Considering Trading - Sub (116610LN) for Explorer II (216570)

[Sooner78]

Long time reader, first time poster. So, I purchased my first Rolex about 2 months ago. Honestly, my first good watch of any kind. I was able to find an unworn Submariner, 116610LN. (I wanted to avoid any potential 32xx issues). My goal was to find a one-and-done, or at least one-and-done for the time being. To backtrack, I've wanted a Submariner for many years, and I always considered the Explorer II to be my least favorite Rolex - based on pictures. Well, I tried on an Explorer II (black dial) at the AD a few months ago, and I loved it. Ended up debating myself over which one to buy, and I ended up going with the Sub as more of a sure bet, safe bet, or whatever.

After wearing the Submariner for a couple of months, my mind keeps going back to the Explorer II. I have large wrists, so that's not an issue. I typically dress very casually - jeans, shorts, t-shirts, etc. And the Sub is just so very - black. Black and shiny and, based on my personal sense of style, just a little bit "dressy." I could just buy the Explorer II, but I'm not crazy about having $20k tied up in watches. Has anyone else switched from a 116610 to a 216570 (black)? I know they're both black watches, but the Exp II seems considerably less shiny and more casual. Thanks!

[sah]

I do not think switching watches just because you want a casual look is a good idea.

[Sooner78]

Originally Posted by sah

If the main reason for change is wanting a casual watch, I would keep the Sub.

Thanks. Yeah, that's the main, if not the only reason. Sometimes I just feel like the Sub is a bit "much" for my attire. I like the orange accents on the Explorer II as well.

[Sooner78]

Originally Posted by sah

I do not think switching watches just because you want a casual look is a good idea.

Hard to argue with this.

[gferreira]

Never sell, only add!
Have you tried the white (polar) explorer ii? Might be a nice complement to your sub.

[ol' Rex]

Both are great models, so there's probably no wrong decision, but if you feel drawn to the Explorer II, then maybe it's the one for you. It's definitely a great one-and-only watch, especially considering that it has the GMT-function.

It seems to me that it all comes down to how you feel about orange.

[Guppydriver]

Sub is a primary.

216570 is a helluva ancillary watch.

If you frequently use the GMT function, then perhaps, but I'd stick with the Sub and add the Explorer when it works.

[sj24k]

I have a few subs in my collection and wouldn’t trade any of them for an explorer.

For me, a SS sub is just about the perfect go-anywhere, do-anything, casual, daily watch.


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[Sooner78]

Originally Posted by ol' Rex

Both are great models, so there's probably no wrong decision, but if you feel drawn to the Explorer II, then maybe it's the one for you. It's definitely a great one-and-only watch, especially considering that it has the GMT-function.

It seems to me that it all comes down to how you feel about orange.

And that's one of the big draws. The orange accents give it a more casual/sporty look to me.

[996marty]

I’d be keeping the sub it’s a classic and you bought it for a reason. As mentioned add to the collection when you can

[KatGirl]

I wouldn’t do it, but then, I’m not a fan of what you are considering. How about a black 40 mm Explorer, model # 224270? That should fit your criteria nicely, though I think the dial is a shiny black, like the 36 mm version.

Kat


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[Easy E]

I see you're new around here. TRF requirements are only add when a sub is involved. Look it up.

[aboutadog]

The beauty of the Sub is you can dress it up or down. The elapsed time bezel is great for timing burgers or naps or dives ;) I've owned both and although the Exp II is a great comfortable watch, it's not as versatile, classic, or as cool as the Sub.

[Sooner78]

Appreciate the responses, everyone. Great to get some different perspectives. Unworn 116610s aren't very plentiful in the market, and I don't want to make a mistake with a trade.

[Ontime]

No i have never had an experience but i suggest you go for what you want, feeling weird about the value in watch isn't necessary when you feel comfortable and happy with your looks.

[WmSwatches]

Originally Posted by 996marty

I’d be keeping the sub it’s a classic and you bought it for a reason. As mentioned add to the collection when you can

+1

[MichelleP]

I suggest if funds allow, picking up the Explorer II and give it a few months. If you feel its a better watch for you, then sell the Sub.

[Sooner78]

Originally Posted by MichelleP

I suggest if funds allow, picking up the Explorer II and give it a few months. If you feel its a better watch for you, then sell the Sub.

This is probably the right way. It's tough to really evaluate a watch during a couple of five-minute try-ons at the AD.

[Eric88]

Keep the Sub. It's a classic and goes with everything, regardless how casual or dressy. The Explorer II is a great watch to have for weekend or occasional wear.

[boltz]

This isn't a deal for me.

[RolexDave68]

Originally Posted by 996marty

I’d be keeping the sub it’s a classic and you bought it for a reason. As mentioned add to the collection when you can

+1 gotta love the Sub

[brandrea]

Welcome to the forum Chris.

I’d add the Exp, I wouldn’t sell the Submariner

[Sooner78]

Originally Posted by brandrea

Welcome to the forum Chris.

I’d add the Exp, I wouldn’t sell the Submariner

Many thanks. Appreciate the advice.

[NachoNeal]

Excellent dilemma to have because they're both great watches!

[Sauzo]

I sold my sub and later picked up a 16570, the 40mm polar Explorer ll. If you like the Explorer ll more, go for it. I’d imagine getting another black sub will get easier as prices drop and flippers exit. I mean it’s a sub, one of Rolexes most produced watch. Heck I’ve gone through 2 subs so far but I generally buy and sell watches as I get bored. So far only 2 watches I really love are my 16570 and my 321. Waiting for my Snoopy so we’ll see if that’s the third watch I love.

[georgew]

Originally Posted by MichelleP

I suggest if funds allow, picking up the Explorer II and give it a few months. If you feel its a better watch for you, then sell the Sub.

this - if you can swing the funds. Even with a large wrist, you might find the 42mm Exp II "bigger" - and may, or may not, like it that much. And it has a SS dial bezel as a noticeable difference too (again, it may or may not fit your style better..). But I think Steve McQueen sporting a sub in a T short says it all as to the versatility of the sub. Can;t say I've warmed up to the Exp II (at least not yet).

[Flipmarine2k]

216570 Exp II with the matte dial and floating hands is underrated. Added one to my collection a couple months ago; actually trading down from a Black GMT II 116710. I have zero regrets.

[worldofoyster]

Definitely keep the sub

[ufboy73]

Keep the sub it's a classic.

[Sooner78]

Originally Posted by Flipmarine2k

216570 Exp II with the matte dial and floating hands is underrated. Added one to my collection a couple months ago; actually trading down from a Black GMT II 116710. I have zero regrets.

How do you find the 216570 is compared to a Sub, comfort-wise? That's another small issue with the Sub. I like my bracelet to be relatively loose, and the Sub has the slightly bulbous case back. My understanding is that the Explorer II has a flatter case back, which is closer to the cheapie watches I'm used to.