The Rolex Explorer II. The name itself evokes images of intrepid explorers navigating treacherous terrains, conquering unforgiving climates, and pushing the boundaries of human endurance. This robust and reliable timepiece, a testament to Rolex's unwavering commitment to precision and durability, has carved a significant niche for itself in the world of luxury sports watches. More than just a tool for telling time, the Explorer II is a symbol of adventure, resilience, and unwavering performance – qualities that resonate deeply with its dedicated following. This article will explore the fascinating history, diverse models, current market value, and technical specifications of this iconic watch, addressing key aspects such as the Rolex Explorer II release date, price points in the UK and globally, and the availability of pre-owned models.
Rolex Explorer II Release Date and Historical Context:
The Rolex Explorer II first emerged in 1971, a significant year for both Rolex and the world of exploration. Designed with the needs of spelunkers and cave explorers in mind, its defining feature, a second time zone function (GMT), proved invaluable in situations where tracking both local time and a reference time was crucial for orientation and safety. This was a significant departure from the original Explorer, a more straightforward three-hand watch designed for mountaineering expeditions. The initial reference 1655, with its distinctive orange 24-hour hand, quickly established the Explorer II's unique identity. This bold hand, contrasting against the dial, provided an intuitive way to track a second time zone, even in low-light conditions, a critical safety feature for those venturing into dark caves or navigating challenging environments.
The subsequent years saw several iterations of the Explorer II, each building upon the strengths of its predecessor while incorporating technological advancements and design refinements. These evolutions are reflected in the various model numbers and subtle design changes throughout its history, making the study of different Explorer II models a fascinating pursuit for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Rolex Explorer II Models: A Journey Through Time:
The history of the Rolex Explorer II is rich with various models, each representing a step in the evolution of this iconic timepiece. Let’s examine some key iterations:
* Reference 1655 (1971-1984): This is the original Explorer II, featuring the iconic orange 24-hour hand and a distinctive "tropical" dial, which often develops a unique patina over time, adding to its desirability among collectors. The case size was relatively smaller compared to later models.
* Reference 16550 (1984-1989): This model introduced a significant change: the switch from an acrylic crystal to a more scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The orange hand remained, but subtle design adjustments were made.
* Reference 16570 (1989-2011): This marked a significant shift in the Explorer II's design, incorporating a larger 40mm case size, and a more modern aesthetic. The orange 24-hour hand was retained, but the overall design felt more contemporary. This is arguably the most popular and widely sought-after reference among collectors. Variations within the 16570 reference include different dial variations and minor case modifications throughout its production run.
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