Explorer ii - old vs new

[Richjm]

Evening all. As a relatively new member and first time poster I'd just like to start by saying what a useful and informative resource this forum is. Over the months I've [hopefully] learnt a few things thanks to some obviously very knowledgable forum members.

Anyway, to my post. With an upcoming significant birthday I had decided to treat myself to my first Rolex. After plenty of window shopping and trying on watches I decided to go for an Explorer ii, polar face. The next question was then whether to buy the now old 40mm model or wait for the new 42mm model.

I then found a nearly new 40mm model for what I felt was a good discount, and repeating the mantra 'you only live once' took the plunge and bought it - hoping that once I clapped eyes on the new model I didn't suddenly regret my purchase.

Fast forward a few weeks and, over lunch today I took a walk down to one of my local AD's and there sat in the window was a new polar faced 42mm model which I obviously had to try on. To my disappointment (quickly followed by relief!) it just didn't feel right! I couldn't really put my finger on why - I genuinely thought the larger size, updated bracelet / clasp and orange gmt hand would give me a dilemma but ultimately I came away feeling very pleased that I'd picked up the 40mm when I did.

This has now got me to thinking, whilst I totally appreciate and respect that at the end of the day it's each to their own, in my newbie status in the world of Rolex I can't wondering if I'm missing something, particularly given the number of posts saying what a improvement new is over old?

[p_mcgee]

There have been many threads posted by members of this forum who prefer the older, classic designs of the sub, gmt & explorer to the updated versions. I like both the new & the old, so I kept by GMT 16710 and added a sub-c. The older GMT (and Exp II I assume) is lighter & way more comfortable, but the sub-c is a truly striking timepiece.

Can't wait to try on the white Exp II at some point, but I plan to wait a year in hope that the LNIB price comes down.

[Art 1]

IMO the ex2 42 is a big improvement over the old style, but I still like the old style. Personally, I would rather have the new style, but there is nothing wrong with you or anyone else buying the old style if that's what you prefer.

[spuds]

Welcome to the forum Richard & congrat's on your new watch.

You hit the nail bang on the head with "each to their own" mate but I've had both the old & new Explorer II's & personally I much prefer the newer 42mm watch.

My old Explorer II was my first ever Rolex & I loved that watch to bits but the clasp p*ssed me off every time I put the watch on to be honest....

& then once I bought the GMTc & the cSub' the older model felt small & lacking in 'heft' so the new 216570 is my personal 'Ultimate watch'.....


It's totally down to personal preference though & there's no right or wrong answer in my opinion.


Enjoy your watch & the forum mate....

[Hammer]

There's a Rolex for everyone, and there's nothing wrong with prefering the model you have. I think your Explorer II is a little more understated than the newer model, which is why I like it. Alot on here will tell you it flys under the radar. The 'stealth' Rolex, so to speak. That's certainly the appeal to me.

[Actsulb]

IMO the Exp. II (16570) 40mm is a great watch and I am currently in the market for one.

I too have tried on both and for my wrist size and personal preference I choose the 16570 model. The new Exp. II is a great watch with new styling and movement but I just didn't feel the "love" when I put it on. After having tried on the new Exp. II I am even more certain that the 16570 is the right one for me.

The great thing about this forum is that we (TRF members) support each other no matter what our personal preferences are in the different model(s) of Rolex(es) we choose/admire. We all share the same passion for Rolexes!

Welcome to TRF and Congrats on your new Exp. II.

[Grumpy Badger]

I'm Old-Skool to the bone so I'm with you on the older model being "better" (Just IMHO, I hasten to add!)

With watches like the Sub and the Expy II I think the "improvements" detract from the tool heritage of the watches. For most people that isn't a problem since their watches will lead a pampered life but I want to know I can knock hell out of my watch. To me the old models are better suited to that kind of lifestyle.

[Langleyz]

Hi - glad you're able to stick to your purchase.

I prefer my old GMTII over the new ones. And I definitely prefer the older model Subs over the new ceramic ones. All just personal taste.

Welcome to TRF.

[paddy_crow]

You're not missing anything. The new supersized watches leave me cold.

[Singslinger]

Different strokes for different folks. On paper and going purely by materials used and construction, the new Exp II is supposed to represent an improvement over the old.

But the old was a fine watch to begin with, and had a slightly different appearance which many prefer.

Congrats on your first Rolex and enjoy!

[Mickey®]

Originally Posted by paddy_crow

You're not missing anything. The new supersized watches leave me cold.

[azguy]

Originally Posted by Mickey®

Here's one more to that It's like the newer watches are trying to hard. I love my black dial explorer II, it's very stealthy and I like that some days

[Timber Loftis]

I got a chance to try on the new Expy II tonight -- white dial. I liked it very much, but was not awestruck. I hate to say it, but my opinion may have been influenced by a statement from my wife upon viewing the watch online: "I don't like the circle, square, triangle I'm-learning-my shapes type watch." I LOL'ed at that statement, but it kinda stuck, even as I pointed out to her that my beloved GMTIIc is exactly that kind of watch.

Anyway, the watch didn't strike me as much as I'd thought it would. So I brought home a SS DJII instead. Hehe.

[George Ab]

Welcome to TRF!

