The Rolex Explorer II, a timepiece synonymous with adventure and exploration, boasts a rich history interwoven with tales of spelunking expeditions and daring feats in the harshest environments. Its robust construction, highly legible dial, and iconic features have cemented its place as a legend among watch enthusiasts and adventurers alike. But the story of the Explorer II isn't simply one of rugged durability; it's also a story of evolution in size, design, and functionality. Understanding the different iterations, particularly concerning the case size, is key to appreciating this iconic watch. This article will delve into the history of the Explorer II, focusing specifically on its size variations, exploring models from the original 39mm to the current 42mm offerings, examining the implications of these changes, and touching upon the various features that have defined each generation.
The Genesis: The Rolex Explorer II 1655 (39mm)
The story begins in 1971 with the introduction of the reference 1655, the first-generation Explorer II. This watch, designed specifically with explorers and spelunkers in mind, marked a significant departure from its predecessor, the Explorer. The key innovation was the addition of a 24-hour hand, a crucial feature for navigating in caves where the distinction between day and night is often obscured. This second hand, independent of the standard hour, minute, and seconds hands, allowed explorers to track time accurately in low-light conditions and differentiate between AM and PM, a vital safety measure during extended subterranean explorations.
The 1655 boasted a 39mm case, a size considered relatively compact by today's standards but perfectly suitable for the era. Its fixed bezel, unlike the rotating bezels found on other Rolex sports models, was designed for robustness and to avoid accidental adjustments during strenuous activities. The dial featured large, highly legible numerals and markers, ensuring readability even in challenging conditions. The overall aesthetic was functional and understated, reflecting the watch's purpose-built nature. This original Explorer II, with its 39mm case, remains highly sought after by collectors today, representing the foundational model upon which all subsequent iterations were built. The 1655 is often referred to as the "Steve McQueen" Explorer II due to its association with the famous actor, although there's no definitive proof he actually wore one. Nevertheless, this association has only added to its mystique.
The Evolution: From 39mm to 40mm and Beyond (Rolex Explorer II Polar 40mm)
The next significant evolution came with the introduction of the reference 16570 in 1989. While retaining the core functionality of the 24-hour hand and high legibility, this model saw a subtle increase in case size to 40mm. This seemingly small change had a notable impact on the watch's overall presence on the wrist, offering a slightly more substantial feel. The 16570 is also notable for its introduction of the "Polar" dial, a striking white dial with contrasting black numerals and hands that became incredibly popular and is still a highly desirable variant today. The 40mm size of the 16570 proved to be a sweet spot for many, balancing wearability with a more substantial feel compared to the earlier 39mm model. The Rolex Explorer II Polar 40mm remains a classic and a testament to Rolex's ability to refine a design while retaining its core identity.
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