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An Honest Rolex Explorer II Review (WITHOUT The Hype) The Polar!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 ส.ค. 2024
- The Rolex Explorer II is a wonderful everyday subtle watch, but it is not exactly what I had in mind when I got it. I'll discuss what about its subtle nature I like and what about it that I don't like and that I wish was more flashy and luxurious.
In the end, I love how simple and how it doesn't call attention to its features It's an out and out tool watch and one of the last Rolex models like that. Not to mention it's incredibly practical. The Rolex Explorer II is a model that puts things into perspective.
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This is the watch you buy when you couldn’t care less what others think about you or your watch , you know it’s a quality watch and that’s all that matters.
I agree!
Exactly the same with the explorer.
I agree and I want one!!
Great review! As a somewhat older collector who was a one watch guy with the Polar Explorer for almost twenty years before I got into other watches, I appreciate your fresh and accurate view on this watch. I have used it as an outdoorsman and a businessman on all my travels and adventures and it is a great tool watch, just as you described it. One you don't need to baby. Back in the 90s when I bought it new, it was the anti-Rolex Rolex. Nowadays, at least most watch aficionados recognize it, but back in the day business colleagues with gold Datejusts and friends with Subs never knew it was a Rolex. If you need kudos and luxury affirmation then this is not the watch for you. If you want a faithful companion when you make your own stories, it could be.
My first Rolex served me for 47 years and that was a GMT Master. When it became cranky and expensive to run I swapped it at no cost for a whiteface Explore II. Like the old one the new one
is totally functional and equally understated. All I expected it to be.
Bought my Exp II Polar (16570) while stationed in Germany ‘95-‘97. As an aviator it was ideal for my profession. The Germans, and Europeans, in general were crazy about it. Have worn it all these years and recently sent it back to Rolex for refurbishment. Got it back and it’s like I have a whole new appreciation. So gorgeous, understated and strong!!
I recently bought the Explorer II Polar Dial but in the 226570 Ref 42 MM. The Orange GMT marker set it off for me and the watch looks powerful and elegant all at once. Great review on yours.
thanks for the review! I like when you present your honest opinions about your watches. Less hyped and down to the ground reviews is that what we need in the watchworld.
Thanks! I would tend to agree, but I’m biased of course. Nice of you to say
Totally agree with you! My first Lux watch was the 99 Ex1 in 36mm and I love it still today. It’s so under the radar and I bought years later the 39mm Ex1. So different but nice 👌🏻!
The 16570 I will pick up next week and hope it will sit as long as the other Ex1 guys! Have fun with watches under the radar!
Second video I’ve watched of yours and already really like your style. You’re really objective and give some great advice. What a great discovery!
Awesome, thank you!
Very much agree on your point on how a subtle looking watch will only satisfy you if that is exactly what you are looking for.
I recently purchased a DJ 36 with fluted bezel and jubilee bracelet but was originally looking for an OP. Seeing both side by side, I felt that having that wow factor was more important to me than having something that blended away into the background.
Understandable! I am thinking the same way these days after my current collection
I bought one of these as my second Rolex, adding to my steel and gold diamond faceplate date-just. My goal was to have a less flashy Rolex, duel time zone tough watch. This fit the bill perfectly. I've traveled all over the world and some of the places have been rather sketchy. I have had no problems wearing this watch as it does fly under the radar. It is a tool watch, and I use it as a tool; strong, reliable, and not flashy, which is what a tool is.
Your comment about seeing a watch online and seeing it in person are spot on, and, dare I say, why there is such a thriving second hand market for so many watches. We see, we fall in love, we buy, we receive, it disappoints, we flip.
Thoughtful review. I have a 1991 Polar EX II that I picked up two years ago from a local jeweler. It is so of it's time (in a good way) that when I put it on it brings me right back to my time living abroad in what was near the end of "analog" time and that watch encapsulates that era perfectly. I also have a 2021 Yacthmaster with Rhodium dial which fills the need to periodic bling but still remains under the radar in comparison to a Sub or GMT. Cheers!
True! The story is what makes these watches!
Good review and you’ve summed up the Explorer II really well. What does it for me is the “whiteness” of the dial. It’s just so pure and reflective that it’s just stunning. The subtle contrast with the Superluminova markers just sets it off really nicely. I can’t get my head round how Rolex have created a dial that’s so simple yet so startling at the same time.
