Side by side

Rolex GMT-Master IIvsRolex Explorer II

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

GMT-Master II
RolexGMT-Master II
MSRP $20,050
Explorer II
RolexExplorer II
MSRP $10,600
What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Rolex GMT-Master II

Owners widely praise the Rolex GMT-Master II for its high-quality finishing on the Oystersteel case and bracelet, exceptional dial legibility with bright Chromalight lume, and the versatility offered by various color schemes and models like the "Sprite," "Root Beer," "Pepsi," "Batman," and "Batgirl." Some owners consider specific references, such as the all-black 116710LN, to be the best stainless steel GMT ever made or a great value. The watch is noted for its GMT function and thinner case profile, with accuracy reported around -2/+2 seconds per day by one owner. However, some find the ceramic bezel lacks satisfying clicks, and one owner dislikes the green GMT hand and text against the black dial, along with the bezel text font and polished center links. Acquiring a GMT-Master II from an authorized dealer is challenging, with significant wait times.

Rolex Explorer II

Owners widely praise the Rolex Explorer II for its high-contrast, legible polar dial and understated, classic toolish aesthetic, with some noting excellent accuracy around +/- 1 second per day. The bracelet is described as incredibly comfortable, and the lume is clean and stunning. However, the 42mm case size is a point of contention, with some finding it too large or flashy, while others appreciate its practical, tool-y nature or consider it a comfortable everyday wear. The bezel is noted as easily scratched, and some dislike the magnified date window for its readability at angles and aesthetic clutter. Availability at authorized dealers varies, with some experiencing long wait times and others finding immediate availability. Overall, owners rate the Rolex Explorer II highly for its legibility and understated tool watch aesthetic, despite some reservations about its size.

At a glance

5 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
GMT-Master II40mm
Explorer II42mm
Power Reserve
GMT-Master II70h
Explorer II70h
Water Resistance
GMT-Master II100m
Explorer II100m
MSRP
GMT-Master II$20,050
Explorer II$10,600

Full specifications

Case

4 specs
Diameter
40mm
42mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
Material
Rolesor
Oystersteel
Finish
18 kt Everose gold

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$20,050
$10,600
Keep exploring

More watches worth a look

Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price — microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.

Follow this matchup

Get a note when Rolex GMT-Master II vs Rolex Explorer II gets more votes, a community discussion, or a price drop. No account needed.

Adjacent matchups

People also compared

Comparisons nearby in the catalog — alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.