Rolex Explorer II vs Rolex Explorer
Ref. M226570-0002 vs Ref. M124270-0001
The Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Explorer both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Explorer II as a field watch and the Rolex Explorer as a field watch. At $10,750 and $7,650 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Explorer II
Rolex
Explorer
At retail, the Rolex Explorer II is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Explorer comes in at $7,650. The Rolex Explorer saves you $3,100 (41% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Explorer II trades around $12,000 and the Rolex Explorer around $7,268, a difference of $4,732 favoring the Rolex Explorer. Trading at 12% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Explorer shows a more modest market premium of -5.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Explorer II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 4/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Explorer II | Rolex Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 36mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.0mm | 11.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel | Oystersteel, smooth |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3285 | Rolex calibre 3230 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: the Rolex Explorer II features 42mm for case diameter compared to the Rolex Explorer's 36mm. With 4 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 $202 for the Rolex Explorer. For water resistance, the Rolex Explorer delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Explorer offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Explorer II if you value stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Rolex Explorer if you prioritize a lower entry price. 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 Explorer?
The Rolex Explorer is more accessible, priced at $7,650 compared to $10,750.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Explorer II has a higher flip potential score of 5/10, 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 11.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Explorer compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer II measures 42mm in diameter and 13.0mm thick, while the Rolex Explorer is 36mm by 11.5mm.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Explorer II uses the Rolex calibre 3285 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Explorer runs on the Rolex calibre 3230 offering 70 hours of power reserve.