Smart man, I have lived in London for the last 7 years and travel constantly during the year and I agree I prefer an under the radar watch for travelling but also for living in London where its not uncommon to hear about people being held up for their Rolex. I love the fact it gives a tool watch not luxury look, perfect pour moi and great for the snow on ski trips
Great perspective/ fresh take on a review. Loved every minute.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!
It's one of my favorites. I also own the SD43 and for the size of the case it's perfect for my wrist size. But i you are looking for something sizeable but thinner wearing, the Explorer II definitly fits the bill.
Also agree with the internet display / photoshop feel. When I tried on a GMTII Batman after taking off my SD43, I feel like I am wearing a baby watch. It is so important to see and fit it on your own wrist.
Agreed big difference of photo and reality!
Very intelligent and insightful review. I applaud your objectivity. I have this piece. It’s my perfect travel
watch and not a statement piece. That’s why I like it. It’s a keeper in my collection as well.
Cheers.
Well said! Thanks for the kind words!
This watch was and still is m favorite watch. I love having it in my collection. The under the radar style is exactly my thing! Nobody notices it as a Rolex. LOVE IT!
It’s become my favorite as well!
Fresh perspective on watch! Great job and hopefully you will review more watch with that approach in the future!👍cheers!
That's the plan! Thanks!
I had a Rolex Explorer II original (1655) and a Submariner when I decided to buy something "different." The white dial Explorer II fit the bill with its white dial. I rarely wore it. And sold it after just a couple of years. It's a cool watch. I just didn't click with it.
Had a black faced one, same dilemma. Decided to sell and got a 42mm case. Like the heft of the newer ones more
I'm very opposite with this watch, Rolex and watches in general. I've noticed I gravitate toward watches that aren't as common or flashy. I was obsessed with the Sea Dweller 43. I tried it on 2 times and it just did nothing for me, no feelings. I tried on an IWC Big Pilot 43 and it just hit me instantly. I'm set to try on this watch soon. I've learned over time that discovering the watch that surprises me on the wrist is the ones I truly enjoy wearing every day.
I think the fact it’s both metaphorically and literally more matte than gloss, and therefore you can’t ‘floss’ wearing it is actually a huge part if its appeal.
Hey! I read Titan and thought it was really interesting. Especially how Rockefeller was known as this greedy monster, but also funded massively important humanitarian undertakings without taking any credit.
I know they get a lot of both praise and heat lately, but grab a Grand Seiko and you will be constantly looking down at your watch in awe at how beautiful it is, and nobody else will notice or care about it. I have a Hulk and an a GS Soko and the Hulk impresses people to the extent that it is uncomfortable, and the Soko knocks my socks off every time I look at it.
I've toyed with the idea of a Grand Seiko. Love their dials and cases. I'll have to put it on a strap. Haven't found a bracelet of theirs I like, but stay tuned. I'm sure I'll have one in shortly!
Hi Harrison, you make very good point on internet pictures with macro shots, lighting, careful angle poses etc VS reality. I always tell people to never get a piece based on internet looks, go to a shop/AD. Try it on, take normal pictures with your phone, think about it. Those who tell me they want the Speedmaster Sandwich because they want to see the "beautiful movement" I tell them that, at least to me, it looks rather normal, uneventful, when looking at it in person. Same with the 8900 on the Seamaster (which I have now). My biggest grails have always been the 5970 or the 5070, which I have never seen either one in person, and I think I'll be disappointed when I see them and the anglage/cotes/perlage don't look as astonishing as those macro shots and high resolution videos. Thanks for the great review, I personally did not see you very enthused about the Polar as I expected. Maybe get the 14060M with 4 lines next? Keep up the good work!!
I’m looking at submariners, but it’s grown on me! I think it certainly wasn’t the exact feel I expected up front, but now I can’t take it off
Excellent review. You hit all the important points +&-, and I can definitely relate as I have the Exp2 in black and a few years later got the ceramic Sub. The Sub has a certain elegance along with its tool essence while the Exp2 has that tool vibe without the flash, but in a good way. I find myself wearing the Sub more often(a lot to do with the moving bezel) but I’ll wear the Exp2 in a more active, casual setting, or just look at it once in a while and just admire it. No regrets at all, but I wouldn’t mind the polar too.
You can always swap the dials. Some people have strong thoughts about that, but I've seen it done. It looks cool. The hands don't pop as much since they're still white gold, but you can find a video online of someone doing it.
