The Explorer II Enigma. Historical Thread

[gerry100]

BTW its a 3186 from 2008

[coffeebreak]

Wearing mine today so I thought I’d Just add to the pics in this thread

[boltz]

Exp II is actually one of my favorite in my collection.

[NardinNut]

When looking to buy a 16570 what is the preferred model: 3185 vs 3186, SEL with drilled holes vs SEL solid case?

Also, why am I seeing such a variance in price for a 2000+ 16570 Polar? Obviously condition and full kit plays a role, but I’m seeing big spread even with full kit good condition examples.

Ive decided I want to add a 5 digit Polar so I’ve been digging through this thread trying to wrap my head around what I should be on the lookout for.

[trichard3000]

Originally Posted by NardinNut

Ive decided I want to add a 5 digit Polar so I’ve been digging through this thread trying to wrap my head around what I should be on the lookout for.

Here’s my favorite article describing all of the variations of the Explorer II:
https://www.beyondthedial.com/post/c...ces-in-detail/

Long story short… If you want vintage/patina, go with the earliest tritium dial ones. If you want rareness, go with the transitional, “Swiss only” dial model that was only made for two years. If you want the most modern movement, best lume, no-holes/SEL, etc., go for the final version made after 2005/2006.

Regardless, you can’t go wrong. They’re all great!

[NardinNut]

Originally Posted by trichard3000

Here’s my favorite article describing all of the variations of the Explorer II:
https://www.beyondthedial.com/post/c...ces-in-detail/

Long story short… If you want vintage/patina, go with the earliest tritium dial ones. If you want rareness, go with the transitional, “Swiss only” dial model that was only made for two years. If you want the most modern movement, best lume, no-holes/SEL, etc., go for the final version made after 2005/2006.

Regardless, you can’t go wrong. They’re all great!

Awesome. Thank you!

[Normunds]

Only Rolex model I like, don’t care about subs, Daytonas, op’s and others. I wear it everywhere, do anything.

[AndersB]

Originally Posted by NardinNut

Ive decided I want to add a 5 digit Polar so I’ve been digging through this thread trying to wrap my head around what I should be on the lookout for.

Five-digit Polar with drilled lug holes and thick black lining around the hour markers would be my favourite I think. Never owned one though!

[Darklight111]