I've had this exact watch for a year now. I'm a big guy and sold my 114060 as it felt small for my 7.5" wrist. This size is absolute perfection for me and I love that its not a Sub. The uniqueness is what I love about it.

This is my favorite watch in my collection, it's so versatile. The Explorer 2 can be worn with anything, dress or casual.. Gorgeous watch!!

@hinchman101

5 жыл бұрын

I love the Explorer 1.

@ac81

4 жыл бұрын

Ita not dressy

@kristophercantu297

3 жыл бұрын

(@Naim Naim ) I chose the White dial, both are beautiful though. You honestly can't go wrong with either. 👍🇺🇸

@charlesshankle3178

3 жыл бұрын

Kris, you're correct about it being versatile. From a practical standpoint, it's the most practical of all the Rolex line. Who needs the complexity of the sky dweller or GMT master or the added expense?

In my humble opinion, this black dial explorer 2 215670 with the phantom dial hands is the best current production Rolex watch. Loved the footage you captured of it.

@mrvivalatang

5 жыл бұрын

Jeremy Cesena I whole heartedly agree. It’s a beauty!

@andylangleynz

4 жыл бұрын

Yes, really underrated and undervalued considering the GMT complications and it's bigger size. Lovely watch on the wrist.

Really well done review of my favorite all-time watch. Interestingly I find the blacked out base of the hands to be my favorite feature. Also, far and away the most comfortable Rolex I've ever owned.

I purchased this watch back in February and didn’t love it at first. Fast forward five months and I wear it most days of the week. It’s a handsome watch that works well with jeans and a t shirt.

Just got the current black dial explorer II and it is so sharp I am loving it. I plan on taking this on plenty of outdoor adventures and building some memories!! People definitely sleep on the black dial I think it’s even more wearable than the white dial and it is closer to the original design. People need to really see this watch in person to truly appreciate it

Nice vid Bruce, especially the macro stuff. I've had this watch for 2 years, wear it every day and just love it. When most of the other Rolex sports watches are going more and more blingy (2 tone Sea Dweller FFS!) the EXP2 remains one of the true tool watches. Love that it's big and legible - this is what sets it apart from the other models. I tried on the polar version too but the black dial just sang to me.

You'll never tire of a black dial. I had the white for a few weeks, and woke up one morning and just went off it and eventually bought a sub-c instead. I'd love to add the black dial explorer to my collection - great weekend watch when the heft doesn't need to fit under a cuff

Nice review and good video. Thanks. I just purchased a slightly older one with black dial as an affordable (relatively of course) weekend, vacation, do everything watch. I wanted something that was nice but also rugged. Looking forward to wearing it.

I’ve worn mine daily for 2 years now and love it.

Is there a book or article you would recommend that traces the evolution of the Explorer II and all the changes by year? I’m considering one and would want to know how the yearly models changed. Thanks

Mine is on order at my AD... 3-4 weeks is taking forever with my 116713 in the Beverly shop for service. Can't wait to use this on casual days and air travel.

Hi Bruce I have one question. Is the 18k gold applied on the markers for both black and white dial version of the watch or is it only for the black dial?

Great job! Love this piece.

Love the channel mate! Awesome stuff. Greetings from London.

This is my only Rolex, and I've had it about a year and a half now. It has proven to be a great everyday watch and the perfect outdoor adventure watch. It looks right at home on a NATO as well, for those times that might be particularly rough on the bracelet. Much of the time I just let it earn its scars though, as one day they will tell a story...Great vid btw! Good to see this one getting some attention

@BootsWalken

5 жыл бұрын

@@ultimaetsolder Crown & Buckle has them as well as a few others. Plus there are Erika's Originals and Marine Nationale style straps in 21. But honestly one of my go-to NATOs is by Toxic NATO in 22mm and it fits fine without looking/feeling bunched up at the lugs.

@billhart

4 жыл бұрын

@@BootsWalken Erika actually doesn't have 21mm, but she recommends the 22mm which is perfect because of the flex. I have 4 of them.

Thank you Bruce, enjoyable content, that Blusey is sweet.

