Modding an Explorer II (16570)

[Tad the Rad Dad]

Hi all. New to this and looking for some info/advice. Bought my first Rolex recently - a super clean (some might even say “pristine”) Y-series Explorer II (Ref. 16570) - black dial. The craftsmanship is second to none, but I feel like it just wears a bit smaller than I would like - I think it’s because of the SS bezel. I’ve been coveting a Sub, ideally a 16800, but I haven’t found one that I like at a price I’m willing to pay (probably a pretty common problem...) Then I had a brainstorm this AM... I love the GMT function of the Explorer - probably more than I do the rotating bezel on the Sub - at a minimum, it has more everyday utility for me - so is it possible to mod it with a black GMT Master-esque bezel? Does such a creature exist that would fit my 40 mm Explorer II? Where might I find one and how much should I expect to pay? Is there a part number or something that I can reference so I know I’m getting the right one. I’ve seen a couple of threads on here that indicate that I’d have to have an independent watchmaker do the mod, as RSC won’t do anything that (1) wasn’t an option on the watch when originally sold and (2) a bezel swap changes the Ref.) Any and all input welcome. Thanks.

[robertg]

I installed a GMT bezel on an Explorer II a few years ago. There is a thread on it somewhere here. I am getting the watch serviced now and they have to put the original bezel back on it.

I can’t remember what I paid for everything, but it came from a Rolex dealer on Texas. I’m not sure why they sold it on eBay?

[slus]

robertg it looks like the pictures in your thread are lost in cyberspace

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=302119

[Michigan_State]

You can find the part numbers on the web. According to what I know, it’s possible but you’ll have to drill the case (Exp II case doesn’t have the whole underneath the bezel which takes the small click spring)

[robertg]

No drilling required, read here.
https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=329912

[Michigan_State]

Originally Posted by robertg

No drilling required, read here.
https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=329912

Thanks, learned something!

[Tad the Rad Dad]

Thanks for the responses and insights. So if I understand this correctly, what I’ll end up with is a rotating 24-hour bezel? And I need the retaining ring and the bezel insert? Is there a Rolex parts catalog that I can go to for part numbers, etc.? Just really trying to avoid getting several hundred dollars deep in the project, only to find out that I bought the wrong stuff...

Happy New Year!

[crbrown]

Should have just bought a GMT or the new model explorer ii then i guess?

[Tad the Rad Dad]

Certainly would have been one approach, but there are budgetary concerns... (aren't there always?)

Specifically on the 216570, I just don't love the lugs on the newest gen Rolex sport watches - I don't feel they allow for the case to flow as smoothly into the bracelet as the 5 digits do. And as an aside, I've always just sort of gravitated toward 40mm as the sweet spot for sizing, but then my A386 at 38mm wears every bit as large as the Explorer - go figure. Always fascinated by how different a piece can be (i) in theory/photos vs (ii) in the metal vs (iii) actually on the wrist...

Cheers.