The Rolex Explorer II. Often overshadowed by its more famous siblings like the Submariner and GMT-Master II, this robust and functional timepiece holds a unique and compelling position within the Rolex lineup. For those seeking a watch built for adventure, offering exceptional legibility and practical features, the Explorer II deserves a serious look. In this comprehensive explorer 2 rolex review, we'll delve into everything you need to know about this remarkable watch, from its history and design to its performance and value proposition. Whether you're a seasoned watch collector or considering your first luxury timepiece, this in-depth guide will equip you with the knowledge to decide if the Explorer II is the right Rolex for you.

A Legacy of Exploration: The Explorer II Heritage

To truly appreciate the Explorer II, understanding its origins is crucial. Born from Rolex's deep connection to exploration and adventure, the Explorer line itself was conceived in the 1950s, designed to withstand the harshest conditions faced by mountaineers and polar explorers. The original Explorer, Reference 1016, was a paragon of simplicity and legibility. However, as exploration evolved, so did the needs of explorers.

The Rolex Explorer II was introduced in 1971 with the Reference 1655, affectionately nicknamed the "Freccione" (Italian for "big arrow") due to its distinctive, large orange 24-hour hand. This model marked a significant departure from the original Explorer, introducing a fixed 24-hour bezel and a dedicated 24-hour hand linked to the hour hand. This innovation was specifically designed for speleologists (cave explorers) and polar explorers who often operate in environments with no natural day/night cycle. The 24-hour indication allowed them to distinguish between AM and PM, crucial for orientation and scheduling in disorienting environments.

Over the decades, the Explorer II has evolved through several iterations, each refining its design and technical capabilities. Key milestones include:

• Reference 1655 (1971-1985): The original "Freccione" with a Caliber 1575 movement, non-quickset date, and plexiglass crystal. Its bold, somewhat polarizing design laid the foundation for the Explorer II's tool watch identity.
• Reference 16550 (1985-1989): A transitional model featuring the Caliber 3085 movement with a jumping hour hand and quickset date. It also introduced a sapphire crystal and a more refined case design. Some early models with a white dial famously developed a "cream dial" patina over time, making them highly collectible.
• Reference 16570 (1989-2011): A long-running and highly popular reference powered by the Caliber 3185 (later Caliber 3186). It maintained the 40mm case size and offered both black and white "Polar" dial options. This reference solidified the Explorer II's reputation for robustness and reliability.
• Reference 216570 (2011-2021): Introduced for the Explorer II's 40th anniversary, this model increased the case size to 42mm and reintroduced the iconic orange 24-hour hand, paying homage to the original 1655. It featured the Caliber 3187 movement and maximized legibility with larger indices and hands.
• Reference 226570 (2021-Present): The current generation Explorer II retains the 42mm case but incorporates subtle refinements. It's powered by the updated Caliber 3285 movement, offering improved performance and a longer power reserve. Design tweaks include narrower lugs and a slightly wider bracelet, enhancing wrist comfort and aesthetics.

Understanding this lineage reveals that the Explorer II is not merely a sports watch; it's a purpose-built instrument designed for extreme conditions, embodying Rolex's commitment to functionality and durability.

Design and Aesthetics: A Tool Watch with Refined Details

The explorer 2 rolex review wouldn't be complete without a thorough examination of its design. The Explorer II strikes a balance between rugged functionality and understated elegance. It's undeniably a tool watch, but with the refined finishing and attention to detail that Rolex is renowned for.

Case and Bezel: Robustness and Functionality

The Explorer II case, crafted from Rolex's proprietary 904L Oystersteel, is built to withstand demanding environments. Known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, 904L steel contributes to the watch's overall robustness. The case features a brushed finish on the top of the lugs and polished sides, creating a subtle contrast that elevates the visual appeal. The 42mm case size of the current models (216570 and 226570) offers a substantial presence on the wrist without being overly bulky. The 40mm models (16570 and earlier) provide a more classic and versatile size for smaller wrists.

