is what ultimately drew me to the Explorer II. It also explains my strong preference for the black-dial version over the "Polar" dial, which, despite its popularity, lacks the internal conflict that defines the black variant. Sometimes, an element of rugged individuality and unexpected design triumphs over conventional beauty.

The Dual Pillars of Admiration: Character and Adaptability

The Explorer II Ref. 16570 earned its top spot through a rare combination of strong character and remarkable versatility. Often, the most distinctive watches lack broad appeal, while highly adaptable ones can be somewhat uninspired. The 16570 defies this, exuding individuality while seamlessly integrating into various contexts. I frequently found myself wearing it for weeks, completely forgetting my usual watch rotation.

A Reflection of Self: The Explorer II's Personal Resonance

Perhaps most significantly, the Explorer II Ref. 16570 deeply resonates with my personal style and identity. It's challenging to articulate, but if I were to represent myself through a single timepiece, it would be the black-dial 16570. Wearing it elevates even the simplest attire, transforming a plain T-shirt into a personal statement – a notion I acknowledge might be entirely subjective.

A Deep-Seated Appreciation: The Rolex Legacy

That my favorite watch is a Rolex is no accident. My formative years as a vintage watch dealer, where I honed my expertise, were largely spent studying, buying, and selling vintage Rolex models. This immersive experience cultivated a profound appreciation for vintage and neo-vintage Rolex, a sentiment I rarely extend to modern Rolex iterations.

The Serendipitous Path to Unrivaled Affection

The Rolex Explorer II Ref. 16570's journey to becoming my favorite watch was entirely unforeseen. It began as a watch I actively disliked from afar. Then, unexpectedly, after years of overlooking it, I developed an intense desire for it. I acquired one, but our initial connection was tentative. It was only after a significant drop in its market value, which eased my initial trepidation about wearing it, that I truly bonded with the timepiece. I stopped treating it as a precious artifact and began wearing it as intended, and it was then that it captured my heart.

Embracing the Unforeseen: A Life Lesson from Horology

I still ponder the precise circumstances of this transformation. Given my preference for versatile, casual Rolex models, a Submariner ref. 5513 or 14060, or an Explorer ref. 1016 or 114270, would have seemed more aligned with my intrinsic taste, and any of those could have conceivably become my ultimate favorite. It's humbling to admit that even Instagram's algorithms might have subtly influenced my direction. Nevertheless, once the connection with my 16570 solidified, it became a constant companion until I began developing my own watches. The immense joy it brought me compelled me to dedicate this article to its unexpected triumph. The unexpected nature of the Explorer II Ref. 16570's ascent to my favorite watch offers a valuable life lesson: sometimes, the most profound connections emerge from the least expected paths, often when we relinquish control and allow things to unfold naturally.