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Mirx · 22 January 2009, 05:48 AM

... I was hoping for a little assistance.

I have had my Explorer II Black M for just over a week now and am absolutely delighted with the watch. It is all I was expecting it to be.

I spent some time over the last couple of days reading some past threads about this beautiful and just as understated Rolex specimen and have to agree with several things mentioned.
It is indeed, a very comfortable watch. So much so, I am barely aware I wear it. It is light, thin, elegant, complementing a suit just as well as jeans. Irresistibly charming in the simplicity of its design and perhaps the most unique professional Rolex. It is a real pleasure to own this watch!

So, as you can gather, a very happy Rolex owner wondering about one particular part of the watch - the brushed BEZEL.

Some call it a scratch magnet whilst others disagree. I understand that with everyday wear the scratches are inevitable and that's fine. Could the current owners, or perhaps the once that owed this watch ones, let me know the following:

1. Can the brushed surface on the bezel be polished once scratched with perhaps a tool, without having to send the watch off or take it to the watchmaker?

2. Can RSC re-apply the black ink inside the bezel numbers if/when they fade away or break off during the service?

3. Is it just simpler to get a new bezel when servicing every 5 years or so?

4. Any pictures of your Expy II's with info how long you've had it to give me some insight of the bezel wear over time?

Thanks in advance

Timber Loftis · 22 January 2009, 05:52 AM

Yes the surface can be polished. Your standard 3M cloth can be used, but it's a small area so I would take it to a watchmaker personally. The bigger magnet is the crystal -- it's a huge chip-magnet because it sticks up from the bezel pretty high. I've gotten 2 chips on mine just from knocking it against sharp objects I was walking past.

allmatch · 22 January 2009, 06:38 AM

I was having many thoughts when I bought my Explorer II last summer just like you, but don't worry.
I just took my black Exp2 out of the stand this evening and took a photo to you.

She's been with me travelling around the world, in the pool, in the sea, playing games, cycling and lots of more.
Just enjoy your new awesome Rolex watch, made to wear!

Psmith · 22 January 2009, 06:48 AM

Congrats and enjoy your new watch

No scratch/wear problems with my old one (white)... only had the new one (black) for a couple of months so far...

Cheers

Mirx · 22 January 2009, 06:49 AM

Thanks Morten for your speedy reply and an amazing photograph - my new Desktop item!

Spark · 22 January 2009, 06:50 AM

Hi,
The Bezel does mark quite easily as the graining is quite light, but only when it comes into contact with something as equally hard.
It is also very difficult to re-brush it to match the original grain.
I have tried many times to re-brush an Explorer II bezel scratch, but I couldn't get it to match up to the rest of the bezels original Rolex finish.
If you brush the whole bezel it would probably match up better, but I have not tried that YET.
Rolex will only replace a bezel they will not repaint the numerals, but they do re-brush if it isn't too badly marked at service (had this done last year on an Explorer II).
Bezels are £67.50 plus VAT on top of a service at present (had one replaced last year on another).
To be honest though once you've got a couple of marks you tend to forget them.

CPTL · 22 January 2009, 06:51 AM

I've been wearing mine about 70% of the time for the last 10 months. I wear it mostly to work and evening/weekend leisure activities. It has certainly been in the ocean/pool/river a few times, and has been on dozens of jogs.

I'm looking at the bezel right now. With close inspection, I can identify 3 or 4 faint scratches. They are really not noticeable without close inspection and moving around to catch the light. The outward brush-marks on the bezel camouflage the scratches quite well, and show no signs of wearing off.

Don't have a camera handy, but it still looks brand new to me. The underside of the bracelet is in far worse shape than the bezel.

Tools · 22 January 2009, 06:52 AM

I don't agree that the EXP II bezel is a scratch magnet. It's fine radial lines tend to hide the inevitable scratches and dings unlike the polished bezels like the Daytona has..

Because the EXP II bezel is finished by turning it on a mandrel and then grinding the radial lines like spokes, it is difficult to get a good touch-up at home... You could easily cause it to look worse than the scratch left alone..

I don't think that Rolex refinishes the bezel on either the EXP II or the Daytona.... They just replace if it gets too bad or the customer requests..

