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Rolex Explorer I vs II – What’s The Difference?

By Nina Scally Updated November 15, 2024

The Rolex Explorer I vs II comparison. Which is best? Here they both are, side-by-side.

Source: Rolex

Yes, the Explorer I and II share the same name. However, other than a common heritage, a Rolex newbie wouldn’t necessarily see the relationship between the two. Explorer II is a bit like a movie sequel whose actors have been completely recast. Still, their differences are fascinating, not just functionally and visually, but also because of their history and lore. 

Despite both models attracting a broad audience, it’s surprising how niche and nuanced each Explorer watch is. Let’s delve further into the Rolex Explorer I vs. II comparison. 

Table of Contents

  • What Is the Difference Between a Rolex Explorer 1 and 2?
  • The History of the Rolex Explorer
  • The Rolex Explorer 1 – Important References
  • The Explorer 2 – Important References
  • FAQs
  • Rolex Explorer I vs. II Concluded

What Is the Difference Between a Rolex Explorer 1 and 2?

Everest Mountain Peak
Photo by Arsgera / Depositphotos.com

Both Explorer watches are some of the most recognized timepieces in the world, and it’s all down to one factor. Rolex. The Swiss manufacturer has been setting new land speed records and helping advance science for years. Its watches have proven indispensable in the deepest marine trenches and down to unfathomable depths underwater. 

The Explorer watches have played an important role in this, both in a philanthropic way and a pushing boundary kind of way. However, the watch’s role in saving lives while nearly 9000 meters above sea level undoubtedly contributes to its appeal. Even if you disregard the Explorer’s capability in all of the above, you still have a ruggedly handsome timepiece. It’s one reason why there are so many affordable alternatives on the market.

When it comes to the quick and dirty difference between Explorers 1 and 2, it’s simple. Rolex made the Explorer I for the mountains (more or less) and the Explorer II for the caves. That’s why the Explorer II features that iconic 24-hour hand but a static bezel. Compare this to travel watches like the GMT Master II, with its bezel coded for AM and PM. The 24-hour hand on the Explorer II isn’t there for potential time zone changes. It’s there to make day and night easier to tell apart in dark conditions. 

Meanwhile, the Explorer I is “an ultimate tool watch” of sorts. Rolex designed it to survive impacts and accurately tell time in the face of the elements. While this sounds generic, mountaineers actually tested the original models. 

Arguably, the Explorer II has a more robust, military-looking aesthetic, while the I is more straightforward with its clean, polished bezel.

The History of the Rolex Explorer

Rolex Explorer 114270

Before reading this Rolex Explorer vs. Explorer 2 comparison, it’s important to learn a little about the background of both models. 

As mentioned, Rolex tested the Explorer’s strength and reliability via mountain expeditions. The most famous of these is that of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. They were the first people to reach the top of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. This feat is essential to the Explorer’s origins, just like the Omega Speedmaster is to the lunar missions. 

The Rolex Explorer survived the high-altitude adventure and became a legend. The rest, as they say, is history. 

The Rolex Explorer 1 – Important References

Thanks to Hillary and Norgay, the Explorer 1 cinched the crown’s reputation. Besides Hillary’s 6350 reference, other important references have made inroads into the world of watch collecting. We’re going to take a glance at some of these now. 

The First References and “Pre-Explorers”

Rolex Explorer I Vs. Explorer II
Photo by pio3 / Depositphotos.com

If you want a watch that will last you forever, you go to Rolex. It almost goes without saying that the brand’s marketing dollars contributed to establishing this sentiment. That aside, by 1953, Rolex had been building good timekeepers for decades. Before long, Rolex had amassed a massive following of trusted collectors who couldn’t fault its commitment to quality and performance.  

The Explorer that survived Mount Everest is reference 6350 – the inaugural Explorer model, depending on who you ask. Reference 6150 from 1952, however, showcased the same 36mm case and Arabic cardinal numbers. In fact, some 6150s even featured an “Explorer” appellate on the dial, while most featured the “Precision” lettering. This inconsistency, plus the fact the watch wasn’t a certified Chronometer, earned this model the title “Pre-Explorer.” In other words, it was a pre-pre-Explorer of sorts. 

Early Explorers took inspiration from another iconic watch, the Rolex Bubbleback. This watch takes this name because it was one of the first to use self-winding movements, which were bigger than regular mechanicals. Due to this, Rolex had to extend the back of the case.

References 6610 and 1016

Rolex Explorer M124270

By the mid-’50s, Rolex’s first entirely in-house movement, the Caliber 1030, arrived. It was not only Chronometer-rated but super slim. As such, Rolex built a slimmer profile with the Explorer reference 6610 despite the same 36mm case. The 6610 also came with a white dial, otherwise known as the Albino Explorer. This model may be a predecessor to the Explorer II Polar. 

