Rolex Explorer II iN 2021
Half a century has spun its course as Rolex now comes around to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their “Explorer II”. For over five decades this iconic timepiece has ventured planet Earth on many wrists with slight modifications along the way.Now in this latest iteration it has been crafted with a closer resemblance to its original 1971 version, while including current technical upgrades and some minor shifts in proportions.The 42mm case is still made of the proprietary Oystersteel with a brushed finish on all the flat surfaces, contrasting with the polished casebands. While on the flip-side we encounter the standard screw-on case back, without any significant embellishments. 
Mounted to the case is a fixed stainless-steel brushed bezel with a 24h scale engraved into the recessed and blackened steel. 
Rolex has applied some modifications to this new release, but they are very discreet and based on proportions. The bracelet has been made 1mm larger than before, which led to crafting thiner lugs. It is a barely noticeable alteration that is arguably inconsequential, although some say it adds some overall cohesiveness to the design and a more comfortable wrist fit.
Just like the dressier “Explorer” it comes equipped with the Twinlock double waterproofness system screw-down crown, which secures a water-resistance capable of reaching up to 100 meters (330 feet), but the “Explorer II” features robust crown guards for a sturdier look. 
All topped off by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which in this new release has been altered to be entirely coated with an anti-reflective coating on the inner face.
Time is exhibited on either a black or white dial, both with round hour index markers, except for the 12 o’clock position which has a triangle form and the traditional stick markers at the 6 and 9 o’clock spots. 
Followed by a ring of white or black printed minute index markers. 
The central hands and index markers have still been applied with white gold, as seen on previous models. But the white dial version has coated them with a matte black PVD treatment, to provide a better contrast and avoid reflection issues around the polar white dial.
There is also a date aperture with a magnifying cyclops lens at the 3 o’clock position.
Rolex has also updated this release by adding their highly legible long-lasting blue Chromalight luminescent material
to the central hands, hour index markers and arrow-tip of the red lacquered GMT hand, for an enhanced legibility. 
Rolex Explorer II
The “Rolex Explorer II” (References below) is powered by the self-winding in-house mechanical movement, caliber 3285 with 28,800 Vph. Power reserve on this watch can last up to 72 hours (3 days) when fully wound, thanks to a new barrel architecture and the superior efficiency of the caliber 3285 escapement. It also comes equipped with the updated Chronergy escapement that can provide up to 15% more efficiency.
Mounted to the watch is an Oystersteel three-piece links bracelet, secured to the wrist by a steel folding-Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension link. 
For more up to date information visit the official Rolex website here
MSRP: $8,550.00 USD
(Ref#: M226570-0001) - with White dial
(Ref#: M226570-0002) - with Black dial
