re: Vary quite a lot - what is quite a lot? If you look at the TD's carrying the same watch, you'll find the price to be close and not vary by $50 to $100; which to me is quite a lot. Keep in mind the comparison needs to be of the same watch from the same maker.
True there may be the same model watch but from different makers and you'll find a price range that varies greatly based on quality of the watch. If you want something as close to gen based on weight, material and workmanship, expect to pay more than a similar model that's made from lesser quality materials and workmanship.
Your quest for a $150 Explorer will fall into the latter example. Best value is relative based on your tolerance of material quality, workmanship and perhaps availability.
Ok from what i hear you saying...
Most TD's are closely matched on pricing.
But how do i know where they are made, some mention it but others don't.
Also the accurate glass for an Explorer appears to be Sapphire but many sites are silent on Glass material, is that because at the TD level it is assumed at least the glass is accurate?
A quick look through a few TD's revealed Explorer 2 starting at about $140 going up to $500. Some photography looks better than others, but looking beyond the photographic skills I can see little difference. They all look well made, and my personal disposition is likely going to be happy with the cheaper one. Unless i have the more expensive one next to it, thus realising what i am missing.
So answering my own question, buy the cheaper one till i learn more and then change it if i am unhappy latter.
And now i would need to ask the TD for specification and place of manufacture of the watch and like anything go shopping if i would like to find a better price.
One other thing, on the TD list they have names of sub forums which seem to relate to web sites, yet they don't all bring up web sites. Is this a product of the industry with ever moving sites and a bit of googling is required. Or am i in the wrong place and missing the links?
Thanks