The black dial E2 was the very first Rolex that I wanted to own. When I was a child I use to read the National Geographic magazines. I remember seeing the E2 advert of Volcanologist, Haroun Tazieff. The ad read 'When he wears his fireproof suit he wears his Rolex on the outside'. The ruggedness and reliability captured my imagination. I aspired to one day own a piece of equipment stamped from a solid billet of stainless surgical steel that could be worn to the ends of the Earth. Also the red orange GMT hand against the background of the black dial was a metaphor for a stream of lava on molten rock.
Fast forward 20 years later, and I purchased my first Rolex ref 16570 - Polar dial. The opportunity arose at a good price, & so I pulled the trigger.
At first I had buyers remorse, as I had mixed feelings about the design and left uninspired that it was considered a poor man's GMT. However, as I started collecting other primarily dive or sports Rolexes with black dials, I became fond of my white dial E2. Appreciating that it may be the toughest, most accomplished and reliable timepiece on the planet, as not many collectors realise that real life Explorers, Ed Vestieurs and Erling Kagge both wore the 16570 polar variant to climb Everest. Vestieurs went on to climb 18 of the World's highest mountains wearing his watch and Kagge walked alone and unaided to both North and South Poles and Everest wearing the same model of Rolex.
So, I'm fairly satisfied that the E2 is arguably better engineered and tougher than any other Rolex. At least of which can be proven by it's achievements. I therefore detest when someone refers the E2 as inferior to a GMT. To be honest, I would rather strap an E2 to my wrist in the face of armageddon. Whether it be venturing into the hot zone of an active volcano or climbing a snowy mountain peak, the Explorer II has got my back.
Love it! Enjoy yours, and you're right about the history. I don't have enough time on these videos to explain everything, but there are certainly a litany of achievements behind the Explorer II
It is my Armageddon watch as well.
Your review is spot on. I used to own the same reference Explorer II but hollow end links and the older movement but traded it in plus some cash for a 16710 GMT Master II cause it didn’t feel quite luxurious enough
Fair enough. A gmt master II is hard to beat!
I have the black dial and also have the 2011, I can honestly say the polar felt a little toyish and feel the black has the pop and more luxury feel the white lacks. nice review! agree with alot of your points.
What an amazing looking watch. I can not wait until i can afford one. Great review.
Thanks!
Good insight into making sure it fits into your collection. Well articulated
Thanks appreciate it!
Awesome prospective that I haven’t heard from any other reviewer. You are spot on! I’ve bought and sold 4 Subs. It’s a beautiful watch but sooooo over used. I like this Watch exactly because it’s not a “look at me I’m wearing a Rolex” but rather a watch that suits me and makes me smile.
I agree! It's a watch to just be enjoyed by the owner
I have two Rolex watches; a ‘95 Daytona and 2001 Explorer II Polar. I wear the Explorer II almost everyday and drag the Daytona out for car races and a few other special occasions. If I had to sell one it would definitely be the Daytona.
You hit the nail on the head with the low profile nature of this watch. Perfect travel companion. Exp 1 is also great.
Bro you have the last of the 16570 series That’s a keeper. Mine is the last of the Z series no rehaut, 3185 movement. I’ll never sell mine.
I think it’s here to stay after the last few months. Agreed both are ideal!
Great review and love the polar. I have the 216750 and i love it. It fits better than mine Seadweller SD43
Very nice! Enjoy. Thanks!
Tried it on a while back expecting to love it and with plans to purchase... surprisingly the black dial looked better on me than the polar dial. I wasn't mad about either in the end though. The Rolex that looked best on me was even more of an anti-Rolex Rolex... an aged 1016. Unfortunately priced way out of my league. My main lesson has been whilst we can learn about watches online, you really have to try them on first to know if they're right for you.
Don't buy just with your eye but with your wrist!
Agreed! The white has a very different look than the black dial Explorer II
I got my polar 16570 back last winter and It was everything that I expected to be, understated and most of all a 5 digit white dial rolex gmt. I think the white dial is bonus since Rolex does not use AR coating so the cyclops blends in with the date wheel nicely. You could always swap the white dial and hands out for the black dial config to get that same look and feel as your explorer 1, but then again it would look too common like the 5 digit subs and gmts. Lastly the bracelet is not a great fit for wrists size below 6.5 inches, so luckily the Ginault bracelet works with it for a more solid feeling bracelet. Luckily I happened to source the bracelet off the OP39 and now it fits like a dream, but for sure the Ginault is a great affordable option.
