Exp II is my preference. Owned a sub and sold it, no doubt it's a great watch but the contrarian in me got bored with it. I also travel a lot and the Exp has been a great companion. I know this is probably sacrilege but I enjoy my Pelagos more than my sub.
Interestingly i was discussing with a friend the other day that rolex has become a little boring imo. This is one of the fun and cool watches that rolex still has
I have the Pelagos, and it’s currently my daily wear watch; until I get the Polar Explorer! Plan to add a sub afterwards for special dress occasions (or add a Santos!) if I can slip all 3 past my wife!
Hard call as an owner of both watches. What’s funny is you can wear sub when you dress up but not with polar. Exp II has quite chunk of steel in its bezel and case, so it can be a good match with jeans and T shirts. I normally wear polar for my daily watch and go with sub for weekend.
@@pjchling8088 I have the black and I would rather have the black over the polar. It contrast really nice in the sun and you can wear with more stuff. I am now circling back to pick up a polar now though
IDK man. I have some friends who just starting to get into watches and they picked the exp about 50/50. The ones that picked the sub knew a little more about rolex. Its a very common and popular watch that I think many people just feel that is the more sensible choice. If I didnt have a white walker yachtmaster I would want a no date sub, but I really like have the black exp and now want the polar
@@M4516-c9funfortunately you are correct 😂. I can't wait until the days that these AD games no longer exist. I think we're somewhat close. Market has been softening like crazy plus the ADs have really turned away a lot of new clients with their games. Hopefully that means good news for the rest of us that have been quietly watching from the sideline..
I have a 6.75 inch wrist and the explorer 2 is certainly not too big. As long as it doesn't overhang at all you're good. Thanks for showing the measurements.
This comparison video between two iconic watches was incredible! I love the Explorer II. It harkens back to when Rolex was more of a tool watch, providing its owners with fantastic function and quality. For me, Explorer II reads more easily, and I like that the bezel does not rotate for simplistic usage. But the choice between these two great watches is straightforward: Both! Cheers!!
I'd get a Explorer if for no other reason the sub is over exposed and or faked the most. I see them all over the place. I never see the Explorer II in the wild. Both handsome watches. I may look at getting and Explorer at some point now that the the crazy hype bubble has finally popped.
@@KeepingWatchUK I have them both as well. The white of the Exp II. just pop's to me. There is not flying under the radar for either of them. just saying!
I have the Explorer II (226570) and it is stunning. My wife actually bought it for me. Like the black Sub also a lot, once my current watch buying moratorium expires, I'd be tempted to go for this Yin and Yang pairing.
Its nice. I picked the black one for my first late last year and wear it the most. I also picked up a yacht master rhodium dial aka white walker and its stunning, but I wear my exp way more. I go back and forth between exp and omega seamaster smp wave dial. I really wanted to pick up a no date sub but I think Im going to go with a exp 2 polar now. I'll use the yacht for a more dress up. And dont think people dont notice a explorer. It will get a lot more looks than you think but they are watch people
@@AndySTWT Tradeoffs as usual in this life. Thanks for sharing. Here's to hoping a mini-Glidelock (like on some Oysterflex) will be coming to stainless steel models someday.
Explorer 42mm is the watch that the normal joe can actually use for its intended purpose. Don’t need to be Jaqcques Cousteau, own a yacht, be a pilot, or own a race car. Just go explore…
Both watches are superb creations in terms of engineering, precision and design however, for someone who has never seen these watches before and was ask to pick which design is better, the submariner would win 7-8 out of 10 times BUT in reality, the problem with the submariner's design is that it's so common to the point that it sickens to my stomach and not to mention how often you'll see it everyday and heavily replicated/cloned this watch is. Imagine getting a submariner as your first luxury watch, after all the hardwork, all the sacrifices, the long awaited moment and in the end, all you see, to the left to the right, its everywhere.... the feeling just sucks 😩😧🥴
This is a good point. I am right now trying to decide between the Sub and Datejust (black dial, smooth bezel, and jubilee). I think the Sub is everywhere. I used to work at a company where every sales guy (with those erogant attitudes) had one. I still want the Sub but also the datejust. I have the Exp. II and it is great but need a black dial watch.
