Can't decide between Explorer 2 and GMT 2!

[mwag]

Hi everyone,

I currently own a 16610 and I was thinking of picking up another Rolex for 2010.
I popped down to our local AD and tried on a white face Explorer 2 and the new GMT2.

I want to get both but as a poor college student, that is out of the question. So with saving the whole 2010, I hope I can get either by Christmas next year.

Anyway, am I correct in saying that the GMT 2 has more features than the Explorer 2? Rotating Bezel, Maxi Dial etc.. Yet, the Explorer 2 really pulls me since it is such a contrast to my Submariner and it looks amazing as well. I like the GMT2 but it reminds me of my Sub too much and I am afraid I will feel like I am simply wearing the same watch.

Would really love to hear opinions on people who own both of these.

[snowbird]

I don't own either one but since you mentioned you're saving up, you'd be able to get the Exp II sooner as it has a US MSRP of $5925 vs. $7000 for the GMT II. That's one factor to consider anyway.

[TimeOnHand]

The Explorer 2 is a great watch!

[datejust1]

I'd go GMT-IIC Just my

[Speed]

So you must be referencing the White Dial Expy II?

There are some on this forum for sale for $3500-4000 pre owned.

[sakuraba]

A white Explorer 2 would be the "polar" opposite to your Sub.

[TurboWatch]

The ceramic bezel, the green hand, the maxi dial, and the PCL are enough for people to distinguish it from your 16610 sub.

[Speed]

Originally Posted by TurboWatch

The ceramic bezel, the green hand, the maxi dial, and the PCL are enough for people to distinguish it from your 16610 sub.

Only a WIS would notice that...but you are not looking to buy a watch for others to notice, right???

[AIKO]

Get the EXP II. It will compliment your Sub much better.

[Leasky]

Yes, agreed; go for the White ExpII.

I understand what your saying about the new GMTIIc looking very similar to your current Sub.

However, the resale value of the GMTIIc will remain much higher compared to the ExpII.

As has been said already; go for a nice used ExpII from TRF.

Good luck with your choice.

Colin.

[rmcarlton]

Exp II is a better choice considering you have a Sub. Either way, choose what you love and enjoy!!

[JimC]

I was faced with a similar choice... The Sub was my first, but I really like the GMT-II Pepsi/Coke. But the white dial really pulled me and it was my third. As above, it provides a nice contrast to the black dial watches, and it still "different" with the fourth hand.

But the choice is yours. When you decide, show us your new addition. I'm sure you will make the right choice for you.

[mwag]

Thanks, I have decided to go forward with a white Explorer 2.

Since I have a lot of dark faced watches, I imagine a fresh white would be a good change of pace.

Looking more closely as well, not really a fan of the maxi dial so I think the Exp 2 is my target for the year :)

Feel free to keep discussing and pictures are very much encouraged lol.

Thanks

[Deyn Man]

Originally Posted by masugu

Only a WIS would notice that...but you are not looking to buy a watch for others to notice, right???

x 2

i own neither watch (sub, gmt, exp) but i get what you mean...

both are excellent watches! here are my thoughts though... if you think you'd be flipping your watches one day, then the GMTIIC would be a better investment than the ExpII. in terms of features, yup, the GMTIIC outscores the ExpII too - ceramic rotating bezel, new bracelet and clasp, etc. however, it does come with a price (more than 1k USD i think). the EXP II might be more comfortable since it sits closer to the wrist, it being shorter than the GMTIIC (i'm not really sure on this one ... i own neither and really don't have a 1st hand experience on this). lastly, on the looks department, then this becomes very subjective.

choose wisely buddy. and get the watch that YOU want!

[Singslinger]

Most people would probably pick the GMTIIc over the Exp II because of the various upgrades - (rotatable) ceramic bezel, green 24hr hand, updated movement, polished centre links (PCLs), better clasp. But it does cost more so that may be a factor for you.

Two friends who own the GMTIIc have a minor gripe with the GMT's PCLs, namely, that they scratch easily. I think its bezel is a bit too busy (numbers are a tad large) while others on TRF have mentioned that the bezel turns in bigger increments than they would like, or as compared to the previous GMTII.

My main gripe with the Exp II (it's one that applies to the Subs, YMs and SDs as well) is the flimsy clasp. It does however, offer you the option of a dial change if you grow tired with the colour you start off with. (Not sure how much this costs though but it can be done by Rolex when servicing).

So there you go - each has good and bad features. Best to wear them on your wrist and see which one appeals more. Good luck!

[Gerardus]

Take the EX2.

[jmsrolls]

I love my EXPII and the fact that it can easily be found at a substantial discount is another plus. I bought mine before the "crash" for 20% off and deals are probably better now.

I only need to track two time zones and a rotatable bezel is just something else to break. I also did not want a watch that screams "ROLEX" as in some areas of the world, that can be dangerous.

The EXPII is well balanced and very comfortable to wear either casually with jeans or more formally with a suit.

A good choice for sure.

Fr. John†

[WatchTimes]

Id go with the White Exp II I own one and LOVE IT!

Great watch! I own 21 watches, 7 are Rolex and I wear my Exp II
more than anything.... It is my watch I wear without worry as it can
take anything I can give it.

Also it will be redesigned into the Supercase within the next couple years.

[Kapture1]

Originally Posted by snowbird

I don't own either one but since you mentioned you're saving up, you'd be able to get the Exp II sooner as it has a US MSRP of $5925 vs. $7000 for the GMT II. That's one factor to consider anyway.

I would say the GMT is worth the extra grand

[Tools]

The White Exp II is a great choice.......

Much better for the active adventurer..

[tkc324]

In your case... i would go with Exp2.
yes, i do find GMT2 and Sub look very similar.

[Roselló]

I will say Explorer II white dial since you have the Sub.

[Salmosalar]

Originally Posted by jmsrolls

I love my EXPII and the fact that it can easily be found at a substantial discount is another plus. I bought mine before the "crash" for 20% off and deals are probably better now.

I only need to track two time zones and a rotatable bezel is just something else to break. I also did not want a watch that screams "ROLEX" as in some areas of the world, that can be dangerous.

The EXPII is well balanced and very comfortable to wear either casually with jeans or more formally with a suit.

A good choice for sure.

Fr. John†

As usual Fr. John hits the nail on the head.

[DSJ]

Get a used white Expy2!

Used Expy2's are the best value in the Rolex Sport line!