Bought this watch because could'nt get a sub at a good price, was a bit worried i'd regret buying....but after 3 months still loving it, It's that rolex magic ! ,like the 40mm, but dont find this too big. Nice review , thanks

@InstrumentPlayer

5 жыл бұрын

Everyone has a sub. You standout more as having your own discerning taste by going with the beautiful EXPII

@chamixone

2 жыл бұрын

@@InstrumentPlayerhahaha I have a Sub now looking to add this

I think I prefer the polar explorer myself great Video 👍

I love the floating hands personally.

How does this particular watch hold up in resale value? And how is the watch in respect durability, has anything become broken that required repair?

Fantastic review and great cinematography.

Absolutely wonderful fitment on my big wrist. Not too small and looks proper.

The Explorer ii is such of a amazing piece. I have taken the Explorer ii over the BLNR for traveling and as my daily ... when you travel, you want to avoid certain type of attention and the BLNR is juts too shiny, blinky for that that purpose... besides that, the Second time zone is way way easier to sport on the Explorer ii (with that gorgeous Orange hand) and I find the bezel and dial more attractive than the ceramic bezel...

I love how the GMT hand is orange .. gives it a bit of a pop to it . The GMT function is useful in the stormchasing community which I am a part of because we use universal time out on the field .. I would love to see this watch on a rubber strap!

@BruceWilliams

4 жыл бұрын

I didn't know that about stormchasing, cool!

Great review. I just bought the polar yesterday from a local AD. I have to say, if god forbid I had to go to one watch- this would be it.

Great video Bruce...It is nice to see your partnership with Bob's Watches is giving you a chance to try out some watches you are thinking of adding to your collection :)

@bobswatches

5 жыл бұрын

I'm sure you will have this watch in your collection one day!

Just bought this today after seeing this review a few weeks ago :)

If I had enough money, I might consider buying a Rolex. For now I’ll stick with my limited edition Dora the explorer watch

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

One day when your making the big bucks man. You'll put me to shame

@crosbystudios1

5 жыл бұрын

You’ll always be the watch god. I could never put you to shame

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

@@crosbystudios1 I should have the 12 year olds start referring to me as the watch God 😈

@crosbystudios1

5 жыл бұрын

Great idea! 😂

@rawgab4439

4 жыл бұрын

That's cool 2 ! ;))

Go polar buddy. Lovely watch (though I prefer the previous generation). Look forward to seeing what you do.

Is there any very similar watch appearence wise in around 300 Euros or maybe 500 Euros. I have seen mods on SKX making it very similar, but is there actual watches having very similar appearance and design with black or bright crown.

@OllieGIBO

4 жыл бұрын

Take a look at the Bell & Ross BR123 GMT, very similar at a fraction of the price

Hi Bruce- I love your channel. I was wondering which do you prefer the 216570 vs the 16750? I know you have owned the 16750 in the past, and now you've had a chance to play with this one. I am heavily debating between the two models right now and figured i'd ask an expert.

Great review as usual. I prefer the look of the Grand Seiko GMT, but at 39mm it's too small. The Rolex is proper size for this watch style.

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

Agreed brotha Rolex does big very well

Bought my first Rolex--an Explorer II in January 1980--new in box for ...US$400. I wish I had kept it but it moved along to make room for a GMT--more useful for my global flying job. Rolex--they build the best watches!

Never understood the lack of love for the Explorer II. I think it is one of the best looking of the Rolex steel sports if not the best. Have the 40 and 42mm in both black and polar. The 42mm simply pops. I wear my black on a black with orange pinstripe Rubber B. Looks great!!!

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

I had a 40mm one a couple years ago breifly. The EX2 really is a gem

@gregorypaulbox3035

5 жыл бұрын

@@BruceWilliams The black dial and 'Maxi' markers really stand out and I love the orange hand.

@nicholasevennett8231

5 жыл бұрын

@Dr. Raymond I'd love to see more pics of the black Exp II on the black with orange pinstripe Rubber B

@Daetarg

5 жыл бұрын

I wear my 42 mm polar more than my submariner. It's just easier to check the time with the polar.

@sestin535

2 жыл бұрын

Completely agree.