Nice that’s a great set of ideas. I think I like my polar now as it is, but I want a jubilee for it next
@@HarrisonElmore Nice! I thought about trying to get the super jubilee or integrated rubber strap for it too. Good thing the popularity of the brand means there’s a ton of aftermarket options for straps and bracelets. 👍
The EXPLORER is the watch that you need to see what time is at home when you are exploring Antartica. The GMT MASTER II is the watch you need to see if it’s too late to make a call home when you are on the other side of the world for business meetings.
That makes me feel very happy about my purchase, so I love the analogy!
@Archie Baldwin yeah as the watch is the only piece of jewellery that a man can wear there is basically all the jewellery nonsense that women has crammed into it but for men, at least however there is an engineering component compared to female jewellery. this doesn't take awqay the fact that 99.9% of people that own an Explorer wouldn't even know how to survive in their garden.
A Rolex for people who don’t feel the need to shout about it.
I received a EXP2 polar for my birthday in 2019, i love the timepiece and fit, its my every day timepiece.
Nice! Enjoy. I’m using mine the same way
Thanks. Really good review. I bought this watch about 10 years ago, it mostly stayed in a drawer, I think I wore it three times. So bland, so boring... I decided to just sell it, and then I thought, "well, I might as well wear it for a few days before putting it on ebay". Gradually it became my favorite watch. I wear it everyday now, so much so, I am thinking of selling my other watches. It has a certain Je ne sais quoi to it. Love it. Polar white, 42 (I'm a big guy 8 inches - yeah I mean my wrist)
Great video! Really appreciate the under the radar factor on this watch.
I’m going to Switzerland in October this year, do you have any tips on where to buy pre owned Rolex? Where did you find yours?
Thanks
Mine was at La Maison de l'Horlogerie SA. They were great to work with.
Great review!
Living in the midwest, I feel this is the perfect fall/winter/spring piece to be work with jackets, sweaters, etc. as a tool watch.
I agree. I'm ready for those days to come!
@@HarrisonElmore WHOA WHOA WHOA - I didn’t say I was ready or looking forward to it! LOL
Wears great in summer as well. T-shirt or tank top or Tommy Bahama - all four seasons
That 2011 is such a great find! I’ve been looking for a while now and haven’t had the luck
I just stumbled into it and got lucky! Good luck on the hunt!
ESV (ECOLE DE SKI SUISSE) VERBIER is the the local ski school in Verbier. Very cool story! My kids took classes there. Wonder why he sold his watch
I cannot understand why Rolex messed with the dimensions of this version. It’s perfection in my opinion.
Agreed! But I’m very very biased
The Explorer II is basically a GMT Master with a fixed bezel.
Especially on these models, you're correct.
@theorangeking but the GMT Master is basically a Sub with colorful bezel and extra hand 😅
@@WatchWeeb All watches tell the time, so in that respect, the Rolex is not much different from a Timex except for the name and huge price difference
The GMT's bi-directional bezel and the extra hand makes it very much a more versatile watch than a Sub. Because of the extra hand, they don't share the exact same movement.
@@msbrownbeast Fair enough, but I think you are missing the point I was trying to make. Design wise the GMT Master or any other professional Rolex black dial model with a rotating bezel, look very similar to the Sub with an added function. What is appealing about the Polar 16570 is the fact that is one the few professional models that isn’t a black dial.
Agree with you 100% it’s absolutely amazing on the wrist
awesome review! i'm lightly shopping for a 16570 myself, but like you i'm on the fence if its worth keeping in the collection. i do like its subtlety and i intend this to be one of my daily drivers, BUT is it too subtle?
Exactly what I considered for a while. I think it's radically different on something other than the bracelet. A look on a strap makes it a keeper for me.
My uncle recently passed and he has this watch. I am debating on buying it but I also really don't care much about GMT. I also just purchased a Tag Aquaracer 300M which is flasher with that ceramic bezel and deep blue color. I also have a white dial carrera ..... so I am really trying to see where this would fit and also make me "feel". I really wish it was a diver bezel instead in this.... but I appreciate the true review and non-hype, but it always amazes me how these Rolex's retain value.
It's an aesthetic question in the end regardless of function. If you have things that fit better in your collection, probably not for you. If it's sentiment, then maybe it is. Good luck!
An excellent review once again. An honest take on an often overhyped piece. I went to to pick one up last year and was underwhelmed with the package considering what these trade for now. Like you say, for the money spent you really need to love the understatement and almost anti- Rolex anti- luxe the piece gives you.
When Rolex still made actual tool watches instead of jewelry.
