The watch was created to continue the glorious tradition of the Explorer II, launched in 1971. We will try to list what we believe are the most important qualities that should be noted...
Movement – In-house movement with Paraflex anti-shock protection, Parachrom hairspring, Cerachrom, Twinlock – Rolex not only creates its own movements but also patents systems and even alloys! - a major plus, number 1!
Undoubtedly, one of the characteristic features of the model is its size – Rolex adheres to its standard 40 mm for this watch as well. Here, however, they increase the size of the crown, and unlike the 6 mm used in other models, this Twinlock is 7 mm – this is definitely a major plus, number 2!
Certainly not least is its in-house Caliber 3185 movement, which has become a byword among connoisseurs as a so-called “true GMT,” and has a reputation for being robust, accurate, durable, and easy to service.
We think that is enough about the distinctions, to leave some space to share a few personal impressions.
Truly, the detail of this watch (as with all modern Rolexes we have had the opportunity to examine) is impressive. Starting with the incredible dial (in the case of the watch presented, it is the standard and classic black dial), which at certain angles seems to be absent - creating the overall impression that the hands and markers are “suspended” in the air in a state of weightlessness. Moving on to the incredible sapphire with the “cyclops” – in this case, the brand's highest grade of sapphire is used, which has allowed the overall height of the watch to be reduced compared to its predecessors. Of course, separate attention must be paid to the case and bezel – an incredible combination of brushed highest-grade 904L steel with faceted polished edges and details in places (as you know, Rolex pays special attention to the steel used and for this purpose has its own foundries for its production! – this would have been another major plus, but we promised to stop, and this steel is used in most models). And of course, the bracelet, the band, the chain, or whatever you call it – as can be expected from a Rolex, it is truly good... In this case, it is an Oyster bracelet with a solid center link and solid end links - 21 mm at the lugs.
In more than a few publications and posts in specialized media and on forums, it is said that the Explorer II is perhaps the most underrated model in Rolex's sports line. As a result of this perhaps, and following the trends for the brand's steel models, the model is becoming one of the good opportunities to purchase a piece from the brand – and the fact that it is the much rarer and consequently more sought-after version with a white dial makes the offer even more attractive.
