The Explorer and the Explorer II share a name and a purpose: robust, highly legible watches for people who go to extreme places. But they are different watches. The Explorer is a pure three-hand watch; the Explorer II adds a date and a 24-hour hand, in a larger case.
This comparison explains how they differ and which one suits you.
Made for expeditions
The Explorer was introduced in 1953, the year of the first ascent of Everest, as a watch for mountaineers and explorers. Its black dial with large 3, 6 and 9 numerals and luminous markers was designed to be read at a glance in any conditions.
The Explorer II followed in 1971. It added a date and a 24-hour hand with a fixed 24-hour bezel, so explorers in caves or polar regions, where day and night can be hard to tell apart, could distinguish AM from PM. The first reference, the 1655, had a distinctive orange 24-hour hand.
Explorer vs Explorer II at a glance
| Explorer | Explorer II | |
|---|---|---|
| Introduced | 1953 | 1971 |
| Current sizes | 36 mm (124270) and 40 mm (224270) | 42 mm (226570) |
| Dial | Black with 3, 6, 9 numerals | White ("Polar") or black |
| Date | No | Yes |
| 24-hour hand and bezel | No | Yes, with a fixed 24-hour bezel |
| Water resistance | 100 m | 100 m |
| Character | Pure, discreet, versatile | Tool watch, more presence |
Specifications differ by reference and generation, so always check the exact reference on the listing.
Size and wear
The Explorer is one of the most versatile Rolex watches. The 36 mm model returns to the original proportions and wears neatly on most wrists; the 40 mm model gives a more modern size. Both are slim and easy to wear with any outfit.
The Explorer II is larger at 42 mm, with a fixed bezel that makes it look bigger still. It suits larger wrists and people who like a tool watch with presence.
The 24-hour hand: how it helps
On the Explorer II, the 24-hour hand goes round once a day and points to the fixed 24-hour bezel. It can show the time in 24-hour format, which tells day from night, or, on current models, a second time zone: the hour hand can be set independently in one-hour jumps, much like on a GMT-Master II.
White "Polar" or black?
The Explorer II comes with a white dial, nicknamed "Polar", or a black dial. The Polar is especially popular for its contrast and its link to the model's polar heritage; the black dial is more discreet.
Which one should you buy?
Buy the Explorer if:
- you want a simple, discreet Rolex for every day;
- you prefer a 36 or 40 mm watch;
- you do not need a date.
Buy the Explorer II if:
- you want a date and a 24-hour hand or second time zone;
- you like a larger tool watch;
- you love the Polar white dial.
What to check before you buy
Check the full reference (it tells you the size and generation), the condition, whether the box and papers are included, and the bracelet length. For older Explorer II references, ask about the service history and the originality of the dial and hands. Every watch we sell is checked by our specialist before it ships.
Shop the Rolex Explorer, the Explorer II, or all Rolex watches. Our collection pages list each watch's reference, so you can tell the Explorer and Explorer II apart at a glance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Rolex Explorer and Explorer II?
The Explorer is a three-hand watch without a date, in 36 or 40 mm. The Explorer II is 42 mm, with a date, a 24-hour hand and a fixed 24-hour bezel.
What does "Polar" mean on an Explorer II?
It is the nickname for the Explorer II with a white dial.
Can I use the Explorer II as a GMT watch?
Current Explorer II models can show a second time zone with the 24-hour hand, since the hour hand can be set independently. The bezel is fixed, so it shows one extra time zone rather than two.
Is the Explorer a good first Rolex?
Yes. It is one of the most versatile and understated Rolex watches, easy to wear every day.
Which Explorer size should I choose?
The 36 mm suits most wrists and the vintage look; the 40 mm is a more modern size. The Explorer II at 42 mm suits larger wrists.