Great point! But i think dont let your surroundings guide your decision. I think you should really think what would you love to wear every single day and youll have your answer. I too had that dilema when i was going to buy a sub, but i thought “what the hell it is what it is and i want it” worst case scenario you sell it and get the datejust with some cash to spare
@@AndySTWT I am probably moving forward with the datejust first. I spoke to the AD yesterday and if they don’t discontinue the Pepsi, they are going to try and get me one. If that happens I am done with Rolex. I love Panerai but I want a GS Quartz before that. Trying to stick to 12 only (the watch box size). I am making the difficult decision today to part with a watch to make room.
I think you make some very interesting subjective observations in this video over and above simple measurements. For instance at 11.05 when you make case for the sub being perceptively larger owing to the continuation of the black dial and the black bezel. I enjoyed it.
I mean, what else are they supposed to touch? His nuts? A watch is meant to go on your wrist. Obviously the lugs will touch the section of the body part they are going on 😂. Are you sure you're feeling ok?
Wait! I’ve never thought about it like that! But you are totally right, almost all of them the only one and thank god is discontinued is the yatch master 2
This is a video about a guy who's new toy is measuring calipers, and he has watches to measure, and his wrist to measure, with opinions on why these measurement are important, even if they are totally up to aesthetic interpretation.
I’ve been on the waitlist for the Polar Explorer for a year. Would like to add a sub as a last watch for my collection. Considering going to the grey market if I don’t hear from the dealer by the new year. 🤔🤷🏽
The Rolex sub in my mind has a design fault. It's a divers watch. Main requirement is to have really legible hands in difficult conditions. The sub and sea dweller main minute hands are just too slim to be proper Dive watches. Look at blancpain. That's how it's done. The explorer also is much better.
Nice but you did not count parts in Sub and Explorer. Also you did not count number of links in both watches. Also you didn't weight both clasps. Also you did not mention the number of hands in both watches. What about the letters on the faces of both watches. You forget to count them didn't you?
So boring to tell all these numbers for quite a long time instead of comming to the point to tell the important differences. My suggestion is to revise the video. I have cancelled the video and have the urge to tell you, because you have the right will and engagement to let people find a decision about the two watches for smaller hand wrist.
@@AndySTWT it’s exceedingly obvious that you are doing mental gymnastics here to try to convince yourself that the Explorer ll fits your wrist. It doesn’t. The submariner is too big for you, and the Explorer ll is definitely too big for you. Neither one looks good on your wrist. Stick with the DJ 36
No comparison, why would anyone compare a GMT to a non GMT. IMHO, this is the biggest problem with a lot of Rolex buyers. They are buying watches like the Explorer II and not fit the GMT. OR other way around. It's absolutely silly. If you don't travel and need a GMT function, why would you buy the Explorer II? YES most people don't dive with a sub, ok, but a GMT is a useful function in today's world and comparing it to something that is not a GMT is pointless.
Agree but im intending to use it when the time comes. As the diving experience with the sub. And Im comparing dimensions and why i feel that the exp 2 wears beautifully even though is 42mm. The exp 2 is ultra useful as you said now a days! And im not “just a rolex buyer” i have a lot of watches not just Rolex, I actually didn’t like rolex until recently start to appreciate more the brand… still prefer the golden era of rolex but its silly to keep looking at the past in every watch! Thanks for your comment like this type of discussions! Have a great day my friend! Thanks for watching!
bc the exp 2 polar is a sick watch. You dont have to use all the functions. Craziest comment Ive ever read. You gotta come down off the high horse and join the every day people who care about that stuff. I dont use any of the functions and just like nice time pieces.
please slow down when you talk, you clearly aren't a native English speaker and at times its hard to understand what you are saying when you try so hard to speak quickly thanks
Exp II is my preference. Owned a sub and sold it, no doubt it's a great watch but the contrarian in me got bored with it. I also travel a lot and the Exp has been a great companion. I know this is probably sacrilege but I enjoy my Pelagos more than my sub.
Interestingly i was discussing with a friend the other day that rolex has become a little boring imo. This is one of the fun and cool watches that rolex still has
"I enjoy my pelagos more than my sub." I thought you sold the sub?
@@steelsteez6118he owns nothing besides a big imagination.
I have the Pelagos, and it’s currently my daily wear watch; until I get the Polar Explorer! Plan to add a sub afterwards for special dress occasions (or add a Santos!) if I can slip all 3 past my wife!
@@CharlieBrown-mx4gq 😂. This made me laugh way harder than it should have.
I have both , gotta go with the explorer , got a gmt function , is a stealthy Rolex that won’t get the flashy reaction of the sub
I have watched so much watch related content and this is the only video I have ever seen that measures the crystal/dial. Thank you!
