I love the explorer 2! Orange is my favorite color and I love the bright orange hand.

I really don’t understand why the old 40mm polar expy is desirable now, but the hate for the 42mm remains. I own the 42mm polar and I adore it. I think it definitely is a watch that looks better in person-dial effect, beautiful bezel, and that perfect bracelet taper do not stand out online as they do in person.

Well when Rolex will discontinue this model in let's say 5 years or so, it will shoot up in value 100% certain

I absolutely love it! The polar dial is beautiful!

The most hated Rolex is king Jaffi joffas leopard print Daytona

Owning most Rolex steel sport models, the 42mm Exp II's are aesthetically right at the top of my favorites. Just recently put the black one on a Rubber B with the orange pin stripe. Gorgeous!

It's a great watch...people are sheep. The pontiff is right, take advantage of the stupidity and buy the polar and save.

The 216570 EX2 is not made for skinny anemic wrists. Hated? It sells used on the grey market over retail and who the Hell would eat at a Denny’s?

The explorer ii is a great watch. If and when I can ever afford a Rolex that is the one I want.

I really like this piece. A friend of mine has the white “polar” dial, he loves it, i really admire it. I’m thinking of one for myself as well since I also have large wrists and really like its casual character

My favorite Rolex in my price range, I just don’t have the wrist for it...and NO I don’t like the older model for the aforementioned reasons outlined in the video. The Maxi Dial and broadened/outlines indices and hands are one of the main things that draws me to this watch. This watch will be a keeper for you Marc as long as you don’t have issues with the non-ceramic bezel.

It’s been my fav since 1997/8 when I saw a coworker, who was way too young to have it, wearing one daily. Fell in love. Have been ever since.

Marc, I happen to love the new Explorer II. I have even thought I putting on my list. Enjoy, it's a beautiful watch.

I love it. I’m just about to pull the trigger on one. When I saw your title I thought I was going to be put off so I’m glad you like it. Thanks for the video.

Marc, I may be one of the few but I bought a Polar Exp II 42mm. I prefer it to other GMTs. It is the most legible in any light. The polar dial gives it huge wrist presence. I was offered a batman and prefer Explorer. So i'm with you. Then again I prefer the Yachmaster (steel with rhodium dial) to the sub. Maybe I am fringe :D

Love it! Just different enough to suit me and not be confused as something else while also not being overly flashy.

I love my polar explorer and get compliments on it everywhere I go

Love the ExII bought 2 weeks ago. Thx. Share yo thoughts

This is my next piece

I love it. It’s my grail watch. I hope that Rolex still makes it when I’m ready to retire cause that’s my gift to myself.⏱

We only hated it because Archie likes it. Now that you have one I think it’s awesome 👍🏼

The 226570 with polar dial is my favorite Rolex at present and the only one I really want as someone who gravitates toward Omega. I understand it is showy but I like how the predominantly brushed finish highlights it's purpose. Now will I ever be brave enough to do battle with a Rolex AD... That remains to be seen.

Great video Marc. Thanks for sharing. The Explorer II is by far my favorite watch in the Rolex range by a mile. You picked up on one of the subtle things I love about it, and that is that even though it's large it has a very nice taper from the lugs through to the bracelet. By far the most comfortable Rolex I've ever owned.

Nice review Marc. Thank you for taking the time to post the review. Agree with you... the white dial legibility is outstanding with the black outlined hands & indicators against the white enamel dial. The orange 24 hr hand just pops and reminds me of olds days when the ice-cream truck came around and I paid 35 cents for a cream-sicle! I just received mine a few days ago and think I will hang onto this one as well. In fact it might end up being my daily wearer. Best regards!

Archie is MOTM, Rolex Polar and JLC Reverso; I believe no other watches can be worn other than those. As for the Polar; I have never heard anyone hate this watch, I believe it is a solid value proposition in the used Rolex world, you don't really see them in the wild and they usually go unnoticed when worn.

I dont have skinny little boy wrists and hands like a lot of Rolex people . I bought this watch because it didnt look like a girls watch on my wrist. Love this version. Hate the old version

Most hated ??????? The 216570 is actually getting quite popular, hard to find at many AD’s, and the prices are reflecting such. The Air King is probably the most hated ...................

