Noob Explorer Question

[ColRam425]

Okay guys I'm sure the answer to this is common knowledge but what exactly are the Explorers? I mean to me it looks like Explorer is just a larger Oyster Perpetual and the Explorer II looks like a larger GMT-Master II without a rotatable bezel. That being said is there something that make the Explorers have a special function? I feel like I've read that they're more shock absorbent than the rest of the Oyster line, however I've also heard that all Oysters are equally shock absorbent so I have no idea. Explorer obviously implies that it's meant for rugged outdoor-type activities but again I can't seem to find a definitive answer.

[Old Expat Beast]

The original Explorer was an Oyster Perpetual with 'Explorer' on the dial. It was produced soon after the Everest ascent to mark that feat, as Hillary (or Tenzing Norgay) took an OP up there. It still isn't necessarily better suited to outdoor pursuits than the Oyster Perpetual today.

[HickoryStick]

Referencing the specs, the Explorer and Explorer II appear to be the only watches in the "Oyster Perpetual Professional" line to use the Paraflex shock absorbers.

[Mfrankel2]

While not a difference in shock resistance between explorer and OP, when comparing EXP II to a GMT, while loosing the rotating bezel takes away the ability for a "third" time zone, not having a moving bezel to get crud under or otherwise damage would allow it to take a bit more abuse

[Tools]

Originally Posted by ColRam425

Okay guys I'm sure the answer to this is common knowledge but what exactly are the Explorers? I mean to me it looks like Explorer is just a larger Oyster Perpetual and the Explorer II looks like a larger GMT-Master II without a rotatable bezel. That being said is there something that make the Explorers have a special function? I feel like I've read that they're more shock absorbent than the rest of the Oyster line, however I've also heard that all Oysters are equally shock absorbent so I have no idea. Explorer obviously implies that it's meant for rugged outdoor-type activities but again I can't seem to find a definitive answer.

In the past it was true that the main difference between watches was the paint on the dial. The Sub Date uses the same movement as a Datejust, for example, so the only "difference" is the case it's in.

Watch appearance and naming is to provide variety for the watch shopper. Many prefer the aesthetics of one overe the other the same as some like their Nikes with green trim vs traditional black or white trim.

Today the Explorer line is the only sport/professional model line with the Rolex Paraflex shock system and they have their own unique movements, the 3132 in the Explorer and the 3187 in the Explorer II.

Read the history of the various models for your answer. Each was designed around a particular activity/user with key features that appeal to them. The Explorer came out of the Everest climbing popularity in the 50's and could be purchased with light-weight oils for cold weather use; the GMT's came out of the desire to provide dual-time to pilots, the Explorer II was designed for Cave Explorers with a 24 hr dial to know night from day; the Milgauss for high magnetic fields; Subs for Divers and Daytonas for timed events.. There is harmony in the world..

[joe100]

Used to be in days of yore, (14270 era), you could specify special low-temp lubricants for the Explorers. Probably still true today