Rolex Explorer II: The Underrated Sports Watch
Review

Rolex Explorer II: The Underrated Sports Watch

By Pretty Boy · Mar 20, 2018 · 28 replies
Pretty Boy
WPS member · Rolex forum
28 replies6929 views3 photos
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Pretty Boy champions the Rolex Explorer II, arguing that this often-overlooked stainless steel sports watch deserves more recognition. He shares his personal appreciation for its fresh aesthetic, white dial, orange GMT hand, and brushed bezel, contrasting it with more hyped Rolex models and highlighting its qualities as a summer companion.

I have owned or do still own almost all modern stainless steel Rolex sports watches. Like many others, I have always neglected the Explorer II. But why? There has never been a hype about this watch (except for certain vintage models), unlike Daytona and certain Submariner, Sea-Dweller and Sky-Dweller models. Once I had taken a closer look at the Explorer II, I was really impressed by its fresh look and beauty. For me, itโ€™s the best looking white dial Rolex; I even prefer it to the white dial Daytona. I love the orange GMT hand (a kind of tribute to famous vintage models) and the orange Explorer II writing on the dial. The brushed bezel is beautiful too; less massive than the ceramic bezels on Submariner, GMT Master II etc. Any negatives? Yep, I would clearly prefer a 40 mm diameter. But thatโ€™s it, nothing more to complain about. Itโ€™s my favorite Rolex at the moment, and I expect it to be a great summer companion. Best, Volker









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The Discussion
BA
Baron - Mr Red
Mar 20, 2018

.....the Explorer II is a really lovely watch....unappreciated. I think there is a reason for why it is so neglected. Most of the other references that you mention have an historical "hero" that propels their popularity. For example, the Daytona has the Paul Newman in its heritage and this drives the demand and appreciation for the modern variant. Likewise, the James Bond Big Crown, the Patent Pending Double Red etc etc....these historical icons create a backdrop for the ongoing love of the curr

CL
claes_t
Mar 20, 2018

I always thought the extra hand was a night/day feature only. When I realized it is now a true second time zone it was an easy choice.

MT
MTF
Mar 20, 2018

Putting aside out-of-production models, the Explorer II is my 3rd favourite Rolex. I like it's pure white innocence. Only squeezed out by models with more interactivity like a chronograph or better publicity managers like a xxxxxxx. Regards MTF

PR
Pretty Boy
Mar 20, 2018

I agree, it probably lacks that kind of special heritage.

PR
Pretty Boy
Mar 20, 2018

Quite frankly, I have never used a chrono in daily life, except for checking if it works.

MT
MTF
Mar 20, 2018

I just like clicking the pushers. MTF

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