The Rolex Explorer II. The name itself evokes images of intrepid explorers navigating treacherous terrains, conquering unforgiving landscapes, and pushing the boundaries of human endurance. More than just a watch, the Explorer II is a testament to Rolex's commitment to precision, durability, and unwavering reliability – qualities that have cemented its place as a legendary timepiece. This article delves into the fascinating history, design features, various models, pricing, and the enduring appeal of the Rolex Explorer II, drawing upon information readily available, including official Rolex sources, to provide a comprehensive overview.
A Legacy of Exploration:
The Rolex Explorer II's lineage traces back to the brand's long-standing association with exploration and mountaineering. Unlike its sibling, the Explorer, designed for general exploration, the Explorer II was specifically engineered to meet the unique demands of cave exploration and expeditions in environments with limited or fluctuating light. Its introduction in 1971 marked a significant milestone, introducing a groundbreaking feature that set it apart: the independently adjustable 24-hour hand. This crucial addition allowed explorers to easily differentiate between day and night, particularly crucial in caves or during polar expeditions where the sun's position is unreliable.
This original model, instantly recognizable by its distinctive orange 24-hour hand, established the foundation for the Explorer II's enduring design philosophy. Subsequent iterations refined and improved upon this initial design, maintaining the core elements while incorporating advancements in materials and technology.
Rolex Explorer II Models and Specifications:
The Rolex Explorer II has seen a relatively limited number of significant revisions throughout its history, maintaining a consistent design language that emphasizes functionality and robustness. Let's examine some of the key models:
* The Original (1971-1984): This first generation featured a 39mm case, a fixed bezel, and the iconic orange 24-hour hand. It was predominantly available in stainless steel.
* Reference 16550 (1984-1989): This model introduced a significant upgrade with a sapphire crystal, offering improved scratch resistance compared to the acrylic crystal of its predecessor. The orange 24-hour hand remained a defining feature.
* Reference 16570 (1989-2011): This iteration marked a notable shift with the introduction of the Triplock winding crown and a slightly larger 40mm case. The orange hand continued, and the dial designs incorporated variations in markers and lume. This is often considered a highly sought-after model by collectors. Both black and white dial versions were available.
* Reference 226570 (2011-Present): This current generation features a substantial upgrade to a 42mm case, maintaining the robust build and functionality of previous models. The iconic orange 24-hour hand remains, though subtle design refinements have been implemented. This model retains the Triplock crown and sapphire crystal. A notable change is the updated bracelet, offering improved comfort and durability. The current model is available with a black or white dial. The white dial version is often referred to as the "Polar" Explorer II.
Rolex Explorer II 42mm DBA:
The "DBA" (Dial, Bezel, and Arrow) often refers to subtle variations within the reference 226570. While Rolex doesn't officially use this terminology, collectors often use it to distinguish between slightly different dial and hand configurations within the same reference number. These differences may be minor, but they can significantly impact the value and desirability of a specific watch amongst collectors.
current url：https://rjmndz.e513c.com/products/rolex-explorer-2-watch-40141
rolex men's watches price list in india hermes birkin himalaya white