New Version Classic Explorer II - Mini Review

[avenger007]

There's something about the clean, simple look of the white Explorer II that I've always admired. So when I saw a new version with improved lume was released, I decided to take the plunge. I picked this one up from Tony @ A7750. Flat out one of the best dealers I've dealt with, and I've dealt with most of them. This is definitely the best option for the classic 40mm Explorer II readily available right now. I will say this one misses on a few finishing details that the N and H Factory PAMs seem to get right. Here's a summary of the highs and lows I notice on this one:

+ Bezel numbers look good and paint finish is acceptable
+ Dial print
+ Case finish
+ Bracelet and clasp finish (no razor edges like some Noob Rollies)
+ Lume (not H Factory level, but major improvement over standard)
+ Decent rehaut engraving
+ Crystal height

- Hand finish (There are a couple of "nicks" or unpainted spots on the edge of the base of the hands, not noticeable on the wrist, but there. Also small excess paint runs on the minute and second hands. Very small, but there.)
- Incorrect solid mid links
- End links protrude beyond the curve of the lugs (similar to the DSSD, but of course that is correct for the DSSD, incorrect here)
- Lume finish is a bit rough in places
- 6 o'clock marker is too close to the bottom of the dial
- Prominet engraved coronet

I'm not sure if this one is a keeper or not yet. I love the look on the wrist, but the inconsistent finish on some things may put this one in the Sales Area. Thanks for reading!

And a couple of silly artsy shots.

 

[R2D4]

Nice review 7! It is still a great watch and those little flaws you pointed out are easily fixable (Hands, buy another bracelet). I understand your indecision on keeping/selling it though, you gotta rock it for a while and see.

 

[alvinado]

great review bro..

i wonder the new explorers that has the correct hand stack are reliable...

 

[giobo]

It looks good to me..But this SEL fit is not good at all...I think when i will buy this i will order a noob bracelet also...

 

[peda]

Thanks for the review. The flaws for me personally are all acceptable and if not for you, then i am sure a buyer is easily found.

i am still undecided if i should go for the 40mm or 42mm.

great review bro..

i wonder the new explorers that has the correct hand stack are reliable...

but what i would really like are good working reps with the correct hand stack (for exp and gmt)

 

[correctime]

Looks great. Thanks for sharing the review. (the bracelet can be pulled and the curve of the SEL sanded down at the bottom to match the lug curve fairly easily) Is the bracelet numbered correctly...78790A on the inside of the last link where meeting the SEL and stamped 78790A on the clasp itself ??

 

[correctime]

great review bro..

i wonder the new explorers that has the correct hand stack are reliable...

There's a new 16570 "classic" version available with the CHS ???

 

[Spirit]

I think at least it´s already worthy just because the case. The rehaut is pretty decent on this one, as far as I can see, and the other details can indeed be changed/modded.

Wear it good health, mate!! Enjoy your watch ´cause it´s a beauty!

Cheers,
Spirit.

 

[guami007]

I just rec'd one of these (Black face w/o rehaut engraving) from Trevor and love the clean look of it as well. I have not unwrapped it due to the fact that I can't see myself wearing it after having worn the DSSD and other heftier watches. My wrist somehow feels empty. Anyone else out there experience this?

Some of the negatives mentioned, I don't believe, can be seen in the wild on the moving wrist of the person wearing it.

 

[avenger007]

Still not sold on this one. Not so much for any flaws, because overall they are pretty minor. I'm really leaning on moving to the new 42mm version.

As far as the bracelet goes, 78296 is engraved on the links. I didn't check any serials on the end links or between the lugs.

 

[correctime]

Still not sold on this one. Not so much for any flaws, because overall they are pretty minor. I'm really leaning on moving to the new 42mm version.

As far as the bracelet goes, 78296 is engraved on the links. I didn't check any serials on the end links or between the lugs.

78296 on the inside of the last link. Thanks for the info. Is 78296 stamped/engraved on the clasp too ?? I'm a pretty big Exp.II Fan and I have to admit...compared to what's been available in the "classic" 16570 Exp.II since the Noobs were around, this one does indeed look like the best version available.

 

[Low Note]

I'm a big fan of the E2 also. I ordered mine from un-trusted dealer, "Josh" about a month ago. I'll have to admit the bezel is improved but, the dial printing on mine was not as crisp as your example. I probably should have checked the QC pic's more carefully.