Agreed! And that can be a tough pill when some people choose Rolex for the luxury element.
@@HarrisonElmore Exactly. Even if you think you want the understatement, you might surprise yourself. Perfectly surmised in the video 👍🏻
I have bought and sold many watches over the years. My black dial 16570 is the only watch I miss. I replaced it with an Airking 116900. While I love my Airking I still wish I would've held on to that 16570. I'll definitely buy another 16570 some day in the future.
I’ve got a couple pieces just like that I want to bring back. If only we could keep them all!
I used to not like that watch so much, but now I have to admit that it grew on me. The more I look at it, the more I like it. And I have been looking at it quite often. Today I want it bad and will try to make my next buy. By the way, if you want to travel to Europe wearing your best expensive watch without fearing being attacked, come over here to Switzerland, the watch country with low crime rate 😉😊. Verbier is a great ski resort but I’m from Crans-Montana which is even a better one and a fantastic golf resort as well for summer, so consider trying it if coming to Switzerland . You’ll see many flashy Rolex watches worn fearlessly. And don’t miss out our yearly Omega European Masters golf tournament at the end of August 22.
That’s quite the calendar! I loved Geneva, and I plan to come back hopefully often over the years!
@@HarrisonElmore 👍
I think you were spot on about the best and worst feature being the same thing. I picked up my 16570 about a year ago and to say I was underwhelmed when I first got it is an understatement. Most of my steel sports watches prior to the explorer 2 were cheaper but more modern brands/designs ie Citizen, Deep Blue, so I was used to a bigger case and solid end and center links. I've found that the features I originally disliked about the watch are now my favorite features. It's very light and slim, making it feel like it's hardly on my wrist and for me it could be a one watch collection type of watch. I still wear my other pieces but not daily like I do with the explorer. I've also slowly began wearing it to more places like bars and on vacations. I didn't know what type of attention it would get but so far the only people who make comments when I wear it out are my friends who know that I own it. When I want the watch to pop and be more noticed I found that throwing on a colored strap works well. I picked up a red strap from rubber b and once I put it on I started having strangers ask what the watch is. It's a nice way to keep the watch loud or subtle depending on what occasion you 're wearing it for. I don't know if I could ever get rid of this one as it's so versatile. Maybe a panda dial daytona if I ever have the opportunity to purchase one but other than that I can't think of a model I would choose to replace it with
That’s a great suggestion. I’ve not been able to take it off for weeks, but the brighter colored strap is a solid solid suggestion. Thanks!
My biggest debate is between this Explorer II 40mm vs the Silver Yachtmaster silver 40mm
Great review
Thanks!
Great review and exactly why I bought one
Thanks!
I went to the AD to see a pre owned Sub/date and left with a black Explorer2. Once I put it on it just melted onto my wrist and I knew instantly this is a watch I’d wear comfortably every day.
I agree. Its hard to not put it on for me
Very helpful!
Glad to hear it!
I couldn't agree more. What makes this Explorer unique is that I rarely see people with this Rolex. No offense to the Submariner owner but it's just too many out there. I predict this explorer will be a highly collectible piece.
Definitely it could be! Especially with the new direction of the explorer ii being so different.
A glossy black dial Rolex with white markers is very hard to beat. I know. I've been there. I have owned 2 16610s (SS Sub Date), one in 1999 and one in 2011. The contrats of the white crown and white markers and the steel borders of the markers againts the glossy black is just beautiful. I sold the 1st one after a few months because it was uncomfortable to wear due to the thickness and a top heavy feel. I vowed to buy a Polar 16570 after, it was different, it was cool, thinner, but I got me a 2 tone datejust instead. Somehow in 2011 I had forgotten about the wearing experience of the Sub and I bought another one on a good opportunity. I sold it later for the very same reason vowing again the get the Polar because it's thinner, not top heavy and it wears beautiful. I haven't done it due to crazy prices that I don't want to spend, but I'll be honest, I've been very hesitant. I miss that black dial, I miss the black bezel and white markers. The biggest debate now is whether I really want to try the Polar, or if I should go for the 14060M, which has the very design that I miss but no date, cleaner, and is slightly thinner. I also love the GMT Coke (my fav GMT) from the mid 2000s, but finding that one with the 3186 movement and stick dial is a lot more expensive. So as I wait for prices to come down to earth for the 16570 3186 and the 14060M (to at least 9k or so) I continue to debate, buy the watch I've wanted for over 22 years but never got or stay with what I love and is familiar to me and get the 14060M. Maybe a 16570/3186/random with BLACK DIAL is the best of both worlds for me? Gives me the contrast of the glossy black dial/white markers I love and the wearability of the Explorer II case? I don't know.. Damn.
