Everything You Need to Know About the Iconic Timepiece
Greetings watch collectors and enthusiasts! Today we dive deep into the world-famous Rolex White Face Explorer II. This legendary timepiece has been a staple in the watch industry since its introduction in the 1970s. Let’s take a closer look and explore its features, benefits, and drawbacks.
The History of the Rolex White Face Explorer II
Rolex introduced the Explorer II in 1971 as a tool watch for cave explorers, scientists, and spelunkers. The watch was designed to withstand extreme temperatures and conditions underground. The Explorer II was the first Rolex watch to feature a 24-hour hand and an independent 12-hour hand. In 1985, the watch received a facelift with a white dial, black markers, and a red GMT hand. This new version of the watch became known as the Rolex White Face Explorer II and has been a fan favorite ever since.
Features of the Rolex White Face Explorer II
The Rolex White Face Explorer II is packed with features that make it stand out among other luxury watches. Some of these features include:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 24-Hour Hand | All Rolex Explorer II watches come equipped with a 24-hour hand, which is used to display a second time zone or GMT. |
| Independent 12-Hour Hand | The independent 12-hour hand on the Explorer II allows the wearer to track two time zones at once. |
| Water Resistance | The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. |
| Stainless Steel Case | The watch’s 42mm case is made of high-quality stainless steel, which makes it durable and long-lasting. |
The Advantages of the Rolex White Face Explorer II
The Rolex White Face Explorer II comes with several advantages, which include:
Dial Design
The white dial, black markers, and red GMT hand provide a striking contrast for easy readability. The watch also features a date window at the 3 o’clock position.
Build Quality
The watch is made of high-quality stainless steel, which makes it durable and long-lasting. It can withstand extreme temperatures and conditions, making it useful for adventurers and explorers. Additionally, the watch’s sapphire crystal provides scratch resistance and is much harder than regular glass.
Accuracy
The Explorer II is equipped with Rolex’s Caliber 3187 movement, which is COSC-certified and provides excellent accuracy. The watch also features Rolex’s Paraflex shock absorbers, which protect the movement from impact and vibrations.
The Disadvantages of the Rolex White Face Explorer II
The Rolex White Face Explorer II comes with some drawbacks, which include:
Price
The Rolex White Face Explorer II is a luxury watch and comes at a premium price. It may not be affordable for everyone.
Size
The watch’s 42mm case may be too large for some wearers, especially those with smaller wrists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Rolex White Face Explorer II water-resistant?
A: Yes, the watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters.
Q: What is the price of the Rolex White Face Explorer II?
A: The price of the watch varies depending on the model and condition. It ranges from $7,000 to $12,000.
Q: Can the watch be used for diving?
A: No, the watch is not recommended for diving. It is only suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
Q: How often does the watch need to be serviced?
A: Rolex recommends servicing the watch every 5 to 10 years, depending on usage.
Q: What is the warranty on the Rolex White Face Explorer II?
A: The watch comes with a 5-year warranty from Rolex.
Q: Does the watch have a date window?
A: Yes, the watch has a date window at the 3 o’clock position.
Q: What type of movement does the watch use?
A: The Explorer II is equipped with Rolex’s Caliber 3187 movement, which is COSC-certified and provides excellent accuracy.
Q: Can the watch be used for outdoor activities?
A: Yes, the watch is designed for adventurers and explorers and can withstand extreme temperatures and conditions.
Q: Is the watch suitable for everyday wear?
A: Yes, the watch is suitable for everyday wear, but it may not be comfortable for all wearers.
Q: Can the bracelet be adjusted?
A: Yes, the bracelet can be adjusted by adding or removing links.
Q: Does the watch have luminescent hands?
A: Yes, the watch has luminescent hands for easy readability in low-light conditions.
Q: Is the watch scratch-resistant?
A: Yes, the watch’s sapphire crystal provides scratch resistance and is much harder than regular glass.
Q: How long is the power reserve of the watch?
A: The power reserve of the watch is approximately 48 hours.
Conclusion
The Rolex White Face Explorer II is a legendary timepiece that has stood the test of time. It’s packed with features that make it a favorite among adventurers and watch enthusiasts alike. While it comes with a premium price tag, its durability, accuracy, and striking design make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re in the market for a luxury tool watch, the Rolex White Face Explorer II is definitely worth considering.
Closing Disclaimer
The information presented in this article is for educational purposes only. The author and publisher assume no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content. Readers are encouraged to seek professional advice before making any financial or investment decisions.