226570 (white dial) low-light legibility

[pbr]

I'm heavily considering the current Explorer II Polar. I've tried it on and am comfortable with the size. The lighting at the AD is obviously done to really show off the watches in ideal conditions, but I'm wondering if legibility is a factor in dim or low-light situations.

I wear readers frequently, especially in low-light environments but have no issue reading the time on my Sub. The round hour indices against the black dial make it easy. I much prefer these over arabic numerals. Similar with my Speedmaster; no issues reading these due to the contrast. I do understand the Chromalight display is great, but I do have reservations on legibility with white hour markers on a white dial. I'm guessing the black surrounds make this a non-issue but I wanted to get some feedback from others with aging eyes before I pull the trigger.

This video does show the watch in various lighting conditions, but considering the quality of production I'm not sure how much I can take away from it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eu74jOZTB1Y

[WatchOut4It]

The current gen polar Explorer II is probably the most legible Rolex I own. You will not have any trouble reading the time. The slightly larger display and thicker handset make this one an obvious choice if you just want to glance and go. Keep us posted on what you decide.

[pbr]

Thank you very much for your input and I most certainly will do.

I've been trying to force myself into a Panerai for a while, but am not sure I like the direction the brand is heading towards and am struggling to get on board with even one of the better older models. The Polar seems to scratch that itch.

[shredace]

I concur. The Polar is a fantastic watch and VERY easy to read in all conditions.

[travisb]

The most legible watch in the catalog in my opinion.

[Cassian739]

100% agree with everyone else. I own the Polar Exp2 (226570) and it's hands down the most legible watch, not just Rolex watch, that I own.

I also love the video you posted, one of Oisin's best.

[brandrea]

I’m not an owner, but I’m considering adding one as well

[CarlOver]

Legibility will not be an issue. The dial is white and the hands have black edges and center lume. Hour markers have black edges as well. I don’t think you could have more contrast.

[GotRolex]

Polar is one of the most legible watches in Rolex!


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[Kevin of Larchmont]

Having owned both Exp IIs at one time and being legally blind in one eye and a bifocal wearer I find the black 226570 slightly more legible than the polar however not by a huge margin. And if you have to force yourself to consider buying a Panerai then buying it would be a mistake. Buy the polar.

[pbr]

Great to hear the unanimous feedback! Thankfully these seem to be more available than many other sport models from ADs, so hopefully one should be available without too much fuss once I decide to pull the trigger. Or at least close to retail + tax from a reputable grey dealer.

[Easy E]

Originally Posted by travisb

The most legible watch in the catalog in my opinion.

+1. It can be read in any lighting condition.

[Mr. Superlative]

Agree with all of the above. It’s a highly legible dial and never been an issue to read. I’ve had my polar for over a decade now, the novelty still has not worn off. :)

[1William]

No issues. Both the black and white dial version are a favorite of mine.

[pbr]

I spoke with my AD yesterday and added this to my in-store list of interest. It's likely the least popular model I am trying to acquire so hopefully it shouldn't be too much of an issue. If so, the grey prices on this one aren't far off retail+tax.

Thank you all again for the input. I'm looking forward to wearing this one!

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by pbr

I spoke with my AD yesterday and added this to my in-store list of interest. It's likely the least popular model I am trying to acquire so hopefully it shouldn't be too much of an issue. If so, the grey prices on this one aren't far off retail+tax.

Thank you all again for the input. I'm looking forward to wearing this one!

Good luck. I hope you land one soon

[dba]

This is a shot taken of a 216570 in just a low light setting.
I don't think you'll have too many problems seeing the dial. Best of luck to you.

[rob]

I have a few watches and when I picked up a Polar Exp II in April, I no longer strain my eyes to tell the time. So much easier at a glance. I also work a lot in low light situations and it is definitely a noticeable difference.

[madsitalia]

Originally Posted by pbr

I spoke with my AD yesterday and added this to my in-store list of interest. It's likely the least popular model I am trying to acquire so hopefully it shouldn't be too much of an issue. If so, the grey prices on this one aren't far off retail+tax.

Thank you all again for the input. I'm looking forward to wearing this one!

Good Hope you get it soon.
It is so legible that in meetings my colleagues across the table often look at my polar in stead of the clock on the wall

[watchwatcher]

It is the only white dial in the R lineup that outlines the hands with black, making it MUCH more legible than any other white dial, in all sorts of lighting conditions. You won't be disappointed.

[pigman08]

Originally Posted by watchwatcher

It is the only white dial in the R lineup that outlines the hands with black, making it MUCH more legible than any other white dial, in all sorts of lighting conditions. You won't be disappointed.

I’ve long felt that doing that to the white Daytona would lead to a bit less buyers remorse.


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[Roddypeepa]

Originally Posted by pbr

I'm heavily considering the current Explorer II Polar. I've tried it on and am comfortable with the size. The lighting at the AD is obviously done to really show off the watches in ideal conditions, but I'm wondering if legibility is a factor in dim or low-light situations.

I wear readers frequently, especially in low-light environments but have no issue reading the time on my Sub. The round hour indices against the black dial make it easy. I much prefer these over arabic numerals. Similar with my Speedmaster; no issues reading these due to the contrast. I do understand the Chromalight display is great, but I do have reservations on legibility with white hour markers on a white dial. I'm guessing the black surrounds make this a non-issue but I wanted to get some feedback from others with aging eyes before I pull the trigger.

This video does show the watch in various lighting conditions, but considering the quality of production I'm not sure how much I can take away from it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eu74jOZTB1Y

God no. The explorer ii is hands down the most legible watch Rolex makes. In fact, apart from lumed bezel watches, it is one of the lost legible out there. Low lighting is no problem at all. The hands pop, they are a bold size, glare is minimal and the AR does a decent job under bright lights. It’s now my favourite watch I own. Had relegated the sub (which lets face it is a highly legible watch) to the watch box.


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[nosignalbmwdriver]

use your phone

[RichM]

Believe me, you won’t have any issues telling time.

[Mr. Superlative]

Great pic, Rich M.

[John Doyle]

Both the black and white dial are the nicest watches rolex make for me.

[Wingman244]

My first Rolex was a 216570 Polar. It ruined me. I could not believe how difficult every other watch Rolex makes to simply read the time. I flipped a unreadable black dial 116500 Daytona in 6 weeks.

I have a Root Beer which is very readable, not like a polar E2. I keep thinking about buying another.

[RichM]

Originally Posted by Mr. Superlative

Great pic, Rich M.

[OG1982]

This watch is made to be worn in a cave. It’s literally made for low level lighting conditions.

I find AD lighting to be awful. Far too bright and always ask if I can go outside to view the watch properly.


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