Wearability may not be the main reason I buy a watch, but it’s the largest in why I keep one!
@@HarrisonElmore Very well said my friend..
@@rnunez70681 I didn’t reply to the remainder of your comment. I think that there’s a lot to be said about both, but if there is a watch wanted for that long, that ought to be one you own for a while at least otherwise I’ve found it’ll continue to bug you until you do
The modern Sub 116610 model has the bling as well as the new GMTs!
True they certainly do. The Batman is a nice watch
Hi Harrison. I am also from Chicago. I live up just west of Andersonville. I am guessing you are a cyclist as well based on your SRAM hat. Maybe I will see you around. Good to know there is another TH-camr from the fair city I call home. I have enjoyed your videos.
--Michael
Good, thoughtful vid.
Thanks!
I've owned a Rolex Explore 2 since 1999. When I traveled abroad, I had this watch on my wrist using it in the GMT mode for travels. However, over the last few years I wasn't wearing it and I became a tad more "digital" with the apple watch and my various Casios. I was working in my own business and didn't need to go business casual anymore and changed my watch rotation. When my watch winder broke, I hesitated getting it repaired because of the lack of wearing my Rolex watches in my digital age. However, I've decided to sell the Apple Watch and won't replace my Casio. At the end of the day, I don't really need to have all that technology on my wrist when I carry my iPhone. Is it cool to have one? Yes but my Explorer 2 is cooler! Currently it is getting serviced. The watch is running a tad slow losing 6 seconds a day and hasn't been serviced is 10 years. I am counting down to the first of May when it will once again be my daily watch.
Using a mechanical watch to tell the time is an archaic ritual in this day and age. Even back in the 80s, Andy Warhol famously wore a Cartier watch and never bothered to set it. When asked why he said he wore his Cartier because it was the watch to wear. Rolex is the same for many people today.
@@oaktree1628 Is wearing a mechanical watch an archaic ritual or wearing a watch an archaic ritual? Unless I'm mistaken the vast majority of people interacting with the public still need to know the time of day. I don't think any boss of mine would have been happy with employees running late because they didn't have a watch. I'm not sure how many planes would wait because you are late. Last time I checked many stores are closed at night and if you don't know the time, you may not be able to get what you need because they are closed.
As for a digital watch vs mechanical watch I do agree that the digital watches are more accurate and can do al lot more. However, all I really need to know is the time and day of the month.
With my mechanical watch, I don't need to change the batteries, charge it overnight, sync it to worry about getting the latest update, or being careful wearing it as I go about my daily activities.
Wearing a watch that doesn't work is foolish. To be totally honest, I would not use Andy Warhol as an example for anything.
Could I get by with something less than a Rolex? Absolutely. However, I don't want to!
Nice review. Having held the black and white dial versions, I would say the black dial version definitely gives more of a luxury or Rolex feel, while the white didn’t give me that premium feeling. If you have other Rolexes, the white dial would be a great companion piece, but for a one-Rolex collection, the black one is the way to go.
I would agree. It’s a good companion, but not the feel of a black dial Rolex many are after
The crux of Harrison’s problem seems to be the white dial. The black dial, is more easily read and like the Explorer you miss, adds a touch of class to what is a sports Ref Rolex. And that is what the hype is doing for the ExpII at the moment, an explosion of fans of the Polar face, which IMO is the weaker of the two. If you can have more than one Rolex, then a Polar and AN Other, (for work, smart occasions etc) works.
But if you only have one, the Polar face is just the wrong side of ‘too casual’ to make it a genuine, understated all rounder. Which is what the ExpII, five digit black face is and why it is my favourite Rolex. An absolutely timeless, robust all rounder, from pub to office, from t-shirt to DJ and without ever looking faddish or bling. The watch lover’s Rolex, rather than the fashionista, look at me, Rolex. This is the Rolex for the person who appreciates watches, appreciates function over design, appreciates the adventurous history of Rolex and is not for someone following the crowd. So far from the watch’s weakness being that it is ‘under the radar’, that is absolutely its strength.
A bit like the difference between the guy who walks around with a shaved head and pit bull screaming “look how tough I am”, but it’s all image, no substance (Sub, Daytona etc), and the normal looking guy who’s actually a Mossad agent and who can Krav Maga you to death without breaking a sweat, (ExpII).