I currently have the black sub, two tone DJ 41, and a Blue yachtmaster. What would you add next to your collection ? A white explorer 2 or a white Daytona ?

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

I would add the white daytona if you can find one. Those are unicorns that will only go up in popularity. I like the steel bezel version myself. Maybe two tone if you can't find a stainless

love it. I have the polar. and its one of my favs!

so my question is: the sea dweller 50th editon does it have the same anti shock sistem or the movment is better on the sea dweller over the explorer 2?

@YippeeKiYayMrFalcon

2 жыл бұрын

The Explorer II and the Sea Dweller (SD43) both have the Paraflex shock absorbers. Their movements are comparable, imo. I have both and love them both for their unique differences. I wear the EXPII far more as it's a perfect daily wearer. I break out the SD43 more on special occasions or when I'm dressed up a bit, as it has a little more bling to it because of its shiny ceramic bezel. However, both models do look great with just a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. The SD43 is a beast of a watch. I also love that they both have matte black dials. A great pair!!

Even though it's a 42mm case, the thickness is only 12.5mm similar to my Submariner. I tried it on recently and was surprised how comfortable it was and didn't feel like it was bigger than the 40mm. In my opinion, the the case thickness makes a big difference. Lugs also. Have been going back and forth over which dial I prefer more and I think the black is more versatile and classy. So black dial for me.

I've been considering one of these. Even bought a copy to see how I got on with its large size. Think I'll be pulling the trigger.

@thewerewolf358

5 жыл бұрын

i think the whole size issue of this watch is very overrated. I have a 16.5 cm wrist and it fits perfect in my opinion, my girlfriend has a 15 cm wrist and although it wears large on her, it doesnt bother either I would advice you not to wait to long, the pricing is quite jumping and i expect more price increase in not long on this reference

Perfect size, perfect orange hand this bad boy is bad Ass watch is a must have 👌

I've always preferred the black dial, until now thanks to you!!!! Ha ha. I've never noticed the floating hands before and now I can't see anything else, it annoys me too now! Also the hour hand looks too short and gimpish! However it's interesting to see how much nicer the lugs are than the Maxi-sub case. I guess I will just have to go for the SD43 now.

@surfspearlift8675

5 жыл бұрын

I've only ever heard positive comments about the "floating" hands on the black dial. I think they look awesome! I tried on the SD43 - man it is soooo blingy I couldn't stand it. EXP2 much more toolish and cool IMO

I dunno. Conflicted. The white dial looks awesome and hides that cyclops well but that black dial, hmm. It looks vintage already. In 20 years it’s gonna look fantastic I reckon.

Thanks for the video!

This is probably the most versatile watch Rolex makes. It was designed for cave spelunkers, mountaineers and global explorers, thus the third hour hand combined with the 24hr bezel. I would use it to keep time in Central Europe where my daughter lives. This, it acts in the same role a GMT master or Sky Dweller would. Overall, an awesome value.

I own Polar 42mm version and its just a perfect watch for any occasion!

Black dial is definitely overlooked. In hand it is an amazing watch.

I love the floating hands it’s a nod to the original

Bring back the lug holes still on the list for one of these tho cant wait

The white dial will always look larger Imho. Just bought the polar this morning at a good price ...wish you get a good price as well

@nikouai

4 жыл бұрын

michael oles, I like the white one too but as you said looks bigger, so went for the black one

@watchtrendz6515

4 жыл бұрын

michael oles can you share with us the price

Rolex Explorer II polar or black - tough choice - cant go wrong with either - white dial face might be more collectible in the future (maybe)

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

I think they will be

The black dial is way better than the over-hyped polar dial.

What are the Numbers On the outside for, not the Numbers That say the time but the others

Black or White, the color of the dial is a matter personal preference. I find the black dial much easier to read in the daytime, as there is more contrast between the lume plots/hands against the black dial.

You are so right about the hands

Is it true that this is an anniversary edition ?!

I'd love to own both the white and black.

