I feel the Exp 2 is one of the last true tool watches left from Rolex

This watch looks and feels much better on a wrist than on photos. I stopped wearing my Datejust and Submariner after getting Explorer II and keep it on 24/7

Love my black dial Explorer 2. I saw an interesting video where they asked women about watches, and the one they hated most was the Explorer 2. It’s an extremely masculine watch with its steel bezel and modern size. It’s not a glamour queen, it’s not minimalist, it’s a tool, you either love it or hate it. I will say the black dial is a bit more versatile dressy than the white.

I just picked up my Explorer II black dial from an AD. After a long internal soul searching and debate, I realized that this watch is the best that fits my lifestyle. Not too fancy, but elegant, functional and exactly what I needed.

I just picked up an Explorer II a couple of weeks ago, black dial. I've had several Rolex divers in the past few years, but they never stick in the collection. Fortunately I pick them up at retail, so they usually leave a little cash behind when they leave. I would love to find one that blows my dress up, but so far... I think the Explorer II might be a keeper. I'm a tall and well-built guy, so a lot of the Rolex offerings look dainty on me. I see a lot of guys complain on forums that they find the Explorer II too large. I was actually debating if it was large enough to stay around (keep in mind I do have more than a dozen Panerai, so my version of small might be skewed). I had a DSSD for a while, but while the diameter was perfect, the thickness made it too chunky. I do like that the Explorer is not a "typical" Rolex. I am debating whether or not it is sufficiently "under-the-radar" to accompany me to dodgier places when I travel. I threw it on a high-end rubber strap (Zealande - two thumbs up for them!) immediately, so it loses the bracelet bling factor. The most useful complication for me is a GMT hand, so the Explorer definitely wins out over a dive bezel. I could see it joining me in all but the most unsafe places (sorry London, looking at you). Best of all it is putting my Grand Seikos to shame for accuracy. 16 days and it has lost just 2 seconds! It would be nice if those were gained instead, as the resyncing is much easier. However, 1/8 second a day, I think I can live with the more complicated resync. I also rotate through a large collection, so many watches need to be set when I pull them from the box.

I love your Explorer II content, Explorer II Owner here 🙌🏾

My AD called today and I am picking up my 226570 this weekend. I opted for the black dial.

I agree with what you said. Only a few rolex watches that I would buy. Explorer 2, Milgauss, Root beer, Air King.

I think the reason is a bit different. I think how it started is not that important, but how it evolved is. Everything you, and I for that matter, like about this watch works against it with the general Rolex buying public. An average Rolex buyer is a while collar type, an analyst or middle manager in a tech company or an investment bank or in insurance. And most of them buy a Rolex as a status symbol. People why buy tool watch vibes and are nostalgic for 5-digit Rolex are a big minority of Rolex customers. A new Rolex today is closer in vibe and esthetic to Cartier Santos than it is to Rolex tool watches from 20 years ago or more. Important to note I'm not talking about capabilities here, new Submariner can be used to storm Normandy and jump from a 10meter cliff into a frozen like and it will keep ticking without interruptions, just like Explorer II, I'm only talking about looks. All the other models evolved in the direction of preppiness, pretentiousness, a more luxurious vibe. More polished surfaces, more shininess, ceramic bezel inserts. Rolex watches are as durable as ever, but no one is buying them for that. And Rolex is right to push this, cuz this is where the money is. And Explorer II is the black sheep of the family, it didn't evolve in this direction. Meaning it is not even a consideration for the majority of Rolex buyers. Edit: I'll add that Explorer II gives off low status vibes to non watch people, and if there is something upper middle class hates it is gadgets and jewelry that look like lower status

Fun video, I enjoyed that! Love the rolex explorer 2 and your videos on it, excited to see the new watch next week and how it holds up to extreme conditions you put your watches through. Thank you for the great content.

