An independent hour hand, which provides a second zone function in conjunction with the fixed, or “home”, 24-hour display, and an integrated Cyclops lens that magnifies the date, are other functions that make the Explorer II highly appreciated by global adventurers.

The Explorer II is equipped with an additional 24-hour display; a dedicated hand circles the dial in 24 hours rather than the usual 12, pointing to a fixed bezel with 24-hour graduations. This function enables the wearer to distinguish the hours of the day from the hours of the night, an essential feature for those who venture into environments where darkness reigns supreme such as in the depths of caves, or where the sun never sets like the polar regions in summer.

Rolex uses Oystersteel for all its steel watches. This high-performance alloy is mainly used in the high technology, aerospace and chemical industries, where maximum resistance to corrosion is essential. Oystersteel is extremely resistant and highly polishable. It maintains its beauty even in the harshest environments.

The high-contrast, Chromalight display innovates by pushing the boundaries of visibility in dark environments. The blue glow of the hour markers and hands lasts up to eight hours with a uniform luminosity throughout, practically twice as long as that of standard luminescent materials.