A popular professional Rolex model, the Explorer II offers a useful complication with a robust stainless steel case that has changed very little since its introduction in 1971. One of the major changes to this model came just a few years ago, when the case size was increased to 42mm. The white dial configuration shown above, known as the Polar, has gained a large following since its introduction.
In addition to the standard hour, minute and seconds hands, the Explorer II has a 24-hour hand, orange on the current models with a corresponding 24-hour display on the brushed steel bezel. The idea behind the 24-hour complication is to allow scientists like speleologists to tell the difference between night and day in areas with no sunlight. At the time of its introduction, there weren’t electronic devices accessible to them in the outdoors, so tool watches like the Explorer II were vital to their work.
These days, you don’t need to work in a remote location to enjoy the benefits of this timepiece. Its luminescent display is highly legible in the dark and in the light. The rough and tumble aesthetic makes it an ideal watch for daily wear in the office or out in the field. With one of the larger case sizes in Rolex’s professional collection, the Explorer II is an excellent option for people with larger wrist sizes.
Powered by a 3187 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured in-house by the watchmaker, the Explorer II has a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Thanks to its Oyster case and Twinlock winding crown it features a depth rating of 100 meters. Another iconic Rolex innovation, the Cyclops lens magnifies the date over an aperture at 3 o’clock. While we may not hear much about this model at the upcoming Baselworld 2017 presentation, this model will likely endure thanks to its practicality and sporty aesthetic.
For more information on the Rolex Explorer II, visit rolex.com. To browse our selection of Swiss made rubber straps for this model, visit our e-Boutique at rubberb.com.
