In a world of flashy bezels and high-profile endorsements, the Rolex Explorer II quietly commands respect. Unlike its sportier siblings, it has always been the understated adventurer’s choice, functional, durable, and confidently low-key. But in the UK, a subtle shift has been taking place. Interest in the Explorer II is climbing, and the pre-owned market is responding with renewed enthusiasm.
This isn’t just a matter of availability or aesthetics. It’s about a changing attitude among British collectors and buyers who value authenticity, purpose, and quiet distinction over mainstream attention.
A Watch Made for Purpose, Now Worn with Pride
The Rolex Explorer II has always served a specific purpose. Launched in 1971, it was designed for spelunkers and polar explorers, people who needed to distinguish day from night in environments where sunlight was absent. It featured a 24-hour fixed bezel, an additional hour hand, and a no-nonsense tool-watch build that was focused entirely on function.
In the UK, where weather, terrain, and understated style often intersect, the Explorer II aligns beautifully with the lifestyle of its wearers. It’s not just a tool; it’s a companion for the practical adventurer, the commuter, and the city-dweller who occasionally escapes to Snowdonia or the Scottish Highlands.
Popularity Gaining Ground
Over the past few years, the Explorer II has transitioned from a niche pick to a serious contender among British buyers. What was once a quiet alternative to the GMT-Master II or Submariner is now being praised for exactly what sets it apart: its utilitarian design, excellent legibility, and the fact that it doesn’t scream for attention.
The current generation (ref. 226570), available with either a black or white dial, has been well received. The white dial version, often referred to as the “Polar,” has gained a loyal following in the UK, with collectors drawn to its distinctive look and contrast-heavy legibility. Unlike the Submariner, which is ubiquitous in certain circles, the Explorer II still feels like a deliberate choice, something that British watch buyers increasingly value.
Price Trends in the UK
Historically, the Explorer II has flown under the radar in terms of pricing, often representing one of the more accessible entry points into Rolex’s professional range. But that landscape is evolving. While it still sits below the price point of more hyped models, its value is beginning to reflect growing demand.
In the UK pre-owned market, used Rolex Explorer II watches have seen modest but consistent appreciation. Five years ago, securing a ref. 16570 (produced until 2011) in good condition could be done for under £5,000. Today, depending on condition and accompanying documentation, that figure can easily approach or exceed £7,000.
Newer models like the 216570 and the current 226570 are performing even stronger, often holding close to retail or slightly above in the second-hand market, particularly with full box and papers. It’s a sign that collectors are waking up to the model’s strengths, and also that fewer people are willing to part with theirs.
Why Collectors Are Leaning In
One reason the Explorer II is gaining traction among UK collectors is its honest identity. It doesn’t rely on hype cycles or celebrity endorsements. It’s practical, well-built, and steeped in Rolex’s legacy of exploration. That appeals to those who want their watches to mean something, not just look good in social media posts.
There’s also a generational aspect to its appeal. Younger collectors are gravitating toward pieces that reflect real utility and heritage rather than status signalling. The Explorer II hits that brief perfectly.
Collectors are also increasingly drawn to earlier references like the 1655 “Steve McQueen” (a nickname based more in myth than fact), with its funky orange 24-hour hand and unique dial layout. Though rare and pricey, they’ve become a grail-level watch for those building well-rounded collections.
The Pre-Owned Appeal in the UK
For those entering the market, pre-owned Rolex Explorer II watches continue to be a compelling option. Unlike newer steel Rolex models, which often come with long waiting lists, pre-owned Explorer IIs offer immediate availability and a broader range of reference styles to choose from.
UK-based retailers have taken note, with an increasing number of pre-owned platforms and boutiques featuring Explorer II models front and centre in their Rolex collections. Buyers can browse with confidence, knowing that many of these watches come backed by third-party authentication and warranties.
And let’s not forget the thrill of owning a watch that may have already seen a summit, a cave, or at the very least, the Tube during rush hour.
Final Thoughts
The Explorer II may not be the most glamorous Rolex, but it might be the most authentic. In a market increasingly shaped by waiting lists, resale premiums, and celebrity-fuelled hype, the Explorer II offers something refreshingly real.
In the UK, where style often favours subtlety and substance, its appeal continues to grow. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced collector looking for a piece that speaks softly but carries real weight, the Explorer II delivers.
It doesn’t demand attention. It earns it. And in 2025, that feels more relevant than ever.