Rolex

The least popular stainless steel Rolex sports watch deserves much more credit.

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, it’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 that’s it, nothing more to complain about. It’s my favorite Rolex at the moment, and I expect it to be a great summer companion. Best, Volker

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I do agree.....

By: Baron - Mr Red : March 20th, 2018-08:24

.....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 P...

Thanks a lot, Joe.

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-08:46

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

I agree with you...

By: claes_t : March 20th, 2018-08:30

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. ...

Still like mines a lot. Former reference 16570, 16550 and 1655.

By: amanico : March 20th, 2018-08:39

...

Don't get me wrong, I salivate over yours to:-) [nt]

By: claes_t : March 20th, 2018-08:40

Nico, I would take any of them any day! [nt]

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-08:48

The good news is that the 16570 is still easily doable. [nt]

By: amanico : March 20th, 2018-08:49

The bad news that I like the other two better! [nt]

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-08:52

LOL!!! [nt]

By: amanico : March 20th, 2018-08:53

Many thanks. [nt]

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-08:47

But isn't that the 3rd best current Rolex?

By: MTF : March 20th, 2018-08:36

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

😂 Maybe it’s the 2nd best.

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-08:51

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

I use them to check my other chronographs

By: MTF : March 20th, 2018-08:57

I just like clicking the pushers. MTF

LOL! [nt]

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-09:24

I think it is great. Personally prefer it over many more modern and more popular Rolex offerings. The white dial so sober. Perfect daily watch [nt]

By: keks : March 20th, 2018-09:19

Couldn’t agree more, keks.

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-09:22

It’s look is a bit like the white dial 5711 which you also like a lot. Cheers.

Hope there will not be a white dial 5990/1A released this week.... ;) [nt]

By: keks : March 20th, 2018-12:27

Definitely best white dial Rolex...

By: jporos : March 20th, 2018-10:04

the question is 216570 or 16570? Both have their charms...

Agree, but I really like the orange hand. [nt]

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-10:09

Explorer 2 white dial rules!!

By: roberto1 : March 20th, 2018-13:04

Here’s few pictures of mine in some interesting company ...

Wow, your second and last shot! [nt]

By: amanico : March 20th, 2018-13:06

Excellent.

By: Pretty Boy : March 20th, 2018-14:29

That GMT Master II on the last picture is mind blowing.

Tx Guys!

By: roberto1 : March 20th, 2018-18:19

Nick, my pictures don’t touch yours! I use only my phone but I try get best possible photo. Still, pictures don’t do justice Explorer 2 even though IMO that’s one of the most photogenic watches in Rolex catalog!

You're correct it's

By: halkcb : March 20th, 2018-18:26

not that popular. it took a while before I was caught liking it ----the earlier version -- but once entrapped ,it was a done deal! best henry ...

Great, with tritium dial. 👍 [nt]

By: Pretty Boy : March 21st, 2018-00:26

It’s lack of popularity is part of the attraction...

By: AK49 : March 28th, 2018-12:22

For me at least. I guess it is an out of the ordinary choice for a daily driver, yet I catch myself glancing down in admiration throughout the day.

I fully agree. BTW, welcome to PuristSPro.

By: Pretty Boy : March 28th, 2018-14:26

Best, Volker

Thanks [nt]

By: AK49 : March 29th, 2018-02:09