Rolex Explorer vs Explorer II: which to buy pre-loved?
Despite the name, they're very different watches. The Explorer is a simple, time-only 36 mm (or 40 mm) watch with the 3-6-9 dial; the Explorer II is a 42 mm watch with a date, a fixed 24-hour bezel and an orange 24-hour hand. Choose the Explorer for a compact everyday watch, the Explorer II for a bigger tool watch with a GMT-style function.
Reviewed by the Nuvinty editorial team · Fact-checked
Facts checked against brand sites, auction houses and specialist dealers.
| Rolex Explorer | Rolex Explorer II | |
|---|---|---|
| Introduced | 1953 | 1971 |
| Case | 36 mm (also 40 mm since 2023) | 42 mm |
| Functions | Time only | Date plus a 24-hour hand |
| Bezel | Smooth | Fixed, engraved 24-hour |
| Dial | Black with 3-6-9 numerals | Black or white ('Polar') |
| Best for | Everyday, smaller wrists | Travel, larger wrists |
| Median asking price | £8,600 (12 listings) | £10,250 (11 listings) |
Asking prices across live listings from the partner retailers we index, updated 11 Oct 2026. Asking prices, not sold prices.
Choose the Rolex Explorer if…
- •You want a compact, simple Rolex
- •You don't need a date
- •You like the 3-6-9 dial
Choose the Rolex Explorer II if…
- •You want a date and a second time zone
- •You like the white Polar dial
- •You prefer a larger watch
Prices are sellers' asking prices. Nuvinty may earn a commission if you buy through a link. How we earn
Pre-loved Rolex Explorer listings
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Rolex Explorer I 36mm 114270 (2001) – Collectors piece 2001 Neo Vintage£5,936.70 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Explorer 39MM (2015 Full Set) 214270£6,500.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Explorer I 39mm 214270 Black Dial B&P 2016 Serviced 2025£6,895.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Explorer 36mm 124270 Stainless Steel Black Dial 2025 Box & Papers£6,595.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Pre-loved Rolex Explorer II listings
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Rolex Explorer II 216570, With Box Stainless Steel 42mm Black Dial£6,950.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Explorer II 16570 (2001) +Box & Papers£6,295.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Collector Condition 1987/89 (R Serial) Rolex Explorer II 16550 Gents Watch£8,250.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Explorer II 216570 - 2017, With Papers Stainless Steel 42mm White Dial£7,800.00 askingvia eBayShips from the UK · no import charges
Rolex Explorer vs Explorer II: questions
Can the Explorer II track a second time zone?
Yes. Its 24-hour hand can be set to a second time zone and read against the fixed bezel.
Why was the Explorer II made?
It was designed so cavers and polar explorers could tell day from night with the 24-hour hand.
Which Explorer size should I choose?
The 36 mm suits most wrists and is the classic size; the 39 mm (214270) and 40 mm (224270) suit larger wrists.
Buying guides and more comparisons
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