Black vs White? Both work well, and it's down to individual taste. I think the white (or must we call it Polar?) is more popular because it's a change from the black dials featured on so many more Rolex watches. When I bought mine I was torn between the two faces but eventually went black because it's my only Rolex. I'f I'd had the money I'd have bought a white Explorer II and a black Explorer (I) for the best of both worlds. Mine is a 2009 40mm version, which I prefer to the 42mm in all respects except for the ratio between dial and bezel, and of course that lovely orange hand and matching orange Explorer II script... BTW on the original 1971 Explorer II it's not a GMT hand (as you've mistakenly called it), but a true 24-hour hand - you could not set it independently of the 12-hour hand, which you can on the later versions.

Beautiful watch. The color's choice for the GMT hand is strange. They should have done an all orange, or an all black, except the arrow hand. But to me, it's one of the best Rolex actually.

For a 7.25 wrist, 42mm looks ideal to me. I tried on a GS at 40mm, it was like a kids watch or something for my wife. 11mm watches at 40mm for 10-20k, just can't do it. The dial seems so small unless it has a more substantial bezel.

Not my grail watch, but I would LOVE to have one of these. I have a SD116600 and I can’t see myself selling it for an EXPII

I bought the Polar and I haven’t looked back 😉

Any tips on how to purchase one ? All AD's in my area does not have any of these

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

Go in, be friendly. Offer to put down at least 1k for the one you want. Let them know your serious and not a re-seller.

@Hellspawn256

5 жыл бұрын

Or do a search in your area for ADs. Grey market is always a possibility but try and make sure you’re buying from a reputable source. I’m in the same boat. Want to pick up a Polar before they’re either discontinued or the price shoots up too high.

The hands are a big deal! Just kills this version for me. Great video as always.

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark 👍

I think the exp 2 42mm suits your wrist better than the gmt master ii

This watch is the best one from the whole collection... i want it until i saw it...

GMT Master ii is still my favourite of the 3.

Bobs Watches is coming thru.

@bobswatches

5 жыл бұрын

We're trying out best to support the watch community!

@christiannavarro2498

3 жыл бұрын

@@bobswatches and that is why I purchase from you guys!

It's me or the indices on the Explorer 2 look a bit bigger than on the GMT 2 ?

@OllieGIBO

4 жыл бұрын

Its because they are

I like the white better on the older model but black on this model is so nice.

I'm on WL to buy a Polar one, I prefer that one as I want something totally different from my Sub 114060. The only thing I am still not 100% convinced about, is the black hands on the Polar Explorer II ...

Black dial over polar white in this model for sure.

My 40mm submariner wears large on my wrist... couldn't imaging wearing a 42mm version with 50mm lug-to-lug.

I'm hoping they'll come out with a new model for the 50th anniversary and drop it back down to 40mm. It just so happens to be my 50th that year so it would be a great present to myself. (If I could get hold of one!)

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

I have a difficult time imagining Rolex dropping sizes in the near future

@chrisbrown6494

5 жыл бұрын

@@BruceWilliams I agree, but we can dream!

@BoomerUKEngland

5 жыл бұрын

I think they will take it 41mm with a new 70 hour movement, hope they put a trip-lock on it also.

@surfspearlift8675

5 жыл бұрын

@@BoomerUKEngland yes to trip-lock and 70 hour power reserve for 50th anniversary. Also a glidelock bracelet too - that would make it perfect! But keep at 42mm IMO

Now you're talkin!

I gotta quit watching these videos Bruce! It's getting crowded in my watch box! Lol

@MyMarsham

5 жыл бұрын

Just do what I did, buy three more boxes, then start filling up your sock drawer when they fill up. Problem solved!

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

Lol I do what I can

I'm completely confused. Do I wait for a sub or buy this beautiful under the radar watch. Why is this not a loved watch? Its lovely

@YippeeKiYayMrFalcon

3 жыл бұрын

The Explorer II is no longer underrated or flying under the radar imo. Just try to get one! My theory is that Rolex as a brand attracts certain personality traits that are attracted to or want to have the "best". Since a Submariner, GMT Master II, etc cost more than the Explorer II, some people assume they are "better" or perhaps hold more prestige. Those who know, know!

I really like this Explorer II.

