Which Rolex Explorer Is A Better Choice For You? (Explorer 1 vs Explorer 2)

A Discussion around the Rolex Explorer, debating which version is the better choice for you. When we consider how it was conceived and where we see it now, can we find any correlations between the two? Does the watch deserve to be overbuilt? Was its discretion the reason for its original success?
#RolexExplorer #RolexExplorer2
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[@ID-Guy]

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[@Ossory88]

I'd say, if you have a really nice dress watch on the side, the explorer 1 dress capabilities are less in demand and therefore, the explorer 2 gets the upper hand. As a one watch collection, the explorer 1 wins.

[@tonyoreilly2637]

3, 6, 9...Tesla said "“If you only knew the magnificence of the 3, 6 and 9, then you would have a key to the universe.” Tesla was obviously an Explorer man, Nuff said...

[@mrg1911]

The Explorer lineup has always been my favorite professional watch line.... 40-some years ago I bought a new Submariner, but ALWAYS obsessed over a 1655 Ex-II. NOT buying that new back then is my only watch regret. I bought a new 16570 in the early 90's and have since given it to one of my daughters. Since 2015 I've purchased several new Explorers including a pair of 214270-Mk-II's, and both white and black dial versions of 216570's. The current Explorer-I is the only watch I'd own if I could only own 1 watch. PS: I've purchased several other Rolex's including steel/white/ceramic Daytona, and Blue/Red-GMT-BLRO on Jubilee, which I gave to my kid; because I prefer Explorers for my (old) self. Great video, and thanks as always!

[@tonyoreilly2637]

The Explorer 1 is uber cool and my daily driver, I love it...

[@evh4611]

Arguably THE most Beautiful Timepiece

[@DWilliam1]

Explorer no need to add the 1... it’s that perfect. ;)

[@martin4374]

Explorer 1 hands down.

[@goodwrench838]

Buy an explorer 1 and never take it off. You'll find that its a slow burn, and the more you wear it the more you love it IMO.

[@joebuxton367]

I went for the 214270 mk1 2 months ago as my first luxury watch and words cannot describe how strongly I feel about it! Size, comfort, versatility, refined elegance, timeless design - Perfect watch.

[@DWilliam1]

My daily wearer for years has been a 2012 Explorer. Versatile, sleek, simple and elegant. Perfect on the golf course, boardroom and Beneteau. I have more more costly watches but none more valuable. The watch Ian Fleming wore...

[@theyeti0987]

The Rolex Explorer 1 mk 2 is my perfect watch. It checks so many boxes while being so versatile. IMO the most useful complication for day to day life is a dive bezel, just because it makes it so fast and easy to time something......thus I think a no date sub would be great and check a lot of boxes. Still when it comes down to it, the Explorer 1 is still #1.

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

It's not so versatile, it doesn't have a date complication. What if you're stranded somewhere without internet, how are going to know what day it is?

[@theyeti0987]

@@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess I wouldn't...and that would be OK.

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

@@theyeti0987 If your stranded in the wilderness somewhere tracking the days could be extremely important for survival.. and being found. But ofc 99% of people and Rolex owners won't go through this. Just like most owners of 4x4 trucks today won't go off roading or exploring. But I think it kinda defeats the name and moniker "Explorer" the watch has. Like when your climbing a deadly freezing mountain for several days I'm pretty sure knowing what day it is is pretty important. The climbers just didn't have a watch with a date complication because it wasn't available at the time, but I'm confident they would've appreciated it

[@theyeti0987]

@@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess Date complications ruin the symmetry of a watch. I live in Montana....I hunt, fish, shoot my bow and hike with my Explorer. I don't need or want a date. It's the perfect watch....still 2 years after I bought it. In the military I used a Casio PROTREK because it had the radio update function, Sunrise/Sunset and multiple time zones....all was were useful in my job.....I still have it....It still works. But wearing the 39mm Explorer is just amazing....the lume is great, it's accurate (for a mechanical) and the bracelet is the most comfortable I have ever worn....and it looks great while flying under the radar....what more could you ask? All that and I can give it to one of my sons and they can pass it on.