It’s not as popular for a few reasons, the main one being the size. At 42mm half of watch collectors are sized out because it’s too big, hence there is half the demand and reason the prices are not sky high. Secondly it’s not flashy, many people buy a Rolex to flex and the Explorer II just isn’t a flashy watch. Final factor and similar to my second point, it does not include a ceramic bezel which is a signature feature many people want when buying a Rolex. As such I think it’s the third or fourth choice and personally speaking I only added it to my collection after I’d picked up a DJ41 and Submariner. However it’s my second favourite Rolex after my Explorer 40. 😊

I have the previous reference 216570 in black with the ghost hands, I also have a Sub Date 16610. Both watches have a difference feel, of the two watches I'm edging towards the Explorer II. The watch is more invisible than the Sub, very rare does anyone comment on it I really like this. I swim with the Explorer II also, and take it into steam rooms! At first I got hung up on the twin-lock over the subs trip-lock, but learnt not to worry and trust the twin-lock.

I got my Sub Date in 2021. I knew soon after that I’d want to add the Polar Explorer II for great contrast to my collection. It took much longer to get the Polar, there is plenty of demand, and Rolex definitely does not ship as many of these as other models. Your videos were great to watch as I waited to get mine. I have a 7 1/2 inch wrist, the size to me is perfect, definitely not to big, it fits my sweet spot. I’ve had it for 2 months now, it has rarely left my wrist. It’s so versatile. The accuracy has been the best I’ve seen. In 2 months, it has gained 2 seconds. It’s more accurate than some quartz watches I own. It was 100% worth the wait, and a definite keeper in my collection along with my Sub Date. 2 tool watches that both contrast and compliment each other so well. As far as the comments on “nitch” vs “niche”, it’s a regional pronunciation. In the northeast, most people I know call it “nitch” as well. Keep up the great work! I enjoy your videos and subscribed. Looking forward to more.

Hmmm I think the biggest reason as to why the modern Explorer II isn't more popular is due to its size. I was dead set on wanting to get the #226570 (same as yours) but once I tried it on it just felt far, far too big and so I opted for the #16570 with the 3186 movement. I do agree with you in regards to the Explorer I - it's definitely more 'storied' vs the Explorer II BUT I still get more of an action/adventure/exploring vibe from the Explorer II's.... Great vid 🙂

I’ve got the ref: 226570 in polar. I agree… hands down this is the best of the Rolex lineup. One of the things I like the most is that I’ve never seen another Explorer 2 in the wild. It’s a rare piece for one and many don’t like it. And that’s a big part of what totally does it for me. I think it’s beautiful and perfect.

I think the Explorer II white dial is totally awesome. But unfortunately, it’s less popular because to the general public it’s plain and boring looking, especially since it’s not flashy. The submariner, gmt master, and daytona have more going on and are flashier, meaning that they’re more visually interesting.

7:28 your spot on! For the price it’s truly a do it all tool watch for any situation including most of the water activities a submariner could do. People think in the short term but 10k divided by 50 years is 17 dollars a month. It’s truly a watch you can have for life then like you said pass it on to your kids. I own 3 Rolex and the explorer II is probably specs and price wise the best Rolex with the most bang for the buck. Same movment as a gmt master II for less than a submariner

I love the tool watch component of the Explorer II. There’s 2 things that are personal preferences that turn me off though: the orange hand and the 42mm size. If it was back at 40mm with the red hand (or even blue or green) I would be all over it. Again, just my personal preferences.

You literally answered your own question with, “in my opinion.”

Always enjoy your videos, fellow Exp II brother here - For those feeling the watch is too big, the black face tones the size of the watch down significantly. the Polar gets more hype but in everyday wear, black is going to be smaller wearing and more versatile. Also, this watch is quite thin given the size so it slips under a cuff easily. It does not feel chunky and the brushed steel bracelet is best in the biz. If you want to wear / experience what rolex was like 50 years ago, this watch is it. only guys that value the OG tool nature of the brand instead of the status symbol go for the Exp II. It's a modern classic.

