Rolex Explorer II or Tudor Black Bay 58?

[brand_c]

Exp II and then BB58! Prices are rising for the 16570, would suck to fork up more $$$ for a good example down the line. And go polar instead of black :)

[RichM]

I’d save up for a BNIB or lightly used this:

[Geelerald]

Explorer. Hands down. Love mine.

[coffeebreak]

I prefer the white 5-digit explorer II and would recommend it as a daily watch over the BB58. It is very comfortable on the wrist and I actually prefer the old lighter clasp. As a Rolex it flies under the radar, unlike subs and datejusts.
It’s durable, has a useful gmt hand, and has the true gmt movement where you can easily advance/reverse the hour hand when changing timezones.
I’m actually very much a Tudor fan, and I love the size and look of the BB58, but between these two watches I’d go with the explorer, hands down

[jonny deacon]

I'd go Explorer II over the BB58 any day -- I' m a fan of the polar 16570...had it, but sold it for the updated polar 216570, and haven't looked back --- best of luck with your decision

[Swaye]

You really can't go wrong either way. They are both great watches. Having just gotten my first Tudor, I am of the opinion that Tudors are best understood after having owned a Rolex or ten.

[nikesupremedunk]

Definitely Rolex for 3 reasons:
1. It’s a Rolex
2. You get the date function
3. You also get GMT function

As nice as the BB58 is, you can’t argue with the points above. The Rolex will also hold value better in the long run.

[Rogdogg]

I would definitely go with the Exp II 16570 over the BB58, however they are both lovely watches.

If you decide to the consider the 42mm ExpII 216570 as has been suggested please make sure you can try it on first because there will be a very big difference in size between that and the BB58.

[Chiefs]

[brucethemanlee]

Explorer 2


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[blackhawks-fan]

216570 without a doubt.

[damoore]

Great feedback. I have a 58 - love it. Also a few other 6 digit sport Rolexes.

I’ve been on hunt for a 16570 Polar with drilled lugs and SEL with B&P. My AD called yesterday and took one in on trade. Mint condition. These things are starting to increase in price also.

I’m running out there today to purchase. My vote would be purchase the 16570 and then pick up a 58. Both great watches.

Good luck!


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[coffeebreak]

Originally Posted by Swaye

I am of the opinion that Tudors are best understood after having owned a Rolex or ten.

This never occurred to me, but I think it’s very true

I actually came across a BB58 on fabric strap at Watches of Switzerland in The Wynn in Vegas a couple weeks ago. Tried it on and it really is a great size for a BB.


I did not pull the trigger and the BB58 was gone when I visited the store again a few days later. No regrets on my part as I prefer metal bracelets, and I really would not give up my explorer II for the BB58. By coincidence I also acquired some Crown & Buckle Chevron straps that weekend and one of them actually looked just like the fabric strap on that BB58. Here it is on my explorer-

[mschafer]

My personal view is to save up for there 6 digit Exp II. I just love the look with the orange hand. But most of all, get what you love. You'll wear it all the time and it should make you happy. Every Time. There might be regrets, but you're not speculating ( I know I do; a little). And as much as I like a Tudor, I think a retro new watch is just not "honest". So if its a current diver (Pelagos) then why not, or stick with a more historic piece, which in turn is not necessarily a daily driver, re.lume, reliability or even increased value.

[vin328i]

I’m still reading all of these feedback! This is great. Thanks for sharing your views and your pictures. Cheers!


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[KBM]

If you're dead set on getting your first Rolex - and no one here could blame you - go ahead with the explorer, it's a great piece. Your consideration of the black bay, however, suggests that you are after a solid piece which doesn't necessarily need to be a Rolex.

In that case, since budget is a factor and you are also considering a diver (bb 58), let me suggest you take a look at the new Omega seamaster diver 300. It's every bit as well finished as a modern Rolex, has an incredible movement (arguably more advanced than Rolex's 3135) and can be had brand new for less than 4k. If you like the looks of the watch, you'd be hard pressed to do better at that price range.

There is a great thread in the Omega section about the watch, full of nice pictures. Have fun choosing!

[HogwldFLTR]

I'd definitely choose the ExpII over the BB58. It's a great watch!! I've had a lot of both brand; I'd choose Rolex in most cases.