To me, this is the most easily read watch I have ever seen. The black dial is more or less like reading my sub, but the Polar really is readable at a glance.
DON'T sell it. You will regret it. The modern ones don't wear the same. I had a 2009 model of same watch, sold it, and came to regret it very much. Two years later I was very lucky to be able to buy it back; learned my lesson! (It is not as subtle to others as you think.)
I won't. I've wrestled with it, but I won't
What does having both the Explorer I and II mean for your collection long term?
They're both probably sticking around for a long time to come!
This seems like the ideal watch. I assume it's not available for pick-up atany dealer for the MSRP.
This is the old version, but the new one is also not available (as expected)
Over 30 pages on Chrono24! Ridiculous how badly Rolex has lost control of their distribution network.
And probably just as many sitting in safes of guys too lazy to sell them. I kick myself for not buying one 7-8 yrs ago when I saw it. Oh, well - enjoying my Steinhart homage to the 70’s original - and $9k to spend on trips.
Still my favourite watch to wear
The side profile comparison to the BB Pro is insane. I would buy the Pro instant if it wouldnt be that thick.
You and me both!
How much you bought it for?
Refreshing review. Nice to see the personal aspect of watch collecting and enjoyment coming through here - it’s so under appreciated and often not discussed on YT. I would perhaps disagree on the idea it’s under the radar - maybe it’s not flashy, but the scouts looking for Rolex on the wrist in cities will recognise the Polar 2 in a heartbeat - even more so arguably than the subs. And if they spot it you are no less likely to be victim of a crime than if you’ve the GMT Master on. Ironically after what you’ve said here in the video I’d state that the explorer 1 is more under the radar in this regard. Agree it’s a much much much nicer timepiece than the explorer 2 though.
Thanks for the note! I’d agree that any Rolex is likely a target, especially on a bracelet. The cyclops doesn’t help here on this model, but you have a good point!
I agree that the E2 no longer flies under the radar. I wore mine at a cafe in a shopping mall a few months ago and I received a few stares on my wrist from a couple of young guys. Luckily they didn't pose any danger. I think they were just admiring. On another day I was wearing an even more discrete Rolex -the 40mm silver dial Yachtmaster with platinum bezel. I also received a glance of my wrist from strangers on the street.
However, I disagree that the Explorer is less noticeable or better looking. I own the 39mm version which I prefer over the 36mm but I think the tri-Arabic numerals can easily be identified. I was having lunch with my friend one day and I could spot the guy on the next table wearing his 36mm Explorer in half a second it registered in my brain. Then I kept glancing at it trying to determine whether I liked it or not seeing it on another's wrist.
Regarding looks, I actually prefer the E2. The design is functional. It has an industrial sensibility that transcends fashion. The radially brushed steel bezel with the black filled numerals is a reminder of engineering inspired by something like that found on a rocket ship. And the crisp white dial, accentuated with the red GMT hand and the 18kt black surrounds on the lume plots is uniquely different from anything else in the Rolex catalogue. It has more character than the Explorer.
@@HarrisonElmore Great review and response. I’ve recently put my E1 on a nato and that truly fly’s under the radar. On my channel I have a video on it if you want to check it out!
All the best.
@@terryl7749 point I was trying to make (not very clearly perhaps) is the explorer is a little more ubiquitous (same with some subs) and has a lot of homages and other designs in general (even from luxury brands) that looks similar at first glance. The E2 is very unique in many senses with the stark polar dial and the steel bezel - very easy to notice at a quick glance. In regards which is the better looking watch - it’s totally subjective - I like the 1 you like the 2. Means we will never fall out in the AD over the last watches!
@@drdesign6886 Fair comment. The E1 has a cult following and the history is well documented albeit overly marketed. I accept it is a more aesthetically pleasing design. Interestingly the E1 36mm models can be found most abundant in Japan. During the 1990s an actor wore the E1 in a popular Japanese tv drama series, which caused the watch to be a number 1 seller in Asia.
I'm partial to both E1 & E2 depending on each day but I often gravitate towards the polar dial watch for more casual events. Admittedly I am a little different to the average Rolex enthusiast as the E2 (first iteration) was the very first Rolex that got me interested in the brand and I use to own an Oysterquartz which 'true' Rolex collectors despise. Funnily, I remember wearing my Oysterquartz into a watch dealer's boutique and the junior sales clerk told me to leave because they thought I was wearing a fake Rolex. They hadn't seen a quartz operated Rolex before. Thinking about that still makes me angry.
