First Sports Model

[Annan]

I'm planning to buy my first Rolex sports model, probably late this year, and have it narrowed down to a SS GMTIIC or an Explorer II. For the Explorer II, my preference is the smaller 40mm. I also like the Sub but for the looks only, not the utility since I'm not a diver or have much use for the Sub bezel.

I'd appreciate any thoughts. Thanks.

[SaddleSC]

I am not a diver either...never been deeper than the hotel swimming pool, but I own three Submariners and a Sea Dweller. I would still recommend the Sub because I use the timing bezel far more than the dual time zones on my GMT. In addition, I prefer the clasps on the Subs.

[SS Oyster]

Explorer II (40) will be the least expensive to purchase and is completely brushed (lower profile). GMTIIc is more bling with PCLs, ceramic bezel, and ability to track three time zones instead of just two with the ExpII.

Both fine watches, and especially useful if you travel a lot and can use time tracking features.

You may want to consider the GMTII (legacy) in Pepsi, Coke or black bezel. All are more comparable to the ExpII and still track three time zones but without the bling and hassle of keeping up with the scratches.

Good luck with your search and finding "the one" you want.

[SS Oyster]

Double post - pls remove

[mtrunner]

I would go with either the GMTII or SubC. I am not a diver either and love my SubC. I also have the Explorer II (40mm) and I never go spelunking either. I think there are a lot of us who buy Rolex watches and never use them for their intended use or what Rolex has marketed them as being their intended us.

[horseco]

You can't go wrong with the 116710 GMTc.

[mjclark32]

Gmt iic imo

[slcbbrown]

Originally Posted by Annan

I'm planning to buy my first Rolex sports model, probably late this year, and have it narrowed down to a SS GMTIIC or an Explorer II. For the Explorer II, my preference is the smaller 40mm. I also like the Sub but for the looks only, not the utility since I'm not a diver or have much use for the Sub bezel.

I'd appreciate any thoughts. Thanks.

You can't go wrong with the GMT's or ExpII. My first Rolex was a GMT, rootbeer, almost 40 years ago. Now, I have a no-date Sub. My favorite movement is the GMT/EXPII version. If you want the "under the radar" looks of the ExpII, you can't beat it. It also has less stuff to go wrong, ie. rotating bezel, bezel insert, etc.

If you really like the Sub looks, get the GMT, but you might want to consider the older, non-ceramic version, too. You get the all-balck Sub look and the Pepsi/Coke options, if you want to buy the inserts.

[SoftwareDrone]

Originally Posted by saddlesc

i am not a diver either...never been deeper than the hotel swimming pool, but i own three submariners and a sea dweller. I would still recommend the sub because i use the timing bezel far more than the dual time zones on my gmt. In addition, i prefer the clasps on the subs.

+1.

[A.J.R.]

Gmt.

[Rookhawk]

Given the lackluster resale value of the smaller Explorer II, if you determine that is the watch for you I strongly suggest buying a used one.

Given this is your first sports watch, I can't think of a better option than the classic SubC with date. The clasp is fantastic and it will always be the definitive sports watch.

The GMTIIc is a great watch but I can't stand the current black/green look. As soon as the Pepsi (blue/red) version returns I'll be wearing one. If the current issue look appeals to you, I'd say keep that on your list.

So in conclusion:

1. Think about a sub because the quality/price/date and band functions are top notch
2. If you like the look of the GMT IIc go for it.
3. If your heart is set on the smaller Explorer II don't pay retail.

[warren G.]

If it's between the GMT and Exp. I would go with the GMT.

[mike]

Between those two the maxi-dial of the GMT would be my choice.

[FX44]

Originally Posted by SaddleSC

I am not a diver either...never been deeper than the hotel swimming pool, but I own three Submariners and a Sea Dweller. I would still recommend the Sub because I use the timing bezel far more than the dual time zones on my GMT. In addition, I prefer the clasps on the Subs.

I agree

[Kingair]

Would be a difficult choice for me to . . .
But I would go for a GMT II

[kxux]

I had similar dilema few weeks ago. Given my lifestyle I chose the GMTIIc since it has ability to quickly change the 3rd time zone as needed. Exp II is a nice watch as well, but in the end for me the GMT spoke to me more. Also my wife liked the GMT on my wrist better than any other watch, so that was a plus.

Best is to try them both on and see which one talks to you more. Good luck.

[Lanfor]

Gmtii

[ManUtd]

My choice is the GMTIIC.

[kcmo]

Quite different watches indeed. Between these I'd go for the GMT-II as I'm not crazy about the Explorer II (old or new style).

The GMT-II would make a great partner to your DJ!

[Annan]

Great comments, all and thanks!!! Have to admit you now have me considering dropping the Explorer and possibly adding the Sub to my short list. I noted a couple of comments about the Sub clasp being better than the GMT's. What are the differences?

I especially appreciate the comments about resale value of the 40mm Explorer and that it is better to buy used for that reason. Since my preference is to buy my watch as new that's why I would drop the Explorer. And....I do already have a white dial (DJ).

In a perfect world, Rolex would offer a GMT ceramic Pepsi with Jubilee bracelet. Maybe Jocke will bring that news back from Baselworld 2012

[gwalker]

GMTIIC hands down. Just never cared that much for the explorer. I would take a Sub over either.