[DownTime]

Explorer II for sure

[SamP]

Originally Posted by vin328i

This helps to know that the clasp on the 16570 is not a big issue. I just thought it was "flimsy" for a "luxury" item. I also agree with the BB58 rivet bracelet. I would have to try that on to see how it feels/looks. I do like the Rolex bracelet look and how it tapers down. Very classy. Thank you!

Flimsy, is what you make of it.
People complain that the older bracelets are flimsy, but they really mean flimsy in comparison to today’s bracelets. Nobody complained back in the day.
So by that argument, when the next or next next gen bracelets come out; people will complain about the current bracelets being flimsy.

[venuswilliam]

Wait for the 6 digit Explorer 2...it's a 42mm watch ...good for a medium to large wrist

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[Rolex fan 61]

Exp 2

[crewsin]

Originally Posted by kegan

I feel that it will be hard to find a better
5000$ watch than a 16570. That bracelet was designed for utility not
luxury with a modicum of maintenance
they last a lifetime. I’ve worn the same
bracelet on a 16710 for 20 years and
daily I have to check to make sure
the watch is still on my wrist it’s
so comfortable.


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Good call, once on the wrist it really makes no difference. I have a 42mm Exp II and absolutely love it, but it’s a different watch than the 16570, and pretty hefty. I also have a 16610 Sub, same dimensions and almost same bracelet as the 16570, and I would say it’s more comfortable than the 42mm...bracelet has a little more “give” and the it’s not as heavy as the supercase. That said, try them on and buy which one sings to you. I know a lot of folks will tell you a Tudor is just not a Rolex, and they’re right...but if that doesn’t matter to you, it’s an awesome piece.


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[Tony1T]

Originally Posted by 904VT

I'd go with the 5 digit Explorer 2. You could even get an example with lug holes so that you could easily swap a RubberB with a tang buckle if you'd like. The clasp imo doesn't look as good as the newer smooth style, but the tuna can clasps are plenty durable.

My only gripe is lack of micro-adjustment, since my wrist can swell in the Summer and i generally don't like wearing my watches lose enough to flop all over my wrist. Perhaps another half link would help fit better for me. But Rubber B is a nice option, especially for the black dial version.

I love the tudor but for me it would need to be the EXII.

[BlackRose]

Rolex. Can’t get past rivet bracelet and gold print on bezel. Hopefully some new colours at bazelworld.


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[Vamp]

Love this thing!

[e dantes]

My vote is for the 16570. I went with a Polar earlier this year and highly recommend it.

[SS Oyster]

Save and get 42mm Explorer2, which would only require another $1,000-1,500 to purchase a fine example preowned.

I agree the bracelet is a big deal.

You will regret not getting the Rolex, and your resale value will never hold with a Tudor like a Rolex.


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[crazymcmichael]

I would get the 216570 polar 42mm it is simply a cooler watch with the orange Arrow hand( nearly the trueest tool of a watch ever) and i would think a future classic ;)

[JKD75]

I tried on the 216570 and also several of the BB58. I liked the BB58 in pictures much more than on my wrist. I ended up with a polar 16570 and it's hard to wear anything else. Regarding the bracelet/clasp, the 16570 doesn't have the pleasing heft when you pick it up, but on the wrist it's fantastic. I have two Rolex with the new bracelets and I don't really prefer the new to the old.

Regarding the 16570 versus the 216570, I prefer the asthetics of the 16570. YMMV . I prefer the red gmt hand and shape of it over the orange/shape of the new and the fact that it's a bit more subtle. That said I could be really happy with the 216570.

[belutak]

Originally Posted by vin328i

Hello all,

I am fairly new to the forum and i have enjoyed reading the threads. They have been very helpful and interesting to read.

I would like your advice and feedback based on your experiences. I’m debating on purchasing a Tutor Black Bay 58 79030 (2018) or a pre owned Rolex Explorer II 16570 (2000). I’ve always been a fan of Rolex and this would be my first however I dislike the clasp on the older bracelet and it’s almost a deal breaker.

Since this is a luxury and not a need my budget is $5k -$5,500. I wouldn’t finance.

I could potentially just wait and save more for the Rolex Explore II 42mm 216570 with the new bracelet/ clasp but frankly I’m ready to commit and purchase.

I would like to know which one would be the better deal for the money and if you think i should go for the newer Tudor or pre owed Rolex.

I appreciate your input and advice.






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The best deal for your money is not to purchase anything if money is one of the factors in your decision making process.

Watches are luxury items. Buy them only if you have the throw away cash.

Else, go on a holiday of your dreams.


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