Allow me to elucidate my feelings on the 216570 "Polar" Explorer II. When this watch came out, the ceramic bezel GMTs and Subs were already out and the (talk about) notorious short handed Explorers (with non lume 3-6-9) as well. This Explorer II was a RADICAL (as radical as Rolex can be) departure from "classic" Rolex styling and was a bold statement going into the future with a nod towards the past. Most obvious is the orange 24 hour hand which is a homage to the original Explorer IIs from the 1970s and very cool, IMO. Next is the modern 42mm case size which I think is Rolex's grudging move to meet the demand for larger sized sports watches in this day and age (without the premium price of the Deep Sea). Then we have substantial and functional "maxi" sized hands (with a minute hand that actually reaches the track) and a large "lollipop" seconds hand...all that fills in that bigger dial handsomely without leaving too much dead space. And to top it off, Rolex made the lug space WIDER by a whole millimeter (21mm!) and therefore highlighting the slimmer, better looking lug horns (compared to the awkwardly thick lugs - and slim bracelet end pieces - on the GMTs, Subs and Deep Seas). The Explorer II is probably the most "tool" looking of all the "Oyster Professional" line, as well. Perhaps Rolex learned a lesson from the Explorer II when they redesigned the Deep Sea in 2018 and the red Sea Dweller to have slimmer lugs and wider bracelet end pieces? Wonder when they'll do it to the Sub and GMTs? Thanks for reading this far and in summary, I'd like to say that though the Explorer II is apparently the Rodney Dangerfield of Rolex's "Oyster Professional" line, I LOVE my Polar 216750 (got it when the model first debuted, I loved it that much) and it has the honor of being a "beater", seeing a LOT of miles of worldwide travel and a crystal replacement due to an unfortunate fall! Thanks.

😂 , I think it’s one of the prettiest watch . I have the 43sd and seadweller 4000 . The 43 looks horrendous to me , I favour the 4000 more but this explorer grew on me , as it sits a lot flatter and thinner on wrist . Making pairing with clothes and fashions perfectly . But I can see you won’t bother cause the way you wear tells it all . It absolutely a very versatile watch to wear for travelling , it’s Matt surface make it not prone to scratches . I own 3 white dials Rolex , Daytona , yatchmaster 2 and this explorer . Now I have to tell you , for travelling this is the best choice

Thanks for the video Marc!

Ex 2 Polar ...........love mine, Its my summer vacation watch - wear it on the beach in the Bahamas with shorts and a good tan ................ looks great.

Great content , loved that pumpkin pic 👍.

"Times are changing" with the "Dennys on Demand" in the backgound is a nice touch!

Prince Harry wore it with his combat uniform but I guess it is not cool enough for the rest of us

I love my new Polar Explorer 2. Having also aSubmariner, for me is like having Night and Day on my winders...

I love it. That's the model I will buy when I can. It's a future classic, like all hated watches are when they first appear.

Found myself in Malta, went to the local AD, they had more steel than I have seen in the UK in a while. Picked up the Explorer II (they also had an Air King) but I have that in my collection. I think I am going to wear this watch, I like the size which has surprised me. The subtle differences are noticeable, it's not quite a maxi case, the crown and crown protectors are smaller, this reminds me of the old GMT.

This is my grail watch!

I have several Rolex all without a cyclops. I made an exception with this watch. It's size makes the cyclops less annoying

And yes … you are right! This is considered a polarising watch in the Rolex catalogue. But such is the case with the Rolex DSSD, Milgauss, yachtmasters , etc

I have the Explorer II 42 mm Polar dial. I love this watch. Marc, I agree...the daytime lume is amazing on the white dial. I also have the DSSD-Cameron, and the Sea Dweller 50th, single red. My Explorer II rotates just fine with these other watches. Love the comment on syrup depth rating! LOL

Love everything about the Explorer II 42 except for the bezel. Extremely reasonably priced for a modern sports. Pick up my new YM II tomorrow. That may draw a bit more attention:) keep up the good work Marc!

I love this watch!! I’d buy it in a second. I like it even more than my gmt C

Your 43 MM looks more like a Sub then a Seadweller. I love the Cave Man watch and will get one. Take care and have fun with your watches Mark.

I looked at the 40 mm white dial and the 42 mm and I went with the 42 it just seems to wear better than the 40 it looks slimmer on the wrist than the 40mm plus it has the better bracelet and clasp the older bracelet and especially the clasp are not of the same quality so if you are looking for an explorer 2 go for the 216570 you won't be disappointed

It's my favourite daily wearer ...a little controversial but so is the Airking that I also own

I own this watch and I can tell you that it is a beautiful Rolex. I own a submariner and a sea dweller as well.

