Truly Affordable Rolex Explorer 2 Alternative Watches

We can’t all drop several thousand for a watch (or sit on a waitlist for years). If you’re looking for an alternative to Rolex Explorer 2 watches of any era, keep reading.

Rolex isn’t exactly known for its attainable prices. This means that its high price tag and resale costs prohibit many from owning a watch from this iconic brand. Even a used entry-level model will set you back more than entry-level watches from most other brands. Fortunately, there are some great options out there. Especially if you’re seeking out affordable Explorer II alternatives.

Luckily, substitutes are available for watch enthusiasts who want the Explorer aesthetic without the cost. Many of these timepieces offer similar features, reliable construction, and GMT capabilities. Some are similar, while others are homage watches. 

Conversely, there are some less-than-great alternatives, too. However, I have you covered and made sure to leave those out. But before we get to our list of alternatives to keep in your watch box, let’s start with some Rolex Explorer II history.

Rolex Explorer II History

The Rolex Explorer II came out in 1971. It had a more military-esque, blocky look than today’s iteration. However, it still had that balance of luxury and ruggedness.

It didn’t look much like its predecessor, the original Explorer. Rolex designed the original to be a general, field-watch-like luxury sport watch. It’s associated with mountain climbing. Meanwhile, the brand built the Explorer II for spelunking. The GMT hand shows the wearer whether it’s night or day, even when they’re deep in the cave. Then, of course, in the ‘80s, the now iconic white-dialed Polar version came out.

Rolex Explorer II Dimensions

The current Rolex Explorer II isn’t the smallest watch in the world. It isn’t huge, in my opinion (I have one and it wears fine). But it’s definitely as big as I’ll go. If you prefer a much smaller watch but like the Explorer look, alternatives are an excellent way to go.

Rolex Explorer II specs:

• Dimensions: 42mm diameter, 12.5mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 100m

I’m going to quickly go over the original Rolex Explorer’s relationship to the Oyster Perpetual. The OP is a sort of fundamental Rolex model. The comparison may help you decide whether you prefer the original Explorer’s design or even the OP.

Rolex Explorer vs Oyster Perpetual

The Oyster Perpetual looks like the model on which Rolex builds most of its models. In fact, most models read “Oyster Perpetual” on the dial. This is because they all have automatic movements and feature a durable Oyster case. The main visual differences between the Explorer and the OP are the Arabic cardinal indices and the Mercedes hands. The Explorer is as versatile as the OP but much sportier.

Nine Affordable Rolex Explorer II Alternative Options

Here, they are in no particular order. We went ahead and gave the homages their own category. That way, if all you really want is the exact aesthetic of the Explorer, you can just head in that direction. Alternatives have similar vibes and may be in the same collecting category, but they don’t necessarily copy any design cues.

Bernhardt Field Driver

The Bernhardt Field Driver army-inspired tool watch has more water resistance than the Explorer II. After all, it is a diver. The brand based this design on watches SWAT team members wear, which explains why it’s also more aesthetically athletic.

The rugged, multi-surfaced bezel adds a nice heft, though the 39-millimeter case ensures that heft is more visual than physical. In fact, between that, the black dial, and Arabic cardinals, it looks like a fun mix of vintage and modern Explorer II models.

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 39mm diameter, 11mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 200m

Swatch Happy Joe Lime

The Swatch Happy Joe Lime reminds me of the Explorer (all Arabic indices) and the Explorer II. The second-hand accent is akin to the Explorer II’s iconic GMT. I also love how the tonal hour markers on the second track really make the secondhand pop. And though this is definitely a budget watch, that silky dial might suggest otherwise.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 41mm diameter, 10.6mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 30m

Timex Expedition GMT Titanium

This true-blue Expedition GMT watch is as spec-forward as a Timex gets. The titanium construction is solid yet light (perfect for us slender-wristed folks). And it provides an impeccable, almost gunmetal-like look to the surface. It’s a truly distinct automatic timepiece, both within the Timex range and in the tool watch market in general. There’s even an excellent full exhibition caseback for you horologically curious folks. You can watch that industrial-looking workhorse in action.