[@ThePianoTester]

I disagree, I prefer to time these things with my phone. Since I usually forget, and the phone rings (watch doesn't)

[@chrisstevenson2622]

As someone who views a watch as a tool. It all depends on what your occupation or hobbies are to require a field watch. Are you someone who engages in weekend hiking and fishing at a mountain lake or stream and want a watch that is robust and yet simple enough you can read the time with a flick of the wrist? The Explorer is for you. Are you someone who works on the Alaskan North Slope in perpetual daylight or darkness? The Explorer 2 white dial would be an excellent pick. Are you someone who goes on extended hiking trips and wants a timepiece with a day & GMT complication? The black dial Explorer 2 is an excellent pick. Just as a side note, if you set the GMT hand to the military time equivalent, it will always point South in the Northern Hemisphere and can be used as an aid in navigation if your compass becomes unusable. A watch is more than a fashion piece. It’s a tool that’s used on a daily basis and tells something about us as individuals and our adventures.

[@joshuacall4356]

I have both and love them a lot. The Explorer 1 is probably my favorite due to its versatility and magical charm. It works in every environment. The Explorer 2 is awesome because it’s bigger and bolder with the polar dial and orange gmt hand. It is also very rugged and elegant but in a different way than the Explorer 1. That being said I have to go with the Explorer 1.

[@wristfulthinking]

214270 is my only watch and it's perfect! You should definitely get one IDGuy! It still feels very subtle and under the radar, almost too much, so I'm so glad I chose this over the 114270 or 14270.

[@steelstunners1862]

Agree, this was my first luxury watch and after buying several others this one is still my favourite - wish I had the discipline to stop at the 214270!

[@avocadomann2373]

My grail !

[@hambone988ubet]

I wish I could get one, but they are just not available like all of the other sport watches. :(

[@steelstunners1862]

hambone988ubet It’s crazy that a man can walk in to a Rolex boutique in 2020 and not buy a watch.

[@steelstunners1862]

hambone988ubet I’d get my name down for a BB58 beautiful watch

[@jimlittle5769]

For me the Explorer I is boring, so in July I requested the Polar Explorer II from an AD and four months later it was sitting on my wrist. Not even a single regret in choosing it.

[@jwdepriest]

I have never tried on an Explorer I; however, the moment I tried on the Explorer 2 Polar, I fell in love. I have worn it 70% of the time since. I always thought it was ugly in pictures, but the pictures really don't do it justice. I have family overseas so the GMT function is a great plus. With a large wrist the 42mm case fits perfectly too.

[@manuel_winde]

It’s a great watch- sadly it wore a bit big for me but otherwise it would be top of my list. Also one of the few Rolexes that looks great on other straps too

[@markmaier2503]

I’ve enjoyed the Explorer ll polar dial, and I believe amongst my fairly well-curated collection, it will remain with me long term.

[@marktrett1652]

Do I have to pick one? I love them both for different reasons. Well narrated and great visuals as always. Keep up the good work 👍

[@ItsTimePictures]

Bought the Polar Explorer II, 16570 cal 3186. The best decision I ever made involving a watch.

[@magikkris]

Why ? I have one also

[@juniorjohnson5961]

I like Explorer ll - Thank you for your time and effort !!

[@go5592]

The Explorer 2 polar dial is a thing of beauty. I think the prices of these will sky rocket in the near future.

[@jayarade31]

i got one a litle over a year ago and its up 30%

[@danb9048]

Hands down explorer

[@bikerdude1375]

Love my Exp 2 polar. Perfect companion to my Hulk and OP41 silver dial. Maybe one day I'll be lucky enough to add an Exp.

[@fifthpint4571]

I picked the 214270 MK 2 for myself. There is just something special about it. Having said that, a black-dialed 216570 looks at least as good and I reckon I will be fishing for one soon. Great video bud, thank you!

[@BijanIzadi]

Excellent video, but this makes me completely forget about all the other watches I like because they both have such a perfection and simplicity in everything I’m lookign for in a watch

[@NoOne-ki3bm]

I wish the new Explorer 2 used rectangular indices instead of the round ones.. aesthetically it would look more different than another GMT Master 2

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

And I wish Rolex’s sister brand Tudor would use square indices on the black bay models!!

[@nkoonkukoo]

I want both as a 2 watch collection.

[@paulyoung5514]

I have the Explorer 214270 and I can only say it makes me smile every day.

[@Ossory88]

Explorer 2 polar best watch 😍😍😍😍😍

[@EscapePlan97]

Both!

[@mdhammad69]

Is it wrong to want both 🤩

[@fratbragen]

I have both. Awesome and very different.