Best looking Rolex by far....and I had a two tone submariner with blue dial. It was beautiful but the white explorer is where it’s at.

Beautiful Polar and May you relish your wonderful acquisition. I enjoy both my 216570 Satin black dial and the white lacquer Polar. Cyrus

Doesn't sing to me. So even if it's half the price, it's a no. You can't buy and wear a watch if it doesn't sing. To each his favourite tune !

Marc love the Explorer 2, great review. Can you say your wrist size? I've asked an AD to get me one and am curious how it will fit on my 7.5 in wrist. I have a DJ 41 so I imagine somewhat similar. Thanks for the reviews.

I really love this Rolex reference. I prefer it in black but white is a classic in this model

Definitely a liker although I think I'll stick with my white dial Milgauss. Now that is what we Brits describe as a "Marmite" watch, you either love it or hate it, me , I can't get enough of it. Good vid Marc, enjoyed it as usual

I REALLY LIKE IT. And would love one for my collection

I love my explorer 2 which I bought 2 months ago. I like the tough look and the function it provide, and the most important point is, I don't want to be one of the sheep. No offense, I respect all people who work hard to earn money, but I feel a bit weird when you find a waiter also wear a GMT or submariner when he or she served you in a fast food restaurant.

How long would it take to get it authenticated? I'm thinking of doing the same with my Ebay explorer 😅

I love my modern polar! Everyone and their brother has a sub and doesn’t go deeper than their bathtub. I travel constantly and love the GMT functionality. The white dial and orange 24 hr hand pop and are different. I had the previous version 20 year ago and flipped it for a new 116710LN in 2007. Best of both worlds.

I really love this watch. Specially the black dial. Simple, good size.

You have great taste Marc. I absolutely love the explorer 42mm.

I have the one with the black dial and I love it, I have a feeling it will get its spot in the light in the future.:)

43mm is kind of a tuna can. I hate the oversized watch trend. The classic Rolex size of

Just what I've always wanted Marc... a watch I feel at home in Denny's with.

Great watch!!

Well it’s 3 years later and by most analysis of market pricing, this video did not stand the test of time. The polar is now selling for more than the black, and both are very high now like all rolex

Very nice Marc. Congrats and enjoy.

I can't see the reason for the hate. It's a good looking piece...except for that damn "crystal blister" AKA cyclops magnifier. Hate those big time. Watches 'n' waffles. Love it.

I just got one! I really like it

I just got the X2 Polar and so far I have really liked it. Thanks for the video.

Awesome Great Job Mark, I agree with You, the 42mm Explorer is a bit odd but also captivating, with that 42mm wide case and the 20mm tapering bracelet, beautiful proportion and aesthetics. Rolex is moving on 41mm timepieces also on the oyster line, that is an instant success; the 40mm are getting 'a little' cheaper and less sought after, Thank you Mark for posting Your video

You can't go wrong owning any sport Rolex, and since the Explorer II isn't at the top of most buyers list I believe the price will rise. That being said I just bought the Explorer II today and looking forward to adding it to my collection. I've been wearing my GMT II for 19 years so I'm looking forward to wearing some different pieces.

Most hated is probably the YM2. I wouldn't buy that watch if it were priced at $4K brand new. The closest AD to me has a surplus of Explorer IIs which tells me that it is not popular among well to do people. I tried one on. It looked too gaudy and with the orange hand, it looks like a toy more than a piece of jewelry. I actually prefer the model Paul Pluta has except I would opt for black dial over polar.

I have always liked the White FACE Explorer II with the MAJOR flaw of it having a local 12 hour movement. It SHOULD be a true 24 hour movement for local and secondary dart time zones. That is the only reason I refuse to purchase one. Otherwise this is a fantastic watch including for formal wear! A great conversation piece!

Too me, it’s all about that gorgeous bezel! 😎 Looks just right and great.

This is a beautiful watch !!!

That’s why they are now selling fir multiples of the MSRP. The explorer 2 21xxxx polar is quite heavily desired.

Seeing photos or videos of this watch is the issue, because the watch/model is not photogenic. I still think it’s unattractive based on photos but when I purchased it and had it in hand it was, to me, one of the more attractive Rolex watches. It’s probably the favorite over my Pepsi and Cermit.