One of my favourite Rolexes
Ditto!
Absolutely made my mind up NOT to buy the 42mm newer version, great review and I'm now on the hunt for the 16570 , many thanks
I have the 3185 version since June. First rolex I bought and I enjoy it very much
You are 100% correct, the E2 is not a flash piece. Have a Vacheron Constantin for your dress piece and the E2 as a daily. Then a Tudor to be the daily for your daily... A Zodiac for the daily of the daily to your daily...
Hahaha then my Explorer for the daily of the daily for the daily for my other daily
Awesome travel watch. Yse
Agreed!
Fantastic review. I've been wanting this exact watch for years now. The 3186 movement polar explorer II's are fantastic. They are getting harder to come by these days. If you ever did decide to let go of it, hit me up. I look forward to the Chronomaster Sport review, I own that watch and I am curious for your take on it. Keep up the good work.
Thanks and will do! See you Friday then!
Nice balanced review. The newer version is my grail. Waiting on the call. But have noticed the grey market prices are coming down.
One pt though: yours is 11 yrs old so the ‘pop’ is somewhat worn out.
PS - have had my Steinhart Ocean GMT (patina variant) for about a month. So much watch for $500! So if I never get the call I won’t be too disappointed - and will have $9k for my international travels.
Nice fair enough! Thanks!
The best Rolex is Explorer 36mm. The second best Rolex is Day-date 36mm.
I love the Day-Date too!
If you have wrists like a 12 year old boy
No one will see the engraving, but prefer if there wasn’t one from the previous owner. Thanks for the review.
Fair enough! Anytime!
You could probably get a new caseback if the engraving bothers you
Agree , it's not flash it's subtle class.
I like to think so!
Um… usually people would say explorer is more dressy and the II is more sporty, luxurious wise is objective, some refer to precious material, more about the design, but the only luxurious sporty watch to me is the Royal Oak, most Rolex sport watches are just too sporty
That’s fair! I’m not buying a royal oak anytime soon though haha
Was that explorer 1 a 36 or 39?
Explorer 36mm
Wow man, you just single-handedly made me not want to get this watch now 😂
I was all set on wanting to get it in the white dial. It would be my first Rolex. Other videos I’ve seen people are saying how awesome it is. Rolex groups I’m apart of people are saying it’s such a great piece. But this video left me feeling kind of “meh” about it now……
Wow, the case profile of the BB Pro looks like a potato in comparison to the Exp. II. I hope Tudor will fix that in the future.
Haha yes it does unfortunately
They’re selling them so apparently no one cares.
I’m on that ‘list’ too… They keep saying 1 more month.
I own that hat. Given by a Sram Rep
The most nice/bautiful pro watch Rolex
Agreed!
Let me add, the Polar is not a bling watch! Personally, that’s not me and I’ve never desired that in a watch. It’s elegant and understated and quite frankly is not going to stand out to some idiot who wants to blind-side you w/ a ball bat in an attempt to rob you - think about that!! It also doesn’t look and wear like a clownish, nautical gauge on your wrist, as the follow-on orange hand 26570(?) does. You can get the 16570 easily underneath the cuff of a long sleeve shirt and sport coat. Just my opinion/ experience having worn it for 28 years globally.
My ideal rolex but it is just tooooo loud. I would be paranoid wearing it in public
Fair. I've never felt it was loud compared to some more classic models or the gmt masters
No way the zenith is flasher I tried one on and stayed with the Rolex it’s a nice watch but the feel of the Rolex u can’t beat
Fair enough. This guy is flashier than the Polar! You'll see
Totally disagree. This IS flashy and an eye catcher. Bigger size, bright dial, black contrasting hands all POP. It’s an ICON man!
Nothing flashy about it, just a robust tool watch that happened to be a Rolex, same as my Explorer 1
Mine gets almost all my wrist time.
Mine is as well at the moment!
Under the radar Rolex. Just pair it with new straps from Rubber B.
I’m looking at Rubber B now
Love mine on Rubber B. Don’t expect I’ll ever put the bracelet back on.
Your journey with it ???? LOL
Buy the black one, and you have these feeling of Rolex luxury what you are searching for….
I’m interested if you want to sell…
I think this one is staying! Thanks though!
IT's crazy how this watch went from the ugly duckling along with the AirKing that nobody wanted, and you got 20% off to a "hype" watch...
Everything Rolex is hype these days though!