Why We Think the Rolex Explorer II Is Seriously Cool
We’ve raffled some incredible watches at Fifty20 — but the Rolex Explorer II might just be the coolest one yet. This isn’t just a watch; it’s an attitude. It’s the kind of Rolex that doesn’t need to shout to get noticed — it just oozes confidence.
The Most “Under-the-Radar” Rolex
Everyone knows the Submariner. Everyone drools over the GMT-Master II. But the Explorer II? That’s the cool cousin who turns up quietly and still ends up stealing the show. It’s tougher, more niche, and doesn’t try to flex. Collectors love it for that exact reason — it’s a genuine tool watch, built for adventure rather than boardrooms.
This particular model, the 216570, has been discontinued and replaced by the 226570, which makes it even more desirable. In the world of watches, “discontinued” usually means “about to become a collector’s dream,” and that’s definitely true here. It’s the kind of Rolex that flies under the radar now — but won’t stay that way for long.
The Heritage Is Unreal
The Explorer II comes with one of the best origin stories in the watch world. Rolex originally designed it for spelunkers — cave explorers who’d spend days underground, totally cut off from sunlight. Down there, you can’t tell if it’s 3 a.m. or 3 p.m., so Rolex came up with a smart solution: a fixed 24-hour bezel and a bold orange GMT hand to help them keep track.
The fixed bezel wasn’t just a design choice — it made the watch tougher, preventing grit, sand, or debris from getting inside. It’s a clever bit of Rolex engineering that’s stood the test of time and still makes this model feel like a proper tool watch with real history.
Bigger, Bolder, Better
The newer version steps things up with a 42mm Oystersteel case, slightly larger than the previous Explorer and with way more wrist presence. It’s built like a tank but still sleek enough to wear out for dinner — if you remember to brush off the cave dust first.
We went for the black dial version because, let’s face it, black just looks cleaner, meaner, and classier. It carries on the theme from our last Explorer giveaway perfectly and suits just about anyone. And we mean anyone — this watch looks epic on both guys and girls. Whether you’re wearing it loose and chunky or fitted and refined, it’s got that universal, effortless cool.
The GMT Magic
The bright orange GMT hand isn’t just for show — it’s a nod to the original 1971 Explorer II and allows you to track a second time zone. Perfect if you’re a frequent traveller or just like knowing what time it is where your mates are.
You can also adjust the local hour hand independently, which is incredibly useful when crossing time zones. Even Prince Harry wore an Explorer II during his military service — so you know it’s built to handle whatever the world throws at it.
Adventure-Proof (Not Just Waterproof)
The Explorer II is water-resistant up to 100 metres, meaning it’s perfect for swimming, showers, and surprise downpours. It’s not a dive watch — and it doesn’t pretend to be — but it’s definitely adventure-proof. Jungle? Fine. Desert? No problem. Mountains? Easy. Pretty much anywhere you’d actually want to go, the Explorer II is up for it.
The Little Rolex Details
Of course, you still get those signature Rolex touches — the date window, the famous Cyclops bubble, and that flawless finishing that makes it feel solid the second it hits your wrist. Every part of it is built to last — and look timeless while doing it.
The Cool Factor
At the end of the day, the Explorer II sums up everything we love about Rolex — heritage, engineering, and a bit of quiet confidence — without shouting about it. It’s got history, it’s got purpose, and it’s got that understated charm that real collectors appreciate. It’s the kind of piece that makes watch fans grin and casuals go, “Wait… what model’s that?”
So yeah, we think it’s seriously cool.
It’s rugged, smart, collectible, and built for people who actually go places.
Want it on your wrist?
You can — for just 83p a ticket. Click here and take your shot before this one disappears.