Here is one of mine that is 4 years old, sees a lot of time on the trail and out in the shop. I have brushed the bracelet a couple of times (see our Reference Library under Amateur Watchmaker items). It has a couple of deep scratches in the bracelet that I won't brush out, a ding or two on the crown, and a couple of edge chips on the crystal (you need a loupe for those)
This picture was taken on January 11, 2009 after I washed and dried it.

f16570 · 22 January 2009, 06:58 AM

Welcome along, this is a great wathc that you own and a few scratches on the bezel are just character marks. This watch is made to be worn and will stand anything you decide to throw at it. No rotating bezel to worry about. Just wear and enjoy

Couple of character marks on my 3 year old

Chris B · 22 January 2009, 07:05 AM

I agree with all the above, had mine almost 2 years its worn in rotation & has no more scratches than any of the others.

Enjoy your watch, its a great choice & many congratulations

casadecamporolex · 22 January 2009, 07:13 AM

My Expy II is almost 10 years old and has been banged and bruised many times. You are just going through the typical "babying" period that all of us have experienced. Once it gets its first bump, you'll sigh a little and then move on.
Rolex will not re-apply the black into the numbers. They will only replace.

ECOMANX · 22 January 2009, 07:17 AM

I have always been a great fan of the Explorer2, it's slim & very functional & the black dial looks very smart.

Spark · 22 January 2009, 08:08 AM

It's great to see some Explorer II love again

allmatch · 22 January 2009, 08:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Spark

It's great to see some Explorer II love again

x2!

aleeboy · 22 January 2009, 10:53 AM

I've been wearing mine for many years and the bezel has the least number of scratches on it. I does have a few dings, but I consider myself lucky to not have chipped the crystal. I can live with a knocked up bezel but not the crystal. As many have mentioned, one forget about scratches quickly

emmagee · 22 January 2009, 12:37 PM

I wear mine regularly, it's a 1996 vintage, IIRC, and it has it's share of minor scratches, dings, etc, doesn't bother me one bit. Mine is a white dial, I keep thinking about finding a black one to go with it.

giminy123 · 22 January 2009, 12:55 PM

yes

DSJ · 22 January 2009, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by allmatch

I was having many thoughts when I bought my Explorer II last summer just like you, but don't worry.
I just took my black Exp2 out of the stand this evening and took a photo to you.

She's been with me travelling around the world, in the pool, in the sea, playing games, cycling and lots of more.
Just enjoy your new awesome Rolex watch, made to wear!

Magnificent photo!

xjeeunitx · 22 January 2009, 05:10 PM

Superb watch!

Dylan Wade · 22 January 2009, 05:38 PM

No issues with mine either, the EXP II is probabley the most robust watch in the Rolex line-up...........but then again it was designed for a bit of rough and tumble.

BTW - Great pictures in this thread Gent's probably the best black dial group I have yet to see.

Adam K. · 22 January 2009, 08:29 PM

There are few joys for the lover of the classic Rolex tool watch greater than seeing a well-worn Explorer II with character marks on its brushed stainless steel bezel---enjoy your great watch, and don't be afraid to let nature take its course as time gradually passes.

My latest daily Rolex is an Explorer II (which I gave up a GMT-IIC to get) and like you, feel this watch has a special, understated quality that is unique in the Professional lineup.

Its kind of interesting that you don't hear similar concerns voiced about the rotating bezels on such models as the GMT's, Subs, SD's etc....but over time, the polished "teeth" on the outside of the inserts can get quite scuffed and scratched. Yet, not many complain about this.

Bottom line, any well-used watch is gonna show marks in time. The first scratch is truly the hardest--after that, enjoy your watch gaining some character marks--it really is "Yours" after that!