A defining feature of the Explorer II is its fixed, stainless steel 24-hour bezel. Engraved and black-filled, the bezel is not rotatable like a GMT-Master II bezel. Instead, it serves as a fixed reference point for the 24-hour hand. This fixed bezel design contributes to the watch's tool-like aesthetic and enhances its durability, as there are fewer moving parts to potentially fail in harsh conditions.

Dial and Hands: Legibility Above All

Rolex prioritizes legibility in all its professional watches, and the Explorer II is no exception. The dial is designed for maximum readability in all lighting conditions. You can choose between two dial colors: black and white (often referred to as "Polar").

• Black Dial: The black dial provides excellent contrast with the white gold applied hour markers and hands, all filled with Rolex's long-lasting Chromalight luminescent material. The orange 24-hour hand (on models 216570 and 226570) adds a pop of color and further enhances visibility.
• White "Polar" Dial: The white dial offers a strikingly different aesthetic. The black surrounds on the hour markers and hands provide exceptional contrast against the white background, making it incredibly legible, especially in bright conditions. The orange 24-hour hand on the Polar dial stands out even more dramatically.

The Mercedes hour hand, baton minute hand, and arrow-tipped 24-hour hand are all generously sized and filled with Chromalight, ensuring excellent low-light visibility. The cyclops lens over the date window at 3 o'clock magnifies the date for easy reading, a signature Rolex feature.

Oyster Bracelet: Comfort and Security

The Explorer II is typically paired with Rolex's robust Oyster bracelet, also crafted from 904L Oystersteel. The bracelet features a three-piece link construction, offering a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. Brushed finishing on the outer links and polished center links (on some models) provide a refined look. The Oyster bracelet is equipped with Rolex's Oysterlock safety clasp, preventing accidental opening. The Easylink comfort extension system allows for easy adjustment of the bracelet length by approximately 5mm, a practical feature for adjusting to wrist size changes throughout the day.

Functionality and Performance: Built for Purpose

Beyond its aesthetics, the Explorer II excels in functionality and performance. This explorer 2 rolex review highlights its key features:

GMT Function: Tracking a Second Time Zone

The core functionality of the Explorer II lies in its GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) complication. The independent 24-hour hand, combined with the fixed 24-hour bezel, allows the wearer to track a second time zone simultaneously.

How it works:

1. Set the main hour and minute hands to your local time.
2. Set the 24-hour hand to your home time or a second time zone using the independent hour hand setting (on models with Caliber 3185, 3186, 3187, and 3285).
3. Read the 24-hour hand against the fixed 24-hour bezel to determine the time in the second time zone.

This GMT function is incredibly useful for travelers, individuals who work across different time zones, or anyone who needs to keep track of time in another location. The fixed bezel design of the Explorer II differentiates it from the GMT-Master II, which uses a rotating bezel for tracking a third time zone or elapsed time.

Movement: Precision and Reliability

The Explorer II is powered by Rolex's in-house movements, renowned for their precision, reliability, and robustness. Current models (Reference 226570) feature the Caliber 3285, a cutting-edge movement incorporating Rolex's Chronergy escapement for improved energy efficiency and a Paraflex shock absorbers for enhanced resistance to shocks and impacts. Earlier models utilize Calibers 3187, 3186, and 3185, all of which are highly regarded for their performance.

All Explorer II movements are Superlative Chronometer certified, guaranteeing exceptional accuracy of -2/+2 seconds per day after casing. This certification, conducted in-house by Rolex after COSC certification, ensures the watch meets the highest standards of precision and reliability.

Durability and Water Resistance: Built to Withstand

As a tool watch designed for exploration, the Explorer II is built to withstand demanding conditions. The robust Oyster case and sapphire crystal provide excellent protection against shocks, scratches, and impacts. The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling, although it's not designed for deep-sea diving like the Submariner.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Explorer II

Every watch has its strengths and weaknesses. This explorer 2 rolex review provides a balanced perspective:

Pros of the Rolex Explorer II:

• Exceptional Legibility: The dial design prioritizes readability in all conditions, making it a highly practical watch.
• Robust and Durable: Built to withstand demanding environments, thanks to its Oystersteel case, sapphire crystal, and robust movement.
• Useful GMT Function: Ideal for travelers and those needing to track a second time zone.
• Comfortable Oyster Bracelet: Provides a secure and comfortable fit for everyday wear.
• Rolex Heritage and Quality: Benefits from Rolex's renowned reputation for quality, precision, and longevity.
• Versatility: While a tool watch, it can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Potential Investment Value: Rolex watches, particularly stainless steel sports models, often hold their value well and can appreciate over time.

