Rolex Explorer II vs Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36
Ref. M226570-0002 vs Ref. M126000-0006
The Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Explorer II as a field watch and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 as a everyday watch. At $10,750 and $6,550 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Explorer II
Rolex
Oyster Perpetual 36
At retail, the Rolex Explorer II is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 comes in at $6,550. At $4,200 less (64% savings), the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 offers a substantially lower entry point. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Explorer II trades around $12,000 and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 around $5,895, a difference of $6,105 favoring the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36. Trading at 12% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 shows a more modest market premium of -10.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Explorer II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Explorer II | Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 36mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.0mm | 11.4mm |
| 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 Oyster Perpetual 36'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 $164 for the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36. For water resistance, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 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 Oyster Perpetual 36 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 Oyster Perpetual 36?
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 is more accessible, priced at $6,550 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 Oyster Perpetual 36 compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer II measures 42mm in diameter and 13.0mm thick, while the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 is 36mm by 11.4mm.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Explorer II uses the Rolex calibre 3285 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 runs on the Rolex calibre 3230 offering 70 hours of power reserve.