22 January 2009, 05:48 AM	#1
Mirx "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: UK Watch: RLX Posts: 437	Explorer II owners ... ... I was hoping for a little assistance. I have had my Explorer II Black M for just over a week now and am absolutely delighted with the watch. It is all I was expecting it to be. I spent some time over the last couple of days reading some past threads about this beautiful and just as understated Rolex specimen and have to agree with several things mentioned. It is indeed, a very comfortable watch. So much so, I am barely aware I wear it. It is light, thin, elegant, complementing a suit just as well as jeans. Irresistibly charming in the simplicity of its design and perhaps the most unique professional Rolex. It is a real pleasure to own this watch! So, as you can gather, a very happy Rolex owner wondering about one particular part of the watch - the brushed BEZEL. Some call it a scratch magnet whilst others disagree. I understand that with everyday wear the scratches are inevitable and that's fine. Could the current owners, or perhaps the once that owed this watch ones, let me know the following: 1. Can the brushed surface on the bezel be polished once scratched with perhaps a tool, without having to send the watch off or take it to the watchmaker? 2. Can RSC re-apply the black ink inside the bezel numbers if/when they fade away or break off during the service? 3. Is it just simpler to get a new bezel when servicing every 5 years or so? 4. Any pictures of your Expy II's with info how long you've had it to give me some insight of the bezel wear over time? Thanks in advance

22 January 2009, 06:38 AM	#3
allmatch "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Real Name: Morten Location: Denmark Posts: 414	I was having many thoughts when I bought my Explorer II last summer just like you, but don't worry. I just took my black Exp2 out of the stand this evening and took a photo to you. She's been with me travelling around the world, in the pool, in the sea, playing games, cycling and lots of more. Just enjoy your new awesome Rolex watch, made to wear! __________________ Best regards, Morten

22 January 2009, 06:48 AM	#4
Psmith "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Clive Location: Exoplanet Watch: spring-driven Posts: 38,856	Congrats and enjoy your new watch No scratch/wear problems with my old one (white)... only had the new one (black) for a couple of months so far... Cheers Attached Images __________________

22 January 2009, 06:51 AM	#7
CPTL "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Real Name: Kevin Location: Texas on my mind Watch: Sub Date; SS/WG DJ Posts: 2,445	I've been wearing mine about 70% of the time for the last 10 months. I wear it mostly to work and evening/weekend leisure activities. It has certainly been in the ocean/pool/river a few times, and has been on dozens of jogs. I'm looking at the bezel right now. With close inspection, I can identify 3 or 4 faint scratches. They are really not noticeable without close inspection and moving around to catch the light. The outward brush-marks on the bezel camouflage the scratches quite well, and show no signs of wearing off. Don't have a camera handy, but it still looks brand new to me. The underside of the bracelet is in far worse shape than the bezel. __________________ 16610 Submariner Date; D Serial 16234 DateJust SS with WG Fluted Bezel & Jubillee, White Roman Dial; F Serial 16570 Explorer II White Dial; M Serial And Hers: 78240 Mid-Size DateJust SS with Domed Bezel & Oyster, White Roman; D Serial

22 January 2009, 06:52 AM	#8
Tools TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: May 2007 Real Name: Larry Location: Mojave Desert Watch: GMT's Posts: 43,514	I don't agree that the EXP II bezel is a scratch magnet. It's fine radial lines tend to hide the inevitable scratches and dings unlike the polished bezels like the Daytona has.. Because the EXP II bezel is finished by turning it on a mandrel and then grinding the radial lines like spokes, it is difficult to get a good touch-up at home... You could easily cause it to look worse than the scratch left alone.. I don't think that Rolex refinishes the bezel on either the EXP II or the Daytona.... They just replace if it gets too bad or the customer requests.. Here is one of mine that is 4 years old, sees a lot of time on the trail and out in the shop. I have brushed the bracelet a couple of times (see our Reference Library under Amateur Watchmaker items). It has a couple of deep scratches in the bracelet that I won't brush out, a ding or two on the crown, and a couple of edge chips on the crystal (you need a loupe for those) This picture was taken on January 11, 2009 after I washed and dried it. __________________ (Chill ... It's just a watch Forum.....) NAWCC Member

22 January 2009, 05:52 AM	#2
Timber Loftis "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Real Name: Jon Location: Chicago Watch: IIc,DJII,P244,A1-Z Posts: 2,857	Yes the surface can be polished. Your standard 3M cloth can be used, but it's a small area so I would take it to a watchmaker personally. The bigger magnet is the crystal -- it's a huge chip-magnet because it sticks up from the bezel pretty high. I've gotten 2 chips on mine just from knocking it against sharp objects I was walking past.

22 January 2009, 06:49 AM	#5
Mirx "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: UK Watch: RLX Posts: 437	Thanks Morten for your speedy reply and an amazing photograph - my new Desktop item!

