Rolex Explorer II vs Rolex Yacht-Master 37
Ref. M226570-0002 vs Ref. M268622-0002
The Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Yacht-Master 37 both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Explorer II as a field watch and the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 as a sport watch. At $10,750 and $13,350 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Explorer II
Rolex
Yacht-Master 37
At retail, the Rolex Explorer II is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 comes in at $13,350. The Rolex Explorer II saves you $2,600 (24% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Explorer II trades around $12,000 and the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 around $11,500, a difference of $500 favoring the Rolex Yacht-Master 37. Trading at 12% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Yacht-Master 37 shows a more modest market premium of -13.9%, though currently trending downward. 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 Yacht-Master 37 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 37mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.0mm | 11.6mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Oystersteel and 950 platinum |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel | 950 platinum, bidirectional rotatable, sandblasted |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3285 | Rolex calibre 2236 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 55 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 | 19mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: the Rolex Explorer II offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Explorer II uses Oystersteel while the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 opts for Oystersteel and 950 platinum. 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 $311 for the Rolex Yacht-Master 37. For water resistance, the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 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, stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 if you prioritize the Rolex heritage. 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 Yacht-Master 37?
The Rolex Explorer II is more accessible, priced at $10,750 compared to $13,350.
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 Yacht-Master 37 compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer II measures 42mm in diameter and 13.0mm thick, while the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 is 37mm by 11.6mm.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Explorer II uses the Rolex calibre 3285 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 runs on the Rolex calibre 2236 offering 55 hours of power reserve.