The Explorer II Enigma. Historical Thread

[taxico]

Originally Posted by acce1999

So, which watch is more popular in Japan; the black or the white?

the black exp 2 is more popular in japan due the color white being a symbol of death...

this symbolism is also recognized/practiced in quite a number of other asian cultures/countries...

[icnbne]

that last pic is a stunner!

[Cru Jones]

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

thanks for that.

what i find a tad upsetting is that the promotional e-brochures on rolex's Web site clearly state that the explorer ii currently has the parachrom hairspring. however, talking it over with the horlogy specialist at the rue de rennes AD in paris (the only direct rolex dealer in paris), he said that they have no way of controling what they get from the factory and that since 2008 rolex has been producing both 3185 and 3186 watches based on stock and production.

this is all fine and good, if the AD would have been up front about it with my wife when she bought the explorer ii on march 10, but the AD did not discuss it with her (and, it being a surprise, she didn't know to ask because she didn't talk to me and, anyway, rolex's own promotional material says that the explorer ii has the parachrom hairspring).

i'm still trying to figure out what, if anything, can be done. it's all very unsatisying and distasteful. it's not like a rolex purchase is an everyday occurrence, and it's upsetting that it's come to this.

to follow up, the paris store will be opening mine up to see if it has the new movement or not. if not, they will take back the watch and i'm first in line for a white Explorer II with the 3186 movement.



couldn't be happier. for me, the question of the movement was key, since what i wanted is a NEW watch (not a "has yet to be sold" watch), and the Explorer II currently has the 3186, not 3185, movement with the parachrom hairspring (see the Web site, the e-brochure, etc.).

[Sex]

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

thanks for that.

what i find a tad upsetting is that the promotional e-brochures on rolex's Web site clearly state that the explorer ii currently has the parachrom hairspring. however, talking it over with the horlogy specialist at the rue de rennes AD in paris (the only direct rolex dealer in paris), he said that they have no way of controling what they get from the factory and that since 2008 rolex has been producing both 3185 and 3186 watches based on stock and production.

this is all fine and good, if the AD would have been up front about it with my wife when she bought the explorer ii on march 10, but the AD did not discuss it with her (and, it being a surprise, she didn't know to ask because she didn't talk to me and, anyway, rolex's own promotional material says that the explorer ii has the parachrom hairspring).

i'm still trying to figure out what, if anything, can be done. it's all very unsatisying and distasteful. it's not like a rolex purchase is an everyday occurrence, and it's upsetting that it's come to this.

What is a direct Rolex dealer ?

How much did you pay ?

[Lol-x]

Originally Posted by Sex

What is a direct Rolex dealer ?

How much did you pay ?

A direct Rolex dealer is another way of saying an 'authorised (from the Rolex factory) dealer' of Rolex watches.

It is a little embarrassing to ask someone what they paid in public, maybe that kind of question should be asked in private.

[Sex]

Originally Posted by Lol-x

A direct Rolex dealer is another way of saying an 'authorised (from the Rolex factory) dealer' of Rolex watches.

It is a little embarrassing to ask someone what they paid in public, maybe that kind of question should be asked in private.

There is only one AD in Paris ? Since when ?

No it is not embrassing to ask.

[Lol-x]

Originally Posted by Sex

There is only one AD in Paris ? Since when ?

No it is not embrassing to ask.

I don't know what the situation is in Paris I was just explaining what 'direct Rolex dealer' may have meant.

As to whether it is embarrassing, it may not be for you, but it may be for the other party. O.K. thank you leave it at that.

[Sex]

Originally Posted by Lol-x

I don't know what the situation is in Paris I was just explaining what 'direct Rolex dealer' may have meant.

As to whether it is embarrassing, it may not be for you, but it may be for the other party. O.K. thank you leave it at that.

If we were on a forum of homeless people, may be asking about the price of a Rolex would be odd. But here...

Anyway, we all know that the price is between 3 500 and 4400 euros and not 100 euros. So what is embarassing ?

And if he is embarassed, nobody obliges him to reply. He can even lie. And tell that he paid the full price and that he will not go to hell because he didn't negociate.


He told that its was the ONLY ROLEX dealers. There are plenty of AD in PARIS. So may be he meant something else than AD.

[Cru Jones]

Originally Posted by Sex

If we were on a forum of homeless people, may be asking about the price of a Rolex would be odd. But here...