You are so welcome! you should check out Escapement & Watch
Hard call as an owner of both watches. What’s funny is you can wear sub when you dress up but not with polar. Exp II has quite chunk of steel in its bezel and case, so it can be a good match with jeans and T shirts. I normally wear polar for my daily watch and go with sub for weekend.
did you go with the polar dial?
How about black explorer 2? Do you think it can be worn when dressed up?
@@pjchling8088 I have the black and I would rather have the black over the polar. It contrast really nice in the sun and you can wear with more stuff. I am now circling back to pick up a polar now though
IDK man. I have some friends who just starting to get into watches and they picked the exp about 50/50. The ones that picked the sub knew a little more about rolex. Its a very common and popular watch that I think many people just feel that is the more sensible choice. If I didnt have a white walker yachtmaster I would want a no date sub, but I really like have the black exp and now want the polar
@@pjchling8088 It can but depend on how much dress up. I think the ceramic will look better in a nice suit but you could def pull it off
„The most Tudor Rolex Yet“ makes absolute sense brother
Nice comparison. This is my two watch collection after going through so many. They make the perfect pair.
Good choice! Thanks for watching !
My two favorites in the catalogue sweet video dude. Waiting on the sub right now AD says it should be here any day
They already have it 😂
Thanks my man! @kylepinner! Hope you get the call sooner than expected cheers! Thanks for watching
@@M4516-c9funfortunately you are correct 😂. I can't wait until the days that these AD games no longer exist. I think we're somewhat close. Market has been softening like crazy plus the ADs have really turned away a lot of new clients with their games. Hopefully that means good news for the rest of us that have been quietly watching from the sideline..
Explorer 2 for wearing, Sub for collecting
I have a 6.75 inch wrist and the explorer 2 is certainly not too big. As long as it doesn't overhang at all you're good. Thanks for showing the measurements.
Any day man! Thanks for the comment and for watching i appreciate it
6.5 for me and it just about works for me
Agree 100 percent.
@@timemycollection Ayyye, it's my boy! Love your channel man!
@@steelsteez6118Yes Steels 🙌🏾 I’ve probably watched every Explorer ii vid on RUclips and commented 😅
All the best 🙌🏾
This comparison video between two iconic watches was incredible! I love the Explorer II. It harkens back to when Rolex was more of a tool watch, providing its owners with fantastic function and quality. For me, Explorer II reads more easily, and I like that the bezel does not rotate for simplistic usage. But the choice between these two great watches is straightforward: Both! Cheers!!
Waiting for an Polar exp2. I have a sub and gmt. Explorer2 felt way more comfortable on my wrist. I was surprised. Great review dude!
Thanks for sharing!
I'd get a Explorer if for no other reason the sub is over exposed and or faked the most. I see them all over the place. I never see the Explorer II in the wild. Both handsome watches. I may look at getting and Explorer at some point now that the the crazy hype bubble has finally popped.
I've got the Sub and waiting on my AD to come through with the Exp II. Those 2 should keep me happy for a long time.
Good choice! They are both incredible
Same. Hope you get yours soon 🙏🏻
@@KeepingWatchUK I have them both as well. The white of the Exp II. just pop's to me. There is not flying under the radar for either of them. just saying!
You ever get the explorer from the ad? I am thinking of adding another Rolex to my collection, trying to see how long is the wait in average
@@CharlieBrown-mx4gq Yes, I did! Short 4 month wait. Very happy with it.
My two favorite Rolex watches right now.
I can definitely see an Explorer II in my future. Great review!
Good choice! Thanks for watching bro!
I have the Explorer II (226570) and it is stunning. My wife actually bought it for me. Like the black Sub also a lot, once
my current watch buying moratorium expires, I'd be tempted to go for this Yin and Yang pairing.
Every video I watch about the explorer 2, I’m becoming more decided that it will be my first Rolex. When the time comes of course.
MAN! it is an incredible watch you wont regret it! love it havent take it out of my wrist! easily my most worn watch 2024 by far !
Its nice. I picked the black one for my first late last year and wear it the most. I also picked up a yacht master rhodium dial aka white walker and its stunning, but I wear my exp way more. I go back and forth between exp and omega seamaster smp wave dial. I really wanted to pick up a no date sub but I think Im going to go with a exp 2 polar now. I'll use the yacht for a more dress up. And dont think people dont notice a explorer. It will get a lot more looks than you think but they are watch people
I’m choosing between these two for my next watch, thank you for making this video comparing them!