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 41mm diameter, 11.5mm thickness
• Case Material: Titanium
• Water resistance: 200m

Seiko 5 SBSC009

You can always count on Seiko to serve up some high-value automatics. This Seiko 5 SBSC009 is less minimal than the Explorer II. So, if you love the Explorer II’s design but want a more exciting dial, this is a good option. The house-shaped second hand also gives it a lot of brand-specific character, separating it from the Explorer II. Even more, it comes in a black dial, white dial, and even a commanding all-black option. 

Specs:

• Dimensions: 39.4mm diameter, 13.6mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 100m\

Orient RA-AC0Q03S10B

This Orient RA-AC0Q03S10B perfectly captures the sporty yet classy vibe of the Explorer II. However, the second hand’s color accent is reserved for just the tip, making it more reserved and, in a way, elegant. It also comes in more dial variations, including a delightful apricot that allows the silky finish to shine.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 39.9mm diameter, 12.8mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 200m

Rolex Explorer 2 Homage

Here are some Rolex Explorer II homages. The main difference between an homage and an “alternative” is that an homage takes its design from some source material.

Sometimes, it’s an exact copy, which is legal if it doesn’t use fake branding or patents. I compare this to a cover band. Sometimes, it’s clearly taking from its source material but tries to go in a different direction. This is like a band that does its own music but openly and clearly takes inspiration from another act. And, of course, there’s a lot of gray area between alternatives and homage watches.

San Martin SN054G3

San Martin does something pretty cool with the design of the SN064G3. It takes the Explorer II template and outfits it with Tudor-like snowflake hands. It combines two iconic design cues from the brother brands. A sign of a good homage is when it offers a look that doesn’t exist on the market—and that’s what this watch does.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 39mm diameter, 12.8mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 100m

Steinhart Ocean One Vintage

Steinhart modeled the Ocean One Vintage after the original Explorer II. Yet, they built it with modern creature comforts, such as 300 meters of water resistance and a sapphire crystal. This makes it a genuinely unique homage option on the market. If you want a vintage watch without the vintage hassle, go for his guy.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 42mm diameter, 13.5mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 300m

Alpha Explorer GMT Function

Sometimes, you just need an exact homage. I get that. This Alpha Explorer watch has everything from the Mercedes hands to the red GMT. Visually, the only thing missing is the Rolex branding itself. It also runs on an automatic movement, which I assume is some sort of Seagull or Seagull-like caliber. And despite this watch being a complete homage from China, Alpha still offers a one-year warranty.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 43.4mm diameter, 12.7mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 30m

Pagani Homage

This Pagani watch is another homage that exactly replicates its source material (legally). I wanted to add this as an option because it has more water resistance. For its price, it’s pretty well built. The case brushing is fine, the applications are good at first glance, and the crown is easy to use. Like most cheap homages from China, the bracelet isn’t great. However, no one will notice the rattles when you’re wearing it.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 42mm diameter, 12.6mm thickness
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 100m

FAQs

Here are your most common questions regarding the Rolex Explorer II!

Is the Rolex Explorer 2 Worth Buying?

If you can afford it, the Explorer 2 is an excellent watch. It’s well-built, classic, and is a better investment than most luxury watches.

Is the Rolex Explorer 2 Discontinued?

Rolex discontinued the Explorer 2 216570 in 2021.

How Long Is the Waiting List for a Rolex Explorer 2?

The average wait time is anywhere from six to 18 months.

Conclusion: The Right Rolex Explorer 2 Alternative for You

There are some great Rolex Explorer 2 alternatives on the market with much more attractive retail prices. If you want the same look, just go for an homage. As you now know, many of them are even built with automatic movements. You can also choose high-value options with a similar aesthetic but take a different approach. It’s a matter of figuring out your priorities and budget!

Questions? Comments? Drop them below.