At Watches & Wonders 2021, Rolex is presenting not only the new Explorer with a 36 mm case, but also an update for the Rolex Explorer II. This new model replaces the Explorer II reference 216570, but remains true to the familiar recipe. While Rolex makes only minimal changes to the case and dial, the manufacture installs the calibre 3285, a movement that integrates Rolex’s most advanced technologies and offers an improved power reserve of now 70 hours.
Rolex slightly adapts the case shape of the Explorer II
The case size remains the same at 42 mm, although the shape has been slightly adapted, similar to the 2021 Submariner. The slimmed-down case is made of 904L Oystersteel and features a brushed bezel with 24-hour graduation from the same material. Together with the screw-down Twinlock winding crown, the solid case back makes a water resistance of up to 10 bar (~ 100 metres) possible.
Dial
The updated Rolex Explorer II is still available with either a white or black dial. Both have the orange 24-hour hand, the colour of which is reflected in the model name at 12 o’clock. The dial of the white version now features matte black gold hands and applied indices. The variant with a black dial dispenses with the PVD coating and retains the natural lustre of the 18-carat gold for the hands and indices.
Last but not least, Rolex uses improved luminous material. The new generation of Chromalight material is said to be visible for longer in the dark and to appear in a more uniform white during the day. As with all the brand’s newer models, Rolex places the crown between “Swiss” and “Made” at the bottom of the dial. As usual, flat sapphire crystal protects the front from the environment.
The modern calibre 3285 inside the Explorer II
Inside the Explorer II now ticks the Rolex calibre 3285 with a GMT as well as a date function. This movement has automatic winding and a power reserve of 70 hours. Rolex also integrates their Chronergy escapement and a Parachrom hairspring. Last but not least, the in-house Superlative Chronometer certificate guarantees a maximum rate deviation of -2 /+2 seconds per day.
Bracelet
The Oyster bracelet of the Explorer II is now slightly wider than its predecessor. The brushed links end in the Oysterlock folding clasp, which also has an Easylink extension. This allows the bracelet to be extended by 5 mm simply by folding the extension out of the clasp. Meanwhile, the concealed strap fastening ensures that the strap blends seamlessly into the case.
The price for both variants of the new Rolex Explorer II is 8,300 euros.
DIFFERENCES PREDECESSOR
Gehäuse
Same diameter, but slimmer and with more balanced lines
Zifferblatt
White dial: Hands now matte black with PVD coating, improved Chromalight luminescent, crown between “Swiss” and “Made”. Black dial: 24-hour hands now fully orange, improved Chromalight luminant, crown between “Swiss” and “Made”.
Uhrwerk
Calibre 3285 with Chronergy escapement and a Parachrom hairspring, 70-hour power reserve
TUDOR is standing out at this year's Watches & Wonders thanks to the introduction of its brand new Black Bay Fifty-Eight models. Two versions are available; the Black Bay Fifty-Eight 925 with a sterling silver case, or the Black Bay Fifty-Eight 18K with an 18-carat gold case and green dial. Both models now integrate a…
At this year's Watches and Wonders 2020, Hermès introduced five new Arceau L’heure de la lune models, including three with meteorite dials. These 43 mm timepieces simultaneously display the moon phases from the perspective of the northern and southern hemispheres. They are available with the following designs: a Black Sahara meteorite dial with a white-gold…
The Geneva-based manufacture Vacheron Constantin is presenting a new version of the Traditionnelle Complete Calendar with a case in 18-carat white gold. Previously, the watch was only available in rose gold or as the Excellence Platine Edition with a platinum case. This new Traditionnelle Complete Calendar comes with a slate grey dial that accommodates a…
As the 50th anniversary year of the Porsche Design Chronograph 1, which was widely celebrated with an array of special models, draws to a close, the watch manufacturer is already presenting its next highlight. With the Chronograph 1 - GP 2023 Edition, Porsche Design is launching a second limited special edition to mark the GP…
TAG Heuer and Porsche are announcing a major new partnership. The two brands already share a common history in motorsport. In addition to joint sponsorship projects, new products are also expected to appear as a result. The TAG Heuer Carrera Porsche Chronograph Special Edition is the first of these. Featuring an asphalt-look dial, it is…
Watchmakers Maximilian Büsser & Friends have released a new watch in the form of two editions – the Horological Machine N°10 Bulldog, inspired by the bulldog. One edition is the Version Ti with a grade 5 titanium case, which is presented on a blue calf-leather strap using Velcro and a titanium buckle. Alternatively, the Version…
Hublot presents the Big Bang MECA-10 in a more compact 42mm case. The watch features an updated movement with three linear bridges and a power reserve of 10 days. The watch is available in three versions: King Gold, Titanium, and Frosted Carbon. The new case size offers a more ergonomic fit and retains the design…
The extravagant watch brand, founded in 1995, and the celebrity body artist have teamed up for their third watch creation. The Excalibur Dr. Woo Monotourbillon Episode III merges the worlds of watchmaking and tattoo art, showcasing the profound similarities between Roger Dubuis and Brian Woo, alias Dr. Woo. The latter is considered one of the…
The collection Code 11.59 was first presented in this year's watch fair SIHH in Geneva. Part of the collection are the Automatic and the Chronograph Automatic, besides four other models. The 41 mm case of the six new models is round. Inside there is an octagonal middle piece situated. The upper part of the openworked lugs is welded to…
Sometimes, less is more: more expressive, more focused, more stylised, and more versatile. This philosophy also underpins the latest addition to the Wempe Signature Collection, a series launched in 2022 by the renowned luxury watch and jewellery retailer in collaboration with prestigious brands. Succeeding the release of timepieces in collaboration with Girard-Perregaux and Ulysse Nardin…
With the Wempe Iron Walker Chronograph 46 in its three variations, the watch manufacturer of the eponymous jeweller demonstrates its prowess with carbon. The watches have a 46 mm case made of the composite material and a clear dial design. Inside is a chronograph from Sellita in chronometer specification. The watches differ by their accent…
In celebration of the Chronomètre à Résonance's 20th anniversary, F.P. Journe is introducing a new model. The new 2020 Chronomètre à Résonance is notably different to its predecessors, which were discontinued last year. Crucially, it has a brand new rose-gold calibre (1520), which powers the watch using a single (rather than the previous double) mainspring…
The Captain Cook is perhaps one of the most popular models in Rado's portfolio. First launched in 1962, the Captain Cook represented the era of great expeditions, explorers and adventures, and at the same time served the emerging trend of diving watches. Now, with the new Captain Cook, Rado presents a model that not only…