Rolex Explorer II; Thoughts?

[DGP]

I'm looking at my next watch, and have debated the merits of numerous watches on watch-specific boards, but wanted to hear some opinions on the Rolex Explorer II from a stylistic standpoint. I like it because I think Rolex has an interesting history and heritage, yet the Explorer II is, IMO, something you buy because you appreciate what a Rolex is as opposed to what a Rolex stands for. It's one of the last of the "classic" style sport models, as they're switching to the Maxi-case and Maxi-dial, and after wearing my IWC Mark XVI as a daily wearer for about a year I think the Explorer I would feel a bit small. I'm interested in thoughts on the piece.

 

[Gus]

I've always liked the GMT feature for travel.

 

[Shikar]

I have the white face Exp 2, got it as a gift a few years ago and really like it. Its classic Rolex IMO, and actually wears bigger then the IWC Mk 16.

Regards.

 

[DGP]

Originally Posted by Shikar

I have the white face Exp 2, got it as a gift a few years ago and really like it. Its classic Rolex IMO, and actually wears bigger then the IWC Mk 16.

Regards.

It's actually 1mm bigger, but I agree that it wears even larger, especially with the white dial. I'm looking at black, but that's just because of my personal preference for white metal watches having dark dials (saving the light dial for when I take the plunge on a Patek Calatrava dress watch, lol).

 

[cbird]

The Explorer II is a great watch. One thing I like about the Explorers (I have an Explorer I) is that they are solid, serious Rolex sports watches, yet are "stealth Rolexes." The rotating bezel of some of the other models screams "Rolex!" too loudly for my taste, while the Explorers require a closer look to make that determination. I recently sat right next to a guy at a table and noticed he had a neat looking black watch and it wasn't immediately obvious to me that it was a black dial Explorer II.
I also think that there is still something different about a Rolex. I have a JLC Master Geographic, which is a finer watch, but I find myself wearing the Explorer 90% of the time. I just like the reassuringly solid feel to it and the fact that it is such a fine watch to have as a beater.

 

[UFN]

It's a fantastic watch if you ask me. Clean, uncluttered design that also doesn't scream "Rolex" to most people, two dial colours to choose from, a size that fits most wrists and quite a comfortable fit to boot. The only thing I am not crazy about is that it doesn't feel as substantial (heavy) as I would have liked. If it had been as heavy as a GMT, then I would definitely have bought a white Explorer instead of the YachtMaster that I have now.

/U.

 

[Singular]

Wonderful watch if you don't need or want a revolving bezel. I recommend it highly.

/M

 

[sharpie12]

A nice choice and a classic indeed. One of the few watches that really looks good both ways; Black or White. However, the new GMT II ceramic S/S of course it's quite a looker and understated at the same time.

 

[Artisan Fan]

Originally Posted by cbird

The Explorer II is a great watch. One thing I like about the Explorers (I have an Explorer I) is that they are solid, serious Rolex sports watches, yet are "stealth Rolexes."

Agreed.

 

[blofeld]

hottest rolex out:

 

[Artisan Fan]

Originally Posted by blofeld

hottest rolex out:

Even as a Rolex fan, I find this to be a bit much.

 

[soupcxan]

Originally Posted by blofeld

hottest rolex out:

Even as a person with questionable taste, I find that to be a bit much.

But then again, no one has ever mistaken me for a YACHT-MASTER.

 

[blofeld]

I was half joking. part of me likes the face and bezel though, in platinum, who knows? truth be told the deep sea is #1 rolex on my list:

 

[andyw]

Originally Posted by Shikar

I have the white face Exp 2, got it as a gift a few years ago and really like it. Its classic Rolex IMO, and actually wears bigger then the IWC Mk 16.

Regards.

I also have the white dial Explorer II; it's the only white faced watch I own....amidst several black faced IWC and Omega. I made a point to own this watch because of its authenticity as a workhorse. I wear this watch 75% of the time and it takes a beating. For me, the other Rolexes have too much undeserved cachet.

 

[TheWraith]

Originally Posted by blofeld

I was half joking. part of me likes the face and bezel though, in platinum, who knows?

truth be told the deep sea is #1 rolex on my list:

That is absolutely gorgeous, I quite agree.