Technical Specifications and Features
The Rolex Explorer II is a robust and reliable timepiece designed for explorers and adventurers. Its technical specifications and features reflect its purpose, ensuring accuracy, durability, and functionality in challenging environments.
Technical Specifications
The following table summarizes the key technical specifications of the Rolex Explorer II:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Movement | Rolex Caliber 3285, self-winding mechanical |
| Power Reserve | Approximately 70 hours |
| Case Material | Oyster steel or 18k yellow gold |
| Case Diameter | 42 mm |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters (330 feet) |
| Crystal | Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with cyclops lens over the date |
| Bezel | 24-hour graduated fixed bezel |
| Bracelet | Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock safety clasp |
The 24-Hour Bezel, Rolex oyster perpetual explorer 2
The 24-hour bezel is a defining feature of the Rolex Explorer II. It allows explorers to track time in two different time zones simultaneously, a crucial capability in expedition settings. The bezel is graduated with 24 hours, enabling users to distinguish between day and night in a clear and intuitive manner.
For example, an explorer venturing into a remote area with a different time zone can set the 24-hour bezel to the local time. This allows them to easily track both the local time and their home time, crucial for navigating long expeditions and maintaining a sense of time.
The Oyster Case
The Rolex Explorer II features the iconic Oyster case, known for its exceptional waterproof capabilities and durability. This robust case protects the watch’s delicate movement from the elements, ensuring its functionality and longevity.
The Oyster case consists of a monobloc middle case, a screw-down case back, and a screw-down winding crown. This design creates a hermetic seal, preventing water, dust, and other contaminants from entering the watch. The Oyster case also features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which protects the dial and hands from damage.
The Oyster case’s waterproof capabilities are essential for the Explorer II, as it is designed for use in demanding environments. Whether exploring remote jungles, scaling treacherous mountains, or venturing into the depths of the ocean, the Oyster case provides the necessary protection to ensure the watch’s functionality and reliability.
Variations and Editions
The Rolex Explorer II has been produced in various iterations since its inception in 1971, each with unique features and design elements that cater to different preferences and needs. This section explores the evolution of the Explorer II, highlighting its significant variations and editions over the years.
Early Models (1971-1989)
The first generation of the Explorer II, introduced in 1971, featured a distinctive orange 24-hour hand and a fixed bezel with a 24-hour scale. These early models were available in stainless steel and were powered by the Caliber 1570 movement.
- Reference 1655: The original Explorer II, known as the “Steve McQueen” due to its association with the famous actor, featured a matte black dial with luminous hour markers and a larger case size of 40mm.
- Reference 16550: Introduced in 1979, this model incorporated a larger crown and a new Caliber 3085 movement, which offered improved accuracy and reliability. The Reference 16550 also featured a slightly smaller case size of 39mm.
Modern Models (1990-Present)
In 1990, Rolex introduced the second generation of the Explorer II, which featured a significant design update. This generation incorporated a new case design with a larger 40mm diameter, a larger crown, and a new Caliber 3185 movement.
- Reference 16570: This model, introduced in 1990, was available in stainless steel and featured a white dial with black hour markers and a black 24-hour hand. It was also available with a black dial and a white 24-hour hand. The Reference 16570 featured a slightly larger case size of 40mm and a new Caliber 3185 movement, which offered improved accuracy and reliability.
- Reference 16570 Polar: This model, introduced in 1990, was available in stainless steel and featured a white dial with black hour markers and a black 24-hour hand. It was also available with a black dial and a white 24-hour hand. The Reference 16570 featured a slightly larger case size of 40mm and a new Caliber 3185 movement, which offered improved accuracy and reliability.
- Reference 16570 Black: This model, introduced in 1990, was available in stainless steel and featured a black dial with white hour markers and a white 24-hour hand. It was also available with a white dial and a black 24-hour hand. The Reference 16570 featured a slightly larger case size of 40mm and a new Caliber 3185 movement, which offered improved accuracy and reliability.
- Reference 216570: Introduced in 2011, the Reference 216570 marked a significant update for the Explorer II. It featured a larger case size of 42mm, a new Caliber 3187 movement with a longer power reserve, and a new Triplock crown for increased water resistance. This model was available in stainless steel with a black dial and a white 24-hour hand.
- Reference 226570: Introduced in 2021, the Reference 226570 is the latest iteration of the Explorer II. It features a new Caliber 3285 movement, a new case design with a slightly thicker bezel, and a new bracelet with a larger clasp. This model is available in stainless steel with a black dial and a white 24-hour hand.
