Paging O-T Watch Snobs: Which Explorer II?

I much prefer the case size of the 16750. The modern versions are even larger than the subs and are just too much for me. I am currently wearing a Explorer 1 (36mm), which I admittedly thought was too small - now I love it.

How about the GMT Master II? The 116710 is slick. The ceramic bezel of the GMT looks better I think.

I love that.

However I think I’ve settled on the Tudor BB58 for next black face watch I get.

Plus, I already own 4 black dial watches. I want something different.

The 42 case unless you are a little guy

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How much? which one has all the boxes+ paperwork ?

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You’re looking about $6k for great condition 16750 OR $9k for the 216570 NIB.

I've owned the 16750 and sold it, couldn't get past a non rotating bezel. Both look awesome imo tho.

GMT master or stainless Daytona over the explorer

not a fan of rolex.

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Explorer 1 (36mm),

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This is the one i'd prefer. I'm not a fan of the numbered gaudy bezel nor of the 40+mm cases and my wrists are robust.

Buy what you like and what fits your wrist the best, everything else is just details.

I personally prefer the 216570 but I generally prefer 6 digit Rolexes to 5 digit ones.

The Maxi case and handset are chunkier and gives the 216570 more wrist presence but isn't as comfortable for some people. If you like torch-like lume the 216570 is better in that department as well. The orange accents on the 216570 is endearing to some but it makes the watch more toolish and less refined. I think it looks great on the Polar version which I have.

The 216570 has a much better bracelet which is true for al the 6 digit Rolexes and has the Easylink for a quick extra 5mm of length when the bracelet is feeling tight.

The movement is functionally the same if comparing a newer 16570 to a 216570. The caliber 3187 is larger than the 3186 to fit into the larger 216570 case (Rolex doesn't use movement spacers) but aside from that they are essentially the same. That said a new 216570 will meet the new Rolex in-house chronometer standards and be regulated to -2/+2 and come with a 5 year warranty.

One good thing is the Explorer II is not one of the very hot steel models at present so they are available at near retail. Either reference is a great watch but especially if you have more than the one watch in rotation I like the pop that the larger Polar has. There is no bad choice here.