It’s all subjective to personal taste. The Explorer 16570 is the same price as an equivalent sub these days. But yes, the Explorer 16570 is a bargain compared with the GMT master, considering the only difference is a rotating bezel.
Well, you're not the only one! https://www.fratellowatches.com/what-would-you-buy-rolex-explorer-ii/ Nice looking watch for sure...
The Explorer 16570 polar used to be an underdog, but not anymore. You'd have to pay about $7k for a full set. At that price, you can buy a Submariner 14060m. However, the Explorer 16570 with a black dial and the Explorer 114270 are great value. Best value for me is the Yacht Master 16622.
That Fratello link was a really good read, thank you. I personally prefer the black face (I’ve just acquired one) I feel it goes under the radar better than the polar dial. I can see the Explorer 2 only climbing in value, as the GMT Master rises - the Explorer 2 will be the substitute when the GMT master becomes unattainable.
yes, added a tritium dial myself last year, but not even in close in shade to that exquisite patina!!! ive been wondering about all of these that I see some with matching hands some dont
Personally, this thread cuts close as I have let go a 14060M full kit + Speed reduced + $500 for a 16710 kit, bought as the market was climbing. my vote is also for the 16570 polar as it is my first and favorite ss model
I've never been a fan of the Explorer II, but look at some of these photos particularly of the Neo-vintage polar 16570, I think I might have found another grail to add to the seemingly never ending list.
we have had a couple of them over the years but the bezels are too fragile for our tastes. the matte finish between the raised numerals need extra-special care not to mark up as it's damn near impossible to remedy and any imperfections on that matte area really jump out. the explorer style bezels are also prone to getting marked up but seem to be easier on the eyes with a bit of wabi.
If the PLT YM dial wasn't so dull I'd love it. I just think the explorer II appeals to the masses much like the submariner without being 6500+
well to be fair you do have an excellent point value-wise. the YM has a lot of visual appeal with it's dial finish and polished case, and the bezels are gorgeous. the only reason we sold ours was to fund additional finds, not because we weren't in love
If everyone would kindly shut the hell up about the polar E2 that'd be great, thanks. I'm trying to buy one in the hopefully near future and I don't need these things to skyrocket in price all of a sudden...