Anyway, we all know that the price is between 3 500 and 4400 euros and not 100 euros. So what is embarassing ?

And if he is embarassed, nobody obliges him to reply. He can even lie. And tell that he paid the full price and that he will not go to hell because he didn't negociate.


He told that its was the ONLY ROLEX dealers. There are plenty of AD in PARIS. So may be he meant something else than AD.

yes, there are plenty of ADs in paris, of course, but only one "direct" rolex store. in fact, when it was opened in 2007, it was the first "direct" store in france, ever...

an article with pix of the store (in french): http://www.montres-de-luxe.com/Rolex...aris_a849.html

as far as pricing, from my experience, they will match AD pricing, but i guess that depends on model and availability....and your level of charm.

more pix: http://forumamontres.forumactif.com/...tos-t22528.htm

[Warnsboy]

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

yes, there are plenty of ADs in paris, of course, but only one "direct" rolex store. in fact, when it was opened in 2007, it was the first "direct" store in france, ever...

an article with pix of the store (in french): http://www.montres-de-luxe.com/Rolex...aris_a849.html

as far as pricing, from my experience, they will match AD pricing, but i guess that depends on model and availability....and your level of charm.

more pix: http://forumamontres.forumactif.com/...tos-t22528.htm

Charm

[Sex]

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

yes, there are plenty of ADs in paris, of course, but only one "direct" rolex store. in fact, when it was opened in 2007, it was the first "direct" store in france, ever...

an article with pix of the store (in french): http://www.montres-de-luxe.com/Rolex...aris_a849.html

as far as pricing, from my experience, they will match AD pricing, but i guess that depends on model and availability....and your level of charm.

more pix: http://forumamontres.forumactif.com/...tos-t22528.htm

So it is like the Cartier shop rue de la paix ? So if you give your xatch for a service there, you give it directly to Rolex and it is cheaper than an AD ?

I was asking about the price you paid for your watch.

[Skippy]

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

to follow up, the paris store will be opening mine up to see if it has the new movement or not. if not, they will take back the watch and i'm first in line for a white Explorer II with the 3186 movement.



couldn't be happier. for me, the question of the movement was key, since what i wanted is a NEW watch (not a "has yet to be sold" watch), and the Explorer II currently has the 3186, not 3185, movement with the parachrom hairspring (see the Web site, the e-brochure, etc.).

Good to read that things will be sorted out to your liking. Seems like the dealer is doing a good job, sadly most of the guys on forums and websites have more knowledge then most sales persons at stores, but hey they are not all watch nuts like us out here, so you can hardly blame them I guess.

Here's a wrist shot to keep the Enigma a live and kicking:

[tripleC]

i polished the satin finish aIMG_0322.jpgway still my fav.

[kingblackbolt]

Skippy,

This is an amazing thread for the most under rated watch in the Rolex Sport line! I started one up as well for pics request and it has really taken off... I will be adding some pics that the seller has provided me of my soon to arrive Expy II!

http://rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=120963

[AstroBoy]

Originally Posted by kingblackbolt

Skippy,

This is an amazing thread for the most under rated watch in the Rolex Sport line! I started one up as well for pics request and it has really taken off... I will be adding some pics that the seller has provided me of my soon to arrive Expy II!

http://rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=120963

...I think you had out bid me!....

However, Congratulation !

[AstroBoy]

Originally Posted by kingblackbolt

Skippy,

This is an amazing thread for the most under rated watch in the Rolex Sport line! I started one up as well for pics request and it has really taken off... I will be adding some pics that the seller has provided me of my soon to arrive Expy II!

http://rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=120963

...It's Black dial ...

V Serial...

LNIB....!

[DOUBLE 0 SE7EN]

Clearest Rolex ever..

[Warnsboy]

What the heckLong live the Enigma

pIMG_0157.JPG

[kingblackbolt]

If the Explorer II truly is an enigma... I choose not to solve it and just enjoy it!

[jrssv]

I looked at an Explorer II but I finally decided on a GMT IIc. I use the rotating bezel daily to keep track of EDT and sometimes as a timer. All of us have different needs and preferences by that's why I chose a GMT IIc. I haven't been sorry.

