The Rolex Explorer II, a watch synonymous with exploration and adventure, boasts a robust and purposeful design. While its overall dimensions are crucial for comfort and wearability, one specific measurement often sparks curiosity among enthusiasts: the lug width. This article will delve deep into the lug width of the Rolex Explorer II, specifically focusing on the current generation, the reference 226570, and compare it to its predecessors. We will also explore related topics such as lug-to-lug measurement, case size, wrist size considerations, and the differences between various Explorer II models.
The 226570 'Polar' and its 22mm Lug Width:
The current flagship model, the Rolex Explorer II 226570, often referred to as the 'Polar' due to its striking white dial, features a 42mm case diameter, a thickness of 12.5mm, and crucially, a lug width of 22mm. This 22mm lug width is a key specification that dictates the range of straps and bracelets compatible with the watch. The lug-to-lug measurement, a less commonly discussed but equally important dimension, sits at approximately 50.1mm. This measurement, from one lug to the other, across the top of the case, is a critical factor in determining how the watch will fit on your wrist. A larger lug-to-lug measurement can make the watch feel larger on the wrist, even if the case diameter is within an acceptable range.
The 22mm lug width of the 226570 offers a significant advantage: a wide selection of aftermarket straps. This allows for considerable personalization, enabling owners to tailor the watch's aesthetic to their individual style. From robust NATO straps ideal for outdoor adventures to sophisticated leather straps for more formal occasions, the 22mm lug width opens up a world of possibilities. This is a significant upgrade over some older models, which had a more limited strap selection.
Rolex Explorer II Lug Sizes: A Historical Perspective
Understanding the lug width of the 226570 requires a look back at its predecessors. The evolution of the Explorer II's dimensions reveals a fascinating story of design refinement and adaptation. While the 22mm lug width is a constant in recent models, earlier iterations featured different dimensions. This historical context helps clarify why the 22mm width is so important for the current generation.
Let's consider some key predecessors:
* Explorer II ref 16570: This model, produced from 1989 to 2011, also featured a 40mm case, but with a slightly different lug width and lug-to-lug measurement. While the precise lug width isn’t definitively documented as consistently as the 226570, it’s generally understood to be slightly narrower than the current model. This difference, however small, impacts strap compatibility and the overall feel on the wrist.
* 216570 Rolex: The reference 216570, which preceded the 226570, also boasted a 42mm case, but it featured subtle design differences that affected the overall proportions. While still using a 22mm lug width, the slightly different case design might have resulted in a marginally different lug-to-lug measurement compared to the 226570.
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