Hi Cheyne, you are so right! The last real ROLEX tool watch, that's exactly what the Explorer II is all about. If I had to make up the choice for one watch taking with me for travelling around the world I decided myself für my EXP II polar. Always under the radar, second time zone, exactly fitting my big wrist and absolutely enough water resistance. And beeing not so popular even it's a real beauty really is a big advantage: You are the only one in a radius of lots and lots of miles wearing exactly this wonderful time peace. Many greetings from Germany, PROST! 🙂

It's my daily.... sold the 36mm Explorer to get it. Much more interesting and rare... right up my street

Love my black face 226570. Great weight, not shouty, but those who know know. Keeps good time and fits well. keep up the great vids!

Hey, great vid. At what number should this watch be selling at brand new?

Yes it's a classic. 16570 40mm. Interesting, I'm here today in LA visiting my daughter, and my wife took a day trip to Long Beach. Suddenly this video pops up on my KZfaq. (?) Great photos!

ROLEX HEAR ME :) ...The polar explorer IMHO has two glaring design flaws -- both are pet peeves for me. The amount of black on the hands way outweighs the distributed amount of black around the hour markers. In my mind, it should be more balanced. Also - the center of the hands is this big dark circle/dot (visually speaking). To balance things out, I think that should be colored white using the same material as the dial.

Looks great on your wrist! You can change your channel name to Rolex explorer fan club. Would still follow 😂❤

Great content on a great watch! Waiting for mine in black.

It's my favorite Rolex and my Daily wear watch! The 42mm size is a downside for some, but for me and my 8" wrist it's perfect! The only thing that would make it better would be the glidelock clasp, but I make due. :0

Reason it’s not popular is firstly because of the steel bezel. It lacks any pop or bling…looks boring to many people. Secondly, if you scratch or ding the bezel, it will be cost a lot to fix or replace the bezel. With the ceramic bezel, it gives the watch a pop and is virtually scratch proof. Sure you can break the ceramic bezel but the chances are extremely low.

Great vid for a great watch. Remarkable great and insightful opinions and input in this comment section. It seems you are attracting true watch lovers and not flipper suckers. Congrats for that and the vid.

I picked my Explorer 2 up in February. If I had bought this Watch before my other Rolex's I would not have purchased the others. This watch is all you need.

I have the newest E2 and I have never seen anyone wearing one in Houston. I love mine, it’s my daily watch.

I think the reason I really like it is the same reason it’s not more popular: it’s a Rolex that doesn’t jump out as being a Rolex. I’m afraid a lot of folks that buy a Rolex want it to scream “HEY…LOOK AT ME…I HAVE A ROLEX!”. The Explorer & Explorer II simply don’t do that. I love the Explorer II but the current model is unfortunately too big for my wrist. Someday I’ll have a 16570.

I would disagree this being unpopular, but do understand that one would find it difficult to come across this watch in the wild. My theory is, the sub, gmt master 2, daytona, explorer 1, datejusts are perfect contenders for a one watch person. Once they go down the rabbit hole, they realize they want more specific watches for specific occasions. I believe that is why you find so many of these one watch collections on the secondary market. Larger cases I believe also scares one watch collectors off because many flippers market the one watch contender watches as the best size, obviously not mentioning best watch for what, and hype the one watch contender watches so they can resale, but when you start searching for specific watches for specific occasions, the subs dial size could feel a bit small for hiking etc.

Definitely an under rated Rolex, but would love to have one, especially the Polar!! Thanks for the video.

Love the Exp 2 content, and you hit it on the head! I’ll never sell mine either

Interesting answer you give! Cool video.

Hi Cheyne, The Explorer 2 is a watch that just gets the job done and really is a tool and I think this is the reason for its lack of popularity. The other Rolex big hitters are looked upon as show watches

It's the size and bezel that keep this watch from exploding in popularity. However, if this comes out in Titanium, I think it will be incredibly popular. It would be even better if it gets back to 40mm or even 41mm like the new sub.