[DSJ]

Originally Posted by jrssv

I looked at an Explorer II but I finally decided on a GMT IIc. I use the rotating bezel daily to keep track of EDT and sometimes as a timer. All of us have different needs and preferences by that's why I chose a GMT IIc. I haven't been sorry.

Few are, the GMT is an equally amazing watch!

[TimeOnHand]

Wow, is this one of the longest threads ever!

I for one love the look and feel of the Explorer II a lot and after reading and looking through some wonderful photo's of the EXP 2, I feel a sudden need to add it to my collection.

I will say that I see quite a lot of Explorer II's in Hong Kong (black). In also know for a fact that at one time it was hard to find the back face EXP 2 in Asia due to it's popularity.

Also as a pilot I do see quite a few Rolex watches on my fellow aviator's wrists... And a lot of them wear the EXP II. Interestingly enough most expats have the White Dial and most Local's have the Black Dial... (must be an asian thing!).

I have noticed with the locals in Hong Kong, that they go crazy when a new Rolex model is released. Up to a few months ago you could not find the new SS GMT IIC... And I can already tell you the next big thing here will be the new Sub C.

I for one can't wait to get me an Explorer II.

[DSJ]

Originally Posted by cx007

Wow, is this one of the longest threads ever!

I for one love the look and feel of the Explorer II a lot and after reading and looking through some wonderful photo's of the EXP 2, I feel a sudden need to add it to my collection.

I will say that I see quite a lot of Explorer II's in Hong Kong (black). In also know for a fact that at one time it was hard to find the back face EXP 2 in Asia due to it's popularity.

Also as a pilot I do see quite a few Rolex watches on my fellow aviator's wrists... And a lot of them wear the EXP II. Interestingly enough most expats have the White Dial and most Local's have the Black Dial... (must be an asian thing!).

I have noticed with the locals in Hong Kong, that they go crazy when a new Rolex model is released. Up to a few months ago you could not find the new SS GMT IIC... And I can already tell you the next big thing here will be the new Sub C.

I for one can't wait to get me an Explorer II.

Go for a white dial since your GMT is black (presumably)!

[jrpb]

thought id join in

[mhmfao]

ALCON,

I just bought an immaculate black face 16570 (P-series circa 2000, overhauled in 2007 for $3,000.00USD) and have two questions:

1) The 16570 does not have its waterproof rating of 100m/330ft on the face of its oyster case. Why is that? I would think it should since the watch is designed for rough duty.

2) Is the 16570 sufficiently waterproof to shower and swim in daily (hot and cold water conditions)? Note: I'm not a diver and therefore not concerned with the more extreme depth and pressure requirements associated with the sport.

BACKGROUND: I wanted a watch that I could wear where ever I go 24/7/365--like it's a part of my body. The 16570 is the only watch I've found that is: 1) comfortable to the point that I forget I'm wearing it; 2) appropriate to wear in any social situation; and 3) appropriate to wear with any kind of clothes. Obviously, wearing it everywhere all the time will cause more wear and require more cleaning, but I'm okay with that as long as doing so does not damage the watch. After five years or so, as the watch begins to show wear, I will likely buy a 116710LN GMT II (black face, black ceramic bezel) for more formal/dressier occasions.

All comments welcome.

V/R,

MM

[CPTL]

Originally Posted by mhmfao

ALCON,

I just bought an immaculate black face 16570 (P-series circa 2000, overhauled in 2007 for $3,000.00USD) and have two questions:

1) The 16570 does not have its waterproof rating of 100m/330ft on the face of its oyster case. Why is that? I would think it should since the watch is designed for rough duty.

2) Is the 16570 sufficiently waterproof to shower and swim in daily (hot and cold water conditions)? Note: I'm not a diver and therefore not concerned with the more extreme depth and pressure requirements associated with the sport.

BACKGROUND: I wanted a watch that I could wear where ever I go 24/7/365--like it's a part of my body. The 16570 is the only watch I've found that is: 1) comfortable to the point that I forget I'm wearing it; 2) appropriate to wear in any social situation; and 3) appropriate to wear with any kind of clothes. Obviously, wearing it everywhere all the time will cause more wear and require more cleaning, but I'm okay with that as long as doing so does not damage the watch. After five years or so, as the watch begins to show wear, I will likely buy a 116710LN GMT II (black face, black ceramic bezel) for more formal/dressier occasions.

All comments welcome.