[@mariosiaven2965]

Yes i feel the same they complement each other perfectly

[@ericn2140]

I love my Explorer 2 but I want to add an Explorer 1 to the collection. Great video

[@davenportsimon]

I’m the opposite! I’d like to own and polar II

[@jameshoward9700]

The Explorer. All you need. A perfect non-diving tool watch. Perhaps the 39's proportions are not quite as good as earlier 36s, but still, 39 is a better size. A similarly styled reference is the Omega Seamaster 300 Trilogy - more rugged, a count down bezel, a more modern movement and more beautiful. I've tried to like the Ex 2, but can't - at 42mm, with a white dial and silver bezel it wears very large.

[@timemycollection]

Both - White Explorer 2 to compliment the Black Explorer.

[@n.h187]

Hoping for a modern 36mm explorer. I really don't like the current 214270, just doesn't look right. The bezel is too wide and too much free space on the dial.

[@johnt2694]

Both are amazing watches. If I had to choose between the 2, would take the Explorer 36mm. It’s timeless and subtle. But I really do like the Polar!! As always, great content and vid!! Thanks!!

[@citcit9811]

Explorer II white dial is the real deal. Comparing the Explorer I, I prefer the Omega Railmaster 2503 which is in my collection.

[@SChapps]

Love my 114270 and I'm glad Explorers in general are getting more recognition now

[@jonnybreakz]

I am a explorer 1 1016 guy all day...the simpler the watch the better but I appreciate the exp II just as much !! Another great vid @IDGuy

[@explorerjlc1743]

why isnt the explorer more popular? its in a similar category as the DJ, even the OP is higher up. IMO it should be right at the top being the most pure form of a Rolex watch.

[@SoCalWatchReviews]

Fantastic video brother 👏

[@scottc6946]

I recently walked into an AD who is also offering pre-owned inventory and was able to try on the 39mm Explorer to see what the fuss was all about. I don’t get it. I guess just not my aesthetic. I got to try on the Explorer II as well, and it was better, but it didn’t grab me like the Batman GMT did.

[@Mister_Phafanapolis]

I can sympathize. I always thought the Explorer (1) was going to be _MY_ Rolex but after wearing a Tisell Explorer for a few days it doesn't do as much for me as I thought it would. It's a good watch design, but not great. There's something missing in the sauce, a dash of magic and sex appeal. It's a little plain. ...and I miss a date.

[@reedgrabowski8314]

I am enamored with both watches. An Explorer 114270 and an Explorer II 16570 Polar from 1999 to 2000 would be welcome for wear on my wrist. Those could be my sole two watches, and I would be satisfied.

[@bryanhaworth2231]

Perfect 2 watch collection IMO! I run both - 40mm Exp II Polar and 36mm Exp I works great as a dress watch especially when thrown on a blk leather strap!

[@darrenwang11]

Bryan Haworth same here :)

[@jontiffinphoto]

The subtlety is it’s greatest characteristic!

[@u.u.u9969]

Can you imagine a car salesman talking to you this way ... lol 😆 🤣 😂

[@michaeledwardlenzi]

The one that is right is the one you like: fit, feel, design and cost.

[@Wevaah]

For anyone interested in a pseudo combo of the 2 look up the Baltic Aquascaphe SB01. It's a stunning French watch that is Baltics response to explorer/field style watches.

[@ToolwatchBoutique]

I went for the Explorer 1 39mm (214270). It's the ideal GADA watch, looks neutral in comparison to the other Rolexes and the size is perfect for my wrist. It was a good decision. My next one might be the Milgauss as I really like the gimmicky lightning hand.

[@hansdenelzen6645]

Explorer 1

[@oysterman962]

I own and prefer the previous generation polar E2 40mm. Polar or black, both are great value in my opinion. 2 years ago I was looking at buying an Explorer. But when I visited my local vintage watch dealer, I saw and tried on both. They cost the same price at the time. AUD$6500. For the size, versatility and complication of a gmt I decided on getting the E2. Value for money it is an outright winner if compared to overinflated prices of a GMT Master. The Explorer just seemed a bit basic, and with the same movement as an entry level Oyster Perpetual I felt the value was only in the aesthetic of the dial. Although one day I will probably buy it as my tastes become more refined to simplicity. The dealer jokingly said I should buy both. In hindsight, both have gone up in price. So I should have bought them together. And maybe that would be the only two watches you will ever need. One semi-formal black face dress watch (Explorer) and one rugged looking sports GMT (polar E2). That would be the perfect two watch collection

[@mariosiaven2965]

I own An Exp II 16570 black dial and is a very "Jack of all trades" kind of watch but I cant help but being attracted by the explorer especially the 1016 theyre both definitely very different to each other but despite appreciating the E2 very much I feel the appeal of the explorer is there and maybe ill make a move to acquire one in the future

[@merlinh420]

Just got the white 226570. I have the e2 16570 black and I love that thing. But the new polar was calling.