With a first post like that, you will be an excellent member. Exceptionally thoughtful.

The 16570 for comfort is tip top. I have not been able to warm up to the maxi style cases and had high hopes for the 216570 as with the larger diameter the thicker lugs seem more proportioned. That said, difficult for me to have a balanced opinion if I haven't had it on my wrist.

[Richjm]

Thanks for all your replies, good to see a healthy variety of opinion on the new vs old debate.

I'm certainly reassured that I'm by no means an exception in my choice and will continue to enjoy wearing my new watch.

.......now to start saving for the next one!

[rms]

Originally Posted by Richjm

I can't wondering if I'm missing something, particularly given the number of posts saying what a improvement new is over old?

You didn't miss a thing!

[Rolexis]

Originally Posted by Richjm

Evening all. As a relatively new member and first time poster I'd just like to start by saying what a useful and informative resource this forum is. Over the months I've [hopefully] learnt a few things thanks to some obviously very knowledgable forum members.

Anyway, to my post. With an upcoming significant birthday I had decided to treat myself to my first Rolex. After plenty of window shopping and trying on watches I decided to go for an Explorer ii, polar face. The next question was then whether to buy the now old 40mm model or wait for the new 42mm model.

I then found a nearly new 40mm model for what I felt was a good discount, and repeating the mantra 'you only live once' took the plunge and bought it - hoping that once I clapped eyes on the new model I didn't suddenly regret my purchase.

Fast forward a few weeks and, over lunch today I took a walk down to one of my local AD's and there sat in the window was a new polar faced 42mm model which I obviously had to try on. To my disappointment (quickly followed by relief!) it just didn't feel right! I couldn't really put my finger on why - I genuinely thought the larger size, updated bracelet / clasp and orange gmt hand would give me a dilemma but ultimately I came away feeling very pleased that I'd picked up the 40mm when I did.

This has now got me to thinking, whilst I totally appreciate and respect that at the end of the day it's each to their own, in my newbie status in the world of Rolex I can't wondering if I'm missing something, particularly given the number of posts saying what a improvement new is over old?

I have owned an old Exp II it was like an N serial 91 or so. I liked the watch. I currently own a 16713 very similar now the new GMT with the big crown dont like it. The 42 mm Exp havent seen dont sound good. I wish Rolex just put the orange habd on the 40mm case what are they doing these monster watches look like something else not rolex. The deep sea looks awful with all that writing q
around the bezel. It looks like its made to keep the diver at the bottom of the sea like a anchor on ur wrist.

[brkanand]

Welcome to TRF.

[gaopa]

I am fortunate to have the classic EXP II and enjoy it. I like the 40mm size, the hands and the green lume. I have not warmed up to the hands on the new one and the blue lume is a turn off for me. Cheers, Bill P.

[Art 1]

I agree about the green lume. I really don't like the blue.

[FremStar]

Welcome to the jungle Richard. I am not surprised folks are not fond on the 216570 what I am reading today echo's sentiments from my dad many years ago when folks hated the 1655... I wonder how many of the very same folks here who loathe the 216570 will sit back 10-15 years from now and think damn the 216570 wasn't a bad timepiece at all... No matter what you choose you can't go wrong... Here are two pics for you... I believe Langleyz (Ben) said it best buy a Sub and you will be popular!

[Tomi55]

Love mine so much that I want to get a white one too

[capote]

The old Explorer II is my choice as well, the new one is cartoonish IMO.

[tekno]

Is it more Bugs Bunny or Mickey Mouse to you?

[Linzjnr]

Welcome to TRF and congratulations on your watch, it's an iconic and classic timepiece

I'm on the fence, I love price of the old 40mm at the moment and think that it is a (relative) bargain at around the $3.5k to $4k mark but I do love the fit of the 42mm on my wrist but just choke a little on the price brand new. I think to myself I could get a second hand Exp11 and Milguass for similar money...hmmm but then that's me after spending WAY too much time on TRF!

Enjoy and again welcome

[Pete17]

I'm a vintage guy at heart and have had numerous vintage Rolex sports models over the years. I bought the new white ExpII and it is by far and away the best EXPII to date. Latest technology, useful size, extremely easy to read in all conditions and built like a tank, yet wearable. Even has the retro orange hand to satisfy the vintage crowd.....and it's a true adjustable GMT hand.
Superb watch.



Sent from my Droid

[Andad]

I was at my AD today and tried on the 41mm Explorer with white dia. - very, very nice.
The bracelet upgrade is excellent and the dial is amazing. For a Rolex of that size it should have a triplok.
Might have it for Xmas.

[Zed82]

I have tried on the new Exp II and I couldn´t agree more.

I was totally indifferent to it. It was heavy, shiny and bulky on the wrist. It looked huge and nothing like a toolwatch. More like a fashion accessorie.

[jezza17]

Great post Richard and welcome. I am still to view in real life a new exp 42, so my decision is pending, however you cant go wrong with the 40mm version. Gotta love all the explorers.....!

[capote]

Originally Posted by tekno

Is it more Bugs Bunny or Mickey Mouse to you?

What I meant is that the new one has exaggerated features such as large case, maxi-dial and very thick hands. This gives the watch a look that is cartoonish. But like they say: to each their own.