White Exp II vs GMT IIC?

[Downing]

Alright, folks. I need some help here.

I've narrowed down my next watch to one of these two. I'm looking for a tool watch that is reasonably different from my Sea-Dweller and both of these fit the bill.

I'm attracted to the Exp II for its white dial and brushed links.

I'm attracted to the GMT IIC for its ceramic bezel, heavier bracelet and better clasp. I might even go with TT to avoid scratching the center polished links, but in any case I won't go so far as to have the polished links brushed (sorry, Chad, I just can't do that).

The color of the 24-hour arrow makes no difference to me, both red and green are fine.

What I'd really like is a combo: white dial GMT IIC with brushed links. That would be the perfect combination of color, material, weight and clasp. Alas, the Rolex Gods have yet to smile on this one.

What to do, what to do,

Any and all input is appreciated.

[Altair]

The GMT II is an AWESOME watch!! A true classic!!! Cant go wrong.

[Robb]

The GMT is great!!! I like a heavy watch and found the Exp to be too light for me.. JMO!!

The Exp II is a fantastic watch but after wearing the GMT-c,the Exp just felt light and small!

But with that being said, if you have tried it on and it does not bother you then the White dial Exp would be a great and completely different watch!

[904L_addict]

I was going the white Exploder II route initially as well, but I find the turning bezel really handy, especially a high tech ceramic one.

Black surrounds on indices and hands are also very unusual and interesting.

Either would be a winner in this noob's opinion.

[leopardprey]

I have both.

I like the smaller style (39mm) of the Explorer II a little better and it also fits a little slimmer and is lighter weight. In many ways, I also prefer the fixed SS Bezel.

The GMT II -C though has much better lumination.

The Minute hand on the White Explorer II is very difficult to see in low light.

THe GMT II - C, is thicker, and heavier, and also due to the flatter case back sits much flatter and closer on the wrist. I have noticed that my wrist sweats/smells more with the GMT II-C due to this fact than with both of my Explorer IIs.

The White Face Explorer II, due to the white face, also showd fingerprints and smudges less.

I know you said you would not do it, but it sounds like the only thing that turns you off of the GMT II -C is the polished center links. So just get them brushed out, easy fix.

Another thing to consider is you can get a pretty good used White Explorer II for around $3000 - $3500. You can then if you like have the RSC do a complete service/overhual for around $500. So you will end up even with an overhual, of still paying $2000 or more less for an Explorer II than you would a new GMT II -C.

Now if I was forced to sell one, it would be a hard choice. But I would probably keep the GMT II - C due mainly to the larger hands and much much better visibility of the dial to tell the time and also the much better lumination.

[Tools]

If you're trying to move away from the SD, then go further than the black bezel, black face watches..

The White EXP II is the only logical choice... and it's got four hands too...

[ohsixx]

[mike]

Originally Posted by Downing

What I'd really like is a combo: white dial GMT IIC with brushed links. That would be the perfect combination of color, material, weight and clasp. Alas, the Rolex Gods have yet to smile on this one.

What to do, what to do,

Any and all input is appreciated.

Might be worth waiting a bit.

Who knows what changes are in store for the EXP II.

[leopardprey]

Downing, here are two other options for you to consider, though not Rolex:


Omega Seamaster Professional GMT, with White Dial. You can still find some new ones for sale or buy a used one.

Kobold watches. They also have some white dialed models. They will customize their watches to your liking as well.

Also, both of the above have domed anti-reflective crystals and also very solid movements.

Might be worth considering, since you already have one Rolex, to look at another brand for your Backup/second watch.

[Downing]

Great ideas, folks. Thanks for the input and keep it coming.

You're giving me a lot to think about.

[Blue Bull]

Neither.

You have a SD,go for something nice,as a second Rolex.My suggestions :

In white metal ..... The SS/Plat YM
In TT ................. The TT Sub,blue or black.

I dont know why but the thought of a ss Daytona,just came up .................................................. .............

[colemanitis]

The EXP is going to be a much thinner/smaller watch than the new GMT. Are you wanting a smaller watch, or are you wanting something with a bit more bulk? I'd go for the GMT, but the decision's up to you.

[SLR]

That's a tough choice. I'd agree with Mike and possibly wait a bit, seems like the EXPII is due for an update. I do think it's a beautiful watch though. It's very understated, but when you look closely, the concentric striation on the bezel is very elegant.

But if I had to choose between the two right now, I'd go with the GMT IIc. Despite my misgivings about the larger case on the new GMT IIc's, it just "feels" like a higher quality watch. I think it's the weight of the bracelet that does it for me.

Just my opinion.

[Moose]

Go for broke and get a SS white face Daytona. You get the heft, looks, contrast to the black face sub, easy to read hands, classic watch that will hold its value. Now, if only I could find one

But, if the choice is between the Exp II and the GMT, I would have to lean toward the GMT.

[f16570]

The white face is so un Rolex thats what makes it unique amongst Rolex. JMO.

f

[JJ Irani]

If you want the nice, refreshing look of a white dial, the white Expy would make a fine addition to your collection.

Otherwise, I would recommend the new GMT-IIC.