[@drwindsurf]

I love them both, there is no wrong answer here 😊

[@impexRQ]

Rolex Explorer ii (42mm) everyday and twice on Sunday ...

[@mr_watchaddict3146]

I still dream of a modern Exp.1 in 37.5mm with AR coating on the inside, glidelock clasp and the updated movement. THEN I’d be done ✅

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

That would be perfect 👌 but Rolex would probably want to skin you alive and issue it in white gold to double the price!!!

[@mr_watchaddict3146]

Underachieving Watch Collector ... True. Though I’d still buy it, then get it steel plated!

[@justinkrzynowek9166]

There is just something about the Explorer 2 polar that just draws me to it. I love how tough but yet elegant it is.

[@tippykaffu4047]

The 1016 explorer is the one for me.

[@impexRQ]

Sorry - it’s the first time I don’t agreed with you .... the Explorer ii has unique movement, date , second time zone ... 42 mm - what else you can ask for ?

[@evh4611]

40 mm

[@cronus892]

This video is beyond awesome, i immediately liked and saved it to my favourites. I was always going to go for an Explorer 1 but i will now take closer look at the explorer 2. Thanks for the info. A++++

[@isluderea8322]

I have a Submariner No-Date 2020. And now i want an Explorer 1... Am i normal ?

[@matthewrikihana6818]

Bravo IDGuy. Inviting us once again to think about why we do what we do. 👏👏👏👍🤔

[@ForbinColossus]

You didn't mention the Explorer arabics that you rightly criticized before. And the shiny bezel seems wrong for a field watch - unless it's for a signal mirror when lost in the BUSH !

[@karl_m3013]

I am larger, athletic type guy. Not huge, but, taller and broader than average. Not to dismiss your discussion elements, however, the 42 mm Explorer II fits my physique, personality and psyche much better than the original or current Explorer.

[@evh4611]

Good point

[@nicholasalonso45]

Explorer II

[@waterzap99]

Modern Explorer = G Shock. Don't get me wrong, Rolex is very nice. But Rolex today is jewelry. No one so going to climb mountains, or even go camping with a Rolex anymore when G Shocks are available.

[@matthunter9562]

Love the Rolex Explorer 1☝🏻 is My choice because besides the minimalist design without worry to adjust date at every March there is an Arabic 3,6,9 so the result is easy to read the time in a second. Awesome 👍🏻

[@BoogurTWang]

Thanks ,in part, to your stunning review, I purchased a Sterile Parnis "Explorer". And now, not a word about this excellent watch.

[@steelstunners1862]

That parnis is phatter than a big girls booty!

[@PackBallsDeep]

Get one of each...I did.

[@meson183]

For me the Explorer 1 has the cleaner aesthetic by far. The Explorer 2 is cluttered with that GMT hand, the date and the accompanying cyclops. I lean toward the simplicity despite the smaller size. It's the same reason I lean toward the Sub (no date) rather than the Sub Date, the GMT Masters, the Yacht Masters or the Sea Dwellers.

[@scorpianbliz]

I really like both of these watches and have a difficult time choosing between the two. Some days the i, some days the ii. But at the end of the day it will be the Explorer, I have a submariner anf the Explorer checks boxes my submariner does not, like 3, 6, 9 Arabic numerals.

[@Spook291]

Another winner great job!

[@truebluemiata]

Not being a Rolex fan I found this review of the Explorer series very interesting. I need to have a date complication and don't care for the Cyclops. So alas for me it is neither I or II.

[@ngtilui]

Sea dweller

[@sailinbob11]

I'm a definite Explorer fan. Simple...

[@fahadk3380]

Its the 3,6,9.... magical...mystical....

