The Rolex Explorer II. A watch synonymous with exploration, adventure, and unwavering reliability. But the story of the Explorer II isn't simply one singular model; it's a narrative woven through distinct generations, each reflecting Rolex's commitment to pushing boundaries both in horological innovation and the spirit of adventure itself. This article will delve into the nuances of the various Explorer II iterations, comparing and contrasting their features, analyzing their value proposition today, and exploring their place in the broader context of Rolex history and the collector's market. We'll cover everything from the Rolex Explorer II 42mm review to the Rolex Explorer II Polar dial, examining specific models like the Rolex Explorer II 226570 review and the Rolex Explorer II 216570 review, and ultimately addressing the question of the Rolex Explorer II as an investment and its Rolex Explorer II value today. We'll also touch upon the less common Rolex Explorer II white dial and Rolex Explorer II white review.
The original Explorer, launched in 1953, was a direct descendant of the watches worn by the Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary during their ascent of Everest. Its understated elegance and rugged durability quickly established it as a classic. However, after its initial release, Rolex seemingly turned its attention elsewhere, leaving the Explorer relatively untouched for a significant period. Beyond a few minor internal modifications – the swap from the Cal. 1560 to the Cal. 1570 in 1972, primarily differentiating themselves in frequency and the addition of a hacking seconds function – the fundamental design remained largely unchanged. This period of relative quiescence paved the way for the arrival of a watch destined to become an icon in its own right: the Explorer II.
The introduction of the first-generation Explorer II (reference 1655) in 1971 marked a significant departure. This wasn't merely a subtle update; it was a bold reimagining of the Explorer concept. Designed for spelunking and cave exploration, where distinguishing day from night in the depths of darkness is critical, the 1655 introduced the now-iconic 24-hour hand. This additional hand, independent of the hour and minute hands, allowed explorers to track both local time and a second time zone, crucial for maintaining a sense of orientation and schedule in challenging environments. The orange hand, often referred to as the "GMT" hand, although not strictly a GMT function in the traditional sense, became a defining characteristic of the Explorer II lineage. The 1655, housed in a 39mm Oyster case, featured a matte black dial with luminous hour markers and hands, further enhancing its readability in low-light conditions. Its robust construction and reliable movement cemented its reputation for exceptional durability and accuracy.
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