Were you on a wait list before you purchased your Explorer II? If so, how long? Thanks!

Your video well covered all the points regarding the superb Explorer ll and it's being a relatively unpopular Rolex. That aside, let's face it. The Original Explorer in 36mm covers all situations exceptionally well and often better than the ll. Wear it to the top of Everest or under your tuxedo sleeve at the Metropolitan opera. The Explorer is effortlessly at home. Not so the ll with it's white dial, large size and missing numerals. Add the Ian Fleming and the first conquest of Everest mystique to the Explorer 1 and let's just say, enough said.

Love my 226570. Just got it a few months ago and rarely take it off. Also love that it’s off the grid. Subs are iconic, but a snooze fest

I have the submariner hulk, I have a thing for green. But I am looking to get another Rolex thats not green. Definitely keeping an eye on your channel

I have been trying to get an Explorer 2 ( polar dial) for over 2 years from 2 different AD's. No luck. They tell me that they are not getting many in. And I have purchased 2 Rolexes from them in the past couple of years. Maybe someday I'll get "The Call". Not holding my breath.

Other than the exorbitant price, the main issue with the current Explorer II is that it's just too big. The older model in its 40mm case size was perfect. Regardless, I still feel the polar Explorer II is one of the best looking watches in Rolex's catalogue. That stark white dial with those contrasting black hands and the stainless steel bezel just looks incredible.

I never got over that damn Orange! I wish it was red, the size is perfect for me, but so many times I wanted to pull the trigger but I can’t get it to it.

I wear an explorer every day (36mm 124270). I really want to get a modern explorer ii polar but it might be a little big on my wrist (6.5inch).

Sorry pal but the previous version was the pinnacle of the Explorer 2. The 16570 polar model is just utter perfection and yes I’ve never seen another person wearing it. The 40mm size is just perfect. I find the dial symmetry of the new model to be a touch off but do like the black dial version. My Explorer 2 is scratched to all heck and has a chipped crystal. Looks so badass.

Hi it a great watch hope the Rolex ad gives me the call soon thanks John.

I bought the polar 226570 precisely because it’s low key

Minas this watch and only sold it because I got the GMT Master II GRNR one of the most perfect watches. Now that they are selling for retail and below brand new, time to get it again…..

If it's so unpopular, why the hell am I having to 'effin wait on one?!? Make more, ROLEX!!! Daddy has got 10k burning a hole in his pocket😂😂

Not as flashy as other Rolex model, not having ceramic bezel, bulky 42mm. This watch is great but i mean it is too expensive to have a tool watch if you are considering why most of the rolex customer buying a Rolex watch for. They cant show off with this one.

Wish it was a bit smaller - maybe 40 or 41mm. Wish it had an adjustable clasp - how is Tudor outclassing Rolex on this, especially at this price point??? Glide Lock should be a standard feature on all Rolex sport models. Wish it didn't have the male end link. And i wish the bezel text was a bit smaller / less bold; it is a bit visually overpowering. That said, the high-contrast dial/hands, color scheme, and general design language are perfect.

I like explore II , but older one

My AD has a polar in stock but I prefer the black dial. Unfortunately 6 to 12 month wait for the black ☹️

Possibly the Explorer ii is less popular because it's seen as less versatile compared to other models. You can wear a Submariner with t-shit and jeans or a tux. The Explorer ii? Not so much

The reason why I'm not like so much th Explorer II 226570 is that I own an Explorer II - 1655 reference. And the comparison is pitiful, it's clearly a stylistic involution. If Rolex 1655 had never existed Explorer II 226570 would be very cool in my opinion.

The black version is by far the most unpopular. The polar gets plenty of love in the community

The Christopher Ward 39mm C63 Sealander is basically an Explorer II and it looks better, for less than 1/10th of the price.

