Size check- 8500 PO 45.5 vs explorer II

I am considering buying a new Rolex explorer II and have read online about its heft. Case width is 42 mm but I have read that it “wears bigger than that“ and it has been compared in size to a SeaDweller, which I have tried out and felt was too large.

I do have 45.5 TiPO 8500, which I love

Since the explorer II does not exist in the wild anywhere near where I live, I am looking to see if anyone can post side-by-side photos or if they can describe the similarity or difference between how these watches feel on the wrist. Thanks so much.

Not a 8500 but the same 45.5mm size. I hope it helps. In the pictures the PO looks a lot bigger but in real life the difference isn't that big.

The Explorer II is only 12.5mm thick.... and certainly wears smaller to me because of this than a Sea Dweller, PO or even a 42mm Speedy. A lot depends on your wrist shape... I'd certainly recommend trying it on.

That’s really helpful-Just what I was looking for!

thanks!