Rolex Explorer II vs Rolex Rolex Deepsea
Ref. 216570 vs Ref. M136660-0005
Comparing the Rolex Explorer II to the Rolex Rolex Deepsea means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$12,000 (market value) versus $15,200, these two watches serve different segments of the market. Here's how they stack up on specifications, value retention, and investment potential.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Explorer II
Rolex
Rolex Deepsea
The Rolex Explorer II is priced at ~$12,000 (market value) while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea comes in at $15,200. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Explorer II trades around $12,000 and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea around $16,500, a difference of $4,500 favoring the Rolex Explorer II. This watch trades at 31% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea also shows a healthy market premium of +8.6%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Explorer II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 8/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Explorer II | Rolex Rolex Deepsea |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 44mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm | 17.7mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire, 5.5mm thick |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 3900m / 12800ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3187 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Rolex Deepsea leads in water resistance (3900m / 12800ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers longer power reserve at 70 hours. With 6 notable spec differences in total, the choice depends on which features matter most to your use case.
Value Per Feature
Per millimeter of case diameter, the Rolex Explorer II costs $286 versus $375 for the Rolex Rolex Deepsea. For water resistance, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Explorer II if you value a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Rolex Rolex Deepsea if you prioritize serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Explorer II has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Explorer II or the Rolex Rolex Deepsea?
The Rolex Explorer II is more accessible, priced at ~$12,000 (market value) compared to $15,200.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Explorer II has a higher flip potential score of 8/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Explorer II currently trades at 31.1% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Rolex Deepsea compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer II measures 42mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea is 44mm by 17.7mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 3900m / 12800ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Explorer II uses the Rolex calibre 3187 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.