Rolex Explorer II

[ar.parask13]

Hello all,

I am a new forum member.
I love mechanical watches and especially chronographs so I have started a modest collection.
I currently own the following watches:

Omega speedmaster mark iV.5, ref. 176.0012
Omega speedmaster ref. 175.0043, dial ref. 3511.50
Tag Heuer 510.501/12
Tag Heuer Carrera Day Date 43mm (box & papers)
Seiko Ananta srq003j1 (box & papers)
Seiko 5 sports speed timer 6138
Raymond Weil Freelancer 2710-ST-2001(box & papers)

I must admit that I cherish them and enjoy them very much. However, pretty much every collector I have spoken to insists I should buy a rolex, even a simple one in order to appreciate the firm and feel the pleasure of owning one of them. I have decided to do so and I have to admit that I really like the Explorer II. Preferably I would like the 42 mm version but since the collecting community has been reverting back to smaller watches I decided that the white dial 16570 would be ideal. I currently have the opportunity to purchase one at avery reasonable price without box and papers. Even though the watch seems authentic I would like your input. I have my concerns regarding the clasp and I am not certain if it is correct to the reference and the period. Apparently it is an S serial number which places it roughly in 1993.
I am attaching pictures of the watch. Please let me know what you think and any input would be highly valued and appreciated.
Thank you.

[DocJekl]

I also have an S serial number Polar Explorer II from 1993, and yours looks legitimate - with same level of magnification in the cyclops over the date, and the same bracelet and clasp.

It's a great watch, and you should be able to get it for under $4K. A reasonable seller would allow you to confirm the movement is Rolex by taking off the back or taking it to a watchmaker. If the seller is a watchmaker or jeweler they should be able to certify it as genuine for you, if they are a reputable dealer that you trust.

The tritium lume is getting old on these, and my dial is not very bright at night. I have to let my eyes adjust to the dark and then put the watch about 4" from my good eye to read the time in the middle of the night. I'll probably let Rolex replace the dial and/or hands at the next service in 3 years, but it wont improve the value of the watch so it might not be worth doing that unless you plan to keep it forever (like me).

[Britexpat76]

Nice watch.


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[Matt748]

Welcome to the forum.
I have to be honest in my experience with Rolex. They are a very very well made brand and as soon as you have one in your hands you will feel and see the difference over a huge amount of other brands.
The quality of Rolex is second to none in my experience even though I don't currently own one I still appreciate them for what they are.
If the watch is good and it seems to be, go for it. You'll love having a Rolex in your collection and I am certain you'll wear more than others.