Thanks for watching!! Glad it helped
What are your thoughts on the bracelets? Do you prefer Glidelock over Easy Link?
I prefer the glidelock BUT! I prefer the length of the explorer. Very comfortable
@@AndySTWT Tradeoffs as usual in this life. Thanks for sharing. Here's to hoping a mini-Glidelock (like on some Oysterflex) will be coming to stainless steel models someday.
Owned examples of both. The ex2 is the one that stayed
SAME!
Love your 36mm Vintage Datejust. Could you tell me what year is that? Beautiful watch!
Heey thanks man! Its from the 1970s exactly is the reference 1603! Beautiful sigma dial, indicating the gold indicies and hands
Explorer 42mm is the watch that the normal joe can actually use for its intended purpose.
Don’t need to be Jaqcques Cousteau, own a yacht, be a pilot, or own a race car.
Just go explore…
Great video my brother ❤
Brilliantly helpful video that's made up my mind, thank you STW!
Glad it was helpful! and very glad to hear this!! thanks for watching!
Both watches are superb creations in terms of engineering, precision and design however, for someone who has never seen these watches before and was ask to pick which design is better, the submariner would win 7-8 out of 10 times BUT in reality, the problem with the submariner's design is that it's so common to the point that it sickens to my stomach and not to mention how often you'll see it everyday and heavily replicated/cloned this watch is.
Imagine getting a submariner as your first luxury watch, after all the hardwork, all the sacrifices, the long awaited moment and in the end, all you see, to the left to the right, its everywhere.... the feeling just sucks 😩😧🥴
This is a good point. I am right now trying to decide between the Sub and Datejust (black dial, smooth bezel, and jubilee). I think the Sub is everywhere. I used to work at a company where every sales guy (with those erogant attitudes) had one. I still want the Sub but also the datejust. I have the Exp. II and it is great but need a black dial watch.
@@shawnholloway2410 if you’re buying a watch with zero intention of reselling, may i suggest the Panerai Submersible 42mm 😬
Great point! But i think dont let your surroundings guide your decision. I think you should really think what would you love to wear every single day and youll have your answer. I too had that dilema when i was going to buy a sub, but i thought “what the hell it is what it is and i want it” worst case scenario you sell it and get the datejust with some cash to spare
Also panerai submersible 42mm.. B E A UTIFUL Watch! Its in my list of watches i would own at some point specially the bianco submersible
@@AndySTWT I am probably moving forward with the datejust first. I spoke to the AD yesterday and if they don’t discontinue the Pepsi, they are going to try and get me one. If that happens I am done with Rolex. I love Panerai but I want a GS Quartz before that. Trying to stick to 12 only (the watch box size). I am making the difficult decision today to part with a watch to make room.
I think you make some very interesting subjective observations in this video over and above simple measurements. For instance at 11.05 when you make case for the sub being perceptively larger owing to the continuation of the black dial and the black bezel. I enjoyed it.
Both are lovely watches! Congrats.
Thank you very much! They are
Explore II is 1st in my collection list, then DateJust and then GMT
You aren’t measuring your wrist right. It’s way too big on you, lugs are more or less touching your wrist
No way! Looks great on his wrist.
I mean, what else are they supposed to touch? His nuts? A watch is meant to go on your wrist. Obviously the lugs will touch the section of the body part they are going on 😂. Are you sure you're feeling ok?
Agreed. Both are way too big for his wrist. He should stick with the 36mm DJ
@@whereRbearsTeethbroke ass niggas envying someone else’s stuff. Why don’t you stick to your Casio shit-shocks.
I think all Rolex wear well!! Had few from 34mm to 44mm Rolex, and is a beast even for Date just!!
Wait! I’ve never thought about it like that! But you are totally right, almost all of them the only one and thank god is discontinued is the yatch master 2
I got both. Love both but explorer 2 gets more wrist time.
Variety is the spice of life. Stunning pairing! 🔥 Got to have them both 😀
This is a video about a guy who's new toy is measuring calipers, and he has watches to measure, and his wrist to measure, with opinions on why these measurement are important, even if they are totally up to aesthetic interpretation.
Yes and its for people who has questions about either. And how it could look on their wrist. Thanks for watching
very nice and interesting video! Thank you. Both looks very good on you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I’ve been on the waitlist for the Polar Explorer for a year. Would like to add a sub as a last watch for my collection. Considering going to the grey market if I don’t hear from the dealer by the new year. 🤔🤷🏽
The explorer II absolutely- submariner is getting boring and too common
exactly!