Not a fan of a white dial, but you made it look pretty good by pointing out the black around the lume and the hands.

I have to add this add on: I had a typo error on the 216570 . My DateJust has a black dial and it looks great. I considered a beautiful Rolex Submariner but changed my mind because I already had a black dial. This led me to the Polar dial Explorer II. Next on my wish list is the Yacht Master 37mm Dark Rhodium dial.

I like the Explorer II, but it’s bigger than I prefer. My wrists are on the smaller side. I think it’s great that you like the size of the current version, I just wish/hope Rolex offers a 40mm version. Maybe Tudor will produce one.

The Guru's Rolex of choice.

because you can get a good deal on a used Expolrer II,this will be my next rolex. more bang for the buck

The problem isn't the size of the case. The problem is the white dial. It does not provide good contrast in spite of its large size. The black dial version is much easier to read, more practical, and more attractive.

My favourite Rolex Sports Model 42m white dail l also own a 40m to l prefer the 42m better love the size the Markers stand out better l highly recommend the 42m case size in White. the watch looks alot better in person than in Videos.

I had the Batman, but sold it. Then I bought a Tag Heuer 01 Full Black Ceramic (45mm). And now thinking of buying also the Explorer II. It is a nice looking Rolex in my opinion and the size of 42mm fits my wrist.

Love it!

I own this watch, I also have a DateJust 36mm smooth bezel which I think is a very classy watch. My Explorer II 215760 is by far my favourite. It is very exciting to wear and that feeling gets better by the day. Presently it is in storage but I am going to take it out very shortly and wear it for some time to come. Setting this watch is also an exciting experience, I just love this watch and I am not going to part with it. I have asked myself would i like to have the money I paid for it safe and sound in my bank account, the resounding answer is no, never:

I like this model , but my favorite is the milgauss

Sometimes I just get tired of watches that are challenge to read - mostly because of high-polished hands against a black or white dial. The Explorer II Polar is an easy read. I agree with you on the AR coating. I've never scratched mine off. Wish Rolex would at least make it an option.

I have a few Rolex sport watches but I love wearing my 216570 more than any other, though mine is black. Looking for a polar now to mix it up.

I love it. I find it’s very masculine. A real tool watch. I am claustrophobic so don’t plan to explore any caves anytime in the near future. Also I have a hard time shoveling a foot of snow in front of my walkway and don’t expect to visit the north or South Pole anytime in the near future. But wait a minute Marc , I do eat pancakes and I do go to Denny’s so what the hey. I have one on order from my local AD. I can’t wait to get it. Rolex , a short stack , maybe bacon and coffee. Oh my life is good.

You say you hate the Explorer II but the Sea Dweller you are wearing, as beautiful as it is, looks hideous on your wrist.

Best watch in Rolex range

The aftermarket PVD versions of this watch are really attractive, in my opinion at least. I know it seems like a mortal sin to aftermarket PVD coat a Rolex but it makes for one hell of a sports piece.

Supercase, no problem. But 40mm is big enough!!

Does the black dial of the Explorer 2 fly more under the radar? Thinking about it from a personal safety perspective.

This is much like the Porsche community, they all rallied against the 914 and 928 and prices shot up. No Rolex is a bad Rolex.

Hi. I'm looking to buy a 42mm 2016, 216570 black dial with orange rubber band and stainless steal, comes with books, box and papers. Do you think is worth $11,500 ? Thank you

I love the Rolex Explorer 2 White Dial in 42mm. I have a big wrist, I don't love huge watches but 42mm isnt too big for a sports watch. The orange hand just pops.

It looks like the second part of the video is not in sync with the sound (it looked weird - different than what I would expect - and then I rewatched it several times). Having said that I understand why you bought the Explorer II. You even coined a new term (to me at least), a dog range watch. So you now have a dig range watch and Paul Pluta talks about shitter watches. So it is not only horology but also battology, bolloxology (as you like blue Ball’s), cacology, neology (Wikpedia is great to find this out). I would not be surprised if you sell it rather soon. As I really like to see a new special addition to your collection. The El Primero deserves a spectacular “successor”. To me it is a sign of the times when a Rolex AD (saw this last Sunday) closes for the night, they remove all watches except a couple of Datejust’s and a Polar Explorer II. Make your own analysis on that although it is well known that there are plenty of Datejust’s to be found easily.