My favourite model in the Rolex range. The only negative is the 21mm lugs 👍

@goodlifebdg

5 жыл бұрын

Stan Oster what abt the clasp? Is it also wider than gmt/sub? Coz i think it needs to be balanced to the case size

@BoomerUKEngland

5 жыл бұрын

The 21mm lugs make the watch more comfortable, i have the 216570 and often even sleep wearing it.

@stanoster3417

5 жыл бұрын

BoomerUKEngland 22mm lugs wouldn’t make it uncomfortable!

@stanoster3417

5 жыл бұрын

Handy Hu The wider clasp would make it balanced.

70 hr power reserve ?

This watch fits me perfectly . I do prefer the white dial , waiting for my AD to call me when one comes in

@Ross-fo2vw

4 жыл бұрын

I've tried on the polar which I love as well but went with the black. Did you get the watch yet? I was able to put a deposit down about two weeks ago and currently guaranteed the second black E2 that comes in next year. I hope the AD gets two right off the rip in JAN so i get mine lol. I would love for you to respond to see what number you were or how long you waited! thanks !

I’m also more into the polar.

Love my Explorer 2

@willielarsson9651

3 жыл бұрын

I'm ready to buy one, cos I cant get a Sub are u happy with it

Great vid Bruce, very late to the party. Do you know the weight of this reference? EDIT: looks like it’s 156gms👍

@charlestillery6327

3 жыл бұрын

Correct 156 grams.

I prefer the pre 2011 model (40mm)

@RobertGeez

4 жыл бұрын

39mm actually

The floating hands are the whole point that’s my favorite part about the watch

Really nice watch actually, the bezel and shiny case sides do scratch too easily and the bracelet tapers down way too much to a very dainty little clasp. I'm gonna put it on a wider rubber strap and put the stainless away.

@AMogus-jr6qk

2 жыл бұрын

It's perfect

That looks good on you

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks brotha

Great review! I hope to get one 👍

Future classic

Great review. Two gripes about the watch though. They should have kept the old hand set and the old size.

@jfm562

5 жыл бұрын

7rslender I disagree. The larger size is why I have the Polar on order. I have a large wrist and my old eyes appreciate the increased dial size.

@surfspearlift8675

5 жыл бұрын

@@jfm562 +1

If Rolex took this back down to 40, take my money. Please. Would be the perfect partner for my 214270. I love the polar but the black has its own charm as well.

Is it true that this an anniversary edition ?!

@YippeeKiYayMrFalcon

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, its a 40th year anniversary model. The original Explorer II was released in 1971 and the 216570 came out in 2011, 40 years after the original Explorer II debuted.

I feel they should have made the bezel wider

Can i do freediving with this watch,?

@OllieGIBO

4 жыл бұрын

Depends if you can feedive lower than 100M's?

Nice watch .. but the lack of a rotating bezel just makes it so much less useful to me personally. My Tudor GMT is a far preferable watch.

I found it a bit big and i can handle seiko 42 or 43 easily tried the pelagos on at same time and that was great though. Looks nice though 👍

Who’s ever hand is modeling that watch around 2:55 or so, bracelet is way too tight. May need to add a few extra links.

I like the polar one more.

I love the explorer line from Rolex but imo they are way too expensive for what they are . they should be priced in the 4-6k dollar range . There are too many other watches that do exactly the same thing at half the price without the branding . Fit , finish , movement, bracelet , etc. Dont get me wrong , i like rolex , just not their pricing . Plus with my income I dont think it would be wise to tie up more than 10k in watches at any given time . If I was a millionaire though , youd bet your ass Id have that polar version .

@BruceWilliams

5 жыл бұрын

I respect your fiscal responsibility

@bighands69

3 жыл бұрын

@JoeyJoe Most of the watches people think are a competitor to Rolex watchers are not really in the same class. There are very few genuine sports watches at the Explora price point that could be taken scuba diving, top of a mountain or worn with a suit and do not use chinese components. If you are paying half the price of an explorer you more than likely buying a watch that is not 100% swiss.

@ScottyBennitone

3 жыл бұрын

@@bighands69 omega is almost as good IMO at half the price . Value retention is where they fall though