Rolex Explorer IIvsTrafford Watch Co Touring GMT
lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures
Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Explorer II

Touring GMT
Diameter
42mm
39mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
46mm
Thickness
n/a
12mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
70h
highest
42h
MSRP
$10,600
$899
lowest
Movement
3285
Miyota 9075
Case
7 specsCrystal & Dial
4 specsMovement
7 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Rolex Explorer II for its high-contrast, legible polar dial with matte, textured finishing and its understated, classic, toolish aesthetic. Its clean lume, legibility, and ease of reading are also frequently noted. Some owners find the bracelet incredibly comfortable. Accuracy is reported as excellent, with one owner noting +/- 1 second per day. The 42mm case size is a point of contention, with some finding it too large and others appreciating its "big boy watch" suitability for everyday wear. The bezel is noted as easily scratched, and some criticize the lack of a Glidelock clasp. One owner dislikes the magnified date window for being difficult to read at angles. Overall, owners rate the Rolex Explorer II highly for its legible dial and comfortable bracelet, despite some debate over its 42mm size.
The fixed 24-hour bezel and independent GMT hand provide practical dual-time functionality. The 42mm Oystersteel case is noted for versatile wearability. Reviewers disagree on the watch's sizing, with some finding it awkward and others stating it wears well.
Owners widely praise the Trafford Watch Co Touring GMT for its great finishing, fun designs, and nice dials, with one owner calling it their favorite watch worn daily for a year without stopping. The watch features a flyer GMT function and a unique inner bezel, and its designer incorporated community input. One owner notes a domed crystal cracked after a short drop, and some find the watch has a "chonky boi vibe on the wrist but in a good way." On balance, owners rate the Trafford Watch Co Touring GMT highly for its fun designs and community-driven development.
The Trafford Watch Co Touring GMT's unique GMT function offers an alternative way to use the feature. The micro-adjust system on the bracelet is a convenient feature for fine-tuning the fit. The watch lacks specific details on its performance, accuracy, or movement caliber, making it difficult to compare it to other GMT watches.
Similar watches
Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.
Also compared
Comparisons nearby in the catalog: alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.









