The Rolex Explorer II. The name itself evokes images of intrepid explorers pushing the limits of human endurance in the harshest environments on Earth. Since its inception, this robust and reliable timepiece has served as a steadfast companion for those venturing into the unknown, a testament to Rolex's commitment to crafting instruments of unparalleled precision and durability. Legible and durable, the Explorer and Explorer II watches are designed to accompany those who push back the boundaries of human knowledge. Since the 1930s, Rolex has been able to test and refine its designs in the crucible of real-world exploration, constantly improving upon its already impressive legacy. This article will delve into the fascinating history, evolving designs, current market value, and technical specifications of the Rolex Explorer II, providing a comprehensive guide for both seasoned collectors and aspiring adventurers.
A Legacy Forged in Exploration:
The story of the Rolex Explorer II begins, like many of Rolex's iconic models, with a deep connection to the world of exploration. While the original Explorer, released in 1953, was designed for expeditions to Everest, its functionality was somewhat limited in extreme conditions requiring extended periods of darkness and light. This limitation spurred Rolex to develop a watch specifically suited for spelunking and other activities involving extended periods in caves and other low-light environments – the Explorer II.
The first generation Explorer II, released in 1971, marked a significant departure from its predecessor. The most striking feature was the addition of a second, independently adjustable 24-hour hand, a crucial element for differentiating between day and night in challenging conditions, especially underground where the sun's position is irrelevant. This feature is a defining characteristic of the Explorer II, setting it apart from the rest of the Rolex lineup and solidifying its identity as a tool watch for extreme exploration.
Rolex Explorer II Release Date and Model Evolution:
The original 1971 release of the Explorer II (reference 1655) featured a distinctive orange 24-hour hand, an acrylic crystal, and a matte black dial. Over the years, Rolex has refined and updated the Explorer II, releasing several iterations, each with its own subtle yet significant differences.
* Reference 1655 (1971-1985): This inaugural model, with its distinctive "tropical" dial variations (where the dial fades over time), is highly sought after by collectors today. Its unique features include the aforementioned orange 24-hour hand and the acrylic crystal, giving it a distinctly vintage aesthetic.
* Reference 16550 (1985-1989): This reference introduced a sapphire crystal, offering increased scratch resistance compared to the acrylic crystal of its predecessor. The orange hand remained, but the overall design was subtly refined.
* Reference 16570 (1989-2011): This is arguably the most popular generation of the Explorer II. It featured a larger 40mm case, a more robust construction, and a luminescent dial and hands enhanced by tritium or later, LumiNova. The orange 24-hour hand remained a key feature. This model saw various dial variations, including black and white.
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