V/R,

MM

Well, you picked the right watch. To answer your questions:

1) Rolex has never put depth rating on the dials of the non-diver references. Rest assured, the watch (when properly serviced) is good for 100m and a little beyond.

2) Yes, the Exp-II (just like the DJ, GMT-II, etc.) is good for swimming, showering, etc. SO LONG AS THE WATCH IS IN PROPER WORKING ORDER. Recommend that you have the watch pressure-tested every two years to ensure the seals and gaskets are healthy, and then no worries!

The original Rolex oyster case was designed to be waterproof; the first "Sub" was actually a 36mm Turn-o-Graph, which is mechanically equivalent to the modern DateJust. All Rolex oysters are designed to be worn in the water, regardless of whether it's designated as a dive watch.

Your Explorer-II is the perfect watch, IMO, for all conceivable occasions. It's perfect for rough activities, with the ample depth rating, comfortable fit, lighter weight, and robust movement with shock protection. It passes equally well with business attire, as the modest size, sloping SS bezel, and thinner profile slides easily under a shirt cuff and doesn't stand out. I think you'll be quite happy with your purchase, and you'll find that the only time you have to take the watch off is for servicing.

Of course, this is subject to the caveat that the watch is in proper working order. Your Exp-II is designed to last a lifetime, but must be serviced every 5-7 years, and pressure tested at least every 2 years if you're planning on heavy water use.

[DSJ]

Originally Posted by CPTL

Well, you picked the right watch. To answer your questions:

1) Rolex has never put depth rating on the dials of the non-diver references. Rest assured, the watch (when properly serviced) is good for 100m and a little beyond.

2) Yes, the Exp-II (just like the DJ, GMT-II, etc.) is good for swimming, showering, etc. SO LONG AS THE WATCH IS IN PROPER WORKING ORDER. Recommend that you have the watch pressure-tested every two years to ensure the seals and gaskets are healthy, and then no worries!

The original Rolex oyster case was designed to be waterproof; the first "Sub" was actually a 36mm Turn-o-Graph, which is mechanically equivalent to the modern DateJust. All Rolex oysters are designed to be worn in the water, regardless of whether it's designated as a dive watch.

Your Explorer-II is the perfect watch, IMO, for all conceivable occasions. It's perfect for rough activities, with the ample depth rating, comfortable fit, lighter weight, and robust movement with shock protection. It passes equally well with business attire, as the modest size, sloping SS bezel, and thinner profile slides easily under a shirt cuff and doesn't stand out. I think you'll be quite happy with your purchase, and you'll find that the only time you have to take the watch off is for servicing.

Of course, this is subject to the caveat that the watch is in proper working order. Your Exp-II is designed to last a lifetime, but must be serviced every 5-7 years, and pressure tested at least every 2 years if you're planning on heavy water use.

Kevin is correct, it's why we are Enigmatic Explorer Endorsing Enthusiasts!

[rad87gn]

I'm a GMT-II fan. Since they are so similar I wasn't interested in buying basically the same watch. However, the orange hand Explorer is one of my most favorite Rolex of all time!! I'd love to own one!! I drool everytime I see a picture of one!! To me that Explorer is different enough from the GMT-II.

[DSJ]

Originally Posted by rad87gn

I'm a GMT-II fan. Since they are so similar I wasn't interested in buying basically the same watch. However, the orange hand Explorer is one of my most favorite Rolex of all time!! I'd love to own one!! I drool everytime I see a picture of one!! To me that Explorer is different enough from the GMT-II.

Well, you might be wanting one next year then!

[petespendthrift]

Originally Posted by mhmfao

After five years or so, as the watch begins to show wear, I will likely buy a 116710LN GMT II (black face, black ceramic bezel) for more formal/dressier occasions.

For a traditionalist the Explorer I/II are really the only sports model that can get away with being worn with more formal/dressy clothing - due to their understated looks and slimmer profile they pass under the radar. I know times have changed but bigger sports watches especially when they have a bezel are not meant to be dress watches, they are for everyday casual use and are a bit clumsy and inelegant for wear with a suit - in just the same way I would never wear heavy rubber soled shoes with smart clothing even though plenty of people do.

Good choice with the Exp purchase though it will still be looking good in a decades time even with heavy wear as the brush finish hides everything. You have bought Rolex's most classy and practical sports model.