The most famous and longest-running Explorer I is reference 1016. It launched in 1959 and ceased production in 1989. It consistently sported the design language we associate with Explorers today. Whether gilt or matte, it often had a simple black dial, Mercedes hands, and the “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified” appellate.

Rolex sized up the Explorer in 2010 with the 39mm reference 214270. After this release, it returned to the original and more popular 36mm case. 

The Explorer 2 – Important References

Think of watch references as chapters in a book; each one adds to Rolex’s history. In the case of the Explorer watches, they are chapters of exploration, adventure and horological brilliance. Here are the must-know models of the Explorer II.

The Explorer II’s Slow Rise

The first Rolex Explorer 2, reference 1655, came out in 1971. Rolex meant it to be the spelunking counterpart to the mountaineering Explorer I. In doing so, it combined excellent legibility with a 39mm stainless steel case. 

It was brawnier both in size and aesthetic, with a 24-hour bezel that gave it a more maximalist quality. Differing quite noticeably from the clean-bezel original, the 1655 featured machined numbers separated by lines, giving the watch a more military-esque look. Another signature feature was the orange 24-hour hand—still a staple today. At one point, Rolex started using a red hand, which ironically began fading into an orange hue over time.

Unfortunately, the super niche Explorer II wasn’t nearly as popular as the Explorer I when it first came out. The 1655 is the Steve McQueen Rolex, though the actor never wore an Explorer II. The nickname, however, stuck for years.

References 16550 and 16570

Source: Rolex

In 1985, the 16550 reference gave the Explorer II a few qualities that are a mainstay today. First, it beefed up the case to 40mm. Second, it inherited the Mercedes hands that the Explorer I had used all along. Of course, it also came with construction upgrades like a sapphire crystal and Caliber 3085. It also had an in-house movement with a GMT hand that you could adjust independently.

In 1989, reference 16570 arguably changed the game for the Explorer II. It took the white dial variation, changed the index outline from gold to black, and created the “Polar” variation. The Explorer II launched with the peculiar use of a fixed-bezel GMT. It quickly became a canon model for Rolex, upping the popularity (and auction prices) of Explorer IIs throughout time.

The Explorer II changed more over time than the Explorer I. However, the way the two differ from each other hasn’t changed. Even today, the II is the bigger, bulkier sibling, while the I is the clean-lined “everyday watch.” In fact, the II has a whopping 42mm case, while the I maintains its popular and way more versatile 36mm. They’re both built from Rolex’s Oystersteel – a material with exceptional corrosion resistance and a high-level sheen. 

The contemporary Explorer I also comes in a gold and steel two-tone variation, which is about as flashy as the Explorer has ever been. Rolex equips them both with the signature blue-hued Chromalight, and they run on COSC-certified automatic movements—as do all modern Rolexes. 

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about these popular Rolex models.

What Is Special About the Rolex Explorer II?

One of the Rolex Explorer II’s most distinguishable features is its 24-hour bezel. It enables the wearer to differentiate daytime from nighttime while tracking a second time zone. 

Can You Wear a Rolex Explorer II With a Suit?

Yes, the Rolex Explorer II can pair nicely with a suit. The design has universal appeal because of its versatility. Its robust steel case and Oyster bracelet make it dressy enough for pairing with formal attire. 

What Is the Difference Between the Old and New Rolex Explorer 2?

Rolex made several modifications to the newer Explorer II compared to earlier models. These include a larger case size, thicker bezel, and thinner lugs for a more ergonomic fit. 

Rolex Explorer I vs. II Concluded

Rolex Explorer II
Source: Rolex

Both the Rolex Explorer 1 and 2 have the potential to fill a one-watch collection. They share the same water resistance, movement, and case material. However, there are significant differences that make them appeal to different collectors. 

With its more minimalist aesthetic, the Explorer I is underrated thanks to its modest and manageable size. This makes the model perfect for a day in the office, a daring expedition, and everything in between. The Rolex Explorer II features a modern movement and a bolder, sportier aesthetic that many brands strive to match with Explorer alternatives. This rugged and practical design is a great companion for explorers and adventurers. 

While both are adventurer watches, their differences are nuanced in history and function. However, both modern-day icons hold their value well, even in used condition. Solving the Rolex Explorer I vs. II is more about which aesthetic you prefer than where your adventures take you. 

Which do you prefer? Leave your comments below, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to read more content like this!

Categories: Watch Guides Tags: Rolex

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Nina Scally

About Nina Scally

Nina spends most of her time navigating the luxury watch industry so that you don’t have to. She enjoys peeling back the layers of a seemingly simple watch to uncover its true beauty and explain all the "ins" and "outs". From balance springs, to straps and from history to technology – her aim is to make the research behind your dream watch fun and interesting every time!

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