I am waiting for my ExpIorer II black (my preference over the Polar) and my next one will be the Submariner No Date
The black dial is a great combination of polished and sporty.
Great video, I'm on the waitlist for a 124060 as of two weeks ago, got purchase history of a 124270 and 126200 so we will see how long it takes!
Have you gotten it?
@@CharlieBrown-mx4gq na mate took my name off the list after two months, got the explorer and BB58 which has me covered for daily wearers already
my 16570 39mm is just perfection.
Had one! Regretfully sold
It! But i really love the 226570 great little improvements on the watch
How about comparing similar models, like a submariner DATE!?
Im working on a video comparing the exp 2 and the gmt Batman
Wonderfully informative content, thank you.
I'm torn between the two. I don't know which one I want first.
i got bored with the Submariner
Same!!
The Rolex sub in my mind has a design fault. It's a divers watch. Main requirement is to have really legible hands in difficult conditions. The sub and sea dweller main minute hands are just too slim to be proper Dive watches. Look at blancpain. That's how it's done. The explorer also is much better.
Polar wears well on your wrist. Thanks for the vid.
12:42 Deeeeeeeez nuts?
??
For this 2, i’d only consider the sub if it’s a kermit. SubLN is so dime a dozen.
Can get both they are good deal now 😂
🤣
Sub all days
Nice but you did not count parts in Sub and Explorer. Also you did not count number of links in both watches. Also you didn't weight both clasps. Also you did not mention the number of hands in both watches. What about the letters on the faces of both watches. You forget to count them didn't you?
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
So boring to tell all these numbers for quite a long time instead of comming to the point to tell the important differences. My suggestion is to revise the video. I have cancelled the video and have the urge to tell you, because you have the right will and engagement to let people find a decision about the two watches for smaller hand wrist.
Thanks for the feedback ill take into consideration for the next video
Sub ND every day plus twice on Sunday :)
You have impeccable taste sir
White always looks larger than black. The Explorer II appears larger than the Sub. Stevie Wonder can see that.
Not always, but also having a black dial and black bezel makes the watch larger
@@AndySTWT it’s exceedingly obvious that you are doing mental gymnastics here to try to convince yourself that the Explorer ll fits your wrist. It doesn’t. The submariner is too big for you, and the Explorer ll is definitely too big for you. Neither one looks good on your wrist. Stick with the DJ 36
@@whereRbearsTeethyou must be fun at parties
The sub definitely looks smaller on your wrist. That being said, they are both too big for you. It’s not a good look.
Not sure how you came with that conclusion. They both look great and good sizing.
No comparison, why would anyone compare a GMT to a non GMT. IMHO, this is the biggest problem with a lot of Rolex buyers. They are buying watches like the Explorer II and not fit the GMT. OR other way around. It's absolutely silly. If you don't travel and need a GMT function, why would you buy the Explorer II?
YES most people don't dive with a sub, ok, but a GMT is a useful function in today's world and comparing it to something that is not a GMT is pointless.
Agree but im intending to use it when the time comes. As the diving experience with the sub. And Im comparing dimensions and why i feel that the exp 2 wears beautifully even though is 42mm. The exp 2 is ultra useful as you said now a days! And im not “just a rolex buyer” i have a lot of watches not just Rolex, I actually didn’t like rolex until recently start to appreciate more the brand… still prefer the golden era of rolex but its silly to keep looking at the past in every watch! Thanks for your comment like this type of discussions! Have a great day my friend! Thanks for watching!
The reason is for Luxury/ choice
bc the exp 2 polar is a sick watch. You dont have to use all the functions. Craziest comment Ive ever read. You gotta come down off the high horse and join the every day people who care about that stuff. I dont use any of the functions and just like nice time pieces.
It’s a piece of jewelry. Your phone can provide all the functionality of any watch. We buy watches because they look nice.
Man I’ll buy whatever I want with my money and what I think looks good. Thats like buying a deep sea and don’t dive
please slow down when you talk, you clearly aren't a native English speaker and at times its hard to understand what you are saying when you try so hard to speak quickly thanks
Will do thanks for the feedback! I appreciate it! Thanks for watching!
That's funny, I watched the video in 1.25x. no issues understanding
@@The_LaZy_HiKeR😂
I bought a Rolex GMT master 2 in 2007 brand spanking new all black 😊
Nice. However, very petite and looks best on lady-men.