Cons of the Rolex Explorer II:

• Price: Rolex watches are luxury items and come with a significant price tag.
• Availability: Popular Rolex models, including the Explorer II, can be difficult to purchase at authorized dealers due to high demand. Waiting lists are common.
• Fixed Bezel: The fixed 24-hour bezel, while durable, is less versatile than the rotating bezel of the GMT-Master II, which can be used for timing events or tracking a third time zone.
• Size (42mm models): The 42mm case size of the current models may be too large for individuals with smaller wrists. The 40mm vintage and pre-owned models might be a better fit.
• Less Iconic than Other Rolex Sports Models: The Explorer II doesn't have the same widespread recognition as the Submariner or GMT-Master II, which might be a pro or con depending on personal preference. Some appreciate its understated nature.

Who is the Rolex Explorer II For?

The Rolex Explorer II appeals to a specific type of watch enthusiast. It's an excellent choice for:

• Adventurers and Outdoor Enthusiasts: Its robustness, legibility, and GMT function make it ideal for hiking, travel, and exploration.
• Travelers: The GMT function is invaluable for those who frequently travel across time zones.
• Watch Collectors: The Explorer II is a significant model within Rolex's history and offers a unique design compared to other sports models.
• Individuals Seeking a Durable and Reliable Everyday Watch: Its robustness and versatility make it a great option for daily wear.
• Those Who Prefer an Understated Rolex: Compared to more flashy Rolex models, the Explorer II has a more tool-watch aesthetic that appeals to those who prefer a less ostentatious luxury watch.

Pricing and Value: A Luxury Investment

The retail price of a new Rolex Explorer II (Reference 226570) is typically in the range of [Insert Current Retail Price - check Rolex official website or authorized dealer information for accurate pricing]. However, due to high demand and limited availability, you may encounter significant premiums on the grey market.

While the initial investment is substantial, Rolex watches are known for holding their value well. The Explorer II, especially well-maintained examples, can be considered a good investment. Vintage and discontinued references, like the 1655 and certain 16550 models, can command significant prices on the secondary market, particularly those in excellent condition with original boxes and papers.

When considering purchasing an Explorer II, it's advisable to:

• Check Authorized Dealers: Start by contacting authorized Rolex dealers to inquire about availability and waiting lists.
• Explore Reputable Grey Market Dealers: If you're willing to pay a premium and want immediate availability, research reputable grey market dealers. Ensure they offer authenticity guarantees and proper warranties.
• Consider Pre-Owned Options: The pre-owned market offers a wider range of Explorer II references, including discontinued models, potentially at more accessible prices. Thoroughly inspect any pre-owned watch and buy from trusted sources.

Explorer 2 Rolex Review: FAQ

Conclusion: The Rolex Explorer II - A Capable and Compelling Choice

In conclusion, this explorer 2 rolex review reveals the Rolex Explorer II to be a highly capable and compelling timepiece. It's a watch that embodies Rolex's core values of robustness, reliability, and functionality. While it may not always be the first Rolex that comes to mind for many, the Explorer II offers a unique blend of tool-watch practicality and understated luxury. Its exceptional legibility, useful GMT function, and rugged construction make it an ideal companion for adventures both big and small, as well as a sophisticated and versatile everyday watch. If you're seeking a Rolex that's built to perform, steeped in heritage, and offers a distinctive design, the Explorer II is undoubtedly worth considering. It's a testament to Rolex's commitment to creating watches that are not just beautiful objects, but reliable instruments designed to accompany you on life's explorations.