Rolex Explorer II vs Rolex Rolex Deepsea
Ref. M226570-0002 vs Ref. M136660-0005
The Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Rolex Deepsea both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Explorer II as a field watch and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea as a dive watch. At $10,750 and $15,200 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Explorer II
Rolex
Rolex Deepsea
At retail, the Rolex Explorer II is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea comes in at $15,200. The Rolex Explorer II saves you $4,450 (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 Rolex Deepsea around $16,500, a difference of $4,500 favoring the Rolex Explorer II. Trading at 12% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea also shows a healthy market premium of +8.6%, holding steady. Both watches score equally on flip potential at 5/10, making neither a clear investment winner over the other.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Explorer II | Rolex Rolex Deepsea |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 44mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.0mm | 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 3285 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| 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 | 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). With 5 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 Explorer II offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Explorer II if you value a lower entry price, better value retention. Go with the Rolex Rolex Deepsea if you prioritize serious diving capabilities.
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 $10,750 compared to $15,200.
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 Rolex Deepsea compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer II measures 42mm in diameter and 13.0mm 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 3285 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.