22 January 2009, 06:50 AM	#6
Spark "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Real Name: Mark Location: U.K. Watch: Too Many Posts: 2,097	Hi, The Bezel does mark quite easily as the graining is quite light, but only when it comes into contact with something as equally hard. It is also very difficult to re-brush it to match the original grain. I have tried many times to re-brush an Explorer II bezel scratch, but I couldn't get it to match up to the rest of the bezels original Rolex finish. If you brush the whole bezel it would probably match up better, but I have not tried that YET. Rolex will only replace a bezel they will not repaint the numerals, but they do re-brush if it isn't too badly marked at service (had this done last year on an Explorer II). Bezels are £67.50 plus VAT on top of a service at present (had one replaced last year on another). To be honest though once you've got a couple of marks you tend to forget them.

22 January 2009, 06:58 AM	#9
f16570 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Real Name: F Location: Scotland Watch: Exp II White Face Posts: 4,272	Welcome along, this is a great wathc that you own and a few scratches on the bezel are just character marks. This watch is made to be worn and will stand anything you decide to throw at it. No rotating bezel to worry about. Just wear and enjoy Couple of character marks on my 3 year old Attached Images __________________ Why have what's new when you have what's best. f

22 January 2009, 07:05 AM	#10
Chris B "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Peterborough Posts: 9,631	I agree with all the above, had mine almost 2 years its worn in rotation & has no more scratches than any of the others. Enjoy your watch, its a great choice & many congratulations

22 January 2009, 07:13 AM	#11
casadecamporolex "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Real Name: Louie Location: CDC/FCGC Watch: 116619LB Posts: 1,328	My Expy II is almost 10 years old and has been banged and bruised many times. You are just going through the typical "babying" period that all of us have experienced. Once it gets its first bump, you'll sigh a little and then move on. Rolex will not re-apply the black into the numbers. They will only replace.

22 January 2009, 07:17 AM	#12
ECOMANX Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: North West UK Posts: 115	I have always been a great fan of the Explorer2, it's slim & very functional & the black dial looks very smart.

22 January 2009, 08:08 AM	#13
Spark "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Real Name: Mark Location: U.K. Watch: Too Many Posts: 2,097	It's great to see some Explorer II love again

22 January 2009, 10:53 AM	#15
aleeboy "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Russel Location: N/A Watch: N/A Posts: 755	I've been wearing mine for many years and the bezel has the least number of scratches on it. I does have a few dings, but I consider myself lucky to not have chipped the crystal. I can live with a knocked up bezel but not the crystal. As many have mentioned, one forget about scratches quickly

22 January 2009, 12:37 PM	#16
emmagee Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Texas Posts: 237	I wear mine regularly, it's a 1996 vintage, IIRC, and it has it's share of minor scratches, dings, etc, doesn't bother me one bit. Mine is a white dial, I keep thinking about finding a black one to go with it.

22 January 2009, 12:55 PM	#17
giminy123 Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 44	yes

22 January 2009, 05:10 PM	#19
xjeeunitx 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 5,529	Superb watch! __________________ *2 FACTOR AUTHENTICATION ENABLED.*

22 January 2009, 05:38 PM	#20
Dylan Wade Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: BC, Canada Watch: EXP II Posts: 545	No issues with mine either, the EXP II is probabley the most robust watch in the Rolex line-up...........but then again it was designed for a bit of rough and tumble. BTW - Great pictures in this thread Gent's probably the best black dial group I have yet to see.

22 January 2009, 08:29 PM	#21
Adam K. Banned Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: WA Watch: All the Oysters Posts: 811	There are few joys for the lover of the classic Rolex tool watch greater than seeing a well-worn Explorer II with character marks on its brushed stainless steel bezel---enjoy your great watch, and don't be afraid to let nature take its course as time gradually passes. My latest daily Rolex is an Explorer II (which I gave up a GMT-IIC to get) and like you, feel this watch has a special, understated quality that is unique in the Professional lineup. Its kind of interesting that you don't hear similar concerns voiced about the rotating bezels on such models as the GMT's, Subs, SD's etc....but over time, the polished "teeth" on the outside of the inserts can get quite scuffed and scratched. Yet, not many complain about this. Bottom line, any well-used watch is gonna show marks in time. The first scratch is truly the hardest--after that, enjoy your watch gaining some character marks--it really is "Yours" after that!

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