Rolex Collection
Explorer II
Built for explorers who venture beyond daylight.
The watch that conquered the poles — and every boardroom since.
Why It Endures
Built for Extremes,
Worn Everywhere
Born in 1971 for cave explorers and polar scientists who needed to distinguish day from night underground, the Explorer II was never meant for boardrooms. Yet here it is, on the wrists of collectors, executives, and anyone who values function that doesn't compromise on form.
While other watches chased trends, Rolex kept the Explorer II honest. The 42mm case. The fixed 24-hour bezel. The orange hand. Unchanged in purpose for over 50 years. That's not stubbornness, that's conviction. And conviction is what makes a watch worth owning.
Ref. 226570
Explorer II at a Glance
Everything you need to know about the current Explorer II — specs, history, and value.
Case
42mm Oystersteel
Oyster case in 904L stainless steel. Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. Water resistant to 100m.
Movement
Cal. 3285
Perpetual, self-winding mechanical. 72-hour power reserve. Chronergy escapement. COSC-certified superlative chronometer (±2 sec/day).
Bezel
Fixed 24-Hour
Fixed steel bezel with 24-hour engraved graduation. Enables day/night distinction — the defining feature of the Explorer II.
Dial Options
Black or White
Two options: classic black dial or the cleaner "Polar" white dial. Both feature the iconic orange 24-hour hand and luminous hour markers.
Bracelet
Oyster Bracelet
Three-piece links in Oystersteel with Oysterlock safety clasp and Easylink 5mm comfort extension system.
Retail Price
$10,550 USD
Current Rolex authorized dealer list price. Grey market typically trades at 10–20% below retail depending on availability.
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