Materials and Design Evolution
The Rolex Explorer II has been crafted from various materials throughout its history, each offering unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal.
- Stainless Steel: The majority of Explorer II models have been made from stainless steel, a durable and corrosion-resistant material. Stainless steel offers a classic and timeless look, making it a popular choice for everyday wear.
- Rolex Oystersteel: In recent years, Rolex has used its proprietary Oystersteel, which is a 904L stainless steel alloy. This material is highly resistant to corrosion and scratches, ensuring the watch’s durability and longevity.
Key Features and Specifications
The Rolex Explorer II has consistently offered a range of features that cater to the needs of adventurers and explorers. These features include:
- 24-Hour Hand: The signature feature of the Explorer II, the orange 24-hour hand, provides an additional timekeeping function, making it ideal for navigating in challenging environments. The 24-hour hand is essential for distinguishing between day and night, especially in environments where sunlight is limited or nonexistent.
- Fixed Bezel with 24-Hour Scale: The fixed bezel with a 24-hour scale complements the 24-hour hand, allowing for easy timekeeping in both 12-hour and 24-hour formats. The fixed bezel also adds to the watch’s ruggedness and durability.
- Triple-Link Oyster Bracelet: The Explorer II is typically fitted with a triple-link Oyster bracelet, which is known for its strength, comfort, and durability. The bracelet features a folding Oysterlock safety clasp with a Easylink 5mm comfort extension link, allowing for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Water Resistance: The Explorer II is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for most outdoor activities and water sports.
- Anti-Reflective Sapphire Crystal: The Explorer II features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, ensuring optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.
The Rolex Explorer II in Popular Culture: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer 2
The Rolex Explorer II has transcended its status as a tool watch and become a cultural icon, appearing in various forms of media and becoming associated with adventurous spirits and iconic figures. Its presence in movies, TV shows, and other forms of media has cemented its place in popular culture, reflecting its association with exploration and a sense of daring.
Appearances in Film and Television
The Explorer II’s robust design and association with exploration have made it a popular choice for characters in films and television shows. The watch’s appearance often reflects the character’s personality and their pursuit of adventure.
- In the 1989 film “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, Harrison Ford’s character, Indiana Jones, wears a Rolex Explorer II. This choice reinforces the character’s adventurous spirit and his connection to the world of exploration and archaeology.
- In the 2001 film “The Mummy Returns”, Brendan Fraser’s character, Rick O’Connell, wears a Rolex Explorer II. The watch’s presence further emphasizes the character’s rugged and adventurous nature.
- In the popular TV series “Lost”, several characters wear the Explorer II, including Jack Shephard, played by Matthew Fox. The watch’s presence in the series underscores the characters’ resilience and their determination to survive in a challenging environment.
Collecting and Investment
The Rolex Explorer II, with its robust design and legendary heritage, has become a sought-after timepiece among collectors and investors. Its enduring popularity, coupled with limited production runs and a dedicated following, has contributed to its significant value appreciation over the years. Understanding the factors that influence the value of different Explorer II models is crucial for both collectors and potential investors.
Factors Influencing Value
The value of a Rolex Explorer II is determined by a complex interplay of factors, including its condition, rarity, age, and historical significance.
- Condition: The condition of a watch is paramount in determining its value. A pristine, unpolished Explorer II with original box and papers will command a significantly higher price than one that has been worn and shows signs of use.
- Rarity: Limited production runs and special editions, such as the 1655 “Steve McQueen” or the 16570 “Polar” with a white dial, are highly sought after by collectors and command premium prices.
- Age: Vintage Explorer II models, particularly those from the 1970s and 1980s, are generally more valuable than newer models due to their historical significance and limited availability.
- Historical Significance: Watches with a connection to notable individuals or events, such as the “Steve McQueen” Explorer II, can significantly increase in value.
Investment Potential
The Rolex Explorer II has consistently shown strong investment potential, with its value appreciating over time. However, it is important to remember that watch collecting is a long-term investment and not a get-rich-quick scheme.
“The Rolex Explorer II is a solid investment, but it’s important to understand that it’s a long-term investment. You’re not going to get rich quick by buying and selling a watch.” – A seasoned watch collector and investor.
The investment potential of the Explorer II is further enhanced by its reputation as a reliable and durable timepiece, making it a desirable asset for collectors and investors alike.
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