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

There definitely was a need for a date complication back then, it simply didn't exist because the technology didn't exist yet. When you're climbing a freezing mountain for several days knowing what day it is is definitely important. So they should simply add a date window the the explorer 1. Give customers a choice of time only or date window

[@Tigerloco70]

I am not like the regular Explorer its to small for me , i jus to have the explorers 2 both colors , i sold them , but I start loving the 42 mm but I think black , it’s sober but look classic not so flashy and robust , so i will go for one of the new 42 mm 👍

[@torontowatches9709]

Honestly what’s so special about the Explorer 1, it literally just tells the time and that’s it. The Railmaster smacks it up with all its tech and antimagnetic co axial movement. The Explorer 2 40 or 42 Polar on the other hand is a masterpiece. A real watch with real functions.

[@jiebenz9548]

I would love to see an Explorer 1 in White Dial! it will surely be as hot as the Sub or any other SS sports Rolex.. 😁🕺🎉👍

[@albertmeyer8983]

Thanks! Nice vid! (as always) Keep the good work up!

[@blainecole5452]

If I had to choose(assuming either watch was immediately available) it would be the Explorer I. But I do not care for the Mercedes hour hand.

[@dingbat1978]

I'm watching to many watch related videos. I have therefore decided to avoid any video with ' Rolex' in the title or description and un-sub from any channel failing this test three times in a row or that releases a single video entitled 'X number of things you didn't know about Rolex.' How long before I have no watch videos in my feed?

[@weredoingitinbabylon8452]

He's answered this question before. Go back and see his video library. If you can't be arsed...

[@tn_onyoutube8436]

Close the door on your way out.

[@vonbon954]

The Explorer 1 is a homage watch to the actual watch used to summit Everest for the first time; the watch that went to the summit was a Rolex OP. The Explorer 2 is a purpose built field/exploration watch. It is the real deal.

[@ibmoran]

Great post!....you're a wonderful story teller....thank you!

[@369MatteGrey]

Have the 214270 and think it's perfect now. Things would be different if Rolex took out the cyclops on the Explorer 2.

[@montgomerycross8140]

Well said!!!

[@enriqueali]

Wrong question. The choice is between Explorer 36mm or Explorer 39mm. 30 -year old 1016 models are trading at well over the list price of new model 214270s

[@Mr.Ambrose]

Explorer 1 👊

[@lawrenceg7341]

Love the new intro brother!

[@Treetopflyer777]

Of all my watches I wear my 216570 polar 90% of the time. Pretty much the best one-watch watch. 🧡🤍

[@johnnyboy1586]

Would be happy with eather one

[@AdrianPI]

Love this analysis 👏

[@pedrination]

Amazing video, explorer I for me

[@stevefox8605]

I've always thought the Explorer moniker was a misnomer & the 1 is an old man's dress watch (& I'm 50) & still not a good looking watch imho & the 2 is too much of a rehash of the sub(too Diver) , but love the Steve McQueen model because it looks like it's own thing....clearly I'm in the minority. From the Rolex stable I'd choose the Tudor North Flag. Cheers 👍🏻

[@watchingandseeing]

When will the E1 and E2 get the updated movement?

[@wristfulthinking]

Probably the anniversary year which is this year or next

[@watchingandseeing]

ssaul2 2021 is 50th Anniversary of E2...however Rolex date only 70 hour movement has not been even released so might take a few years for E1 to be updated. I know it’s not everything but Tudor BB 58 already uses the 70 hour reserve....very frustrating.

[@styx4947]

Do you think a watch can be a dress piece on a steel bracelet, or must it be on a leather strap to pair with black tie?

[@mannixj5186]

Purists will always hark back to the 1016, but evolution tells a different story.The 1655 was a extravagant departure from the theme creating an entirely different identity, which from a design point of view is a total excursion from anything thats considered genetically Rolex. Explorer 2's aren't an evolution statement, the brief mustve included words like quantum leap. Both have their place what ever incarnation you choose and both are suitably robust to support the explorer name. I reckon your purchase will be 14270 or 214270

[@shiv4229]

Shout out from SA 🇿🇦

[@theannouncer5538]

I would sacrifice my child for an explorer 2

[@TimG--]

Great watch - Exployer. Perfect dimensions. Just boring. Rolex are all the same. Nice video mate.

[@emreisiklar]

The best all arounder, 39 is the best!

[@BobGolob]

Explorer II 40mm polar for me