Good luck in your final decision - JJ

[Gaijin]

Originally Posted by Downing

Great ideas, folks. Thanks for the input and keep it coming.

You're giving me a lot to think about.

Think about this. Get them both.

That way I get to go to the AD with you twice meaning I get free Glenmorangie Scotch twice.

Its an easy decision. Ponder no more my friend.

[Chris B]

What a tough decision, glad I don't have to make it.

I suppose to move further away from the SD the white dial Explorer would be an ideal choice, but man that GMTc is so cool.

I'd probably toss a coin while in the store & stick with the result

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Originally Posted by Downing

.....I'm attracted to the GMT IIC for its ceramic bezel, heavier bracelet and better clasp. I might even go with TT to avoid scratching the center polished links.....

Downing, I don't get that reasoning

You might even go TT to AVOID scratching the centre polished links??

Even though Eddie "Directioneng" (rightly!) states that 18 kt gold is STRONGER than for example 14 kt and 9 kt gold (see this link: "Hardness of gold". CLICK!), still gold would be SOFTER than steel.

Anyway, for what it's worth, I for my part would choose the GMT IIc simply because you get MUCH more "watch" for the money (updated bracelet, Parachrom Bleu hairspring and AR coated cyclops lense), but also because you are used to wearing an SD, and the GMT IIc is (almost) as big as the SD.

Just my 2 cents!

[Gaijin]

Again. Get them both. You know I would.


I am thirsty.

[Downing]

Originally Posted by Spacedweller

Downing, I don't get that reasoning

You might even go TT to AVOID scratching the centre polished links??

Even though Eddie "Directioneng" (rightly!) states that 18 kt gold is STRONGER than for example 14 kt and 9 kt gold (see this link: "Hardness of gold". CLICK!), still gold would be SOFTER than steel.

Anyway, for what it's worth, I for my part would choose the GMT IIc simply because you get MUCH more "watch" for the money (updated bracelet, Parachrom Bleu hairspring and AR coated cyclops lense), but also because you are used to wearing an SD, and the GMT IIc is (almost) as big as the SD.

Just my 2 cents!

Bo, I'm thinking that if I have to put up with scratches in the center links, I might as well do it with gold rather than stainless steel. Plus, if I get the GMT IIC I could bling it up a little with TT to further distinguish it from my SD.

I may just wait a while to see if there are any changes in store for the Explorer. I'd hate to get it only to have Rolex turn around and upgrade the bezel and the bracelet shortly thereafter. Of course, this is just the chance we take when we buy our watches. And the longer I wait but then buy the Exp II as is, the more likely it is that a change will occur even sooner after I bought it, if that makes any sense.

So I think the longer I wait the more likely it is I'll buy the GMT.

Of course, this would mean no Scotch for Tom for a while. Sorry, buddy.

Again, thanks for everyone's input. Much appreciated.

[Gaijin]

Originally Posted by Downing

Bo, I'm thinking that if I have to put up with scratches in the center links, I might as well do it with gold rather than stainless steel. Plus, if I get the GMT IIC I could bling it up a little with TT to further distinguish it from my SD.

I may just wait a while to see if there are any changes in store for the Explorer. I'd hate to get it only to have Rolex turn around and upgrade the bezel and the bracelet shortly thereafter. Of course, this is just the chance we take when we buy our watches. And the longer I wait but then buy the Exp II as is, the more likely it is that a change will occur even sooner after I bought it, if that makes any sense.

So I think the longer I wait the more likely it is I'll buy the GMT.

Of course, this would mean no Scotch for Tom for a while. Sorry, buddy.

Again, thanks for everyone's input. Much appreciated.

Dammit.

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Dammit!

If I didn't live so far from you two, I'd get right over and join you drinking that Scotch! (YES, in those BIG glasses you see right there ).

[Tag.K]

You can’t go wrong with either one. I find that I wear my Explorer II more than any other watch in my collection. I just really like that it’s so simplistic, yet elegant….
However, buy what makes you feel good. Explorer II may not be the watch for you…..
Good Luck….

Tag.K

[Gaijin]

Get the Explorer II. Its my favorite and everyday Rolex.


and let me go with you when you get it!

[leopardprey]

If you get an Explorer II, you will find yourself soon flipping the Seadweller. As you will get use tot he comfort level of wearing an Explorer II. !!!

[Downing]

Flip the SD? Not as long as I'm still diving. Every time I got underwater, I'd feel guilty.

Just found out my AD's offering one of those no-interest/no payments for a year promotions.

Must resist the...the...the...argh!

Me--->:<---AD

Me ---><---AD

AD---><---Me

Shew, that was close!

[Gaijin]

Hahaha! Nice one Downing. Your defenses are wearing down...

[mike]

Originally Posted by Tag.K

You can’t go wrong with either one. I find that I wear my Explorer II more than any other watch in my collection. I just really like that it’s so simplistic, yet elegant….
However, buy what makes you feel good. Explorer II may not be the watch for you…..
Good Luck….

Tag.K

Great photos!!

[Hannibal]

To me there's no question, the new GMT offers to many improvements.
Even if the explorer is very nice and is a kind of UFO in the Rolex production especially with the white dial.