If it’s so unpopular, why am I on the waitlist?😂 It needs to be even more unpopular so I can get mine

This watch is beautiful but they made it 2mm too wide just not to canibalise the gmt market

Let’s vote! Rename the channel to Rolex Explorer 2 Fan Club 😅

It’s the GMT that’s not labeled as a GMT.

ex2 polar is S tier for me.

neesh, babe, not nitch.

I agree that it is one of the least popular, but not sure about unpopular. Anyway why does it matter? Doesn’t it mean that the that people really want it can get it? Rather than spending two years on a wait list? From a popularity point of view the spend vs what you get, it make sense to get a submariner if you really want to show that you have a Rolex. Esp since price point is in the same range. By the way; is that the ”big brother” that went up a mountain that you had there? Oh well only time will tell I guess 😉

I dispute the premise of your video. It is an inaccurate claim. This is one of the MOST popular watches in the catalogue. It is also one of the least expensive in the range of watches produced by Rolex, aside from the OP and the Air-King. I have it on very good authority, from a friend and colleague that spent 11 years with the gold crown, working in marketing and media buying, that the Explorer II has out-sold the GMT Master II in some years between 2010-2022. The model is more than 52 years old and persists for a reason and a lack of popularity is the furthest from an accurate depiction or narrative of the model. [EDIT] You also claim that EII is the least produced SS watch, that information is not publicly disclosed, ergo, that claim is specious. The number of watches produced and the number sold is classified and it is only down to pure speculation on the part of AD testimonials and watch journalists. I know this very well, since I spent a number of years as a journalist in the luxury sector following these same speculative narratives. I also want to point out that your experience of not observing EII 'out in the wild' is anecdotal. I live between Asia and Europe and I can tell you that your experience is, seemingly confined to a narrow geography.

Better not be an Explorer 1! My Explorer 1 I’m 36mm is my favorite piece.

Perhaps its because in white looks more cheap than a submariner or a date just,tosporty for rich customer,and unknkow for comun people so dont have interest for people who buy rolex because they want to be recognize as rolex customer...

I’ve owned and sold it.. calling it the best is a stretch. For starters the crown being so small is just frustrating, and the stumpy hour hand is also another proportionally incorrect element.. it feels like those things were done on purpose to make you desire the gmt master more. The sizing is just too big, it wears larger than 42, so for most people it’s too large. Don’t get me wrong I love this watch, but it’s far from the best

It’s because most “men” don’t have wrists big enough to wear the Polar E2. I’m 6’5” 250# and it wears like a dream. Let the little boys keep their little boy watches 😂

Not so unpopular... long waiting for white dial...and I've a filing it will go big in future

"Nitch market "😂

Unpopular? It goes for 60% over retail!

Why? May be because it’s doesn’t look as good as the rest?

I feel like Explorer 2 would become a classic masterpiece when it gets discontinued like Daytona did. Polor dial especially still has lots of demands from hardcore fans, right? Such watches like that won’t only get cult popularities once it becomes completely unobtainable.

1. it's too big and chunky for most people. I really love the design of the watch but miss the old 5 digit reference size. 2. it's probably their most tooly watch, which is fine, but most people buying a rolex are buying jewellery, so a datejust/daydate, submariner or gmt etc are probably better suited for those reasons, even though the gmt and sub are tooly - they are still shiny pieces of jewellery. 3. it's a $10k tool watch, you could just get a very good g-shock and have an arguably better suited watch. or even a Tudor for a 4th of the price if you really want a luxury watch as a "tool watch".

It’s too big

I agree that it's probably their best model since it's relatively understated and a good value all things considered.... that said, I find the concept of a "tool watch" in 2024 to be cringe. Your phone, a smartwatch, etc all tell the time more accurately and cheaper. Wearing a watch in 2024 is a form of expression, I wouldn't boil that down to a tool... certainly not in the five figure territory to get one.

Because the crown is too small

When it gets discounted, just watch and see every Jew dealer try to scam you

Nitch? Does he mean niche? Enjoyed the video otherwise! Would love and Explorer II