Explorer 2 one of the sleeper Rolexs or just undesirable???

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LemansBoiler

·Apr 7, 2018

I love my 42mm polar. I’ve owned it for 2 weeks now and as I switch back and forth between it and my speedy pro, I’m constantly thinking how much more comfortable it is.

I really like the brushed steel, makes it fly under the radar. Rolex’s with polished bracelets are too much flash for me.

I was able to pick mine up for $7150, pretty great price for a Rolex, IMO. When considering other Omega models, I was struggling to find a model that was as satisfying, despite the price difference.

 

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LemansBoiler

·Apr 7, 2018

sgrossma

My issue with the watch (both 5 and 6 digit ref) is that the bezel often gets scratched... Its just not great for every day use IMO if you want to keep your watch looking pristine.

All things are relative but I’ve actually been pleasantly surprised how little wear my watch is getting compared to my speedy pro. The oyster bracelet seems to keep the watch from sliding around on my wrist as much as the Omega bracelet. As I’m moving my mouse around at work with the speedy on, I feel like I’m always trying to be conscious of not accidentally scratching it across my desk.

I’ve also been pleased with the thinner case. I bought it thinking it’s be a great summer watch with polo shirts but I’ve been pleasantly surprised how it doesn’t catch on my shirt cuffs and haven’t knocked it against anything yet.

 

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MrJKLFoams

·Apr 7, 2018

Im sure if rolex released a ceramic bezel then its a game changer for the explorer line but I prefer the ss bezel coz it separates it from other models. I think because of the gmt master 2 explorer become a realist rolex lover piece. I prefer the polar dial Though.

 

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Jfullm42

·Apr 7, 2018

16570's have been climbing for the first time in years. While the 16710's and 5513 /14060's have shot through the roof the 16570 has been an amazing bang for the buck. The place where I think you can find some really good untouched value is a nice 16550.

 

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Riviera Paradise

·Apr 7, 2018

I love my Explorers😀

The Explorer 2 as many have commented flies under the radar, especially with lovely brushed steel bezel. It is extremely comfortable as it is quite slim (12.5 mm) and sits low on the wrist

I think prices will rise in the long run, perhaps more due to the fact that most of the typically desired SS Rolex Sports watches are now under restricted supply as the Rolex Turbo Veblen Strategy kicks in.

It is a watch that photographs much, much better in natural light, it is certainly an "outdoors" watch. On the 42mm Polar version the hands can look a bit "plasticky" under artificial lighting, which is a shame as that is generally the sort of lighting you will find in a Rolex AD or boutique. I think the initial rejection observed by some might be due to the artificial lighting conditions in watch shops.

I particularly love the lume🥰, especially when the blue starts to glow with the white dial still visible in dim light.

A personal highlight for me was wearing the Polar Exp 2 on a boat tour through the Waitomo caves (NZ)...the Exp 2 lume was torch-like, beautifully offset against the gorgeous constellation of glow-worms...the tour operators were very strict (correctly so), not allowing any photographs to be taken during this part of the tour...a shame as it would really have been one of the most beautiful lume shots ever.😀

 

U

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ulackfocus

·Apr 7, 2018

77deluxe

@Traveler - mine says hello.

Traveler

Agreed - very versatile watch and still ‘reasonably priced’

Who filled the lume holders with custard on those two watches? 😕

Observer: "Check out the patina on the lume!"

Watch Owner: "It's not superluminova; it's creme brûlée."

 

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77deluxe

·Apr 7, 2018

U ulackfocus

Who filled the lume holders with custard on those two watches? 😕

Observer: "Check out the patina on the lume!"

Watch Owner: "It's not superluminova; it's creme brûlée."

The keebler elves.

 

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Edwinowl

·Apr 8, 2018

I too have the polar and as people have said its under the radar. Mine has risen by 1k in the past 2 years so solid investment too.

 

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Gasman

·Apr 8, 2018

I want one

 

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Jones in LA

·Apr 9, 2018·Not in LA anymore.

I think one thing that contributes to the Explorer II's "under-the-radar" appeal is the small logo (crown) and small-size font for all text on the dial [just compare the Explorer II dial with any Submariner dial to better understand what I mean] The polar 16570 was always #1 on my acquisition wish list for watches from the house of Rolex, and it is still my favourite. I happen to be wearing it today 😀

Edited: Apr 9, 2018

 

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watch3s

·Apr 10, 2018

the explorer 2 is probably the most indestructible rolex

 

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ag986

·Apr 10, 2018

The Explorer II is still a good value on today's market. I managed to find a very nice example two years ago and am still happy with it.

 

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Gasman

·Apr 10, 2018

I still want one

 

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chows99

·Apr 11, 2018

Polar model with yellowish patina encased with black marker borders are gorgeous. It stands out nicely against the white dial!

 

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strick9

·Apr 18, 2018

I heart mine it was never babied but still suits me fine

 

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77deluxe

·Apr 18, 2018

They are not supposed to be babied.

 

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LemansBoiler

·Apr 21, 2018

I slammed mine into a door frame earlier this week (my wrist hurt afterwards I hit it so hard), I can’t find a single blemish on the bracelet where it hit. The more I wear it, the more obvious it doesn’t (and shouldn’t) need to be babied.

Pic from yesterday.

 

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gostang9

·Apr 21, 2018

Haven’t worn mine in awhile now, but am leaving for a week in Bangkok/Shanghai so the GMT is helpful (not yet set as about to leave Toronto).

Who doesn’t love a little splash of orange in a non-flashy watch?

 

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Mardet65

·Apr 21, 2018

The Rolex, Explorer II (black dial) was actually my very first Rolex watch. My wife purchased it as a gift upon my promotion at work back in 1988. I wore that watch everyday for twenty three years before finally trading up to a more expensive model. It took a lot of hard knocks but never failed to perform flawlessly.

 

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alfanator

·Apr 21, 2018

Sleeper, just got this from its original owner. The cream dial is a nice bonus.